INTERPLAY OF CLIMATE CHANGE, WATER, AND ENERGY The interconnected challenges posed by climate change, water scarcity, and energy demand represent a major barrier to sustainable development. Rising global temperatures, altered water availability, and increased energy requirements call for systemic solutions to manage these critical resources effectively. Integrated resource management can help address these challenges and
INDIA-AUSTRALIA ECONOMIC COOPERATION AND TRADE AGREEMENT (IND-AUS ECTA) The India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (Ind-Aus ECTA) has completed two years, marking significant strides in the bilateral economic relationship between the two nations. Since its implementation, both countries have experienced a surge in trade and economic cooperation, with a goal to increase bilateral trade to
THE NATURE OF DISSENT IN THE INDIAN JUDICIARY TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU Judicial dissent is a cornerstone of democracy, promoting healthy debate and refining legal interpretations. Role of Dissent in Democracy Dissent is vital for a vibrant democracy, ensuring diverse perspectives in judicial decisions. Both India and the U.S. have a history of
INDIA'S INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT: ACHIEVEMENTS AND CHALLENGES India has made remarkable strides in infrastructure development over the past 25 years, fueled by growing private participation and innovative government initiatives. However, to achieve its ambitious goal of becoming a USD 30 trillion economy by 2047, nearly 90% of the required infrastructure is yet to be developed. This
TRANSFORMATIVE CHANGE FOR BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION The "Transformative Change Assessment" report by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) emphasizes the critical role of effective governance in tackling biodiversity loss. It highlights the need for systemic, inclusive, and sustainable strategies to preserve ecosystems and drive long-term changes. Key Highlights of the Transformative Change
TACKLING DELIMITATION AND FERTILITY DECLINE TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU The proposed delimitation exercise has raised concerns among southern states like Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh due to their success in population control, potentially leading to reduced parliamentary representation. Concerns Over Delimitation Southern states, with low fertility rates, may lose parliamentary seats compared to
SAFE DISPOSAL OF BHOPAL'S TOXIC WASTE TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU The Madhya Pradesh government has assured that incineration of 337 tonnes of toxic waste from the Union Carbide factory in Bhopal will not harm the environment. The waste, transported to Pithampur, will be disposed of scientifically, despite local opposition. Background of the Issue The
GROUNDWATER CONTAMINATION IN INDIA Groundwater contamination is a pressing environmental and public health issue in India, as highlighted by recent findings from the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB). Rising levels of chemical pollutants, particularly nitrates, pose significant risks to human health, agriculture, and the environment. Key Findings of the CGWB Report Increase in Nitrate Contamination
QUAD MARKS 20 YEARS OF COOPERATION: INDIA SET TO HOST KEY SUMMIT IN 2025 The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is a strategic forum involving India, the United States, Japan, and Australia. It plays a vital role in promoting peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, especially in the face of increasing challenges like China's
INDIA’S RENEWABLE ELECTRICITY ROADMAP 2030 Renewable energy is the cornerstone of India’s transition toward a cleaner and more sustainable future. With a current wind power capacity of 47.95 GW, India is taking significant steps to double this capacity to 100 GW by 2030. To achieve its broader target of 500 GW non-fossil energy, the Ministry
INDIA'S DATA CENTRE SECTOR India's data centre sector is expanding rapidly due to factors such as increased digitalization, advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), the adoption of 5G technology, and data localization laws. The sector is expected to double its capacity by FY27, creating numerous economic and technological opportunities. However, challenges like infrastructure limitations, sustainability concerns,
GROUNDWATER CONTAMINATION IN INDIA TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU A recent report by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) highlights the alarming increase in nitrate contamination in India's groundwater. This poses both health risks and environmental challenges. Key Findings from the CGWB Report Rising Nitrate Levels The number of districts with excessive nitrate in groundwater
DEFENCE MINISTRY DECLARES 2025 AS 'YEAR OF REFORMS The Ministry of Defence has declared 2025 as the ‘Year of Reforms’ to modernize India’s Armed Forces into a technologically advanced and combat-ready entity capable of multi-domain operations. Meanwhile, 2024 is being observed by the Indian Army as the Year of Technology Absorption, focusing on integrating advanced
GUARDIANS OF THE EARTH: PROTECTING THE SHOMPEN PEOPLE AND THEIR ANCESTRAL LANDS TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU The Shompen people of the Nicobar Islands are a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) with a deep connection to their ancestral lands. Recent development projects and wildlife sanctuary declarations threaten their existence, culture, and the ecosystems they
