Best UPSC Coaching
Best UPSC Coaching
MICROPLASTICS Microplastics, defined as plastic particles smaller than five millimetres in diameter, have become a ubiquitous environmental pollutant, posing significant threats to ecosystems and human health. These minuscule plastic fragments originate from various sources, including the breakdown of larger plastics and deliberate manufacturing of tiny particles for commercial use. Recent studies have shed light on
THE SPECTRE OF NUCLEAR CONFLICT, ONCE AGAIN TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: THE HINDU In the aftermath of major wars and conflicts, it is common to question whether ruling elites had the foresight and preparedness to prevent these crises. As some nations today engage in sabre-rattling and threaten the use of nuclear weapons, these
BIMSTEC ACQUIRES ‘LEGAL PERSONALITY’ AFTER CHARTER COMES INTO FORCE The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) achieved a significant milestone with the entry into force of its charter on 20th May 2024. BIMSTEC is a regional organization comprising seven member states situated around the Bay of Bengal, aimed at fostering
INDIA HOSTS THE ANTARCTIC PARLIAMENT Antarctica, a continent long shrouded in mystery and isolation, is now experiencing a surge in human activity, driven by tourism, scientific research, and geopolitical interests. Against this backdrop, the ongoing 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) in Kochi, Kerala, serves as a crucial platform for deliberating on the future of
THE RECENT UNREST IN PAKISTAN-OCCUPIED KASHMIR The unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) has heightened due to economic woes, including soaring prices and financial strain. Pakistan's economy faces significant challenges, marked by high inflation, escalating energy costs, and trade disruptions with India. These factors have contributed to economic instability in regions like PoK, exacerbating the already
SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT Solid waste management is a critical issue in India, particularly in urban areas like New Delhi, where improper waste disposal and management pose severe threats to public health and the environment. With India generating millions of tonnes of waste annually, effective management practices are essential to mitigate these risks. About Solid Waste
GLOBAL NUCLEAR LANDSCAPE The global landscape is witnessing a resurgence of nuclear anxieties, driven by geopolitical tensions, technological advancements, and regional conflicts. In this context, India faces multifaceted challenges and opportunities in its nuclear program and energy sector. Evolution of the Global Nuclear Landscape: Russia-Ukraine War: Russia's veiled nuclear threats during the Ukraine conflict have
PROMOTING COMPETITION IN DIGITAL MARKETS: THE AI CHALLENGE During the 15th annual day celebrations of the Competition Commission of India (CCI), the Chairperson emphasized the inclination of digital markets towards heightened market concentration, potentially leading to monopolistic tendencies. Key Highlights of the Event: The CCI Chairperson pointed out that the dominance of digital platforms over
WHY CAN ACCUSED PERSONS IN PRISON CONTEST POLLS BUT NOT VOTE? TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS In India, the right to vote and the right to be elected are governed by specific sections of the Representation of People Act, 1951 (RP Act). While the Supreme Court has recognized free and fair
WORLD MENSTRUAL HYGIENE DAY 2024 On World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2024, India celebrates advancements in menstrual hygiene management, with around 80% of young women aged 15-24 using safe menstrual products, as reported by the National Family Health Survey (NFHS 2019-2020). Despite overall progress, the menstrual hygiene needs of women in Indian prisons remain largely overlooked,
EXPERT PANEL FAVOURS REOPENING ELEPHANT CORRIDOR, SHIFTING CHINNAKANAL COLONIES TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The expert panel appointed by the Kerala High Court has submitted a report outlining recommendations to address the human-wildlife conflict in Chinnakanal, Idukki district. The report highlights the case of Arikomban, a wild elephant relocated due to
FARM LOAN WAIVERS Farm loan waivers are governmental measures aimed at relieving farmers from the burden of repaying certain agricultural loans, typically announced during election campaigns to garner support from the farming community. These waivers are implemented to alleviate agrarian distress caused by factors like crop failure, natural calamities, or economic hardships. Governments allocate funds
RBI’S INCOME RISES 17% TO ₹2.75 LAKH CR., SPENDING FALLS 56% TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU RBI income went up by 17%, reaching ₹2,75,572.32 crore, which shows we're making more money. At the same time, spending dropped by a big 56.3% to ₹64,694.33 crore, meaning we're being careful with how we spend. These
RAILWAYS TO CONSTRUCT CANOPY BRIDGES ACROSS TRACK IN ASSAM GIBBON HABITAT TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary in Jorhat district, Assam, is home to the Hoolock gibbon, India’s only ape. A railway track divides the sanctuary, disrupting the gibbons' natural movement and habitat. Canopy Bridges Purpose: Facilitate gibbons' safe movement
CYCLONE REMAL: 31 KILLED AS RAIN, LANDSLIPS WREAK HAVOC IN NORTHEAST The recent Cyclone Remal caused severe landslides in northeastern India, resulting in significant casualties. This highlights the urgent need for enhanced multi-hazard disaster resilience. While early warnings for cyclones have improved, landslide prediction and prevention remain a challenge. What is a Landslide? A landslide
