AIR QUALITY LIFE INDEX (AQLI) 2024 The Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC) recently released the Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) 2024, highlighting critical issues regarding air pollution and its impact on global health. The report highlights the severe consequences of poor air quality, particularly in countries like India, where a significant
INDIA’S PROPOSALS ON FISHERIES SUBSIDIES AT THE WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION (WTO) India has been actively advocating for regulations on fisheries subsidies at the World Trade Organization (WTO) to address unsustainable fishing practices and protect the livelihoods of small fishermen. The global concern over overfishing and illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing has led to discussions
WORLD TOURISM DAY 2024 World Tourism Day is an annual event celebrated globally on September 27th to raise awareness about the social, cultural, and economic significance of tourism. In 2024, the theme “Tourism and Peace” was adopted, emphasizing how tourism fosters cross-cultural understanding, promotes peace, and contributes to global stability. By encouraging dialogue and cultural
SUPREME COURT RULING ON PMLA AND BAIL: A LANDMARK JUDGMENT The Supreme Court of India recently delivered a significant ruling that addressed the misuse of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, especially regarding prolonged pretrial detention. The court criticized the use of the law as a tool to keep the accused in jail
REGULATIONS REGARDING THE USE OF CBI IN STATE INVESTIGATIONS The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) plays a crucial role in handling significant and complex criminal cases in India. However, the decision to transfer an investigation from state police to the CBI is not taken lightly. Recent judicial rulings have emphasized the need for explicit and
IMPACT OF LA NIÑA ON INDIA'S AIR QUALITY AND WINTER TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY: INDIAN EXPRESS La Niña is a climate phenomenon that influences global weather patterns, and its delayed impact can have significant effects on air quality in India. The winter of 2023-24 is expected to witness worsening pollution due to La Niña's interaction with
NITI AAYOG REPORT PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESS IN INDIA TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: INDIAN EXPRESS In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of India has recognized the need for a robust framework to effectively handle future public health emergencies. The NITI Aayog, through its expert group, has put forward several recommendations aimed at strengthening
NATIONAL MISSION FOR CLEAN GANGA (NMCG) The Ganga River holds immense cultural, religious, and environmental importance for India. It is not only a vital water source for millions of people but also central to India's spiritual and social heritage. However, rapid urbanization, industrialization, and population growth have severely polluted the river. To address this, the
GREENHUSHING: A GROWING TREND IN CORPORATE SUSTAINABILITY COMMUNICATION In recent years, many companies have been certified as carbon neutral, taking significant steps towards environmental sustainability. However, despite these achievements, several firms choose not to advertise their green credentials or future sustainability goals. This practice, known as "greenhushing," refers to the under-reporting or intentional withholding of
ANNUAL SURVEY OF INDUSTRIES (ASI) REPORT 2022-23 The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) recently published the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) for 2022-23. This report provides crucial data about the manufacturing sector's recovery and growth following the disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. The survey was conducted from November 2023 to June 2024
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF AWARENESS OF FOOD LOSS AND WASTE (IDAFLW) 2023: IMPORTANCE FOR FOOD SECURITY AND ENVIRONMENT The world marks the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste (IDAFLW) annually on 29th September to highlight the serious issues surrounding food loss and waste. According to the 2023 Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) report,
LADAKH'S DEMAND FOR SPECIAL STATUS: SIXTH SCHEDULE INCLUSION TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU Ladakh, after its separation from Jammu and Kashmir and its designation as a Union Territory in 2019, has been pressing for greater autonomy. The main demand is for the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. This demand reflects
SWACHH BHARAT MISSION 2.0 TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: INDIAN EXPRESS Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) or "Clean India Mission" is a flagship initiative launched by the Indian government aimed at improving sanitation and hygiene across the country. While the first phase of SBM focused on eliminating open defecation, SBM 2.0, which was launched in October 2021, primarily
MODIFIED PARBATI-KALISINDH-CHAMBAL EASTERN RAJASTHAN CANAL PROJECT (PKC-ERCP) The Modified Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (PKC-ERCP) represents a crucial inter-state collaboration between Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh aimed at addressing severe water scarcity issues in Rajasthan. This project is a component of the broader National Perspective Plan (NPP), which seeks to interlink rivers across India for enhanced
