END OF PETRODOLLAR? WE WOULDN’T HOLD OUR BREATH TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU In the past decade, both Western and Eastern countries have shifted towards self-sufficient economic and political policies, moving away from a previously global approach. This shift has sparked debates about the future of the U.S. dollar as the world’s reserve
CHINA-TIBET ISSUE The China-Tibet issue has been a longstanding conflict centered around Tibet's status and autonomy within the People's Republic of China (PRC). Tibet, an autonomous region on the Tibetan Plateau, has a distinct cultural, religious, and linguistic identity that has been a focal point of contention between China and the international community. Historical Background
DRUG ABUSE IN INDIA Drug abuse and trafficking pose significant challenges globally, impacting public health, national security, and socio-economic stability. In India, these issues are particularly complex due to various factors such as poverty, social influences, and geographical proximity to major drug-producing regions like the Golden Crescent and Golden Triangle. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive
PUDUCHERRY Puducherry, formerly known as Pondicherry, is a Union Territory located on the southeastern coast of India. It comprises four regions: Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe, and Yanam, each with its own unique cultural influences due to their proximity to Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. Historical Background Ancient History: Puducherry has a rich maritime history dating
SIMLA AGREEMENT AND INDIA-PAKISTAN RELATIONS The Simla Agreement, signed on 2nd July 1972, marked a significant milestone in the history of India-Pakistan relations, aimed at resolving conflicts arising from the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. This agreement, facilitated by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi of India and President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto of Pakistan, sought to establish peace and
NHRC ISSUES NOTICES TO CENTRE, T.N. GOVT. OVER RECRUITMENT PRACTICES AT FOXCONN TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has raised concerns over alleged discrimination against married women by Foxconn, a major Apple device manufacturer, at its Sriperumbudur iPhone assembly plant. NHRC issued a notice to: Secretary,
MIXED SIGNALS TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS The industrial output data for May from India's eight core infrastructure sectors indicate a slowdown, primarily due to a severe heatwave. This has impacted various sectors differently, highlighting the need for focused policy interventions. Core Sectors Performance: Growth: Coal and electricity generation saw significant growth, expanding
FINANCIAL ACTION TASK FORCE (FATF) The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an intergovernmental organization that sets standards and promotes effective implementation of legal, regulatory, and operational measures to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and other related threats to the integrity of the international financial system. The Mutual Evaluation Report (MER) assesses member countries' compliance
REGULATING FACIAL RECOGNITION TECHNOLOGY (FRT) IN INDIA Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) has become a subject of significant concern globally due to its potential implications for privacy, security, and ethical considerations. In India, the absence of a comprehensive regulatory framework for FRT has prompted calls for robust policies to govern its use effectively. Status of Regulation
EDUCATION SYSTEM IN INDIA The education system in India has evolved over centuries, reflecting the country’s rich cultural and historical legacy. In recent times, debates about the structure and governance of education, particularly whether it should be under state or central control, have gained prominence. History of Education in India Ancient Period: Gurukul System: Students
LEADER OF OPPOSITION AND SYMBOLIC USE OF ABHAY MUDRA The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha (LS) plays a crucial role in the Indian parliamentary system. Recently, the LoP used the symbolic image of Lord Shiva and the ‘Abhay Mudra’ in Parliament to criticize the government's actions against the idea of India and
FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY ISSUES IN URBAN AREAS AND THE ROLE OF THE 16TH FINANCE COMMISSION Urban areas in India are vital economic hubs, contributing significantly to the country's GDP and government revenues. The 16th Finance Commission's recent developments have brought attention to critical issues regarding fiscal decentralisation and the financial sustainability of urban areas. The World
GLOBAL INDIAai SUMMIT The Global INDIAai Summit recently concluded at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, serving as a significant gathering for experts, policymakers, and AI enthusiasts worldwide. This summit focused on discussing the future trajectory of Artificial Intelligence (AI) both in India and globally, highlighting key initiatives and strategies. Key Highlights and Outcomes Global AI
INDIA TAKES FIRST STEPS TO MEET 2070 NET-ZERO GOAL, NITI AAYOG FORMS PANELS In recent developments, NITI Aayog has taken proactive steps towards India's commitment to achieving a net-zero economy by 2070. This initiative follows India's declaration three years ago at global climate summits. The formation of dedicated multi-sectoral committees aims to devise comprehensive policy
PATENTS IN INDIA Recently, the Union Minister of Commerce and Industry emphasized that India granted approximately one hundred thousand patents in 2024, indicating a substantial rise in patent approvals. About Patents Definition: A patent grants exclusive rights to an inventor or entity over their invention, preventing others from replicating, using, or selling it without permission.
