HIGH COURT’S TAKE ON MARRIAGE ACT, AN EROSION OF RIGHTS TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Special Marriage Act, 1954, was enacted to provide a legal framework for inter-faith marriages in India, promoting the values of individual autonomy, liberty, and equality. However, a recent order by the Madhya Pradesh High Court
SMART CITIES MISSION The Smart Cities Mission (SCM) was launched on June 25, 2015, by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). The mission aims to develop 100 cities across India into smart cities that provide core infrastructure, a clean and sustainable environment, and a decent quality of life to their citizens.
DSR CULTIVATION NEEDS LESS WATER, LABOUR, WHY IS IT STILL NOT POPULAR TOPIC: (GS3) AGRICULTURE – SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS The Punjab government is promoting the Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) technique to reduce water usage and labour in paddy cultivation. Despite incentives and benefits, DSR adoption remains low. Benefits of DSR Water Conservation: Reduces
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE INDEX (EPI) The Environmental Performance Index (EPI) is a biennial assessment that evaluates countries' performance in environmental sustainability and conservation efforts. It provides insights into how nations are progressing towards international environmental goals and commitments, such as those outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement.
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL (NSC) OF INDIA In the context of enhanced global strategic relations, the National Security Advisors of India and the U.S. recently met to discuss strengthening cooperation in various critical areas. This meeting marks the first official U.S. visit since Prime Minister Narendra Modi's re-election for a third term. U.S. National Security Advisor
UNLAWFUL ACTIVITIES (PREVENTION) ACT (UAPA) The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) is a legislation enacted by the Indian government aimed at the effective prevention of unlawful activities and terrorism. It was originally promulgated as an ordinance on 17th June 1966 and later enacted as an Act in 1967. The UAPA has undergone several amendments to
UNESCO LAUNCHES NEW INITIATIVES FOR “GREENING EDUCATION” The Greening Education Partnership is a global initiative launched by UNESCO to address the climate crisis through education. It involves 80 member states and aims to transform educational institutions into Green Schools, integrating sustainable practices and curricula to prepare learners for climate challenges. This initiative aligns with Sustainable
TIME FOR A CENSUS, COME WHAT MAY TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE –SOURCE: THE HINDU The delay of the 2021 Census in India is speculated to be influenced by political strategies, particularly by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Understanding these reasons is crucial for grasping the potential impacts on electoral processes and public welfare.
INDIA EYES BREAKTHROUGH AGAINST SICKLE CELL TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY –SOURCE: THE HINDU India is advancing towards developing a gene therapy for sickle cell disease, particularly affecting Scheduled Tribes. Key officials and researchers are optimistic about the progress. High Prevalence in Tribes: Sickle cell disease is common among Scheduled Tribes. Research and Development: The
UNITED NATIONS ACTIVITIES ON ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) A recent United Nations (UN) report has highlighted the growing concern that Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology is being used to spread misinformation and hate-driven narratives about World War II atrocities, including the Holocaust. The report warns that AI can unintentionally create deceptive content, fueling anti-Semitism and other forms
SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT (SWM) CESS Solid Waste Management (SWM) cess is a user fee or charge levied by Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in India to fund waste management services. It is a form of tax imposed to cover the costs associated with waste collection, disposal, and processing. About SWM Cess Definition: A fee charged by
11 CANDIDATES APPLY TO VERIFY EVM BURNT MEMORY: WHAT IS THIS PROCESS? TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS In 2024, for the first time, candidates in the Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections applied to verify the burnt memory of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT)
CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM (CJS) IN INDIA The criminal justice system (CJS) in India is a set of agencies and processes established to control crime and impose penalties on those who break the law. The system is primarily based on the Indian Penal Code (IPC), enacted in 1860. The Constitution of India places the police, public
HINDU KUSH HIMALAYAS The Hindu Kush Himalayas (HKH) are a critical mountain range that stretches approximately 3,500 kilometres across eight countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, Myanmar, and Pakistan. These mountains are often referred to as the "water towers of Asia" due to their role as the source of ten major river systems, including
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN INDIA-SRI LANKA RELATIONS India and Sri Lanka have a long-standing relationship rooted in shared cultural, religious, and historical ties. Recent meetings between the Indian External Affairs Minister and the Sri Lankan President have focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in various sectors. Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Joint Commissioning: The MRCC was built
INDIA, RUSSIA SET TO FINALISE MUTUAL DRAFT LOGISTICS AGREEMENT The Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Agreement (RELOS) between India and Russia marks a significant milestone in enhancing military cooperation between the two nations. This agreement aims to streamline logistics support for joint operations, making them more efficient and cost-effective. Here are the key points about RELOS
WHAT ARE THE DUTIES OF A SPEAKER? TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS The Speaker of the Lok Sabha plays a crucial role in the functioning of the Indian Parliament. The Speaker pro tem is a temporary appointment to ensure the smooth transition of power until the full-time Speaker is elected.