NAMASTE SCHEME: ADDRESSING MANUAL SCAVENGING IN INDIA The National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) scheme is a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in India. Its goal is to eliminate the dehumanising practice of manual scavenging and improve the safety
INDIA'S 5 NEW CLASSICAL LANGUAGES: WHAT THE TAG MEANS TOPIC: (GS1) CULTURE: INDIAN EXPRESS Recently, the Union Cabinet extended the "Classical Language" status to five new languages: Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali. This designation comes with significant cultural and academic benefits, enhancing the preservation and promotion of these languages. Prior to this announcement, Tamil,
TIRUPATI LADDU CONTROVERSY AND GOVERNMENT CONTROL OF HINDU TEMPLES The recent issue of adulterated ghee in the Tirupati laddu, a sacred offering at the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, has reignited debates over government control of Hindu temples. Many argue that temples should be managed by the religious community rather than the government. This controversy reflects a
SOCIAL MEDIA REGULATIONS FOR CHILDREN: GLOBAL INITIATIVES With the rise of digital platforms, social media has become a prominent part of children's lives. While it provides opportunities for learning and socialization, it also raises concerns regarding children's safety online. The Australian Prime Minister recently proposed a plan to set a minimum age for social media
AYUSHMAN BHARAT DIGITAL MISSION (ABDM) The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) was launched in 2021 as part of the Government of India's efforts to revolutionize the healthcare sector. It aims to create a national digital health ecosystem that enhances the accessibility, efficiency, and transparency of healthcare services across the country. The mission integrates digital health
CLASSICAL LANGUAGES OF INDIA The Government of India has been recognizing certain languages as "Classical Languages" to preserve their ancient heritage and cultural significance. Recently, the Union Cabinet expanded the list by recognizing five more languages: Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali. These languages, along with previously recognized ones, represent India's rich linguistic diversity and
CIVIL WAR IN SUDAN TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: INDIAN EXPRESS Sudan has been embroiled in a devastating civil war since April 2023, involving two major factions: the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This conflict has caused widespread suffering and displacement, with millions affected. Origins of the Conflict Power Struggle:
CASTE-BASED DISCRIMINATION IN PRISON MANUALS AND ITS UNCONSTITUTIONALITY TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: INDIAN EXPRESS The Supreme Court of India recently delivered a landmark judgment on October 3, 2024, declaring the caste-based division of labour in prisons as unconstitutional. The ruling addresses several discriminatory provisions in prison manuals across various Indian states, which perpetuate caste-based labour assignments.
SUPREME COURT’S OBSERVATION ON MISUSE OF SECTION 498A IPC AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ACT Recently, the Supreme Court noted that Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code (now part of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita) and the Domestic Violence Act of 2005 are often misused. Both laws were introduced to protect women from domestic cruelty and violence,
RATIONALISATION OF CENTRALLY SPONSORED SCHEMES AND LAUNCH OF NATIONAL MISSION ON EDIBLE OILS-OILSEEDS: KEY HIGHLIGHTS The Union Cabinet has recently made significant changes to streamline agricultural initiatives by rationalising 18 centrally sponsored schemes. Among the most notable steps is the introduction of the National Mission on Edible Oils–Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds) aimed at boosting domestic production of
DRDO’S NEW INITIATIVE - FIVE DEEP-TECH PROJECTS The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is launching a new initiative to advance military technologies in India. This initiative focuses on funding five deep-tech projects, each receiving up to Rs 50 crore. The aim is to enhance India's defence capabilities through indigenisation, reduce dependence on foreign imports,
NATIONAL HEALTH ACCOUNTS (NHA) ESTIMATES The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare recently released the National Health Account (NHA) estimates for the fiscal years 2020-21 and 2021-22. These reports are part of a series that track healthcare spending trends in India, helping in better understanding of the country's health expenditure patterns. Key Findings of
PHYSICS NOBEL PRIZE 2024 TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: INDIAN EXPRESS In 2024, the Nobel Prize in Physics recognized two scientists, John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton, for their groundbreaking contributions to artificial neural networks (ANNs), which are the backbone of modern artificial intelligence (AI). Their work has significantly advanced the field of machine learning, enabling
RBI MONETARY POLICY UPDATE TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: INDIAN EXPRESS The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently held its policy review meeting and shifted its stance from "withdrawal of accommodation" to a "neutral" stance, indicating a potential rate cut in the near future. This move reflects the balanced state of inflation and economic growth at present.
