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.
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
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
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
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).