KERALA VILLAGE COMPILES IN-DEPTH BIODIVERSITY REGISTER TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The People's Biodiversity Register (PBR) is a comprehensive documentation of the biodiversity present within a specific local body such as a grama panchayat, municipality, or corporation. It involves the identification of resources, discoveries, traditional knowledge, ongoing changes, and the impact
CABINET COMMITTEES The Union government of India recently established eight Cabinet Committees to streamline decision-making and improve governance efficiency. This action was accompanied by changes in oath-taking rules for Members of Parliament (MPs), underscoring the government's commitment to organizational and procedural reforms. Cabinet Committees About Cabinet Committees Definition: Subsets of the Union Cabinet, consisting of
STAMPEDE A stampede is a sudden and uncontrollable mass movement of people, usually triggered by fear, panic, or excitement. It often results in injuries and fatalities due to crushing and trampling. India has seen several tragic stampedes, especially during religious gatherings and festivals, highlighting the need for better crowd management and safety measures. What is
RED FLAGS RAISED OVER SILVER IMPORTS FROM UAE THROUGH GIFT CITY TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The bullion market in India is experiencing significant disruptions due to the consolidation of silver imports by a few private players. This shift is causing concern about potential revenue losses for the government and the integrity of
INDIGENOUS HPV VACCINE, THE RHETORIC AND THE REALITY TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: THE HINDU India's public health has recently focused on HPV vaccination to prevent cervical cancer. Concerns arise over the lack of competing vaccines, high costs, and overall affordability. Lack of Competing Vaccines The absence of other domestic HPV vaccines affects
FLOODS IN INDIA: CAUSES, IMPLICATIONS, AND MANAGEMENT Floods are natural disasters characterized by the overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. They are one of the most common natural disasters worldwide, affecting millions of people and causing significant damage. Causes of Floods: Heavy Rainfall: Intense and prolonged rainfall can overwhelm rivers and drainage
QUALITY CONTROL ISSUES IN INDIAN PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY The Indian pharmaceutical industry, renowned globally for its affordable generics and significant export market, faces critical challenges in maintaining quality standards. Recent incidents have highlighted lapses in quality control, leading to regulatory actions and international concerns. Causes of Quality Control Failures Regulatory Compliance Issues: Recent inspections by the
CLASSICAL LANGUAGES AND RECENT DEVELOPMENTS The Central government has recently decided to modify the criteria for granting classical language status, based on recommendations from the Linguistics Expert Committee of the Union Culture Ministry. This change aims to better reflect the rich linguistic heritage of India and address the demands of various language groups. What are
SC UPHOLDS MUSLIM WOMEN'S RIGHT TO SEEK MAINTENANCE The Supreme Court of India, in the case of Mohd Abdul Samad v. State of Telangana (2024), dismissed a petition challenging the applicability of Section 125 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) to a divorced Muslim woman. This case highlights the ongoing legal discourse around the maintenance
INDIA TO RATIFY HIGH SEAS TREATY: WHAT IS THE AGREEMENT — AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE? TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS The Indian government has announced its intention to sign and ratify the High Seas Treaty, a significant international agreement aimed at maintaining the ecological health of oceans. The treaty focuses on reducing
COOPERATIVES IN INDIA Cooperatives are people-centered enterprises owned, controlled, and operated by their members to fulfill common economic, social, and cultural needs. They play a crucial role in promoting inclusive growth, empowering marginalized communities, and fostering economic independence. Evolution of Cooperatives in India Historical Development Pre-Independence Era Early Legislation: The Cooperative Credit Societies Act of