NOBEL PRIZE IN PHYSICS 2024 In 2024, the Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to John J. Hopfield and Geoffrey E. Hinton for their groundbreaking work on artificial neural networks (ANNs) and machine learning (ML). Their research laid the foundation for various technological advancements, influencing fields such as physics, biology, healthcare, and artificial intelligence (AI),
ROLE OF ULTRA-PROCESSED FOODS AND ADVANCED GLYCATION END PRODUCTS (AGES) IN INDIA'S DIABETES SURGE A recent study published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition has brought attention to the role of ultra-processed foods and Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) in the rising cases of diabetes in India. This study, funded by the
INDIA’S CONCERNS OVER THE EUROPEAN UNION’S CBAM AND EUDR India’s Finance Minister recently criticized the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), calling them unilateral measures that create barriers for Indian industries. These regulations aim to reduce carbon emissions and deforestation, but India views them as trade barriers that
NATIONAL AGRICULTURE CODE (NAC): A STEP TOWARDS STANDARDIZING INDIAN AGRICULTURE The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is in the process of drafting the National Agriculture Code (NAC) to create comprehensive standards across India’s entire agricultural cycle. Similar to the National Building Code (NBC) and the National Electrical Code (NEC), the NAC aims to provide clear
GROUNDWATER DEPLETION IN NORTHERN INDIA: STUDY BY IIT GANDHINAGAR A recent study by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Gandhinagar has found that shifting approximately 40% of the area currently under rice cultivation to alternative crops could help restore between 60 and 100 cubic kilometers of groundwater in northern India, which has been depleted since
BASE YEAR REVISION OF INDIA’S GDP The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) is currently working on revising the base year for calculating India's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This move comes after the 2015 base year revision, which changed the base year from 2004-05 to 2011-12 and drew criticism over certain methodological flaws. The
SATI SYSTEM The recent acquittal of 8 individuals involved in glorifying Sati through the construction of temples in honor of the woman who committed Sati in the Roop Kanwar case of 1987 has brought attention to the historical and legal aspects of this practice. The Commission of Sati (Prevention) Act, 1987, was enacted in response
NITI AAYOG - ASSET MONETISATION The recent revision by the NITI Aayog has increased the asset monetisation target for FY 2024-25 by ₹23,000 crore, bringing the total target to ₹1.9 trillion. This is part of the broader National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP), which aims to generate ₹6 trillion by monetising public assets over the four-year period
WHY PRECISION MEDICINE IN INDIA CAN’T ADVANCE WITHOUT BIOBANK LAWS TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU Precision medicine, driven by advancements in genomics and technologies like gene editing and mRNA therapeutics, is revolutionizing healthcare worldwide. India’s biobanking ecosystem is expanding but encounters challenge due to inconsistent regulations regarding data protection and ethical standards. Precision
LIVING PLANET REPORT 2024 The Living Planet Report 2024 by the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) presents a concerning picture of global biodiversity loss. It shows a dramatic decline in wildlife populations, highlighting the urgent need for conservation. The WWF, a leading global conservation organization, uses this report to shed light on the primary threats
INDIA’S BIODIVERSITY TARGETS AND THE KUNMING-MONTREAL GLOBAL BIODIVERSITY FRAMEWORK (KMGBF) India is preparing to submit its National Biodiversity Targets (NBTs) in alignment with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). This move highlights India’s commitment to halting biodiversity loss and conserving ecosystems, with a focus on sustainable
HALF OF UAPA INVESTIGATIONS PENDING FOR OVER THREE YEARS TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) of 1967, meant to address issues of national security, has drawn criticism due to its stringent provisions, particularly around delays in trials and the denial of bail. Recent developments, including prolonged detentions, have intensified
CENTRE INCREASES MSP FOR WHEAT, FIVE OTHER RABI CROPS TOPIC: (GS3) INDIAN ECONOMY: THE HINDU The Indian government recently announced a significant increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for rabi crops for the 2025-26 marketing season. These decisions aim to ensure fair pricing for farmers and protect employees from inflation, especially ahead of the
