INDIA'S URBAN INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCING TOPIC: (GS3) INDIAN ECONOMY: THE HINDU A World Bank report highlights that India will require ₹70 lakh crore by 2036 for urban infrastructure, but current annual investments are far below this level. Addressing this challenge requires innovative strategies, reforms, and collaborative efforts. Urban Infrastructure Financing: Current Scenario Funding Gap: India needs
GLOBAL SOIL CONFERENCE (GSC) 2024: ENHANCING SOIL HEALTH FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE The Global Soil Conference (GSC) 2024 was recently held in New Delhi, emphasizing the critical role of soil health in ensuring food security, mitigating climate change, and supporting ecosystem services. The event brought together global experts to discuss strategies for sustainable soil management.
GLOBAL SOIL CONFERENCE (GSC) 2024: ENHANCING SOIL HEALTH FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE The Global Soil Conference (GSC) 2024 was recently held in New Delhi, emphasizing the critical role of soil health in ensuring food security, mitigating climate change, and supporting ecosystem services. The event brought together global experts to discuss strategies for sustainable soil management.
COKING COAL: IMPORTANCE AND CRITICAL MINERAL STATUS Coking coal, also known as metallurgical coal, is essential for steel production and infrastructure development. India’s high dependence on imported coking coal poses challenges for its economic stability and energy security. A recent NITI Aayog report, “Enhancing Domestic Coking Coal Availability to Reduce the Import of Coking Coal”,
COP29 AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE The 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) concluded recently in Baku, Azerbaijan. Representatives from nearly 200 countries participated, focusing on agreements to tackle global climate issues. Key Highlights of COP29 New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance (NCQG) Objective: Triple climate
STUBBLE BURNING AND SATELLITE TRACKING TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana has emerged as a significant contributor to air pollution, particularly affecting the National Capital Region (NCR). Satellite technology is widely employed to monitor these fires, but challenges persist in accurately tracking them due to evolving farmer strategies. How Satellites
26/11 MUMBAI ATTACKS The 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, executed by the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, targeted key locations in the city, including the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Nariman House, Oberoi Trident, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Railway Station. These attacks revealed significant gaps in India's security systems, leading to major reforms in counter-terrorism strategies. Security Challenges Exposed During
FROM A REPUBLIC TO A REPUBLIC OF UNEQUAL TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU India marked 75 years of its Constitution on November 26, 2024, which was designed to ensure justice, equality, and liberty while addressing socio-economic inequalities. However, neoliberal economic policies have replaced welfare governance, widening the gap between the rich and poor. This
RAJARAJA CHOLA I: A PIONEERING CHOLA EMPEROR Rajaraja Chola I, a legendary ruler of the Chola dynasty, left an indelible mark on India’s history through his military conquests, administrative reforms, and cultural contributions. Born as Arulmozhi Varman in 947 CE, he earned the title “Rajaraja” meaning “King of Kings,” symbolizing his unparalleled leadership. His reign
GLOBAL CRISIS OF FEMICIDE Femicide, the intentional killing of women and girls due to their gender, is a grave violation of human rights driven by discrimination, unequal power dynamics, and harmful societal norms. On International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (25th November), a report titled "Femicides in 2023: Global Estimates of Intimate
INDIA SIGNS THE FINAL ACT OF THE RIYADH DESIGN LAW TREATY The adoption of the Design Law Treaty (DLT) at the Diplomatic Conference in Riyadh by World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) members, including India, is a significant step in enhancing the protection of industrial designs. This treaty simplifies procedures and strengthens international intellectual property (IP)
DEALING WITH THE CHINA QUESTION TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: INDIAN EXPRESS China's increasing military capabilities and assertiveness have created challenges for India's defence preparedness. To address this, India must modernize its defence industrial base and strengthen security ties with like-minded Asian nations. Recent defence agreements with Australia and Japan highlight potential for deeper cooperation. India’s Defence
ELECTRONIC VOTING MACHINES (EVMS) AND VOTER VERIFIABLE PAPER AUDIT TRAIL (VVPAT) The Supreme Court recently dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking the return of ballot papers over Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems. The court emphasized that EVMs are questioned mainly after electoral defeats and upheld their security
