DRUG ABUSE IN INDIA Drug abuse and trafficking pose significant challenges globally, impacting public health, national security, and socio-economic stability. In India, these issues are particularly complex due to various factors such as poverty, social influences, and geographical proximity to major drug-producing regions like the Golden Crescent and Golden Triangle. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive
SIMLA AGREEMENT AND INDIA-PAKISTAN RELATIONS The Simla Agreement, signed on 2nd July 1972, marked a significant milestone in the history of India-Pakistan relations, aimed at resolving conflicts arising from the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. This agreement, facilitated by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi of India and President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto of Pakistan, sought to establish peace and
FINANCIAL ACTION TASK FORCE (FATF) The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an intergovernmental organization that sets standards and promotes effective implementation of legal, regulatory, and operational measures to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and other related threats to the integrity of the international financial system. The Mutual Evaluation Report (MER) assesses member countries' compliance
EDUCATION SYSTEM IN INDIA The education system in India has evolved over centuries, reflecting the country’s rich cultural and historical legacy. In recent times, debates about the structure and governance of education, particularly whether it should be under state or central control, have gained prominence. History of Education in India Ancient Period: Gurukul System: Students
GLOBAL INDIAai SUMMIT The Global INDIAai Summit recently concluded at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, serving as a significant gathering for experts, policymakers, and AI enthusiasts worldwide. This summit focused on discussing the future trajectory of Artificial Intelligence (AI) both in India and globally, highlighting key initiatives and strategies. Key Highlights and Outcomes Global AI
PATENTS IN INDIA Recently, the Union Minister of Commerce and Industry emphasized that India granted approximately one hundred thousand patents in 2024, indicating a substantial rise in patent approvals. About Patents Definition: A patent grants exclusive rights to an inventor or entity over their invention, preventing others from replicating, using, or selling it without permission.
CABINET COMMITTEES The Union government of India recently established eight Cabinet Committees to streamline decision-making and improve governance efficiency. This action was accompanied by changes in oath-taking rules for Members of Parliament (MPs), underscoring the government's commitment to organizational and procedural reforms. Cabinet Committees About Cabinet Committees Definition: Subsets of the Union Cabinet, consisting of
QUALITY CONTROL ISSUES IN INDIAN PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY The Indian pharmaceutical industry, renowned globally for its affordable generics and significant export market, faces critical challenges in maintaining quality standards. Recent incidents have highlighted lapses in quality control, leading to regulatory actions and international concerns. Causes of Quality Control Failures Regulatory Compliance Issues: Recent inspections by the
CLASSICAL LANGUAGES AND RECENT DEVELOPMENTS The Central government has recently decided to modify the criteria for granting classical language status, based on recommendations from the Linguistics Expert Committee of the Union Culture Ministry. This change aims to better reflect the rich linguistic heritage of India and address the demands of various language groups. What are
MENSTRUAL LEAVES IN INDIA Menstrual leave is a debated topic in India, focusing on providing female employees with paid time off during their menstruation period. It aims to address the physical and emotional challenges women face during this time and promote workplace inclusivity. Current State of Menstrual Leaves in India Legislative Landscape: No Central Law:
HIGH SEAS TREATY The High Seas Treaty, formally known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, aims to address the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. These areas, known as the high seas, cover a vast portion of the world's oceans and are critical for global biodiversity and
TELECOMMUNICATIONS ACT, 2023 The central government has recently notified certain sections of the Telecommunications Act, 2023. This new legislation aims to update and unify existing telecom laws by replacing outdated laws such as the Indian Telegraph Act of 1885, the Indian Wireless Telegraph Act, 1933, and the Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1950. The Act
CLIMATE-RESILIENT AGRICULTURE (CRA) Climate-Resilient Agriculture (CRA) refers to agricultural practices and systems designed to withstand and recover from the impacts of climate change and extreme weather events. It aims to enhance the resilience of agricultural ecosystems, improve food security, and sustain livelihoods in vulnerable regions. Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture Effect on Yields: Without
RISE IN MILITANCY IN JAMMU The Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has witnessed a notable increase in militant attacks since mid-2021. This shift from historical patterns raises concerns about security vulnerabilities and regional stability. Several factors contribute to this resurgence of militancy in the region. Reasons for Rise in Militancy in Jammu Strategic