INDIA’S RELATIONS WITH LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN (LAC) India’s relations with Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) are expanding, with increasing trade, diplomatic engagements, and cultural exchanges across all 33 nations in the region. However, challenges remain, such as geographical distance, limited trade agreements, and competition from China, which has a stronger presence in
POVERTY-FREE VILLAGES: PMAY-G AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES The Ministry of Rural Development recently emphasized creating poverty-free villages by enhancing the implementation of rural development schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G). These efforts align with the broader vision of achieving a poverty-free India. Key Features of PMAY-G Objective: Launched in 2016, PMAY-G aims to
WHAT IS A THORIUM REACTOR: NEXT-GENERATION NUCLEAR POWER India is making significant strides in nuclear energy development by leveraging its vast thorium resources. The National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) Limited, India's largest power producer, has partnered with Clean Core Thorium Energy (CCTE), a US-based firm, to explore advanced nuclear energy solutions using thorium-based fuel known
FARMERS' DEMAND FOR LEGAL GUARANTEE OF MSP TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU Farmers in India are demanding a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) to ensure fair compensation for their produce. The absence of legal backing often forces them to sell crops below the declared MSP, causing financial losses. Why is the Demand
TIBET EARTHQUAKE AND SEISMIC ACTIVITY IN THE HIMALAYAN REGION TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY: INDIAN EXPRESS The recent earthquake in Tibet highlights the Himalayan region's vulnerability to seismic events due to ongoing tectonic activity. This region lies at the convergence of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it one of the world's most earthquake-prone zones. Key
TACKLING MATERNAL AND CHILD MALNUTRITION: GLOBAL NUTRITION TARGETS (GNTS) Malnutrition, including undernutrition and overnutrition, remains a critical global health challenge. A recent study published in The Lancet highlights the slow progress made between 2012 and 2021 towards achieving the Global Nutrition Targets (GNTs) aimed at reducing malnutrition. This situation calls for innovative strategies and stronger
ARTESIAN WELL Recently in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, a significant natural event occurred where large volumes of water gushed out from underground. This phenomenon is attributed to an artesian well and has sparked discussions about the origin of this water. Experts have ruled out any connection to the ancient Saraswati River, suggesting instead that the water may
PERIODIC LEGISLATIVE REVIEW AND ITS IMPORTANCE Periodic legislative reviews play a crucial role in ensuring that laws remain effective, relevant, and aligned with the evolving needs of society. Recently, the Supreme Court of India underscored the need for systematic assessments of existing laws to identify deficiencies and address emerging challenges. It proposed reviews at regular
HOUSEHOLD CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE SURVEY (HCES) 2023-24 The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) recently published the factsheet for the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2023-24. This survey provides valuable insights into the spending habits, consumption patterns, and overall economic well-being of households in India. The data collected aids in formulating policies that address inequality,
RIVER INTERLINKING: ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIETAL IMPLICATIONS TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU The River Interlinking Project in India, including initiatives like the Ken-Betwa link, aims to address water scarcity in regions like Bundelkhand. However, these projects raise significant environmental and social concerns, including ecological damage and flawed water management strategies. Key Features of River Interlinking Concept
GENOME INDIA PROJECT: A MILESTONE IN GENETIC RESEARCH TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU India has launched the 'Genome India' database, a comprehensive collection of 10,000 human genomes from 83 population groups. This initiative aims to facilitate research into genetic diseases, precision medicine, and biotechnology. Key Highlights of the Genome India Project Overview of
MANUAL SCAVENGING IN INDIA Manual scavenging, an age-old practice of cleaning human excreta manually, persists as a significant social issue in India, violating human rights and dignity. Despite constitutional safeguards and laws prohibiting the practice, it continues to affect marginalized communities, particularly women. Recently, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) held a discussion on the
GREEN GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (GREEN GDP) AND ITS IMPORTANCE Green GDP is an innovative approach to measuring economic growth that incorporates environmental costs. Unlike traditional GDP, which focuses solely on economic output, Green GDP highlights the true value of natural resources and the impact of environmental degradation. Chhattisgarh has set a remarkable example by becoming
INDIA-AFGHANISTAN RELATIONS AND RECENT DEVELOPMENTS India recently held high-level talks with Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister in Dubai, marking a significant outreach to the Taliban regime. This meeting comes amidst global geopolitical changes and highlights India’s efforts to safeguard its national and security interests in Afghanistan. Key Outcomes of the Talks Humanitarian Assistance: India agreed
