Special Article

INDIAN MANUFACTURING NEEDS MORE SOPHISTICATION: FINANCE MINISTER  The recent report by the International Panel of Experts on Sustainable Food Systems (IPES-Food) sheds light on the growing threat of 'land squeeze,' where the demand for land outpaces its availability, posing significant challenges to farmers and food production globally.  Key Highlights of the Report:  Rising Land Prices:

WHY INDIAN HOUSEHOLD SAVINGS FELL TO A SIX-YEAR LOW IN FY23  The decline in India’s household net financial savings to GDP ratio has raised concerns about the financial well-being of households and the overall stability of the economy.   This decline is attributed to increased borrowing and structural shifts in the economy rather than a mere

HIGHER EDUCATION IN INDIA  The University Grants Commission (UGC) has recently introduced regulations to facilitate the entry of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions (FHEIs) in India.   This move is seen as a significant step, comparable to the economic reforms of 1991, aimed at enhancing the quality and competitiveness of India's higher education system.  Current Scenario of

BIMSTEC ACQUIRES ‘LEGAL PERSONALITY’ AFTER CHARTER COMES INTO FORCE  The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) achieved a significant milestone with the entry into force of its charter on 20th May 2024.   BIMSTEC is a regional organization comprising seven member states situated around the Bay of Bengal, aimed at fostering

INDIA HOSTS THE ANTARCTIC PARLIAMENT  Antarctica, a continent long shrouded in mystery and isolation, is now experiencing a surge in human activity, driven by tourism, scientific research, and geopolitical interests.   Against this backdrop, the ongoing 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) in Kochi, Kerala, serves as a crucial platform for deliberating on the future of

GLOBAL NUCLEAR LANDSCAPE  The global landscape is witnessing a resurgence of nuclear anxieties, driven by geopolitical tensions, technological advancements, and regional conflicts. In this context, India faces multifaceted challenges and opportunities in its nuclear program and energy sector.   Evolution of the Global Nuclear Landscape:  Russia-Ukraine War: Russia's veiled nuclear threats during the Ukraine conflict have

WORLD MENSTRUAL HYGIENE DAY 2024  On World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2024, India celebrates advancements in menstrual hygiene management, with around 80% of young women aged 15-24 using safe menstrual products, as reported by the National Family Health Survey (NFHS 2019-2020).  Despite overall progress, the menstrual hygiene needs of women in Indian prisons remain largely overlooked,

CYCLONE REMAL: 31 KILLED AS RAIN, LANDSLIPS WREAK HAVOC IN NORTHEAST  The recent Cyclone Remal caused severe landslides in northeastern India, resulting in significant casualties. This highlights the urgent need for enhanced multi-hazard disaster resilience. While early warnings for cyclones have improved, landslide prediction and prevention remain a challenge.  What is a Landslide?  A landslide

THE INSOLVENCY AND BANKRUPTCY CODE (IBC), 2016  The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016, provides a comprehensive framework for resolving insolvency and bankruptcy issues for companies, individuals, and partnerships in India. Recent data from the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) highlights the progress and challenges in the implementation of the IBC, with a

KAVANGO-ZAMBEZI TRANS-FRONTIER CONSERVATION AREA (KAZA-TFCA) SUMMIT  The 2024 Heads of State Summit for the Kavango-Zambezi Trans-Frontier Conservation Area (KAZA-TFCA) held in Livingstone, Zambia, saw member states reiterating their calls to withdraw from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).   This move came amidst challenges faced by southern African

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY (WED) 2024  World Environment Day (WED) is celebrated annually on 5th June to raise awareness and promote actions for environmental protection. Established by the United Nations in 1972, this day focuses on pressing environmental issues with specific themes each year.                           Key Facts About World Environment Day  Establishment: Initiated by

UNCCD REPORT ON RANGELANDS AND PASTORALISTS  The UN Convention on Combating Desertification (UNCCD) recently released a report on rangelands and pastoralists, highlighting the need for better recognition of pastoralists' rights and improved market access. This report provides significant insights into the current state of rangelands and pastoralist communities globally and in India.  Key Findings of