MICROPLASTICS Microplastics, defined as plastic particles smaller than five millimetres in diameter, have become a ubiquitous environmental pollutant, posing significant threats to ecosystems and human health. These minuscule plastic fragments originate from various sources, including the breakdown of larger plastics and deliberate manufacturing of tiny particles for commercial use. Recent studies have shed light on
THE RECENT UNREST IN PAKISTAN-OCCUPIED KASHMIR The unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) has heightened due to economic woes, including soaring prices and financial strain. Pakistan's economy faces significant challenges, marked by high inflation, escalating energy costs, and trade disruptions with India. These factors have contributed to economic instability in regions like PoK, exacerbating the already
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
SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT Solid waste management is a critical issue in India, particularly in urban areas like New Delhi, where improper waste disposal and management pose severe threats to public health and the environment. With India generating millions of tonnes of waste annually, effective management practices are essential to mitigate these risks. About Solid Waste
WHY CAN ACCUSED PERSONS IN PRISON CONTEST POLLS BUT NOT VOTE? TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS In India, the right to vote and the right to be elected are governed by specific sections of the Representation of People Act, 1951 (RP Act). While the Supreme Court has recognized free and fair
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
PROMOTING COMPETITION IN DIGITAL MARKETS: THE AI CHALLENGE During the 15th annual day celebrations of the Competition Commission of India (CCI), the Chairperson emphasized the inclination of digital markets towards heightened market concentration, potentially leading to monopolistic tendencies. Key Highlights of the Event: The CCI Chairperson pointed out that the dominance of digital platforms over
EXPERT PANEL FAVOURS REOPENING ELEPHANT CORRIDOR, SHIFTING CHINNAKANAL COLONIES TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The expert panel appointed by the Kerala High Court has submitted a report outlining recommendations to address the human-wildlife conflict in Chinnakanal, Idukki district. The report highlights the case of Arikomban, a wild elephant relocated due to
BLAMING COURT VACATION FOR PENDENCY MISSES THE REAL PROBLEM TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The efficiency and effectiveness of the judicial system are fundamental to upholding the rule of law and ensuring access to justice for all. However, recent discussions surrounding the working hours of judges have reignited debates on the
FARM LOAN WAIVERS Farm loan waivers are governmental measures aimed at relieving farmers from the burden of repaying certain agricultural loans, typically announced during election campaigns to garner support from the farming community. These waivers are implemented to alleviate agrarian distress caused by factors like crop failure, natural calamities, or economic hardships. Governments allocate funds
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,
RBI’S INCOME RISES 17% TO ₹2.75 LAKH CR., SPENDING FALLS 56% TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU RBI income went up by 17%, reaching ₹2,75,572.32 crore, which shows we're making more money. At the same time, spending dropped by a big 56.3% to ₹64,694.33 crore, meaning we're being careful with how we spend. These