WORLD ENERGY OUTLOOK 2024 The International Energy Agency (IEA) released the World Energy Outlook 2024, analyzing key trends in the global energy landscape, including shifts toward clean energy, rising demand, and challenges posed by geopolitical tensions. India’s growing energy needs and its ambitious goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2070 are particularly highlighted. World Energy
INDIA-PAKISTAN RELATIONS: POSITIVE DEVELOPMENTS AT THE SCO SUMMIT The recent SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting in Islamabad witnessed informal, positive exchanges between India and Pakistan’s leadership. Both sides took a more cooperative approach, aiming to improve their strained relations. What is the SCO Council of Heads of Government? The SCO Council of Heads
ASSAM ACCORD: SC UPHOLDS CONSTITUTIONAL VALIDITY OF SECTION 6A OF THE CITIZENSHIP ACT TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: HINDUSTHAN TIMES Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, 1955, is a unique provision introduced to address the migration issues in Assam, specifically to regulate citizenship for those who migrated from Bangladesh before March 24, 1971. This provision was a
GREENWASHING AND CONSUMER PROTECTION The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) recently released guidelines aimed at regulating "greenwashing" or misleading environmental claims by companies. These guidelines seek to foster transparency in eco-friendly marketing and protect consumers from deceptive practices. What is Greenwashing? Greenwashing is the practice where companies exaggerate or falsely claim environmental benefits for their
MESOPHOTIC CORAL ECOSYSTEMS AND THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry have identified a dual threat to mesophotic coral ecosystems in the Eastern Tropical Pacific. These coral ecosystems are increasingly at risk due to warmer waters from above and exposure to cold waters from below, affecting their health and
CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACT ON TROPICAL FORESTS Recent studies reveal that Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) in tropical forests are facing significant changes in temperature due to global warming and climate change. The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) aims to protect at least 30% of the world's land by 2030, with a focus on conserving these crucial
MADRASAS IN INDIA AND RECENT DEVELOPMENTS The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has raised concerns about the education provided in madrasas, claiming that it fails to meet the requirements set by the Right to Education (RTE) Act. The NCPCR argues that madrasa textbooks focus heavily on Islamic teachings and lack a comprehensive
IMPACT OF MINIMUM SUPPORT PRICE (MSP) ON INDIAN AGRICULTURE The Minimum Support Price (MSP) is a crucial policy in India's agricultural framework, designed to protect farmers from price fluctuations. Recently, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) announced an increase in MSP for several rabi crops. This decision has reignited discussions about the potential legalization
GLOBAL WATER CRISIS WARNING (TH) The Global Commission on the Economics of Water has issued a report emphasizing the urgent need for improved water management to prevent a significant global water crisis. Key Warnings from the Commission: Severe Water Shortage: The report predicts a 40% gap between freshwater demand and supply by 2030. Threat to
INDIA'S NOBEL PRIZE PERFORMANCE IN SCIENCES India has not seen a Nobel Prize winner in the sciences—Physics, Chemistry, or Medicine—while working in the country for 94 years. The last Indian to receive this honor was C.V. Raman in 1930 for his work on the scattering of light. The low number of Indian laureates is often
GLOBAL HUNGER INDEX (GHI) 2024 AND INDIA'S POSITION The Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2024 reveals that India ranks 105th out of 127 countries, with a score of 27.3. This score indicates a "serious" hunger crisis, highlighting ongoing challenges related to food insecurity and malnutrition. What is the Global Hunger Index (GHI)? The GHI is an
SUPREME COURT CASE REGARDING MADARSA EDUCATION AND SECULARISM TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: INDIAN EXPRESS The Supreme Court of India is currently reviewing the constitutionality of the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004. This case has significant implications for how religious education, particularly in madarsas, aligns with the principles of secularism in India. Background Madarsa
INDIA'S AGEING AND SHRINKING POPULATION Recently, politicians in Southern India have expressed worries about the ageing and shrinking population. They have proposed laws to encourage more families to have children. An ageing population refers to a demographic trend where the number of individuals aged 65 and older increases compared to the working-age group (15-64 years).