MENSTRUAL LEAVES IN INDIA Menstrual leave is a debated topic in India, focusing on providing female employees with paid time off during their menstruation period. It aims to address the physical and emotional challenges women face during this time and promote workplace inclusivity. Current State of Menstrual Leaves in India Legislative Landscape: No Central Law:
WHAT IS A DIVORCED MUSLIM WOMAN’S RIGHT TO MAINTENANCE UNDER THE CRPC? TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS The Supreme Court of India recently reaffirmed that Muslim women are entitled to seek maintenance under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), a secular legislation, even after divorce under religious personal
FUTURE INVESTMENTS IN INDIA’S EV SPACE TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Indian government is considering extending its electric vehicle (EV) policy to include retrospective benefits. This move aims to enhance local manufacturing, technology adoption, and competitiveness in the Indian EV industry, stimulating investment and reducing costs. Revised Policy Overview Extension of Benefits:
HIGH SEAS TREATY The High Seas Treaty, formally known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, aims to address the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. These areas, known as the high seas, cover a vast portion of the world's oceans and are critical for global biodiversity and
GLOBAL SOIL DEGRADATION Soil degradation poses a significant threat to ecosystems and human well-being globally. Addressing this issue is crucial to sustain food security, biodiversity, and mitigate climate change impacts. UNESCO's Insights on Global Soil Degradation Current State of Soil Degradation: Extent: According to UNESCO's World Atlas of Desertification, 75% of soils are already degraded,
DEREGULATING NON-SUBSIDISED FERTILISERS TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS The Indian fertiliser industry is advocating for the deregulation of non-subsidised fertilisers as an initial step towards the deregulation of politically sensitive urea and nutrient-based subsidy (NBS) schemes. This move is supported by the successful model of water-soluble fertilisers. Current Scenario Price Control:
TELECOMMUNICATIONS ACT, 2023 The central government has recently notified certain sections of the Telecommunications Act, 2023. This new legislation aims to update and unify existing telecom laws by replacing outdated laws such as the Indian Telegraph Act of 1885, the Indian Wireless Telegraph Act, 1933, and the Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1950. The Act
INDIA’S AMBITIOUS AIRPORT EXPANSION PLAN India plans to increase the number of its operational airports to 300 by the year 2047. This expansion is driven by a projected eightfold increase in passenger traffic. The plan includes upgrading existing airstrips and constructing new airports across the country. Factors Driving the Expansion Development of Existing Airstrips: Upgrading Current
CLIMATE-RESILIENT AGRICULTURE (CRA) Climate-Resilient Agriculture (CRA) refers to agricultural practices and systems designed to withstand and recover from the impacts of climate change and extreme weather events. It aims to enhance the resilience of agricultural ecosystems, improve food security, and sustain livelihoods in vulnerable regions. Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture Effect on Yields: Without
LIGHTHOUSES IN INDIA A lighthouse is a structure designed to emit light from lamps and lenses, aiding navigation for mariners and fishermen. They mark dangerous coastlines, shoals, reefs, and safe entries to harbors. India maintains 194 lighthouses across its coastal line and islands. Historical Role of Lighthouses: Ancient India: Rigveda and Satapatha Brahmana mention early navigation
RESTORING A VERDICT TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The recent by-polls held on July 10, with results announced on July 13, showcased a significant political shift across seven states in India. The outcomes reflect public sentiment towards opportunistic defections and the performance of major political parties, particularly the Bharatiya Janata Party
SUPREME COURT TO HEAR PETITIONS AGAINST PASSING LAWS AS MONEY BILLS TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Supreme Court of India, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, has decided to list petitions challenging the classification of certain contentious amendments as Money Bills. This decision responds to criticisms of the central government’s use
