Editorials

REPORT ON CURRENCY AND FINANCE (RCF) 2023-24: INDIA'S DIGITAL ECONOMY The "Report on Currency and Finance (RCF) for 2023-24," released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), provides an insightful analysis of India’s digital economy. The report highlights how digitalization is reshaping the financial sector and influencing the broader economy. This year’s focus is on

LANDSLIDES AND THEIR IMPACT IN WAYANAD, KERALA Recently, Wayanad district in Kerala experienced one of its most severe landslide-related disasters due to extreme rainfall and fragile ecological conditions. With over 140 mm of rain in just 24 hours, the event has rekindled memories of the devastating 2018 floods in Kerala, which claimed around 500 lives.

IMPACT OF OIL AND GAS DRILLING ON HOOLOCK GIBBONS IN ASSAM The Union Environment Ministry's recent approval for exploratory oil and gas drilling in Assam's eco-sensitive zones, particularly the Hoollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary, has sparked concerns over the potential threat to the endangered hoolock gibbons and other wildlife. Cairn India, a subsidiary of Vedanta Ltd,

CLOUDBURST IN HIMACHAL PRADESH A cloudburst is a sudden and intense rainfall event over a small geographical area, often leading to flash floods and landslides. These events are particularly common in mountainous regions like the Himalayas and have devastating consequences for both life and infrastructure. Recently, a cloudburst in Himachal Pradesh caused significant destruction, highlighting

COASTAL EROSION IN TAMIL NADU Coastal erosion is a significant issue affecting Tamil Nadu's coastline, impacting local communities, fishers, and infrastructure. Recent studies reveal severe erosion, threatening livelihoods and exacerbated by development projects. Key Findings of the Study Extent of Erosion: Tamil Nadu's coastline is heavily affected, with nearly 43% experiencing erosion. Over 4,450 acres

UPDATED FAO FIRE MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has recently updated its "Integrated Fire Management Voluntary Guidelines," which were first introduced nearly 20 years ago. The updated guidelines address contemporary challenges related to climate change and emphasize a more integrated approach to fire management. Key Aspects of the Updated FAO Guidelines Integration

SUPREME COURT RULING ON THE NOMINATION OF MCD ALDERMEN The Supreme Court of India recently ruled that the Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Delhi has the authority to nominate "aldermen" to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) without requiring the advice of the Delhi Government’s Council of Ministers. This decision clarifies the powers of the LG

QUIT INDIA MOVEMENT (QIM) The Quit India Movement (QIM), also known as the August Kranti or August Revolution, is commemorated on August 8th each year in India. The movement, launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1942, was a significant milestone in India’s fight for independence from British rule. In 2024, India celebrates the 82nd anniversary of

GST ON HEALTH AND LIFE INSURANCE: CURRENT DEBATES AND IMPLICATIONS The Goods and Services Tax (GST) on health and life insurance premiums has become a focal point of debate in India, particularly after opposition leaders led protests demanding the removal of the 18% GST on insurance premiums. This tax, coupled with the rising cost of

UPDATED FAO FIRE MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has recently updated its "Integrated Fire Management Voluntary Guidelines," which were first introduced nearly 20 years ago. The updated guidelines address contemporary challenges related to climate change and emphasize a more integrated approach to fire management. Key Aspects of the Updated FAO Guidelines Integration

SEAWEED CULTIVATION IN INDIA Seaweed cultivation presents a significant opportunity for sustainable development in India. Recognizing its potential, NITI Aayog has proposed a comprehensive roadmap to boost seaweed production, addressing various aspects from research to market promotion. This strategic initiative aims to harness the environmental, economic, and social benefits of seaweed, contributing to India's growth

WORLD BIOFUEL DAY 2024 World Biofuel Day, observed annually on August 10th, highlights the importance of biofuels as sustainable energy alternatives and celebrates advancements in this field. The day commemorates the successful operation of an engine powered by peanut oil by Sir Rudolf Diesel on August 9, 1893. The focus of World Biofuel Day 2024