HIGH SEAS TREATY: A MILESTONE IN GLOBAL OCEAN GOVERNANCE The High Seas Treaty, formally known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, was signed by India in September 2024, representing a landmark step in international efforts to protect marine ecosystems. Developed under the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the
NATIONAL MISSION ON NATURAL FARMING (NMNF) TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: INDIAN EXPRESS The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) is a new initiative launched by the Government of India to promote chemical-free and sustainable farming practices. What is Natural Farming? Natural farming is a chemical-free agricultural system that relies on inputs derived from livestock and plant
EMPOWERING WOMEN IN GOVERNANCE: CHALLENGES AND REFORMS Women’s participation in governance is vital for achieving gender equality and strengthening democracy. However, despite constitutional provisions and progressive legislation, women leaders in India face numerous challenges that limit their autonomy and effectiveness. Recognizing this, the Supreme Court of India has called for structural reforms to empower women
INDIANS NEED TO SHARE CONTRACEPTIVE RESPONSIBILITY TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU India’s family planning program, launched in 1952, aimed to stabilize the population and improve maternal and child health. However, there has been a significant decline in male sterilization, or vasectomy, with only 0.3% of sterilizations being performed on men as per NFHS-4 and
INDIA'S GDP GROWTH AND THE WAY FORWARD TOPIC: (GS3) INDIAN ECONOMY: THE HINDU The recent GDP growth rate dropped significantly to 5.4% in the second quarter of 2024-25, compared to 6.7% in the previous quarter. This slowdown raises questions about the country's economic trajectory and the steps needed to reinvigorate growth. Reasons for GDP Slowdown
DEVELOPMENT OF ICONIC TOURIST CENTRES TO GLOBAL SCALE UNDER SASCI The Indian government is actively enhancing tourism by allocating ₹3,295 crore for developing 40 iconic tourist projects across 23 states under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme. This initiative aims to transform selected tourist destinations into globally recognized sites, boosting local
MGNREGA JOB CARD DELETIONS The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), 2005, provides rural households with a legal guarantee of wage employment. However, recent data highlights a sharp increase in job card deletions, with over 5.53 crore cards removed in 2022-23. This raises concerns about transparency, workers' rights, and the effective implementation of
CITIZENS WITH DISABILITIES: ENSURING THEIR RIGHTS TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPWD Act) is a significant step toward empowering individuals with disabilities in India. Despite legal provisions, challenges remain in fully implementing the rights of persons with disabilities. Key Statistics 2011 Census: 2.21% of India's population
THE PLACES OF WORSHIP (SPECIAL PROVISIONS) ACT, 1991 The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, is a law enacted to maintain the religious character of places of worship as they stood on August 15, 1947. However, this Act has been a subject of controversy due to ongoing legal disputes challenging its provisions. One of
KASHMIRI AND CENTRAL ASIAN ARTISANS RECONNECT: A REVIVAL OF CULTURAL TIES After nearly 500 years, artisans from Kashmir and Central Asia reunited in Srinagar for a three-day craft exchange program. This event celebrated Srinagar's designation as a "World Craft City" by the World Crafts Council (WCC) and aimed to revive shared heritage and foster cross-border
5TH MEETING OF THE UNITED NATIONS (UN) INTERGOVERNMENTAL NEGOTIATING COMMITTEE (INC-5) The 5th meeting of the United Nations (UN) Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) in Busan, South Korea, failed to reach a consensus on a global treaty to address plastic pollution. Despite the UN Environment Assembly's 2022 resolution to establish binding rules by the end of
SPACE DEBRIS - GROWING PROBLEM The increasing number of satellites and space debris in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) has become a growing concern for space agencies worldwide. The rapid expansion of space activities, especially with private sector involvement, has raised alarms about the long-term sustainability of this crucial area. In response to these concerns, international
REFLECTIONS ON BAKU’S NCQG OUTCOME TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU With COP29 in Baku focusing on finance, the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) was expected to address the critical financial needs for climate action, especially for developing nations. However, the outcomes have left much to be desired. Importance of Climate Finance for Developing Countries Critical