DEEP DRILLING MISSION The Ministry of Earth Science in India has embarked on a significant mission to conduct scientific deep drilling of the Earth's crust, aiming to reach a depth of 6 km. This project is being executed with the assistance of the Borehole Geophysics Research Laboratory (BGRL) in Karad, Maharashtra. The mission has already
RISE IN MILITANCY IN JAMMU The Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has witnessed a notable increase in militant attacks since mid-2021. This shift from historical patterns raises concerns about security vulnerabilities and regional stability. Several factors contribute to this resurgence of militancy in the region. Reasons for Rise in Militancy in Jammu Strategic
MONEY BILL Recently, the Chief Justice of India (CJI) has agreed to review petitions that challenge the government's use of the Money Bill route for passing controversial amendments in Parliament. This issue is significant because it pertains to bypassing the Rajya Sabha and potential violations of Article 110 of the Constitution. Concerns Regarding the Money
ISRO HAS A PROBLEM: TOO MANY ROCKETS, TOO FEW SATELLITES TO LAUNCH India's space launch capabilities, overseen by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), have achieved notable milestones in satellite deployment and space exploration. However, recent statements from ISRO's Chairman have highlighted a disconnect between current launch vehicle capabilities and the demand for satellite services,
KARNATAKA BILL MANDATING 50% QUOTA FOR LOCALS IN MANAGEMENT POSITIONS TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Karnataka Cabinet has approved a significant legislative measure to ensure local representation in industrial employment. This bill aims to prioritize local candidates in management and non-management positions within various establishments across the state. Key Provisions
INTERGENERATIONAL EQUITY AS TAX DEVOLUTION CRITERION TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The distribution of Union tax revenue among States is a crucial and debated topic. The Finance Commission (FC) revisits this distribution formula every five years, prioritizing equity to ensure fair resource allocation among States. Intergenerational Fiscal Equity Definition: Ensures equal opportunities and
BLUE ECONOMY India is increasingly turning towards the ocean to alleviate pressure on land-based resources. The Deep Ocean Mission, also referred to as Samudrayaan, embodies a comprehensive approach to tapping into the Blue Economy. This mission aims to explore and utilize both living (biodiversity) and non-living (minerals) ocean resources sustainably. It focuses on developing tools
UNEP REPORT: "NAVIGATING NEW HORIZONS: A GLOBAL FORESIGHT REPORT ON PLANETARY HEALTH AND HUMAN WELLBEING, 2024 The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) released the report titled "Navigating New Horizons: A Global Foresight Report on Planetary Health and Human Wellbeing, 2024." The report emphasizes addressing emerging challenges that could disrupt planetary health. It highlights eight critical
FIFTH POSITIVE INDIGENISATION LIST (PIL) OF MINISTRY OF DEFENCE India's Ministry of Defence (MoD) has recently notified the fifth Positive Indigenisation List (PIL), which includes various defence items aimed at promoting self-reliance and reducing dependence on imports. This initiative is a significant step towards enhancing the domestic defence sector and ensuring national security. Concurrently, the
SEBI PROPOSES NEW ASSET CLASS BETWEEN MUTUAL FUNDS AND PMS The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has introduced a proposal to create a new asset class in the Indian investment landscape. This initiative aims to provide investors with a regulated investment option that allows for higher risk-taking and addresses the proliferation of unregistered
OVER 800 ELEPHANTS DIED IN KERALA IN 8 YEARS TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU Between 2015 and 2023, Kerala's forests saw 845 elephant deaths, showing an increasing trend over time. This alarming data is from an elephant population estimation in the state's four elephant reserves. Key Findings Increase in Mortality Rates: Younger elephants,
MAIZE PRODUCTION IN INDIA India’s maize industry has undergone a transformative shift from being a simple feed crop to becoming a vital element in the fuel and industrial sectors. This development is part of a broader agricultural revolution, mirroring the historic changes in wheat and rice, but with a modern twist driven by private-sector advancements.
