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[28 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: WTO’s investment facilitation negotiations are not illegal

PYQ Relevance:Mains: Q) What are the key areas of reform if the WTO has to survive in the present context of the ‘Trade War’, especially keeping in mind the interest of India? (UPSC CSE 2018)  Q) “The broader aims and objectives of WTO are to manage and promote international trade in the era of globalization. But… Continue reading [28 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: WTO’s investment facilitation negotiations are not illegal

Preventing a China-Taiwan conflict

Why in the News? India, with growing national interests, faces entanglements in disputes like Taiwan. While China claims Taiwan, India is unlikely to engage militarily, focusing on safeguarding its economic and security interests. Context: The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) recently achieved an unprecedented third consecutive term in Taiwan’s legislative elections, defying China’s threats and hostilities.… Continue reading Preventing a China-Taiwan conflict

Artform in news: Mohiniyattam Danceform

Why in the news? The Kerala Kalamandalam, a deemed university for arts and culture, has unanimously lifted gender restrictions allowing boys for learning Mohiniyattam, a classical dance form. About Mohiniyattam Description Name Meaning Mohini – female enchantress avatar of Vishnu; Aattam – rhythmic motion or dance (Malayalam) Roots Natya Shastra, ancient Hindu Sanskrit text on… Continue reading Artform in news: Mohiniyattam Danceform

50,000-year-old Magnetic Fossils found in Bay of Bengal

What is the news? Scientists from the CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Goa have found in the Bay of Bengal a 50,000-year-old sediment containing giant magnetofossils, shedding light on ancient geological conditions. What are Magnetofossils? Magnetofossils are fossilized magnetic particles created by magnetotactic bacteria, aiding scientists in understanding past environmental conditions. Described initially in the 1960s… Continue reading 50,000-year-old Magnetic Fossils found in Bay of Bengal

India Employment Landscape: Insights from the ILO-IHD Report 2024

Why in the news? According to the India Employment Report 2024 released by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the Institute of Human Development (IHD), India’s youth account for almost 83% of the unemployed workforce. About the International Labour Organization (ILO)   The ILO is a UN agency whose mandate is to advance social and… Continue reading India Employment Landscape: Insights from the ILO-IHD Report 2024

Monuments of National Importance (MNI) and their Listing/De-Listing

Why in the news? The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to remove 18 “centrally protected monuments” from its list of Monuments of National Importance (MNI), citing a lack of national significance. ASI currently has 3,693 monuments under its purview, which will fall to 3,675 once the current delisting exercise is completed in the… Continue reading Monuments of National Importance (MNI) and their Listing/De-Listing

It is time for Comprehensive Reforms to Municipal Elections 

Why in the news? Recently, the SC’s judgment on the Chandigarh Mayoral election gives us a good occasion to think more broadly about elections in municipalities. Context: Elections to the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies are exemplary democratic processes known for their punctuality, well-organized procedures, and seamless transitions of power. However, when it comes to… Continue reading It is time for Comprehensive Reforms to Municipal Elections 

[27 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: A cry for help, a call for reflection and action

PYQ Relevance: Mains:  Q) The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 remains inadequate in promoting an incentive-based system for children’s education without generating awareness about the importance of schooling. Analyse. (UPSC IAS/2022)  Q) Professor Amartya Sen has advocated important reforms in the realms of primary education and primary health care. What… Continue reading [27 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: A cry for help, a call for reflection and action

Captive Elephant Transfer Rules, 2024

What is the news? The Union Environment Ministry has notified a set of rules called the Captive Elephant (Transfer or Transport) Rules, 2024. Elephants, classified as Schedule I species under the Wildlife Protection Act, of 1972 enjoy special protection, but certain provisions allow for their translocation under specific circumstances. Existing Regulations on Elephant Transfer Legal… Continue reading Captive Elephant Transfer Rules, 2024

RBI Clampdown on Lenders could moderate Credit Growth in 2024-25

What is the news? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has undertaken rigorous regulatory actions to address lenders’ over-exuberance, enhance compliance culture, and protect customers. RBI’s Regulatory Actions: An Overview   Recent Examples: Recent regulatory moves by the RBI, such as restraining lending by IIFL Finance and JM Financial Products, and implementing restrictions on customer… Continue reading RBI Clampdown on Lenders could moderate Credit Growth in 2024-25

Karnataka approaches Supreme Court over NDRF Funds for Drought Management

What is the news? The Karnataka government has approached the Supreme Court against the Union government, seeking the release of drought relief funds from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). This disagreement marks the second major dispute after alleged ‘injustice’ in tax devolution and other allocations. Extent of Drought and Water Scarcity in Karnataka Rainfall… Continue reading Karnataka approaches Supreme Court over NDRF Funds for Drought Management

Krishi Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC)

Why in the news? Agriculture Minister has recently inaugurated the Krishi Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) at Krishi Bhavan in New Delhi. What is Krishi ICCC? The ICCC incorporates multiple IT applications and platforms to provide actionable insights and aid informed decision-making. 8 large LED screens display crucial information such as crop yields, production,… Continue reading Krishi Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC)

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