Editorials

DISASTER MANAGEMENT (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2024 The Indian government recently introduced the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Lok Sabha to make significant changes to the existing Disaster Management Act, 2005. The amendment aims to strengthen disaster response mechanisms, improve coordination, and decentralize disaster management. However, it has sparked debates regarding the increased centralization of

PEACE AGREEMENT BETWEEN GOVERNMENT AND INSURGENT GROUPS IN TRIPURA The Central Government, in collaboration with the state government of Tripura, recently signed a peace agreement with two major insurgent groups—National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) and the All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF). This agreement aims to end a 35-year-long insurgency, promote stability, and foster development

MAIZE-BASED ETHANOL AND INDIA'S SHIFT FROM EXPORTER TO IMPORTER India has been pushing to increase ethanol production, particularly from maize (corn), to achieve its fuel blending goals. This drive has led to a significant transformation in India’s maize industry, turning the country from Asia’s top maize exporter to a net importer. This shift has impacted

NATIONAL BLOCKCHAIN FRAMEWORK (NBF) The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) recently introduced the National Blockchain Framework (NBF) to improve digital governance in India using blockchain technology. This initiative is a part of the government's broader digital push, aiming to increase transparency, security, and trust in public services. Alongside the NBF, several important blockchain-related

INDIA'S CONTRIBUTION TO GLOBAL PLASTIC POLLUTION A recent study published in Nature has revealed that India is the largest contributor to global plastic pollution, accounting for nearly 20% of the world's total plastic waste. This issue is fueled by factors such as rapid population growth, inadequate waste management, and the prevalence of open burning. The

TAPI PIPELINE: BOOSTING REGIONAL CONNECTIVITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Afghanistan is set to begin construction on the long-awaited Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) pipeline, a landmark project valued at USD 10 billion. This initiative aims to enhance energy connectivity across the region and drive economic progress. About TAPI Pipeline Introduction: The TAPI pipeline is a strategic infrastructure project designed

SANCHI STUPA AND THE REPLICA OF THE EAST GATE IN GERMANY The Sanchi Stupa is one of India's oldest stone structures and a significant monument of Buddhist art and architecture. Recently, India's External Affairs Minister visited the replica of the East Gate of Sanchi Stupa in Berlin, Germany, which stands as a testimony to the

RESTATEMENT OF VALUES OF JUDICIAL LIFE The recent visit of the Prime Minister of India to the Chief Justice of India’s residence has sparked a debate, especially in light of the "Restatement of Values of Judicial Life" established by the Supreme Court in 1997. This code is meant to preserve the independence and integrity of

PREVENTIVE DETENTION IN INDIA Preventive detention in India is a contentious issue due to its potential clash with personal liberty and democratic principles. While preventive detention laws are designed to protect national security and public order, they also pose the risk of being misused, limiting fundamental rights. Recent judicial decisions, like the Jaseela Shaji vs

DELHI'S WINTER ACTION PLAN Delhi's air pollution problem worsens during winter, leading to severe health and environmental concerns.  To tackle this, the Delhi government launched a 21-point winter action plan focusing on real-time pollution monitoring, addressing key pollution sources, and emergency measures. The plan seeks to control air pollution through various means such as drone

EMERGENCY PROVISIONS IMPACT CENTRE-STATE RELATIONS The recent violence in Manipur has reignited a critical debate on Centre-State relations, especially regarding the role of the Centre in addressing internal crises within a state. The use of emergency provisions, particularly Articles 355 and 356, has come under focus. These provisions in the Indian Constitution empower the Centre

INDIA-CHINA BORDER DISENGAGEMENT ALONG THE LAC: RECENT DEVELOPMENTS The India-China border, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh, has been a long-standing source of tension. While progress has been made in reducing military confrontation, several areas remain contentious. Recent discussions between high-level officials from both sides have aimed at de-escalating the situation,