RAISINA DIALOGUE 2024 The 9th edition of the Raisina Dialogue, an annual conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics, recently convened in New Delhi, attracting over 2,500 participants from approximately 115 countries. The conference, structured along the lines of the Shangri-La Dialogue, focuses on addressing the world's most challenging issues. Hosted by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF)
A BRIEF HISTORY OF INDIAN SPICES The history of spices in India is a testament to cultural exchange, economic prosperity, and culinary integration on a global scale. From ancient origins to modern-day exports, Indian spices have played a significant role in shaping both local cuisine and international culinary practices. Ancient Origins: Spices have been integral
GAGANYAAN: ISRO REVEALS FOUR ASTRONAUTS FOR INDIA’S FIRST HUMAN SPACEFLIGHT MISSION TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: TELEGRAPH INDIA Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the selection of astronauts for India’s inaugural crewed space mission, Gaganyaan. The chosen astronauts, Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, Group Captain Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla,
ON SURROGACY, INDIAN LAW GOES A STEP FURTHER — BUT NOT FAR ENOUGH The Indian government recently revised the Surrogacy (Regulation) Rules, 2022, allowing married couples to utilize donor gametes in cases of medical conditions. This amendment comes in response to legal challenges and concerns regarding the restriction of biological parenthood through surrogacy. Major Provisions
WHY MAHARASHTRA IS EXEMPTING PRIVATE SCHOOLS FROM RTE QUOTA ADMISSIONS The Maharashtra school education department has recently brought forth changes in the Surrogacy (Regulation) Rules, 2022, specifically regarding the 25% admission quota for disadvantaged groups in private unaided schools. This move has stirred discussions on educational equity and the state's authority to amend central laws.
IS KARNATAKA TEMPLE TAX BILL ‘ANTI-HINDU’? TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: TIMES OF INDIA The Karnataka government's attempt to amend the Karnataka Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments Act, 1997, faced opposition in the Legislative Council, primarily from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which holds a majority. Proposed Amendments: Aimed to amend several
13,874 LEOPARDS IN INDIA, MADHYA PRADESH LEADS THE PACK TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS India's leopard population has increased by 8% from 12,852 in 2018 to 13,874 in 2022, as per the Environment Ministry report. State-wise Numbers: Madhya Pradesh reported the highest number of leopards (3,907), followed by Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
RISING NITROGEN POLLUTION THREATENS RIVER SUB-BASINS AROUND THE WORLD Recent research highlights a concerning projection for global river sub-basins, anticipating severe clean water scarcity due to nitrogen pollution by 2050. Nitrogen pollution, primarily from nitrogen-based fertilizers and industrial processes, poses significant threats to water bodies and ecosystems. What is Nitrogen Pollution? Definition: Nitrogen pollution refers
ARTICLE 371A AND ITS IMPACT ON COAL MINING IN NAGALAND Article 371A of the Indian Constitution presents a significant challenge to regulating coal mining in Nagaland. This provision grants special provisions to Nagaland, protecting Naga customary law and complicating government oversight, particularly concerning recent fatalities in rat-hole mining accidents. Understanding Article 371A Origins and Scope:
NINE INJURED IN SUSPECTED IED BLAST AT CAFÉ IN BENGALURU'S TECH HUB TOPIC: (GS3) SECURITY – SOURCE: ECONOMIC TIMES An unfortunate incident unfolded at Rameshwaram Cafe in Bengaluru's Whitefield area, where an explosion occurred, leaving nine people injured, mostly customers enjoying their lunch. The CCTV footage revealed a man, with his face partially concealed, placing
DISTINCT DISQUIET IN THE HIMALAYAS The Himalayan Region, known for its breathtaking beauty, is facing unprecedented challenges due to accelerated impacts of global warming. Shifts in weather patterns, increased frequency of extreme events, glacial melting, and loss of ice are posing significant threats to the region and its inhabitants. Shifts in Weather Patterns: Monsoon
SUPREME COURT: MARRIAGE CAN'T BE GROUND TO SACK WOMAN The recent Supreme Court directive mandating the Ministry of Defence to compensate a former permanent commissioned officer in the Military Nursing Service (MNS) highlights broader issues of gender discrimination and equality within the armed forces. This case sheds light on the evolving role of women officers