WIPO TREATY ON INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, GENETIC RESOURCES, TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE The recently concluded World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) treaty on Intellectual Property (IP), Genetic Resources (GRs), and Associated Traditional Knowledge (ATK) marks a significant achievement for countries of the global South, including India. Adopted by a consensus of over 150 countries, the treaty aims to balance
JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE SPOTS EARLIEST-KNOWN GALAXY: WHAT A NEW STUDY SAYS TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS Astronomers have made a groundbreaking discovery using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), revealing the most distant galaxy ever observed. This ancient galaxy, named JADES-GS-z14-0, existed a mere 400 million years after the Big
THE INSOLVENCY AND BANKRUPTCY CODE (IBC), 2016 The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016, provides a comprehensive framework for resolving insolvency and bankruptcy issues for companies, individuals, and partnerships in India. Recent data from the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) highlights the progress and challenges in the implementation of the IBC, with a
GLOBAL PANDEMIC AGREEMENT The World Health Assembly (WHA), in its annual meeting, agreed on significant amendments to the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR) and made commitments to finalize a global pandemic agreement by 2025. These amendments aim to enhance global preparedness, surveillance, and responses to public health emergencies, including pandemics. Key Amendments to IHR Pandemic
ATAL MISSION FOR REJUVENATION AND URBAN TRANSFORMATION (AMRUT) The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) was launched in 2015 to enhance basic infrastructure and implement urban reforms in selected cities across India, covering about 60% of the urban population. AMRUT 2.0 Scheme Overview: Launched in 2021, AMRUT 2.0 aims to extend the
PROPERTY IS REAL, AND SO SHOULD THE ‘COMPENSATION’ TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The right to property has been a contentious and evolving issue in the constitutional history of post-colonial India. Once envisioned as a fundamental right akin to liberty, property rights have witnessed a tumultuous journey characterized by a persistent
PERSONALITY RIGHTS The ongoing disputes involving Hollywood actress and OpenAI, and the legal action by the New York Times against OpenAI and Microsoft, underscore the significance of personality rights and the regulatory landscape for AI. Personality rights are vital for individuals, especially celebrities, to control their public persona. In India, while explicit laws on personality
THE SITE OF A MAJOR POLITICAL EARTHQUAKE TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The 2024 general election marks a significant turning point in Indian politics, especially within the Hindi heartland. Echoing the historical shifts of 1977 and 1989, the Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has experienced a notable decline, signalling the
KAVANGO-ZAMBEZI TRANS-FRONTIER CONSERVATION AREA (KAZA-TFCA) SUMMIT The 2024 Heads of State Summit for the Kavango-Zambezi Trans-Frontier Conservation Area (KAZA-TFCA) held in Livingstone, Zambia, saw member states reiterating their calls to withdraw from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). This move came amidst challenges faced by southern African
WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY (WED) 2024 World Environment Day (WED) is celebrated annually on 5th June to raise awareness and promote actions for environmental protection. Established by the United Nations in 1972, this day focuses on pressing environmental issues with specific themes each year. Key Facts About World Environment Day Establishment: Initiated by
UNCCD REPORT ON RANGELANDS AND PASTORALISTS The UN Convention on Combating Desertification (UNCCD) recently released a report on rangelands and pastoralists, highlighting the need for better recognition of pastoralists' rights and improved market access. This report provides significant insights into the current state of rangelands and pastoralist communities globally and in India. Key Findings of
COALITION GOVERNMENT Coalition government refers to a system where multiple political parties cooperate to form a government. This collaboration is often necessary when no single party achieves a clear majority in elections. Coalition governments are built on agreed programs and shared objectives to exercise political power together. Features of Coalition Government Multiple Parties: At least
THE ROADS TO INDIA’S REDEMOCRATISATION, THE CHALLENGES TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The 18th Indian general election marks a significant turning point in the country's political landscape. Despite the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) maintaining power, their loss of a parliamentary majority signals a shift. For the first time, Prime Minister must
SPECIAL CATEGORY STATUS The demand for special category status (SCS) by states like Andhra Pradesh and Bihar has recently gained prominence with the formation of the new NDA government. What is Special Category Status? Special Category Status (SCS) is a designation given by the central government to support states with substantial geographical and socio-economic challenges.