ISRO HAS A PROBLEM: TOO MANY ROCKETS, TOO FEW SATELLITES TO LAUNCH India's space launch capabilities, overseen by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), have achieved notable milestones in satellite deployment and space exploration. However, recent statements from ISRO's Chairman have highlighted a disconnect between current launch vehicle capabilities and the demand for satellite services,
BLUE ECONOMY India is increasingly turning towards the ocean to alleviate pressure on land-based resources. The Deep Ocean Mission, also referred to as Samudrayaan, embodies a comprehensive approach to tapping into the Blue Economy. This mission aims to explore and utilize both living (biodiversity) and non-living (minerals) ocean resources sustainably. It focuses on developing tools
FIFTH POSITIVE INDIGENISATION LIST (PIL) OF MINISTRY OF DEFENCE India's Ministry of Defence (MoD) has recently notified the fifth Positive Indigenisation List (PIL), which includes various defence items aimed at promoting self-reliance and reducing dependence on imports. This initiative is a significant step towards enhancing the domestic defence sector and ensuring national security. Concurrently, the
EKLAVYA MODEL RESIDENTIAL SCHOOLS Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) are designed to provide high-quality education to Scheduled Tribe (ST) students across India. The initiative, which began in 1997-98, aims to improve educational outcomes for tribal communities and address the disparities in educational opportunities. However, recent changes in recruitment policies, particularly the introduction of Hindi competency
IMMUNITY OF GOVERNORS UNDER ARTICLE 361: A LEGAL EXAMINATION The Supreme Court of India is set to review the immunity granted to Governors under Article 361 of the Constitution. This examination arises from a plea involving the West Bengal Governor in a sexual harassment case. Immunities Provided to the Governor under Article 361 Origin of
MOIDAMS OF THE AHOM DYNASTY AND THEIR WORLD HERITAGE PROPOSAL The 'Moidams' of the Ahom dynasty have been nominated for inclusion in the World Heritage Sites list during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee, which India will host in New Delhi in July 2024. Currently, UNESCO's World Heritage list features 1,199 properties from
NEIGHBOURHOOD FIRST APPROACH IN THE MEA'S AID DISTRIBUTION The Union Budget 2024-25 of India has highlighted the Ministry of External Affairs' (MEA) plans for development assistance, emphasizing strategic partners and neighbouring countries. This approach aligns with India's Neighbourhood First Policy, aiming to enhance regional connectivity, cooperation, and stability. Distribution of Development Aid The MEA has
SUPREME COURT VERDICT ON GM MUSTARD The Supreme Court recently delivered a split verdict on the decision of the Centre to grant conditional approval for the environmental release of Genetically Modified (GM) mustard crops. This decision has brought significant attention to the subject and will now be reviewed by a three-judge Bench of the Supreme
BRIDGING THE UNEMPLOYMENT-EMPLOYABILITY GAP IN INDIA India, as the world's fifth-largest economy, is at a crucial stage in its economic journey. The vision for a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047 depends significantly on closing the unemployment-employability gap. The Union Budget 2024-25 highlights this priority with substantial allocations for education, employment, and skill development. However, the challenge
STATE OF FOOD SECURITY AND NUTRITION IN THE WORLD 2024" (SOFI 2024) REPORT The "State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2024" (SOFI 2024) report, published by FAO, IFAD, UNICEF, WFP, and WHO, presents a critical analysis of global food security and nutrition trends. This year's report emphasizes the urgent need for increased
RIGHT TO SHELTER The Supreme Court of India recently addressed the need to balance the development of railway infrastructure in Haldwani with the fundamental right to shelter for individuals accused of illegally occupying railway land. The court emphasized that its decisions should not be interpreted as encouragement for future encroachments on public land. Right to
UNION BUDGET 2024-25: KEY MEASURES FOR RURAL AND TRIBAL DEVELOPMENT The Union Budget 2024-25, presented as the first general budget of the 18th Lok Sabha, introduced several significant initiatives aimed at improving rural infrastructure and tribal welfare. Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) Overview: Launched on December 25, 2000, PMGSY aims to provide all-weather road
SUB-CLASSIFICATION OF SCHEDULED CASTES (SCS) AND SCHEDULED TRIBES (STS): SUPREME COURT VERDICT The Supreme Court of India delivered a landmark judgment that empowers states to sub-classify Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) for the purpose of reservations. This decision, passed by a 6-1 majority, reverses the 2004 E.V. Chinnaiah vs. State of Andhra Pradesh
THE GREAT NICOBAR HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT The Great Nicobar Holistic Development Project is a major initiative spearheaded by NITI Aayog aimed at transforming the southern part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This project, which began in 2021, has sparked considerable debate due to its potential environmental and social impacts. The project, despite initial concerns,
WORLD DROWNING PREVENTION DAY: ADDRESSING A GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH CHALLENGE World Drowning Prevention Day, observed annually on July 25th, is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness and promoting action to prevent drowning incidents. Drowning is a significant public health issue, especially in low- and middle-income countries, and has resulted in over 2.5 million deaths