LIVING IN DENIAL ABOUT UNEMPLOYMENT TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The discussion on unemployment in India highlights conflicting reports and methodologies used by various institutions, creating confusion about the true extent of unemployment. The governments narrative and data from rbi, citigroup, and cmie present diverse perspectives. Conflicting Data Sources KLEMS data: Recently cited
EKLAVYA MODEL RESIDENTIAL SCHOOLS Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) are designed to provide high-quality education to Scheduled Tribe (ST) students across India. The initiative, which began in 1997-98, aims to improve educational outcomes for tribal communities and address the disparities in educational opportunities. However, recent changes in recruitment policies, particularly the introduction of Hindi competency
GUIDELINES ON AMOEBIC BRAIN INFECTION ISSUED BY KERALA TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: THE HINDU In response to the recent cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis in Kerala, the State's Health Department has issued technical guidelines to address the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of this rare but fatal infection. Recent Cases and Causative Organisms Reported
FIFTH POSITIVE INDIGENISATION LIST (PIL) The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has issued the fifth Positive Indigenisation List (PIL) aimed at enhancing self-reliance in defence production and reducing import dependency. Purpose and Scope Items Included: The list contains 346 items to advance Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence. Procurement: These items must be procured from Indian industries, including
IMMUNITY OF GOVERNORS UNDER ARTICLE 361: A LEGAL EXAMINATION The Supreme Court of India is set to review the immunity granted to Governors under Article 361 of the Constitution. This examination arises from a plea involving the West Bengal Governor in a sexual harassment case. Immunities Provided to the Governor under Article 361 Origin of
BHIL PRADESH The Bhils, one of India's oldest tribes, are advocating for a separate state called "Bhil Pradesh." This demand has gained momentum in Rajasthan and neighboring states. Who are the Bhils? Oldest Tribe: Bhils are among India's oldest tribes, belonging to the Dravidian racial group of Western India and the Austroloid group of tribes.
MOIDAMS OF THE AHOM DYNASTY AND THEIR WORLD HERITAGE PROPOSAL The 'Moidams' of the Ahom dynasty have been nominated for inclusion in the World Heritage Sites list during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee, which India will host in New Delhi in July 2024. Currently, UNESCO's World Heritage list features 1,199 properties from
A GREEN WEALTH TAX IN BUDGET 2024 TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Indian government is set to introduce a green wealth tax in the Budget 2024, aimed at addressing critical issues such as unemployment and inequality. This initiative, part of the Indian Green Deal (IGD), seeks to leverage wealth tax revenues to
UNION BUDGET 2024-2025 Concept of Budget A budget is an annual financial plan detailing expected income and expenditures over a specific period, typically one year. It serves as a strategic tool for managing financial resources, guiding economic decisions, and setting financial goals. Objectives of a Budget Resource Allocation: Ensures efficient use of available resources to
NEIGHBOURHOOD FIRST APPROACH IN THE MEA'S AID DISTRIBUTION The Union Budget 2024-25 of India has highlighted the Ministry of External Affairs' (MEA) plans for development assistance, emphasizing strategic partners and neighbouring countries. This approach aligns with India's Neighbourhood First Policy, aiming to enhance regional connectivity, cooperation, and stability. Distribution of Development Aid The MEA has
2024 UNAIDS GLOBAL AIDS UPDATE The 2024 UNAIDS Global AIDS Update, titled "The Urgency of Now: AIDS at a Crossroads," provides an overview of the current state of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the global response to it. This report highlights the progress made in the fight against AIDS, ongoing challenges, and recommendations to achieve the
BUDGET 2024: LONG ON INTENT, SHORT ON DETAILS TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The 2024 Budget presented by the Union Finance Minister focuses on three main aspects: intentions and vision for "Vikist Bharat@2047", addressing unemployment, and specific initiatives for generating employment. However, it lacks specific details on how these goals will be achieved.