A CUT IN TIME TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU The Global Plastics Treaty, led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), aims to combat plastic pollution worldwide. However, after five rounds of discussions since the resolution was adopted in 2022, the treaty has failed to achieve consensus. The Global Plastics Treaty Initiated by a 2022
CONDUCTING PARLIAMENTARY SESSIONS OUTSIDE DELHI: A DEBATE The idea of holding parliamentary sessions outside Delhi, particularly in South India, has recently been revived by a Member of Parliament from the YSR Congress Party. The proposal cites challenges such as extreme weather and logistical difficulties faced by MPs in Delhi and draws historical support from prominent
ROAD ACCIDENTS IN INDIA India faces a severe road safety crisis, with alarming rates of accidents and fatalities. Despite government efforts to halve road accident deaths by 2030, recent data shows an increase in accidents and fatalities. This issue highlights the urgent need for robust interventions. Current State of Road Accidents in India Total Accidents
PRADHAN MANTRI AWAS YOJANA – URBAN 2.0 (PMAY-U 2.0): A PATHWAY TO HOUSING FOR ALL The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban 2.0 (PMAY-U 2.0) aims to ensure affordable housing for economically weaker sections, low-income groups, and middle-class families in urban areas. With its renewed focus, the scheme emphasizes inclusive growth by addressing urban housing shortages while
PRADHAN MANTRI AWAS YOJANA – URBAN 2.0 (PMAY-U 2.0): A PATHWAY TO HOUSING FOR ALL The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban 2.0 (PMAY-U 2.0) aims to ensure affordable housing for economically weaker sections, low-income groups, and middle-class families in urban areas. With its renewed focus, the scheme emphasizes inclusive growth by addressing urban housing shortages while
GLOBAL DEBT CRISIS: INSIGHTS FROM INTERNATIONAL DEBT REPORT 2024 The International Debt Report 2024 by the World Bank and the UNCTAD report, A World of Debt 2024, shed light on the escalating global debt crisis. These reports highlight the challenges faced by developing nations in managing soaring debt levels and rising borrowing costs, exacerbated by
UNVEILING THE 80-PILLAR ASSEMBLY HALL AT KUMHRAR, PATNA The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has initiated a significant project to uncover the remains of the 80-pillar assembly hall at Kumhrar, Patna, a site linked to the grandeur of the Mauryan empire. This initiative not only sheds light on India's rich historical and architectural legacy but
RBI RETAINS REPO RATE AMID HIGH INFLATION TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to maintain the policy repo rate at 6.5% for the 11th consecutive bi-monthly review. This decision by the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) comes amid challenges of high inflation and slowing economic growth. Key Decisions by
DRI REPORT: KEY HIGHLIGHTS ON SMUGGLING IN INDIA The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has released a report showcasing a marked rise in smuggling activities across India, including drug trafficking, illicit currency trade, and contraband cigarettes. It also outlines the challenges and strategies required to tackle these issues effectively. Key Findings of the DRI Report
REIMAGINING PLASTIC WASTE MANAGEMENT IN INDIA TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU India, one of the largest producers and consumers of plastic, faces critical challenges in managing plastic waste effectively. This issue has far-reaching environmental, health, and economic consequences. A sustainable and innovative approach is essential to address the growing plastic crisis. Key Sectors Relying on
MINING REGULATIONS IN INDIA The Indian mining sector is vital for economic development, but it faces significant challenges related to environmental sustainability, operational inefficiencies, and legal regulations. Recently, the central government permitted state governments to include non-mineralized areas within existing mining leases for waste management, addressing industry needs while adhering to environmental safeguards. Key Updates
INDIA’S ROLE IN THE ‘CHINA PLUS ONE’ STRATEGY The 'China Plus One' strategy reflects a global trend where companies aim to diversify their manufacturing and supply chains by establishing operations outside China. India, with its large market and economic potential, is seen as a promising destination for investments. However, despite opportunities created by the US-China
CUMBUM TANK IN ANDHRA PRADESH India has a rich history of water harvesting systems, showcasing ancient engineering marvels and sustainable practices. These systems not only supported agriculture and domestic use but also demonstrated the wisdom of water conservation adapted to local climatic conditions. The Cumbum Tank in Andhra Pradesh recently gained attention for its historical
