Editorials

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

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

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

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

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

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.           

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

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

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

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

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

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: