ONE DEAD, 17 HURT AS STAGE COLLAPSES AT KALKAJI TEMPLE SUBJECT: ART AND CULTURE – SOURCE: THE HINDU One dead, 17 injured as the stage collapses during a jagran ceremony at Kalkaji Temple in south-east Delhi. About Kalkaji Temple: Kalkaji Mandir is a place which is dedicated to Goddess Kali. Kalka Devi is also
JAL JEEVAN MISSION: PAVING THE WAY FOR RURAL WATER ACCESSIBILITY Launched in 2019, by ministry of Jal shakti, the Jal Jeevan Mission aims to revolutionize rural life in India by providing piped water to every household, ensuring a consistent supply of 55 litres per capita per day. With a commendable 73.57% of rural households already
INSTITUTIONS OF EMINENCE (IOE) SCHEME The Institutions of Eminence (IoE) Scheme, initiated by the University Grants Commission (UGC) in 2017, is a landmark endeavor aimed at elevating selected higher education institutions to global standards. Twenty institutions, comprising both public and private entities, have received the coveted IoE tag, signifying their potential to become hubs of
PROS AND CONS OF SIMULTANEOUS ELECTIONS SUBJECT: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU A High-Level Committee (HLC) headed by former President Ramnath Kovind was formed in 2023 to explore simultaneous elections. Simultaneous elections were held during the first four general election cycles (1952-1967), and the idea has been considered by the Election Commission and
KANGAROO LIZARD SPECIES DISCOVERED IN WESTERN GHATS SUBJECT: ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU A new species of tiny lizards, termed the "Agasthyagama edge" or northern kangaroo lizard, has been discovered in the biodiverse Western Ghats. It belongs to the Agamidae family. Initially sighted in 2015 during a search for the Mahabali frog, near a forest
NCTE AWAITS MINISTRY NOD TO ROLL OUT NATIONAL MISSION FOR MENTORING SUBJECT: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The National Council of Teacher Education (NCTE) is awaiting approval from the Ministry of Education to implement the National Mission for Mentoring (NMM), aimed at providing mentoring to schoolteachers. Key points: The NCTE plans to expand
RECONSIDERING THE FREE MOVEMENT REGIME India's decision to review the Free Movement Regime (FMR) agreement with Myanmar and consider fencing the India-Myanmar border has sparked discussions, especially in the northeastern states. This move aims to address a complex intersection of historical, cultural, and security considerations. Free Movement Regime (FMR): Historical Context: The northeast region was
ACID RAIN Acid rain is a complex environmental issue stemming from multiple causes, primarily rooted in fossil fuel activities. It encompasses any form of precipitation, such as rain, snow, fog, or hail, containing acidic components like sulfuric or nitric acid, with detrimental consequences for the environment. Formation of Acid Rain: Acid rain forms when sulphur
WORLD LEPROSY DAY World Leprosy Day is observed annually on the last Sunday of January, with India commemorating it on January 30th, coinciding with Mahatma Gandhi's death anniversary. The day serves a dual purpose: eradicating the stigma associated with leprosy and promoting the dignity of affected individuals. Purpose of World Leprosy Day Observation: Theme -
IGNORING AN AGRICULTURAL SECTOR IN DISTRESS The government's financial plans and budget for 2024-25 have come under scrutiny for seemingly prioritizing a positive image over addressing pressing issues in agriculture. Special Provisions for Agriculture in the Budget: Agriculture GDP Growth: In 2023-24, the Agriculture GDP grew modestly by 1.8%, a decline from the previous year's
NET ZERO GAIN FOR JOB GUARANTEE SCHEME SUBJECT: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Interim Budget has allocated ₹86,000 crore for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), marking a significant increase from the previous year's allocation. However, concerns arise regarding the adequacy of this allocation and its ability to address
NATIONAL CONFERENCE ON PROMOTION OF SEAWEED CULTIVATION The National Conference on Promotion of Seaweed Cultivation recently convened in Koteshwar (Kori Creek), Kutch, Gujarat, with a focus on fostering seaweed cultivation across India. The initiative aims to diversify marine production and enhance the income of fish farmers. Key Points: Seaweeds Overview: Seaweeds are marine algae, multicellular,
UNIFORM CIVIL CODE (UCC) IN UTTARAKHAND SUBJECT: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU Uttarakhand is taking significant steps towards implementing a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), with the state receiving the final report from a committee led by retired Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai. Key Aspects of Uniform Civil Code (UCC): Definition and Objective: Aims to
2500-YEAR-OLD SOLUTION TO FIGHT CLIMATE CHANGE Recently, researchers from the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences revealed a remarkable 2500-year-old solution to combat climate change through their study of Vadnagar. This historic site in Gujarat showcases a resilient agricultural economy that endured fluctuating monsoon rains over centuries. Employing a comprehensive approach, the researchers analysed archaeological findings,
WORLD WETLANDS DAY Recently, India marked World Wetlands Day by expanding its Ramsar sites to 80, with the addition of five new wetlands. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change designated these sites to emphasize the importance of wetlands in ecological balance and human well-being. This move brings the total Ramsar sites in India
CHINA’S SHIFTING ECONOMIC LANDSCAPE The year 2023 marked a significant economic downturn for China, with its growth rate plummeting to one of the lowest levels in over three decades. This decline was attributed to various internal and external factors, including a housing crisis, sluggish consumption, demographic shifts, and global instability. As China grappled with these
A SUNSHINE INITIATIVE SUBJECT: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The finance minister announced a transformative initiative, stating that one crore households can avail themselves of up to 300 units of free electricity every month through rooftop solarization. The anticipated benefits are: Financial Savings: Anticipated annual savings ranging from fifteen to eighteen thousand
RBI’S GUIDELINES ON STATE ‘GUARANTEES’ ON BORROWINGS Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) constituted a Working Group to address issues related to guarantees extended by State governments. This initiative aims to manage fiscal risks associated with guarantees, a legal obligation to protect investors/lenders from borrower default. Guarantees involve three parties: the principal debtor, creditor,
RENEWABLES 2023 REPORT The International Energy Agency (IEA) recently released its Renewables 2023 report, offering insights into the global renewable energy sector's dynamics, progress, and challenges. Major Highlights of the Renewables 2023 Report: Record Growth and China’s Dominance: Global renewable capacity additions surged by nearly 50% to almost 510 GW in 2023, the fastest growth
CONGRESS TO REACH OUT TO LAKHS OF AGNIPATH SCHEME ASPIRANTS SUBJECT: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU As part of the Jai Jawan campaign, Congress plans to connect with over 35 lakh Agnipath scheme aspirants. The Agnipath Scheme The Agnipath scheme, introduced in 2022, aimed to recruit personnel for the Army, Navy, and Indian
GIANT LEAP FOR KALARIPAYATTU SUBJECT: ART AND CULTURE – SOURCE: THE HINDU In 2021, the inclusion of Kalaripayattu, a southern Indian martial art, in the Khelo India games sparked increased interest, particularly among boys and girls in Haryana. About Kalaripayattu: Ancient Origin: Traces its roots to ancient knowledge of the human body. Historical Origin: Originated
THE PUBLIC EXAMINATIONS (PREVENTION OF UNFAIR MEANS) BILL, 2024 The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024, introduced in Lok Sabha, aims to address the rising instances of question paper leaks and malpractices in public examinations. This bill not only seeks to bring transparency and fairness to the examination system but also serves as
390-YEAR-OLD LAMP POST IN NALGONDA UNRAVELS TRADE LINKS OF TELANGANA TOPIC: GS1 (ART AND ARCHITECTURE): SOURCE: THE HINDU WHY IN NEWS: A 390-year-old lamp post discovered in Nalgonda district, Telangana, sheds light on ancient trade connections in the region. Unearthed by archaeologists along the River Krishna, the 20-foot tall pillar features hollows for lamps and
‘INDIA’S KALADAN PROJECT IN MYANMAR IN LIMBO AS REBELS CONTROL KEY TOWN’ TOPIC – (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: SOURCE- THE HINDU Why in news: India's ambitious Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMTTP), designed to enhance connectivity with Southeast Asia, faces a substantial setback as a crucial town in Myanmar, Paletwa, falls under the control of the
FARMERS MAY START DELHI MARCH TODAY AS TALKS FAIL TOPIC – (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE: SOURCE- THE HINDU Around one lakh farmers associated with Samyukt Kisan Morcha-Non-Political (SKM-NP) are preparing for a rally in Delhi, seeking guaranteed Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) for their produce. What is MSP? MSP is guaranteed the amount paid to farmers
WAYANAD ELEPHANT KILLS MAN TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS The recent incident of a radio-collared wild elephant causing a fatality in Wayanad has spotlighted the escalating human-animal conflict in Kerala. The rise in attacks by wild animals, particularly elephants, tigers, bison, and wild boars, poses a growing threat, prompting locals to demand swift
FROM RESTORING FORESTS TO RIVER BASINS, SEVEN CONSERVATION INITIATIVES ACROSS CONTINENTS RECOGNISED BY UN TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE – DOWN TO EARTH The United Nations has acknowledged seven impactful initiatives across Africa, Latin America, the Mediterranean, and Southeast Asia as World Restoration Flagships. These initiatives are dedicated to rejuvenating ecosystems teetering on the edge
SC RULES ELECTORAL BONDS SCHEME UNCONSTITUTIONAL TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Supreme Court's historic decision on Thursday declared the electoral bonds scheme "unconstitutional." This unanimous ruling came in response to petitions challenging the government's electoral bond system, which allowed undisclosed contributions to political parties. About the Ruling: Chief Justice DY
FARMERS' PROTEST: THIRD ROUND OF DIALOGUE BETWEEN CENTRE, FARMERS UNDERWAY TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: ECONOMIC TIMES Farmers from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh are once again mobilizing in the 'Delhi Chalo' protest, demanding legal assurances for the Minimum Support Price (MSP). This follows the 2020 protests that led to the repeal of
NEW LAPWING OBSERVED AT WARANGAL LAKE, A FIRST IN INDIA TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU A birdwatching team from Telangana on Sunday spotted near Warangal a spur-winged lapwing, believed to be the first one sighted in India. About spur-winged lapwing: Scientific Name: Vanellus spinosus IUCN Status: Species of Least Concern Description: Medium-sized bird
SC SAYS JAIL, NOT BAIL, IS THE RULE UNDER THE UAPA The denial of bail to an accused involved in an alleged Khalistan module by the Supreme Court, citing the stringent provisions of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), highlights the evolving landscape of bail provisions within this legal framework. Evolution of Bail Provisions under
REPORT ON THE 'DEVELOPMENT AND PROMOTION OF JUTE INDUSTRY.' The Standing Committee on Labour, Textiles, and Skill Development recently presented the Fifty-Third Report on the 'Development and Promotion of Jute Industry.' Key Highlights of the Report Potential of Jute Industry: Jute, known as the 'golden fibre,' holds a crucial position in India's national economy, particularly
THE UNTAPPED POTENTIAL OF STEM CELLS IN MENSTRUAL BLOOD The recent revelation of the regenerative capabilities of stem cells found in menstrual blood, known as Menstrual Blood-Derived Stem Cells (MenSCs), is a groundbreaking discovery. This discovery not only unlocks new insights into the intricacies of the female reproductive system but also presents promising avenues for
FARMERS REJECT CENTRE’S PROPOSAL ON MSP ON FIVE CROPS TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: DOWN TO EARTH In the recent talks between the Central government and protesting farmers, a proposal for crop diversification in Punjab was introduced. The proposal aimed to address concerns related to water usage and environmental degradation by encouraging the cultivation of
58TH JNANPITH AWARDS: JAGADGURU SWAMI RAMBHADRACHARYA, GULZAR WINNERS FOR 2023 The esteemed Jnanpith Award, India's oldest and highest literary recognition, has added illustrious names to its recipients for the 58th edition. The selection committee declared that the 2023 award would be bestowed upon two distinguished writers, Sanskrit scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya and renowned Urdu poet and
WHY THE NEW SANCTUARY IN ERODE DISTRICT HAS FOREST-DWELLERS WARY The Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the Bargur Hills of Erode district, Tamil Nadu, has recently come under scrutiny due to concerns raised by forest-dwellers. The notification of this sanctuary has raised several issues, primarily related to the potential denial of rights conferred by
NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR SCHEDULED CASTES SUBMITS REPORT TO PRESIDENT OF INDIA The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) plays a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of Scheduled Castes (SCs) in India. Recently, the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment submitted the NCSC's Annual Report 2022-23 to the President of India. This report contains recommendations
MAHARASHTRA ASSEMBLY PASSES MARATHA QUOTA BILL TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: ECONOMIC TIMES Recently, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and his Cabinet approved a Bill proposing a 10% quota for the Maratha community in education and government jobs. This move, ahead of the Lok Sabha election, has sparked criticism, with activists and opposition
JUDICIAL GIANT FALI S NARIMAN LEAVES AN UNMATCHED LEGACY TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: HINDUSTAN TIMES Eminent jurist and Senior Advocate Fali S. Nariman, known for his remarkable legal career spanning 75 years, passed away at the age of 95. Throughout his tenure as a Senior Advocate at the Supreme Court of India,
HAVING PANCHAYATS AS SELF-GOVERNING INSTITUTIONS It has been thirty years since the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts came into effect, envisioning local bodies in India as institutions of local self-government. Instituted in 2004, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj aimed to strengthen rural local governments in line with these amendments. The fiscal devolution, a key
CARING FOR THE ELDERLY Countries like Italy and China are grappling with the complexities posed by unfavourable demographics, and India is not exempt from these challenges. The nation is witnessing an ageing population, a declining fertility rate, and an increased life expectancy, signalling an impending shift in its demographic dividend. To address the needs of
INDIA ACHIEVES MILESTONE IN KALA AZAR ELIMINATION: A PUBLIC HEALTH TRIUMPH TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS India has achieved a significant milestone in its fight against Kala Azar, the second deadliest parasitic disease globally after malaria. The accomplishment involves reporting less than one case per 10,000 population across all blocks in
POLLUTION WATCHDOG FACES IRE OF PARLIAMENTARY PANEL OVER PLASTIC WASTE A parliamentary panel recently expressed concerns about the ineffective handling of plastic waste in India, based on a report from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG). The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) criticized the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for its lax approach and urged the
EFFORTS ON TO GET UNESCO TAG FOR ‘PARUVETA UTSAVAM’ OF AHOBILAM The Indian National Trust for Art And Cultural Heritage (INTACH) is actively working towards securing UNESCO recognition for the annual 'Paruveta' festival by proposing it as an 'intangible cultural heritage.' This festival, celebrated at the Sri Narasimha Swamy temple in Ahobilam, Andhra Pradesh, holds
CHINA’S ‘XIAOKANG’ BORDER DEFENCE VILLAGES ALONG THE LAC, NOW BEING OCCUPIED Recent developments along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China have raised concerns regarding the occupation of previously vacant "Xiaokang" border defence villages by Chinese nationals. These villages, constructed by China in 2019, have strategic implications for the Indian Army. Xiaokang
PRIME MINISTER MODI ON INDIA'S DEVELOPMENT PATH INSPIRED BY GURU RAVIDAS TOPIC: (GS1) HISTORY– SOURCE: ECONOMIC TIMES Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted that India's rapid development aligns with the teachings of Guru Ravidas, showcasing the ongoing relevance and influence of the saint's principles in shaping the nation's path. About Guru Ravidas: Guru Ravidas (1377-1527 C.E.)
NEARLY 50% OF PREGNANCIES IN INDIA ARE HIGH-RISK A recent study published in the Journal of Global Health, conducted by researchers from the ICMR’s National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health (NIRRCH) in Mumbai, brings to light the alarming prevalence of high-risk pregnancies across India. High-risk pregnancies pose increased health complications for both
INDIA SEEKS $26 BILLION OF PRIVATE NUCLEAR POWER INVESTMENTS. India is poised for a transformation in its nuclear energy sector, signalling a substantial policy shift by inviting private companies to invest around USD 26 billion. This initiative aligns with India's ambitious targets for renewable energy adoption and aims to propel electricity generation from non-carbon-emitting sources.
BharatGPT GROUP UNVEILS HANOOMAN The BharatGPT group, led by IIT Bombay and seven other premier Indian engineering institutes, is set to launch its ChatGPT-like service named 'Hanooman.' Developed in collaboration with Seetha Mahalaxmi Healthcare (SML), the initiative is backed by Reliance Industries Ltd and the Department of Science and Technology. Generative Pre-trained Transformers (GPTs):
AHEAD OF UCC, ASSAM DECIDES TO REPEAL MUSLIM MARRIAGES ACT TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Assam government's recent decision to repeal the Assam Muslim Marriage and Divorce Registration Act of 1935 marks a significant move aimed at addressing concerns related to child marriages and aligning with the broader goal of
PM MODI INAUGURATES SUDARSHAN SETU, INDIA'S LONGEST CABLE-STAYED BRIDGE TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIA TODAY Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 'Sudarshan Setu' bridge connecting Beyt Dwarka island to mainland Okha in Gujarat's Devbhumi Dwarka district. 'Sudarshan Setu' Bridge: India’s longest cable-stayed bridge, spanning 2.32 km over the Arabian Sea. Connects Beyt
RAISINA DIALOGUE 2024 The 9th edition of the Raisina Dialogue, an annual conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics, recently convened in New Delhi, attracting over 2,500 participants from approximately 115 countries. The conference, structured along the lines of the Shangri-La Dialogue, focuses on addressing the world's most challenging issues. Hosted by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF)
A BRIEF HISTORY OF INDIAN SPICES The history of spices in India is a testament to cultural exchange, economic prosperity, and culinary integration on a global scale. From ancient origins to modern-day exports, Indian spices have played a significant role in shaping both local cuisine and international culinary practices. Ancient Origins: Spices have been integral
GAGANYAAN: ISRO REVEALS FOUR ASTRONAUTS FOR INDIA’S FIRST HUMAN SPACEFLIGHT MISSION TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: TELEGRAPH INDIA Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the selection of astronauts for India’s inaugural crewed space mission, Gaganyaan. The chosen astronauts, Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, Group Captain Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla,
WHY MAHARASHTRA IS EXEMPTING PRIVATE SCHOOLS FROM RTE QUOTA ADMISSIONS The Maharashtra school education department has recently brought forth changes in the Surrogacy (Regulation) Rules, 2022, specifically regarding the 25% admission quota for disadvantaged groups in private unaided schools. This move has stirred discussions on educational equity and the state's authority to amend central laws.
ON SURROGACY, INDIAN LAW GOES A STEP FURTHER — BUT NOT FAR ENOUGH The Indian government recently revised the Surrogacy (Regulation) Rules, 2022, allowing married couples to utilize donor gametes in cases of medical conditions. This amendment comes in response to legal challenges and concerns regarding the restriction of biological parenthood through surrogacy. Major Provisions
IS KARNATAKA TEMPLE TAX BILL ‘ANTI-HINDU’? TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: TIMES OF INDIA The Karnataka government's attempt to amend the Karnataka Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments Act, 1997, faced opposition in the Legislative Council, primarily from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which holds a majority. Proposed Amendments: Aimed to amend several
ARTICLE 371A AND ITS IMPACT ON COAL MINING IN NAGALAND Article 371A of the Indian Constitution presents a significant challenge to regulating coal mining in Nagaland. This provision grants special provisions to Nagaland, protecting Naga customary law and complicating government oversight, particularly concerning recent fatalities in rat-hole mining accidents. Understanding Article 371A Origins and Scope:
RISING NITROGEN POLLUTION THREATENS RIVER SUB-BASINS AROUND THE WORLD Recent research highlights a concerning projection for global river sub-basins, anticipating severe clean water scarcity due to nitrogen pollution by 2050. Nitrogen pollution, primarily from nitrogen-based fertilizers and industrial processes, poses significant threats to water bodies and ecosystems. What is Nitrogen Pollution? Definition: Nitrogen pollution refers
13,874 LEOPARDS IN INDIA, MADHYA PRADESH LEADS THE PACK TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS India's leopard population has increased by 8% from 12,852 in 2018 to 13,874 in 2022, as per the Environment Ministry report. State-wise Numbers: Madhya Pradesh reported the highest number of leopards (3,907), followed by Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
NINE INJURED IN SUSPECTED IED BLAST AT CAFÉ IN BENGALURU'S TECH HUB TOPIC: (GS3) SECURITY – SOURCE: ECONOMIC TIMES An unfortunate incident unfolded at Rameshwaram Cafe in Bengaluru's Whitefield area, where an explosion occurred, leaving nine people injured, mostly customers enjoying their lunch. The CCTV footage revealed a man, with his face partially concealed, placing
DISTINCT DISQUIET IN THE HIMALAYAS The Himalayan Region, known for its breathtaking beauty, is facing unprecedented challenges due to accelerated impacts of global warming. Shifts in weather patterns, increased frequency of extreme events, glacial melting, and loss of ice are posing significant threats to the region and its inhabitants. Shifts in Weather Patterns: Monsoon
SUPREME COURT: MARRIAGE CAN'T BE GROUND TO SACK WOMAN The recent Supreme Court directive mandating the Ministry of Defence to compensate a former permanent commissioned officer in the Military Nursing Service (MNS) highlights broader issues of gender discrimination and equality within the armed forces. This case sheds light on the evolving role of women officers