KRISHNADEVARAYA AND THE VIJAYANAGARA EMPIRE The recent discovery of 16th-century copper plate inscriptions at the Sri Singeeswarar temple in Tamil Nadu has brought renewed interest in the Vijayanagara Empire and its most celebrated ruler, King Krishnadevaraya. King Krishnadevaraya Reign and Legacy Period of Rule: Krishnadevaraya ruled the Vijayanagara Kingdom from 1509 to 1529 AD. Titles
MANIPUR CRISIS AND MANAGING DIVERSITY IN INDIA TOPIC: (GS3) SECURITY: THE HINDU The ongoing crisis in Manipur has drawn significant attention to the challenges of managing diversity within India’s federal framework. This situation raises critical questions about the effectiveness of the Constitution in addressing identitarian differences in a diverse nation. About Special Provisions Diversity in
INDIA-CHINA COORDINATED PATROLLING AGREEMENT TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU India and China have agreed on a framework to manage their border tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the eastern region of Ladakh. This development includes mutual disengagement in specific areas to restore the pre-April 2020 status quo. Key Areas of Disengagement Depsang
INDIA’S SEMICONDUCTOR INDUSTRY India is making strides to establish itself in the global semiconductor industry, especially with the recent approval of a major $11 billion semiconductor plant project in Gujarat, led by the Tata Group and Taiwan’s Powerchip. This development aligns with India’s goal to be a significant player in the semiconductor sector, essential for
BRICS 16TH SUMMIT IN KAZAN, RUSSIA The recent BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, brought together major emerging economies and introduced new members, expanding the influence and goals of the BRICS alliance. Key discussions included multilateral cooperation, economic integration, and sustainable development with a strong focus on issues affecting the Global South. New BRICS Members Expansion:
INDIA AND THE UNITED NATIONS: A FOCUS ON UN DAY United Nations Day is celebrated on October 24th each year to commemorate the establishment of the UN Charter in 1945. This day highlights the UN's objectives and achievements, reminding the world of the importance of international cooperation in promoting peace and security. What is the
MICROFINANCE INSTITUTIONS (MFIS) Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) play a significant role in promoting financial inclusion, particularly for low-income and marginalized communities. They provide essential financial services to individuals who lack access to traditional banking facilities. What Are Microfinance Institutions? MFIs are specialized financial organizations that offer small loans and other financial services to individuals without access
WHY IS DELHI’S AIR QUALITY DETERIORATING? TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU Delhi’s air quality significantly worsens during winter, especially after the southwest monsoon withdrawal. The city’s particulate matter (PM 2.5) levels often spike beyond safe limits, causing a severe public health concern. The main contributors include stubble burning, vehicle emissions, and atmospheric conditions. Stubble Burning
ELECTORAL FREEBIES IN INDIA The topic of electoral freebies in India is a contentious issue that raises questions about ethical governance, fiscal responsibility, and the long-term impact on society. A recent survey shows mixed opinions among urban voters regarding freebies, especially in light of rising debates about their sustainability. Prime Minister criticism of the "revdi
ATMOSPHERIC RIVERS: IMPACTS OF POLEWARD SHIFTS Recent studies indicate that atmospheric rivers (ARs) have shifted poleward by 6 to 10 degrees over the last 40 years. This shift has significant implications for global weather patterns, contributing to increased droughts in some areas and severe floods in others. What are Atmospheric Rivers? Definition: Atmospheric rivers are
GENDER REPRESENTATION IN THE INDIAN JUDICIARY TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU The representation of women in the Indian judiciary remains low, especially in higher courts such as the High Courts and the Supreme Court. Although entry-level recruitment of women has improved, female judges still face numerous obstacles at senior levels. Current Statistics: According to the
INDIA-GERMANY INTERGOVERNMENTAL CONSULTATIONS India and Germany share a significant partnership marked by cooperation in various sectors. Recently, Prime Minister Modi and Chancellor Scholz co-chaired the 7th round of India-Germany Intergovernmental Consultations (IGC) in New Delhi. Key Highlights of the Meeting Focus on India Document: Germany released the "Focus on India" document, which serves as a
COMBATING MONEY LAUNDERING IN INDIA'S ONLINE GAMING SECTOR The Digital India Foundation (DIF) has released a significant report highlighting the threat of money laundering to the integrity and growth of the Indian online gaming sector. This report outlines the emerging risks, industry growth, and recommendations to tackle these challenges effectively. Key Findings of the Report
ADDRESSING THE ISSUE OF ADJOURNMENTS AND CASE PENDENCY TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU President Droupadi Murmu has emphasized the need to eliminate delays in the judicial process. During the District Judiciary Conference, she highlighted that frequent adjournments create obstacles for poor and rural populations in accessing justice, as they fear their cases will remain unresolved
THE NILGIRIS AS A SHARED WILDERNESS TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU The Nilgiri Biosphere, India’s first UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve, spans over 5,500 square kilometres across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. It is home to rare and endemic flora and fauna, including the Nilgiri tahr, the star-eyed bush frog, and medicinal plants used by indigenous communities.
ISRO AND DBT COLLABORATION FOR SPACE EXPERIMENTS The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) recently signed an agreement to develop and conduct scientific experiments for the upcoming Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS). Planned for completion between 2028 and 2035, BAS will be India's own space station, fostering advancements in space technology
MANGROVES Cyclone Dana’s recent landfall near Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra Port in Odisha highlighted the critical importance of mangrove forests in mitigating cyclone damage. Thanks to the extensive mangrove coverage in Bhitarkanika, the cyclone caused less destruction than expected. This resilience is a testament to the protective role mangroves play against natural disasters. What