AMRAVATI AND ANDHRA BUDDHISM Recently, a substantial financial aid of Rs 15,000 crore has been allocated to Andhra Pradesh for the development of its capital city, Amravati. This has brought renewed attention to Amravati, a site of historical and spiritual importance in Andhra Pradesh. Historical Evolution Discovery and Early Recognition: In the late 1700s, Raja
SUPREME COURT VERDICT ON GM MUSTARD The Supreme Court recently delivered a split verdict on the decision of the Centre to grant conditional approval for the environmental release of Genetically Modified (GM) mustard crops. This decision has brought significant attention to the subject and will now be reviewed by a three-judge Bench of the Supreme
STATES HAVE UNLIMITED RIGHT TO TAX MINERAL-RICH LANDS: SC TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Supreme Court of India, in a landmark judgment, has upheld the states' unlimited right to tax mineral-rich lands. This ruling reinforces the principle of fiscal federalism, emphasizing the autonomy of state legislatures to levy taxes on
BRIDGING THE UNEMPLOYMENT-EMPLOYABILITY GAP IN INDIA India, as the world's fifth-largest economy, is at a crucial stage in its economic journey. The vision for a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047 depends significantly on closing the unemployment-employability gap. The Union Budget 2024-25 highlights this priority with substantial allocations for education, employment, and skill development. However, the challenge
KARGIL VIJAY DIWAS 2024 Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year on July 26 to honor the valor and sacrifice of Indian soldiers during the Kargil War (1999). What is Kargil Vijay Diwas? Kargil Vijay Diwas or Kargil Victory Day is observed annually on July 26 in India. This day commemorates India's victory in the
SC TO EXAMINE IF GOVERNORS ARE ‘SUBVERTING’ FEDERALISM TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Supreme Court agreed to examine whether Governors, by indefinitely withholding assent to crucial Bills and eventually referring them to the President, are subverting federalism. The court's intervention follows a petition from Kerala concerning its Governor's actions. Petition
IndiaAI MISSION The Indian government's commitment to advancing artificial intelligence (AI) technology is reflected in its new budgetary allocation for the IndiaAI Mission. The Union Budget for 2024-25 allocated Rs 551.75 crore to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to enhance AI infrastructure, including the procurement of high-performance Graphic Processing Units (GPUs). This initiative
MAHARASHTRA SPECIAL PUBLIC SECURITY (MSPS) BILL, 2024 The Maharashtra government has proposed the Maharashtra Special Public Security (MSPS) Bill, 2024, to address the increasing presence of Naxalism in urban areas. The Bill has sparked significant debate due to its broad and stringent provisions. State of Naxalism in India Incidents and Deaths: From 2018 to 2023,
STATE OF FOOD SECURITY AND NUTRITION IN THE WORLD 2024" (SOFI 2024) REPORT The "State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2024" (SOFI 2024) report, published by FAO, IFAD, UNICEF, WFP, and WHO, presents a critical analysis of global food security and nutrition trends. This year's report emphasizes the urgent need for increased
RIGHT TO SHELTER The Supreme Court of India recently addressed the need to balance the development of railway infrastructure in Haldwani with the fundamental right to shelter for individuals accused of illegally occupying railway land. The court emphasized that its decisions should not be interpreted as encouragement for future encroachments on public land. Right to
ANY FURTHER DELAY IN CENSUS TAKING IS PERILOUS TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The postponement of the Census, initially set for 2021, has significant repercussions for India. The delay affects the allocation of resources and the implementation of policies, particularly those targeting marginalized populations. Current Status The deadline to freeze administrative
UNION BUDGET 2024-25: KEY MEASURES FOR RURAL AND TRIBAL DEVELOPMENT The Union Budget 2024-25, presented as the first general budget of the 18th Lok Sabha, introduced several significant initiatives aimed at improving rural infrastructure and tribal welfare. Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) Overview: Launched on December 25, 2000, PMGSY aims to provide all-weather road
