07-June-2024-Editorial

SPECIAL CATEGORY STATUS  The demand for special category status (SCS) by states like Andhra Pradesh and Bihar has recently gained prominence with the formation of the new NDA government.   What is Special Category Status?  Special Category Status (SCS) is a designation given by the central government to support states with substantial geographical and socio-economic challenges.

07-June-2024-Special-Article

74 WOMEN ELECTED TO LOK SABHA, LOWER THAN 2019  The political empowerment of women in India has been a topic of significant discussion, particularly in light of the recent Lok Sabha elections of 2024. The number of women MPs has decreased from 78 in 2019 to 74 in 2024, which constitutes 13.63% of the total

08-June-2024-Editorial

WILFUL DEFAULTER  Wilful defaulters are borrowers who intentionally fail to repay their debts despite having the financial capacity to do so. To prevent these individuals from escaping legal and financial consequences, various measures such as Look-Out Circulars (LOCs) are employed.                                  Look-Out Circular (LOC)  LOC is a notice to prevent individuals wanted by authorities

08-June-2024-Special-Article

NONE OF THE ABOVE (NOTA) OPTION IN INDIAN ELECTIONS  The None of the Above (NOTA) option in Indian elections allows voters to reject all the candidates contesting in an election.   This provision is designed to empower voters and provide them with an option to express their dissatisfaction with the available candidates.   It ensures that the

10-June-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

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

10-June-2024-Editorial

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

10-June-2024-Special-Article

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

11-June-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

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 

12-June-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

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

12-June-2024-Editorial

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

12-June-2024-Special-Article

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

13-June-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

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).