Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD): The Monkey Fever

Introduction Recent fatalities due to Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), known as monkey fever, in Karnataka have sparked concerns about the spread of this viral infection. What is Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD)? Origins and Identification: KFD is caused by the Kyasanur Forest disease virus (KFDV), a member of the Flaviviridae virus family. It was first identified… Continue reading

India suspends Free Movement Regime (FMR) with Myanmar

Introduction Union Home Minister has announced to finally scrap the Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the Myanmar border. About Free Movement Regime Initiated in the 1970s, the FMR allowed people living within 16 km of the India-Myanmar border to travel up to 16 km into the other country without a visa. India shares a 1,643… Continue reading

Issues in Self-Reporting of Mental Illness

Introduction Recent studies, including one by researchers from IIT Jodhpur, indicate alarmingly low rates of self-reporting for mental health problems in India. Mental Health Under-Reporting in India NSS 2017-2018 Findings: The NSS data, based on self-reporting by over 550000 individuals, revealed mental illness self-reporting rates of less than 1%. Scale of Mental Illness: The 2017… Continue reading

Supreme Court’s Deliberation on Sub-Classification of Scheduled Castes

Introduction The Supreme Court’s recent deliberation on the sub-classification of Scheduled Castes (SC) within India’s reservation system raises questions about the balance of power between states and the Parliament. This highlights the socio-economic implications of such sub-classification. Who are the Scheduled Castes? Scheduled Castes (SC) represent an administrative classification that encompasses various castes, including… Continue reading

White Paper on Economy: A Political Instrument

Introduction The recent presentation of a “white paper” on the Indian economy by Finance Minister in Parliament has sparked debates regarding the country’s economic performance over the past two decades. This document, prepared by the Ministry of Finance, offers a comparative analysis of the economic governance under the Congress-led UPA governments and the BJP-led NDA… Continue reading

In news: Appointment of Election Commissioner

Introduction The impending retirement of Election Commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey on February 14 signals a significant shift in India’s electoral procedures. For the first time, his successor will be selected through a consultative process, departing from past practices of government discretion as per the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service… Continue reading

India-China Bilateral Trade Hit a new record in 2023: Chinese Envoy

Introduction Bilateral trade between India and China soared to a record $136.2 billion in 2023, marking a 1.5% year-on-year increase. Why discuss this? Trade Deficit Concerns: India has been grappling with a significant trade deficit in favor of China, exceeding $100 billion in 2022. Efforts to address this deficit remain a priority for India. Diplomatic… Continue reading

Enhancing Accessibility in Indian Cinema: Draft Guidelines and Implementation

Introduction Enhancing accessibility in cinema halls for individuals with hearing and visual impairments is a crucial step towards promoting inclusivity and ensuring equal participation in cultural activities. The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting’s draft guidelines aim to address this imperative by mandating accessibility features in film screenings. Accessibility Guidelines: Rationale Behind Legal Mandate: The guidelines… Continue reading

India to be biggest driver of global oil demand beyond China by 2027: IEA

Introduction India’s burgeoning economy is poised to become a significant player in global oil demand, with projections indicating that it will outpace China by 2027. The International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts robust growth in India’s oil demand, driven primarily by industrial expansion and increasing mobility. About International Energy Agency (IEA) Details Nature Autonomous inter-governmental organisation… Continue reading

Uttarakhand UCC dares Right to Form ‘Intimate Associations’

Introduction The recent enactment of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand, specifically addressing live-in relationships, has sparked debates concerning individual freedom and state intervention. What are Intimate Associations? It is an association that promotes a way of life, not causes; a harmony in living, not political faiths; a bilateral loyalty, not commercial or social… Continue reading

Cameroon adopts Nagoya Protocol

Introduction Cameroon’s recent adoption of the Nagoya Protocol marks a significant step towards harnessing its rich biodiversity for sustainable development. Cameroon’s Biodiversity Wealth Biodiversity Hotspot: Cameroon hosts approximately 11,000 species, offering immense genetic resources for research and development. Traditional Knowledge: Indigenous communities possess invaluable traditional knowledge associated with biodiversity, contributing to bioprospecting (search for useful… Continue reading

Satellite-Based Toll Collection likely before General Elections

Introduction Satellite-based toll collection is slated for deployment before the onset of the 2024 general election Model Code of Conduct informed Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari. This technology will supersede FASTags, offering improved efficiency and convenience for drivers. How Satellite -Based Toll Collection Works? GPS-Equipped Vehicles: Every vehicle will require a GPS device for toll… Continue reading

390 YO Lamp Post in Nalgonda dedicated to Kasi Viswanatha

Introduction The recent discovery of a Deepastambham (lamp post) and other archaeological findings along the River Krishna in Nalgonda district, Telangana, sheds new light on early medieval trade ties in the region. Lamp Post and its Structure Unique Findings: Archaeologists unearthed a 20-foot tall lamp post with inscription and a small flat-roofed structure near the… Continue reading

India to stay alert for ‘Hot Money’ inflows

Introduction India’s recent inclusion into JPMorgan’s emerging market debt index marks a significant milestone for its financial markets. However, with this inclusion comes the risk of volatile capital flows, particularly ‘hot money,’ which can exert pressure on currency and bond markets. What is ‘Hot Money’? Definition: ‘Hot money’ refers to funds controlled by investors seeking… Continue reading

Kerala is one of most financially unhealthy States: Centre

Introduction The ongoing dispute between the Centre and the Kerala government regarding fiscal management has sparked debates on financial health, resource allocation, and federal governance. Financial Mismanagement in Kerala Poor Fiscal Health: The Centre contends that Kerala’s fiscal condition is precarious, attributing it to inadequate management of public finances. Financial Assistance: Despite substantial financial support… Continue reading

Tax-to-GDP ratio to hit all-time high of 11.7% of GDP in FY25

Introduction India’s tax landscape is anticipated to witness significant growth in the coming fiscal year, with the tax-to-GDP ratio expected to reach a historic high of 11.7%. Revenue Secretary Sanjay Malhotra highlights the role of direct taxes in driving this uptick and emphasizes the government’s commitment to streamlining the tax regime for enhanced efficiency and… Continue reading

Election Symbols Issue in Maharashtra

Introduction A faction within a political party led by the Maharashtra Deputy CM has been officially recognized as the legitimate group by the Election Commission of India retaining its election symbol. Also read: How are Symbols allotted to Political Parties in India? Election Symbol and its Significance Electoral Impact: Election symbols play a crucial role… Continue reading

Understanding the Delimitation Exercise

Introduction The impending delimitation exercise for Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, based on the first Census after 2026, has sparked discussions and raised pertinent questions. Understanding Delimitation Definition: Delimitation entails fixing the number of seats and boundaries of territorial constituencies, including the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), based… Continue reading

Interplanetary Dust damage NASA’s Juno Mission

Introduction Juno, a spacecraft launched by NASA in 2011, embarked on a mission to unravel the secrets of Jupiter and its moons. En route to Jupiter, Juno encountered fast-moving dust particles, resulting in significant damage to its solar panels. About NASA’s Juno Mission Description Launch Year 2011 Mission Objective Study Jupiter, the largest planet in… Continue reading

Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024

Introduction The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024 was tabled in the Rajya Sabha on February 5, 2024, aiming to amend the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. This legislation, instrumental in establishing central and state pollution control boards (CPCB and SPCBs), undergoes significant modifications under the proposed Bill, primarily… Continue reading

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