REPORT ON CURRENCY AND FINANCE (RCF) 2023-24: INDIA'S DIGITAL ECONOMY The "Report on Currency and Finance (RCF) for 2023-24," released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), provides an insightful analysis of India’s digital economy. The report highlights how digitalization is reshaping the financial sector and influencing the broader economy. This year’s focus is on
A LICENCE RAJ FOR DIGITAL CONTENT CREATORS TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Union Government of India is attempting to control digital content creators through the Broadcasting Regulation Bill, 2024. This move is perceived as an effort to curb the influence of digital media on public opinion, especially following the 2024
LANDSLIDES AND THEIR IMPACT IN WAYANAD, KERALA Recently, Wayanad district in Kerala experienced one of its most severe landslide-related disasters due to extreme rainfall and fragile ecological conditions. With over 140 mm of rain in just 24 hours, the event has rekindled memories of the devastating 2018 floods in Kerala, which claimed around 500 lives.
SUB-CLASSIFICATION OF SCHEDULED CASTES (SCS) AND SCHEDULED TRIBES (STS): SUPREME COURT VERDICT The Supreme Court of India delivered a landmark judgment that empowers states to sub-classify Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) for the purpose of reservations. This decision, passed by a 6-1 majority, reverses the 2004 E.V. Chinnaiah vs. State of Andhra Pradesh
UP GOVT PROPOSES STRENGTHENING ANTI-CONVERSION LAW: WHY, WHAT ARE THE KEY CHANGES? TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Uttar Pradesh (UP) government has proposed amendments to the state’s anti-conversion law, aimed at making it more stringent and enforceable. This move comes four years after the original act was passed to curb
IMPACT OF OIL AND GAS DRILLING ON HOOLOCK GIBBONS IN ASSAM The Union Environment Ministry's recent approval for exploratory oil and gas drilling in Assam's eco-sensitive zones, particularly the Hoollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary, has sparked concerns over the potential threat to the endangered hoolock gibbons and other wildlife. Cairn India, a subsidiary of Vedanta Ltd,
THE GREAT NICOBAR HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT The Great Nicobar Holistic Development Project is a major initiative spearheaded by NITI Aayog aimed at transforming the southern part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This project, which began in 2021, has sparked considerable debate due to its potential environmental and social impacts. The project, despite initial concerns,
STATES CAN SUB-CLASSIFY SCS FOR QUOTAS: SUPREME COURT RULING TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India ruled that states have the authority to sub-classify Scheduled Castes (SCs) to provide more targeted affirmative action in public employment and education. This ruling aims to address the
CENTRE REISSUES DRAFT NOTIFICATION ON ECOSENSITIVE AREAS IN WESTERN GHATS TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU Eco-Sensitive Areas (ESAs) are designated regions requiring protective measures to prevent environmental degradation. The Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot in India, has undergone multiple notifications to classify parts of it as ESAs. This initiative aims to regulate activities
WORLD DROWNING PREVENTION DAY: ADDRESSING A GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH CHALLENGE World Drowning Prevention Day, observed annually on July 25th, is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness and promoting action to prevent drowning incidents. Drowning is a significant public health issue, especially in low- and middle-income countries, and has resulted in over 2.5 million deaths
CLOUDBURST IN HIMACHAL PRADESH A cloudburst is a sudden and intense rainfall event over a small geographical area, often leading to flash floods and landslides. These events are particularly common in mountainous regions like the Himalayas and have devastating consequences for both life and infrastructure. Recently, a cloudburst in Himachal Pradesh caused significant destruction, highlighting