THE NINETYEAST RIDGE AND ITS FORMATION The Ninetyeast Ridge, a 5,000-kilometer underwater mountain chain in the Indian Ocean, has long intrigued geologists. Traditionally believed to have formed from a stationary hotspot, recent research challenges this idea, suggesting the ridge was created by a moving hotspot. Key Findings of the Study Formation by a Moving
REFORMS IN MERCHANT SHIPPING TOPIC: (GS2) SOCIAL JUSTICE: THE HINDU India's maritime sector is undergoing a transformative phase with the introduction of the Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024 and the Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024. These Bills aim to address the outdated provisions of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958 and the Coasting Vessels Act, 1838, providing a
INDIA-JAPAN FORUM 2024 The India-Japan Forum, held recently in New Delhi, emphasized strengthening bilateral ties between India and Japan. A notable focus was on advancing collaboration in semiconductor technology and expanding the strategic partnership within the Indo-Pacific region, aligning with the goals of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad). Key Highlights of the India-Japan Forum
STREAMLINING DEATH PENALTY AND MERCY PETITION GUIDELINES: SUPREME COURT The Supreme Court of India recently issued comprehensive guidelines to address delays and inefficiencies in executing death sentences and processing mercy petitions. These directives aim to streamline the process, safeguard rights, and ensure fair implementation. Key Guidelines on Death Penalty and Mercy Petitions Establishment of Dedicated
DEEPENING INDIA’S SPACE AMBITIONS TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU India has set ambitious goals for its space program over the next two decades, focusing on human spaceflight, a space station, and lunar exploration. A critical element to achieving these goals is the development of powerful and reusable rockets, including ISRO’s Next Generation Launch
ASSISTED DYING: A DEBATE ON CHOICE AND DIGNITY TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, 2024-25, aims to grant terminally ill adults the right to seek medical assistance to end their suffering. Its introduction has sparked ethical, legal, and moral debates, with global implications. Key Highlights of the Bill
THE NATIONAL GREEN TRIBUNAL (NGT) AND HIMALAYAN GLACIAL LAKES: A CONCERN FOR CLIMATE AND COMMUNITIES The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has recently taken suo motu cognizance of a news report highlighting the alarming rise in Himalayan glacial lakes. Over the last 13 years, these lakes have expanded by approximately 10.81% due to increasing temperatures, resulting
RISING AGRICULTURAL EMPLOYMENT IN INDIA: CAUSES AND CONCERNS From 2017-18 to 2023-24, the number of Indians working in agriculture saw a sharp rise of 68 million, marking a reversal of the previous trend of workforce reduction in the sector. This surge, largely driven by women and concentrated in economically weaker states, raises important questions about
RBI AND THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT - DISPUTE The relationship between the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the central government plays a critical role in maintaining economic stability and growth. However, disagreements over policy decisions and institutional roles have occasionally created tensions. The recent conclusion of Shaktikanta Das's tenure as RBI Governor highlights these ongoing
DISPUTE OVER CESSES AND SURCHARGES A COMPLICATED ISSUE: ARVIND PANAGARIYA Cesses and surcharges are important tools in India's taxation system, allowing the government to raise additional revenue for specific purposes or to address fiscal challenges. However, their growing use by the central government has raised concerns about fiscal federalism, transparency, and equity. What are Cess
URBAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT POLLS: A MISSING SPOTLIGHT TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU Urban Local Governments (ULGs), empowered by the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992, are critical for urban governance and service delivery. Despite this, their potential remains underutilized, with timely elections gaining renewed attention amid discussions on simultaneous elections (ONOE). Challenges with ULG
SWITZERLAND SUSPENDS MOST-FAVOURED-NATION CLAUSE IN TAX TREATY WITH INDIA TOPIC: (GS3) INDIAN ECONOMY: THE HINDU Switzerland recently decided to suspend the Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) clause under the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) with India, effective January 1, 2025. This move could lead to increased tax liabilities for Indian companies in Switzerland and affect Swiss investments in
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF SPACE EXPLORATION: CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS Space exploration is advancing rapidly, yet its environmental impacts are often overlooked. From rocket emissions to the growing problem of space debris, the consequences of these activities pose significant threats to Earth's atmosphere and orbital environment. Addressing these challenges is crucial to ensuring sustainability in space operations.
