NATURAL RUBBER SHORTAGE IN INDIA India is currently grappling with a significant shortage of natural rubber (NR), with domestic production falling short of demand by around 550,000 tonnes. Despite efforts to increase production, the gap between supply and consumption continues to widen, impacting various industries and contributing to higher import dependency. Causes of Natural Rubber
VOLUNTARY VEHICLE-FLEET MODERNIZATION PROGRAM (V-VMP) The Vehicle Scrapping Policy 2021, also known as the Voluntary Vehicle-Fleet Modernization Program (V-VMP), is a recent initiative by the Indian government aimed at modernizing the vehicle fleet on Indian roads. This policy encourages the scrapping of old and unfit vehicles through various incentives, with the ultimate goal of reducing
STRENGTHENING STATE ELECTION COMMISSIONS FOR GRASSROOTS DEMOCRACY TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU State Election Commissions (SECs) are critical to maintaining democracy at the grassroots level, managing elections for local bodies like panchayats and municipalities. However, SECs face systemic challenges that undermine their autonomy and effectiveness, impacting the democratic process. Systemic Disempowerment
PATHWAYS AND STRATEGIES FOR ACCELERATING GROWTH IN EDIBLE OILS TOWARDS GOAL OF ATMANIRBHARTA The NITI Aayog's recent report titled "Pathways and Strategies for Accelerating Growth in Edible Oils towards Goal of Atmanirbharta" provides a comprehensive analysis of India’s edible oil sector. It outlines current challenges, future potential, and strategies to achieve self-sufficiency. This report is
CHINA REASSERTS ITS CLAIMS IN REGIONAL DISPUTES, PUSHES RIVALS’ LIMITS TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: THE HINDU China has been increasingly assertive in several contested regions, including the South China Sea, Taiwan Strait, and East China Sea. Recent actions involve military and coast guard confrontations with neighboring countries like the Philippines and increased pressure
INDIGENOUS PEOPLES AND EUROPEAN COLONISATION The colonisation of Indigenous peoples by Europeans led to significant upheaval, loss of land, and cultural disruption across various continents. Indigenous Peoples Affected by European Colonisation Māori in New Zealand Colonisation Impact: European arrival in 1769, marked by Captain James Cook, transformed New Zealand from a Māori-dominated society to one
GENDER BUDGET STATEMENT (GBS) 2024-25 The 2024-25 Union Budget of India marks a significant milestone in gender-focused financial planning. For the first time, allocations for women-led development have reached 1% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with funding surpassing ₹3 lakh crore. Key Highlights of GBS 2024-25 Increased Pro-Women Allocations Current Allocation: The budget for
EDUCATION CHALLENGES FOR DONGRIA KONDH TRIBAL CHILDREN IN ODISHA TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN SOCIETY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Dongria Kondh tribe in Odisha's Rayagada district faces significant barriers to education due to their remote living conditions and cultural challenges. Despite various government interventions, many tribal children still lack access to formal education. Key Points Remote
INDIA TO INTRODUCE REPAIRABILITY INDEX FOR ELECTRONICS TO COMBAT E-WASTE CRISIS The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution recently hosted a National Workshop on the Right to Repair Framework for the Mobile and Electronic sectors. A significant highlight of the event was the proposed launch of
75 YEARS OF THE SUPREME COURT OF INDIA: KEY HIGHLIGHTS AND CHALLENGES As the Supreme Court of India celebrates its 75th anniversary, several landmark moments mark its journey in shaping the country’s democracy. Established on 26th January 1950, the Court has been pivotal in upholding constitutional values, protecting citizens' rights, and ensuring justice for all.
GENE OF THRONES: HOW RULERS' GENOMES REVEAL THE RISE AND FALL OF EMPIRES TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY– SOURCE: THE HINDU Palaeogenomics, the analysis of ancient DNA from archaeological sites, has revolutionized the understanding of human history. By studying the genetic makeup of ancient rulers and populations, researchers can unravel the complex dynamics that shaped