ORGANIC FARMING AND THE NATIONAL PROGRAMME FOR ORGANIC PRODUCTION (NPOP) India has immense potential for organic farming, with increasing recognition on the global stage. The National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP), now in its 8th edition, aims to enhance India's competitiveness in organic farming by establishing accreditation systems, production standards, and promoting the sector. Recent
GLOBAL WARMING BREACHES KEY THRESHOLD IN 2024 TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU The year 2024 marked a significant milestone in climate change, as global temperatures exceeded the 1.5°C threshold above pre-industrial levels for the first time. This highlights the urgent need for collective action to combat the worsening climate crisis. Key Highlights Record-Breaking Temperatures Mean
WAYANAD'S LANDSLIDES The study published in Nature Natural Hazards (July 2024) addresses the catastrophic landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, emphasizing the need for enhanced disaster management strategies in regions prone to such natural hazards. Wayanad's landslides were caused by extreme rainfall, combined with fragile ecological conditions. This event highlights the vulnerability of certain areas in India
SAME-SEX MARRIAGE AND ITS LEGAL CONTEXT IN INDIA Same-sex marriage, involving the union of individuals of the same gender, is a topic of significant legal, social, and cultural importance globally. In India, recent judgments by the Supreme Court (SC) have highlighted the complexities of this issue. What is Same-Sex Marriage? Same-sex marriage refers to the
PRIVATISATION OF POWER DISTRIBUTION COMPANIES (DISCOMS) In December 2024, the Supreme Court supported the government’s decision to privatize power DISCOMs in Chandigarh, marking a significant step towards reforming India’s power distribution sector. This decision has reignited debates about the benefits and challenges of privatization in ensuring efficient and sustainable electricity distribution. Why is there a
ISRO’S PROGRESS IN DOCKING TECHNOLOGY TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU ISRO’s successful demonstration of docking technology with the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) marks a significant milestone in India’s space program, paving the way for long-duration space missions and advanced interplanetary projects. PSLV-C60 Mission and SpaDeX Launch On December 30, 2024, ISRO launched the
RIGHTS FOR FOREST DWELLERS The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has issued a directive to states, urging them to set up institutional mechanisms for ensuring proper implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, especially in tiger reserves. This move is aimed at addressing complaints of unlawful evictions of forest-dwelling communities and ensuring their legal rights
ANAEMIA IN INDIA TOPIC: (GS1) SOCIETY: THE HINDU Anaemia, a widespread health concern in India, has been traditionally linked to iron deficiency. However, recent studies highlight additional factors, such as vitamin deficiencies and environmental influences, that contribute to the condition. Context: Anaemia Prevalence in India Women (15–49 years): Anaemia prevalence was 41.1%, lower than 60.8%
HONOUR KILLING In a tragic case of honour killing in Madhya Pradesh, a girl was murdered by her family for wanting to marry a person of her choice. Honour killings are a significant human rights violation rooted in regressive societal norms. This issue highlights the urgent need for stronger laws and societal reforms to protect
WARMEST YEAR ON RECORD The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) recently confirmed that 2024 has become the warmest year ever recorded. The past decade (2015-2024) also stands as the hottest on record. While India's temperature rise remains lower than the global average, it highlights critical gaps in climate models' accuracy for the country. Strengthening India's climate
INDIAN CRYPTOGRAPHY RESEARCH AND THE QUANTUM CHALLENGE TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU Cryptography secures information by converting plain text into unreadable formats, ensuring data protection from unauthorized access. India's research in cryptography is advancing to address the challenges posed by quantum computing and emerging encryption technologies. Understanding Cryptography Definition: Cryptography secures data by
GLACIERS AND THEIR IMPORTANCE Glaciers are vast, slow-moving ice masses formed over centuries from compressed snow. They play a crucial role in Earth's climate and water cycle. However, with global warming, glaciers are melting at an alarming rate, posing serious challenges to ecosystems and human societies. To address this, the United Nations has declared 2025
UNICEF REPORT ON CHALLENGES FACED BY CHILDREN The UNICEF report titled "Prospects for Children in 2025: Building Resilient Systems for Children's Futures" highlights the growing challenges children face globally due to various crises. It emphasizes the urgent need to strengthen national systems to protect children's well-being and ensure essential support. Key Highlights of the UNICEF
INDIA-EU RELATIONS: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES India and the European Union (EU) share a strategic partnership based on democratic values and mutual economic interests. As global challenges increase, both entities are enhancing cooperation to address geopolitical, economic, and technological issues. Despite the potential, challenges persist in fully realizing the benefits of their partnership. Significance of India-EU
INDIA'S RUBBER INDUSTRY The Indian rubber industry is taking significant steps to strengthen its global position and boost domestic production. The launch of initiatives like the Indian Sustainable Natural Rubber (iSNR) and INR Konnect Platform aligns with the National Rubber Policy (NRP) 2019, which aims to create an environmentally friendly and globally competitive rubber sector.