INTERNATIONAL MOUNTAIN DAY 2024: IMPORTANCE AND THE INDIAN HIMALAYAN REGION (IHR) International Mountain Day is celebrated annually on 11th December to emphasize the importance of mountains for life, biodiversity, and sustainable development. In 2024, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change observed this day to highlight the need to protect the Indian Himalayan Region
AGRARIAN DISTRESS IN INDIA Agriculture is the backbone of India's economy, providing livelihoods to nearly half of the population. However, the sector is in severe crisis, marked by low farmer incomes, escalating debt, and stagnant growth. The Supreme Court (SC)-appointed High-Level Committee recently submitted an interim report highlighting the causes and implications of this agrarian
DECLINE IN DAP SALES AND RISING USE OF NPKS FERTILIZERS The sale of Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP), a crucial fertilizer for rabi crops, has seen a sharp decline of 25.4% between April and October FY25. At the same time, the demand for NPKS fertilizers (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, and Sulphur) surged by 23.5%. This shift highlights a
GLOBALISATION AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR INDIA Globalisation refers to the growing interconnectedness of nations through trade, technology, culture, and communication. This phenomenon has been shaping the global landscape for centuries, evolving in response to technological advancements and geopolitical shifts. Recent events such as the Russia-Ukraine war, tensions in the Middle East, and strained relations between
CHALLENGES IN THE FUNCTIONING OF PARLIAMENT IN INDIA The former Vice President of India recently emphasized the need for improving parliamentary functioning by transitioning from confrontational politics to meaningful and constructive debates. Ensuring parliamentary decorum and building consensus are critical for strengthening democracy and maintaining public trust. Challenges in the Functioning of Parliament Frequent Disruptions
THE HIDDEN COST OF GREENWASHING INDIAN RAILWAYS TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU The Indian Railways is on a mission to electrify its entire broad-gauge network, aiming to create a "green railway" and achieve net-zero carbon emissions. While the initiative appears to align with environmental goals, it raises concerns about economic inefficiency, environmental impact, and wastage
VIJAY DIWAS AND THE 1971 BANGLADESH LIBERATION WAR On 16th December 2024, India observed Vijay Diwas, marking the 53rd anniversary of its victory in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. This war led to the creation of Bangladesh and showcased India’s strategic, humanitarian, and military prowess. The day is commemorated to honor the sacrifices of the
MISUSE OF INDIAN LAWS: CHALLENGES AND WAY FORWARD Indian laws aimed at safeguarding individuals, particularly women, against crimes such as dowry harassment and domestic violence, have played a significant role in protecting vulnerable groups. However, misuse of these laws has also surfaced, leading to concerns about fairness and gender neutrality. Recent cases, including a PIL
AI SURVEILLANCE IN INDIA TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU India is rapidly adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered surveillance systems. However, the absence of robust legal frameworks raises serious concerns about privacy, transparency, and civil liberties, especially the right to privacy under Article 21. Key Developments in AI Surveillance In 2019, India announced plans for the
SECTION 6A OF THE CITIZENSHIP ACT TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, introduced after the 1985 Assam Accord, offers a distinct path for migrants from East Pakistan to gain Indian citizenship. While upheld by the Supreme Court in 2024, it faces criticism for cultural, demographic, and constitutional concerns. Background
MAOIST INSURGENCY IN INDIA: STRATEGIES AND CHALLENGES Maoist insurgency, also known as Naxalism, has been a significant challenge to India’s internal security. It is rooted in social, economic, and political issues, particularly in tribal and rural areas. The union home minister recently paid homage to martyrs of this conflict and declared a goal to eliminate
SWITZERLAND'S WITHDRAWAL OF MFN CLAUSE IN DTAA WITH INDIA Switzerland has decided to withdraw the application of the Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) clause in its Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) with India. This move, effective from January 2025, will impact the withholding tax rates applicable to Indian entities. What is the MFN Clause in DTAA? DTAA Background:
DOMICILE-BASED RESERVATIONS IN PRIVATE SECTOR JOBS Domicile-based reservation policies in the private sector have become a contentious issue in India. These laws aim to prioritize locals for employment, citing high unemployment among residents and a perceived loss of jobs to migrant workers. While these measures may appear beneficial for local populations, they raise concerns about
ONE NATION, ONE ELECTION: KEY PROPOSALS AND IMPLICATIONS The government has taken significant steps to implement "One Nation, One Election" by introducing two Constitution Amendment Bills: "The Constitution 129th Amendment Bill 2024" and "The Union Territories Laws Amendment Bill 2024." These bills aim to synchronize elections to the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, ensuring efficiency
INDIA AS THE ‘HIGHEST TARIFF MAJOR ECONOMY’ TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU India is known for imposing high tariffs on imports, making it the "highest tariff" major economy. This issue has sparked discussions about the need to reduce tariffs to promote equitable trade. The U.S. has emphasized fair and balanced trade practices to further enhance
RBI REPORT ON STATE FINANCES TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU The Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) report on state finances highlights significant progress in fiscal consolidation post-COVID-19. While states have reduced their fiscal deficit and debt-to-GDP ratio, challenges such as power sector losses and rising subsidies remain critical concerns. Positive Developments Debt and Deficit Reduction:
ABOUT WORLD WAR II World War II (1939–1945) was one of the most devastating and widespread conflicts in human history. It involved nations from every continent and reshaped global political, social, and economic structures. About World War II Duration and Global Impact Lasted six years, from 1939 to 1945. Affected nearly every nation, causing
