WHAT IS THE AGNIPATH SCHEME AND THE OPPOSITION TO IT? TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS The Agni path scheme, introduced by the BJP-led government in June 2022, has faced opposition from political parties and Armed Forces veterans. This scheme aims to recruit personnel below officer ranks for a short-term tenure, significantly
HOUSEHOLD CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE SURVEY (HCES) The Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES), undertaken by the National Statistical Office (NSO), offers invaluable insights into the expenditure patterns of households in both rural and urban areas throughout India. It is a comprehensive study conducted every five years to gather data on household consumption patterns, which is essential for
UNITED NATIONS GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAIN FORUM (UNGSCF) The inaugural United Nations Global Supply Chain Forum (UNGSCF) recently convened by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the Government of Barbados emphasized critical issues surrounding escalating global supply chain disruptions. Additionally, the need for supply chain resilience, particularly in the context of India, has become increasingly apparent
SPECIAL CATEGORY STATUS FOR ANDHRA TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS The demand for Special Category Status (SCS) for Andhra Pradesh has resurfaced in the political landscape following the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This issue, rooted in the state's bifurcation in 2014, involves complex financial and political dimensions. Background of SCS Demand
IISC DEVELOPS METHOD TO REMOVE HEAVY METAL CONTAMINANTS FROM GROUNDWATER TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed an innovative method to remove heavy metal contaminants, including arsenic, from groundwater. This process is designed to ensure environmental safety and sustainability. Three-Step Method: The method involves a
PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) are the foundation of rural governance in India, playing a crucial role in decentralizing power and ensuring local self-governance. They were established to empower rural communities and involve them directly in decision-making processes. Historical Background Ancient Governance: Village government in India has a long history. Kautilya’s Arthashastra (200
SPEAKER OF THE LOK SABHA The Speaker of the Lok Sabha in India plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the House and maintaining the balance of power between the ruling party and its allies, as well as the opposition. This is especially significant in a coalition government where multiple parties with
STUDY RANKS INDIA SECOND IN NITROUS OXIDE EMISSIONS TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU Recent observations in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, show the Taj Mahal visibly clearer after rain washed away pollution. This phenomenon underscores the significant issue of air pollution and highlights the urgent need to address greenhouse gas emissions, particularly nitrous oxide (N2O).
STATE OF THE OCEAN REPORT, 2024 The UNESCO State of Ocean Report 2024 emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced oceanographic research and data collection. The report underscores the critical gaps in data and research and calls for immediate action to support healthy and resilient oceans. Key Highlights Inadequate Data and Research Critical Gap: The report
GLOBAL NITROUS OXIDE BUDGET Nitrous oxide (N₂O) is a potent greenhouse gas, significantly contributing to global warming and ozone layer depletion. A recent study by the Global Carbon Project (GCP) titled “Global Nitrous Oxide Budget (1980-2020)” highlights the alarming rise in N₂O emissions, particularly from human activities. Key Findings of the Study Alarming Rise in
3 STATES SEEK SHRINKING OF ECO-SENSITIVE AREAS IN WESTERN GHATS The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a biodiversity hotspot that spans six states in India: Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu. In order to conserve its unique ecology while allowing for sustainable development, the concept of Eco-Sensitive Areas (ESAs) was
URBANISATION Urbanisation is the process where people move from rural areas to urban centres, resulting in the growth of cities and towns. This trend has accelerated in recent decades, significantly impacting India’s urban centres, which face challenges such as water shortages, urban heating, and infrastructural strains. What is Urbanisation? Urbanisation refers to the movement of