RBI UPDATES GUIDELINES FOR ASSET RECONSTRUCTION COMPANIES (ARCS) TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revised guidelines for Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) to ensure settlements with borrowers occur only after all recovery options are exhausted. This aims to enhance accountability and streamline recovery processes. Key Highlights of the Revised Guidelines
BUDDHIST RELIC DISCOVERY The Archaeological Survey of India recently discovered significant Buddhist relics in Ratnagiri, Odisha, including a large Buddha head, a giant palm, an ancient wall, and inscribed artifacts. These findings, dating back to the 8th and 9th centuries AD, shed light on Odisha's crucial role in spreading Buddhism to Southeast Asia. Odisha's Contribution
IMPACT OF DONALD TRUMP’S PARIS AGREEMENT WITHDRAWAL (2025) TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU Donald Trump, in his second term as U.S. President, has withdrawn the United States from the Paris Agreement, citing economic priorities. This move is expected to have far-reaching consequences on global climate action and America’s domestic energy policies. Key Highlights of the
OXFAM INTERNATIONAL REPORT: RISING GLOBAL INEQUALITY Oxfam International's report, "Takers Not Makers: The Unjust Poverty and Unearned Wealth of Colonialism," highlights the increasing wealth gap worldwide. While billionaires' fortunes continue to grow, the poor face ongoing challenges. The report attributes this widening inequality to historical colonial exploitation. About Oxfam International Established in 1995, Oxfam is
INDIA’S OIL DEMAND TO REACH NEW HIGHS IN 2025-26 TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU India’s demand for refined petroleum products is projected to hit a record high in FY26, driven by increasing energy requirements across various sectors. This growth underscores the country’s economic expansion and energy-intensive development. Record Petroleum Consumption in FY26 India’s petroleum
INDIAN CITIZENSHIP FOR SRI LANKAN TAMIL REFUGEES The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court recently directed the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to review the Indian citizenship application of a Sri Lankan Tamil refugee who has been living in India since 1984. This decision highlights the challenges faced by long-term refugees and their struggle
GLOBAL CYBERSECURITY OUTLOOK 2025: KEY INSIGHTS AND INDIA'S PREPAREDNESS The World Economic Forum (WEF) has recently published the Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025 report, highlighting the increasing cyber threats to essential infrastructure worldwide. Factors such as geopolitical tensions, outdated systems, and a shortage of skilled professionals are major concerns. The report emphasizes the need for improved
OFFSHORE SAND MINING IN KERALA: ECONOMIC POTENTIAL AND CONCERNS The Union government has decided to start offshore sand mining along Kerala's coast under the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2023 (OAMDR Amendment Act). However, the state government and local communities are strongly opposing the move due to concerns about its impact on
ENSURING ELECTORAL ROLL INTEGRITY FOR FAIR ELECTIONS TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU The integrity of electoral rolls is crucial for ensuring that elections are free, fair, and transparent. Accurate voter lists prevent electoral fraud and uphold the democratic process. Historical Context and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Warning Dr. Ambedkar’s Concerns: During the 1949 Constituent Assembly
SENIOR CITIZENS IN INDIA The Supreme Court of India recently refused to accept a petition that sought the creation of a dedicated ministry for senior citizens. The petition argued that elderly individuals constitute a vulnerable group and deserve special attention under Article 21 of the Constitution, which ensures the right to a dignified life. According
ODISHA LEADS NITI AAYOG’S FISCAL HEALTH INDEX 2022-23 TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU NITI Aayog released its first-ever Fiscal Health Index (FHI) report, ranking Indian states on key parameters such as fiscal stability, revenue mobilization, expenditure quality, and debt management for the financial year 2022-23. Odisha emerged as the top performer, showcasing remarkable fiscal
INDUS WATERS TREATY DISPUTES AND CHALLENGES The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan under the World Bank's supervision, governs the sharing of the Indus River and its tributaries. Recent disputes related to hydroelectric projects in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) have highlighted concerns over water sharing and treaty implementation. Key Disputes
SUSTAINABLE NITROGEN MANAGEMENT IN AGRIFOOD SYSTEMS The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has released a report titled "Sustainable Nitrogen Management in Agrifood Systems," which highlights the current state of nitrogen pollution and its impact on the environment. The report provides an in-depth analysis of nitrogen use, its sources, consequences, and strategies to address the issue
DECLINE IN INDIA’S FERTILITY RATE: CAUSES AND IMPLICATIONS The Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2021 highlights a significant decline in India's Total Fertility Rate (TFR). This trend could have major socio-economic and political effects, especially in southern states where demographic changes are more pronounced. Key Findings of the Study India's
DEATH PENALTY AND SENTENCING GUIDELINES IN INDIA The death penalty is the harshest form of punishment in the Indian legal system. Courts impose it for the most serious crimes, considering both aggravating and mitigating factors to ensure fair sentencing. The Supreme Court has established guidelines to decide when capital punishment should be given. Aggravating and
INDIA'S SPACE PROGRAMME IN 2025 TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU India's space programme has started 2025 with groundbreaking achievements, showcasing advancements in space exploration, collaborations with private players, and preparations for future missions like human spaceflight and Chandrayaan-4. Key Highlights of India’s Space Advancements PSLV-C60 Mission and SpaDeX Experiment On December 30, 2024,
INDIA’S POTENTIAL IN TRANSFORMATIVE INNOVATIONS TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU India can become a global leader in transformative innovations by addressing fundamental constraints in existing technologies. These innovations, unlike incremental ones, create radical changes in solving problems and improving lives. About Transformative Innovations Transformative or radical innovations bring significant change by overcoming core
FISCAL CONSOLIDATION IN INDIA India's fiscal consolidation process has seen significant progress, particularly following the economic challenges induced by the COVID-19 pandemic. The fiscal deficit in India reached a peak of 9.2% of GDP in FY 2020-21 but has been steadily reduced to an estimated 5.6% in FY 2023-24, with a target of 4.9% in
AD-HOC JUDGES AND CASE PENDENCY IN INDIA'S JUDICIARY The issue of mounting judicial backlog has prompted discussions about improving efficiency in India's judicial system. A critical suggestion put forward by the Supreme Court is the temporary appointment of retired judges, known as "ad-hoc judges," to help address the backlog of cases in High Courts. This
DEEPSEEK: A DISRUPTIVE OPEN-SOURCE AI CHALLENGING BIG TECH TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU DeepSeek, a Chinese AI startup, has gained global attention by offering cost-effective AI models that rival those of US tech giants. Its open-source approach and innovative techniques have disrupted the AI landscape. About DeepSeek A Chinese AI company based in
INDIA-INDONESIA TIES Indonesia has been an important partner for India for decades, with both countries enjoying a rich and multifaceted relationship. With the recent signing of several memorandums of understanding (MoUs), including a defense collaboration pact and trade cooperation agreements, the relationship between India and Indonesia continues to grow, focusing on mutual benefits and shared
RAT-HOLE MINING Rat-hole mining is a hazardous and primitive method of coal extraction. It involves digging narrow tunnels by hand, typically by local laborers, to mine coal. Though illegal, it is still practiced in certain parts of India, especially in regions like Assam and Meghalaya. The tragic incidents, such as the Dima Hasao coal mine
