Editorials

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

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

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:

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

CHINA-TIBET ISSUE  The China-Tibet issue has been a longstanding conflict centered around Tibet's status and autonomy within the People's Republic of China (PRC).   Tibet, an autonomous region on the Tibetan Plateau, has a distinct cultural, religious, and linguistic identity that has been a focal point of contention between China and the international community.  Historical Background

PUDUCHERRY  Puducherry, formerly known as Pondicherry, is a Union Territory located on the southeastern coast of India.  It comprises four regions: Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe, and Yanam, each with its own unique cultural influences due to their proximity to Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh.  Historical Background  Ancient History:  Puducherry has a rich maritime history dating

REGULATING FACIAL RECOGNITION TECHNOLOGY (FRT) IN INDIA  Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) has become a subject of significant concern globally due to its potential implications for privacy, security, and ethical considerations. In India, the absence of a comprehensive regulatory framework for FRT has prompted calls for robust policies to govern its use effectively.  Status of Regulation

LEADER OF OPPOSITION AND SYMBOLIC USE OF ABHAY MUDRA  The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha (LS) plays a crucial role in the Indian parliamentary system.  Recently, the LoP used the symbolic image of Lord Shiva and the ‘Abhay Mudra’ in Parliament to criticize the government's actions against the idea of India and

FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY ISSUES IN URBAN AREAS AND THE ROLE OF THE 16TH FINANCE COMMISSION  Urban areas in India are vital economic hubs, contributing significantly to the country's GDP and government revenues.  The 16th Finance Commission's recent developments have brought attention to critical issues regarding fiscal decentralisation and the financial sustainability of urban areas.  The World

INDIA TAKES FIRST STEPS TO MEET 2070 NET-ZERO GOAL, NITI AAYOG FORMS PANELS  In recent developments, NITI Aayog has taken proactive steps towards India's commitment to achieving a net-zero economy by 2070. This initiative follows India's declaration three years ago at global climate summits.   The formation of dedicated multi-sectoral committees aims to devise comprehensive policy

STAMPEDE  A stampede is a sudden and uncontrollable mass movement of people, usually triggered by fear, panic, or excitement.   It often results in injuries and fatalities due to crushing and trampling. India has seen several tragic stampedes, especially during religious gatherings and festivals, highlighting the need for better crowd management and safety measures.  What is