TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT (TOD) IN INDIA Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) is an urban planning concept that seeks to align transportation systems with land use to create sustainable and efficient urban spaces. This approach focuses on developing high-density, mixed-use neighborhoods around public transportation hubs, promoting reduced dependence on private vehicles, and fostering vibrant communities. In light of increasing
RBI’S MONETARY POLICY COMMITTEE: MANAGING RETAIL INFLATION TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) recently decided to maintain the status quo on benchmark interest rates for the ninth consecutive meeting. This decision comes amidst persistently high retail inflation, particularly in food prices, which poses risks to economic stability. Key
UPDATED FAO FIRE MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has recently updated its "Integrated Fire Management Voluntary Guidelines," which were first introduced nearly 20 years ago. The updated guidelines address contemporary challenges related to climate change and emphasize a more integrated approach to fire management. Key Aspects of the Updated FAO Guidelines Integration
SEAWEED CULTIVATION IN INDIA Seaweed cultivation presents a significant opportunity for sustainable development in India. Recognizing its potential, NITI Aayog has proposed a comprehensive roadmap to boost seaweed production, addressing various aspects from research to market promotion. This strategic initiative aims to harness the environmental, economic, and social benefits of seaweed, contributing to India's growth
DECLINE IN DEMAND FOR WORK UNDER MGNREGS The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) is a flagship program designed to provide employment to rural households in India. A significant decline in demand for work under this scheme was reported in July 2024, indicating various economic and environmental factors at play. Here’s a detailed
GETTING STRUCK IN SPACE TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS A technical issue with the Boeing spacecraft has left NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore stranded on the International Space Station (ISS). They might remain aboard the ISS until February 2025. This situation has raised concerns about the ISS's ability to
WORLD BIOFUEL DAY 2024 World Biofuel Day, observed annually on August 10th, highlights the importance of biofuels as sustainable energy alternatives and celebrates advancements in this field. The day commemorates the successful operation of an engine powered by peanut oil by Sir Rudolf Diesel on August 9, 1893. The focus of World Biofuel Day 2024
DNA PROFILING IN LEGAL CONTEXT DNA profiling, or DNA fingerprinting, plays a crucial role in forensic science by identifying individuals based on their unique genetic makeup. However, recent legal developments, including a Madras High Court decision in July 2024, have reignited debates about the reliability of DNA evidence in criminal cases. About DNA Profiling DNA
DISINFORMATION, AI AND ‘CYBER CHAKRAVYUH’ TOPIC: (GS3) SECURITY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The year 2024 has seen a surge in security concerns worldwide, particularly with the increasing threats posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI), disinformation, and cyber-attacks. These developments have raised alarms about the safety of critical events and infrastructure. Emerging Security Threats: AI and Disinformation:
SURAT DIAMOND INDUSTRY CRISIS TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AMD GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: ECONOMIC TIMES Surat, renowned for its diamond industry, is currently experiencing a significant downturn due to various global economic and geopolitical challenges. This crisis has led to widespread layoffs, pay cuts, and financial distress among the workers. Causes of the Crisis Global Economic Slowdown:
NATIONAL INSTITUTIONAL RANKING FRAMEWORK (NIRF) 2024 The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), introduced by the Ministry of Education (MoE) in 2015, is a significant initiative aimed at assessing and ranking higher education institutions in India. The NIRF rankings are highly anticipated each year, as they provide a transparent and objective evaluation of institutions based on
MELTING POLAR ICE DUE TO CLIMATE CHANGE IS MAKING EARTH’S DAYS LONGER Recent scientific studies have revealed that climate change, particularly the melting of polar ice caps, is not only influencing weather patterns and sea levels but also affecting Earth's rotation. As ice melts and water redistributes, subtle but significant changes are occurring in the