THE COURT SPELLS THE WAY IN HIMALAYA’S DEVELOPMENT TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) is crucial for India's water supply and ecosystem services. However, the current development model in the IHR is unsustainable, threatening both the environment and economy. Recent Supreme Court judgments indicate a shift towards sustainable development
HEATWAVES AS NOTIFIED DISASTERS India's recent heatwave crisis has sparked a debate about officially recognizing heatwaves as notified disasters under the Disaster Management (DM) Act of 2005. This recognition would ensure more focused resources and actions to tackle the devastating impacts of heatwaves, which are periods of abnormally high temperatures occurring during the summer season.
53RD MEETING OF THE GST COUNCIL The 53rd meeting of the GST Council introduced several measures aimed at easing compliance for small businesses and providing tax exemptions on various services. These changes are expected to benefit a broad range of stakeholders, from students to manufacturers, and signal potential shifts in the GST framework. Key Decisions:
KALLAKURICHI HOOCH TRAGEDY: FERMENTED WITH METHANOL AND APATHY Hooch is a widely used term for low-quality alcohol. The word "hooch" originates from the Hoochinoo tribe in Alaska, known for producing strong liquor. Hooch is often produced in unregulated and unsanitary conditions, making it risky to consume. Production Process of Hooch Fermentation: Begins with a sugary
POLITICAL REPRESENTATION AND FOREST CONSERVATION IN INDIA'S SCHEDULED AREAS A recent study has investigated the connection between political representation and forest conservation in India's Scheduled Areas. The focus is on the Panchayat (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) and its impact on forest management by Scheduled Tribes (STs). About the Study Objective: To analyze how
WILL THE AGNIPATH SCHEME BE REVAMPED? TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS The Agnipath scheme, announced on June 14, 2022, replaced the permanent recruitment process for soldiers, sailors, and airmen in the Indian Armed Forces. Recruits called Agniveers serve for four years, after which up to 25% may be retained permanently. Key
PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO COAL MINING CAUSES RESPIRATORY, SKIN DISEASES IN WORKERS: STUDY TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU Prolonged exposure to pollutants from coal mining has severely impacted the health of mine workers and residents in six major coal mining districts in India. A survey by the National Foundation for India highlights
HYDROPOWER GENERATION IN INDIA Hydropower generation in India plays a critical role in the country's energy mix, contributing significantly to its power generation capabilities. However, recent trends indicate challenges and declines in hydropower output. Overview Declining Generation: Hydropower generation in India has decreased by 17.33% from 162.05 billion units in FY23 to 133.97 billion units
INDUS WATERS TREATY The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) is an agreement between India and Pakistan, signed on September 19, 1960, with the World Bank as a broker. This treaty outlines how the water from the Indus River and its tributaries is shared between the two nations. Key Provisions Water Sharing Rivers Covered: The treaty involves
SEBI TIGHTENS NORMS ON FINANCIAL INFLUENCERS, EASES RULES FOR DELISTING TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has implemented new regulations to curb the influence of unregulated financial influencers on investors. This move aims to ensure transparency and protect investors from misleading information. Key Points Restrictions on
COTTON CULTIVATION Recent data from the Ministry of Textiles indicates that cotton consumption by the textile industry from October 2023 to September 2024 is one of the highest in this decade. Key Facts About Cotton Cultivation About Cotton Significance: One of India's most important commercial crops, accounting for about 25% of global cotton production. Nickname:
HINDU KUSH HIMALAYA The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) has reported record low levels of snow persistence in the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus basins. About ICIMOD Establishment: Founded in 1983. Purpose: Works towards a greener, inclusive, and climate-resilient Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH). Findings of the Report Global Findings Amu Darya River Basin: In
INDIAN MUSIC EVOLUTION Indian music has a rich and diverse history that spans millennia, evolving through distinct phases influenced by cultural, religious, and regional factors. From its ancient origins rooted in Vedic hymns to the sophisticated classical forms of today, Indian music reflects a profound cultural heritage and artistic expression. Ancient Period (Pre-13th Century) Origins
ROOFTOP SOLAR PROGRAMME By March 2024, India achieved an installed rooftop solar (RTS) capacity of 11.87 gigawatts (GW), reflecting a growth of 2.99 GW during 2023-2024. Government Initiative: The Rooftop Solar Programme was launched in 2014 to promote rooftop solar installations across the country. About the Rooftop Solar Programme Launch Year: 2014. Initial Target: 40
SCREEN ALL PREGNANT WOMEN FOR GESTATIONAL DIABETES WITH POINT-OF-CARE TEST, SAY EXPERTS TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS Gestational diabetes is a significant concern, especially in low- and middle-income countries like India. Researchers from India, London, and Africa have proposed a shift from the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) to an HbA1c