74 WOMEN ELECTED TO LOK SABHA, LOWER THAN 2019 The political empowerment of women in India has been a topic of significant discussion, particularly in light of the recent Lok Sabha elections of 2024. The number of women MPs has decreased from 78 in 2019 to 74 in 2024, which constitutes 13.63% of the total
NONE OF THE ABOVE (NOTA) OPTION IN INDIAN ELECTIONS The None of the Above (NOTA) option in Indian elections allows voters to reject all the candidates contesting in an election. This provision is designed to empower voters and provide them with an option to express their dissatisfaction with the available candidates. It ensures that the
WILFUL DEFAULTER Wilful defaulters are borrowers who intentionally fail to repay their debts despite having the financial capacity to do so. To prevent these individuals from escaping legal and financial consequences, various measures such as Look-Out Circulars (LOCs) are employed. Look-Out Circular (LOC) LOC is a notice to prevent individuals wanted by authorities
HOUSEHOLD CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE SURVEY (HCES) The Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES), undertaken by the National Statistical Office (NSO), offers invaluable insights into the expenditure patterns of households in both rural and urban areas throughout India. It is a comprehensive study conducted every five years to gather data on household consumption patterns, which is essential for
WHAT IS THE AGNIPATH SCHEME AND THE OPPOSITION TO IT? TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS The Agni path scheme, introduced by the BJP-led government in June 2022, has faced opposition from political parties and Armed Forces veterans. This scheme aims to recruit personnel below officer ranks for a short-term tenure, significantly
UNITED NATIONS GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM (UNGSCF) The inaugural United Nations Global Supply Chain Forum (UNGSCF) recently convened by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the Government of Barbados emphasized critical issues surrounding escalating global supply chain disruptions. Additionally, the need for supply chain resilience, particularly in the context of India, has become increasingly apparent
SPECIAL CATEGORY STATUS FOR ANDHRA TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS The demand for Special Category Status (SCS) for Andhra Pradesh has resurfaced in the political landscape following the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This issue, rooted in the state's bifurcation in 2014, involves complex financial and political dimensions. Background of SCS Demand
IISC DEVELOPS METHOD TO REMOVE HEAVY METAL CONTAMINANTS FROM GROUNDWATER TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed an innovative method to remove heavy metal contaminants, including arsenic, from groundwater. This process is designed to ensure environmental safety and sustainability. Three-Step Method: The method involves a
SPEAKER OF THE LOK SABHA The Speaker of the Lok Sabha in India plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the House and maintaining the balance of power between the ruling party and its allies, as well as the opposition. This is especially significant in a coalition government where multiple parties with
PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) are the foundation of rural governance in India, playing a crucial role in decentralizing power and ensuring local self-governance. They were established to empower rural communities and involve them directly in decision-making processes. Historical Background Ancient Governance: Village government in India has a long history. Kautilya’s Arthashastra (200
STUDY RANKS INDIA SECOND IN NITROUS OXIDE EMISSIONS TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU Recent observations in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, show the Taj Mahal visibly clearer after rain washed away pollution. This phenomenon underscores the significant issue of air pollution and highlights the urgent need to address greenhouse gas emissions, particularly nitrous oxide (N2O).
GLOBAL NITROUS OXIDE BUDGET Nitrous oxide (N₂O) is a potent greenhouse gas, significantly contributing to global warming and ozone layer depletion. A recent study by the Global Carbon Project (GCP) titled “Global Nitrous Oxide Budget (1980-2020)” highlights the alarming rise in N₂O emissions, particularly from human activities. Key Findings of the Study Alarming Rise in
STATE OF THE OCEAN REPORT, 2024 The UNESCO State of Ocean Report 2024 emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced oceanographic research and data collection. The report underscores the critical gaps in data and research and calls for immediate action to support healthy and resilient oceans. Key Highlights Inadequate Data and Research Critical Gap: The report
URBANISATION Urbanisation is the process where people move from rural areas to urban centres, resulting in the growth of cities and towns. This trend has accelerated in recent decades, significantly impacting India’s urban centres, which face challenges such as water shortages, urban heating, and infrastructural strains. What is Urbanisation? Urbanisation refers to the movement of
3 STATES SEEK SHRINKING OF ECO-SENSITIVE AREAS IN WESTERN GHATS The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a biodiversity hotspot that spans six states in India: Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu. In order to conserve its unique ecology while allowing for sustainable development, the concept of Eco-Sensitive Areas (ESAs) was
NO OUTCOME IN BONN MEETING: WHY MONEY IS KEY TO CLIMATE ACTION The New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) is an emerging international climate finance target that aims to build upon and exceed the current commitment of $100 billion per year from developed countries to assist developing nations in addressing climate change. This new target seeks
INDIA'S POWER SECTOR India's power sector plays a pivotal role in its economic development, catering to a vast and diverse population. However, it faces numerous challenges ranging from demand-supply imbalances to environmental concerns. The sector is predominantly reliant on coal for electricity generation, despite efforts to diversify towards renewable energy sources. Current Status of India's
SILK ROAD The Silk Road is a historic network of trade routes that connected civilizations from East Asia to the Mediterranean, spanning over 1,500 years of human history. It facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, cultures, and technologies between diverse regions of the world. Named after the lucrative trade in silk that originated in China,
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.
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
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
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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.
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
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:
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