Mount Etna in Italy erupts

Central Idea Volcanic eruptions often make headlines only when iconic volcanoes like Etna, Kilauea, or Eyjafjallajokull erupt. However, throughout any given year, our planet witnessed numerous volcanic eruptions, with as many as 50 to 80 occurring worldwide. About Mount Etna Mount Etna, located in Italy, holds the title of Europe’s most active volcano and ranks… Continue reading

What are Active and Passive Equity Funds?

Central Idea Mutual fund investors are currently favouring active equity funds over passive funds, according to a recent study. Active vs. Passive Equity Funds Active Equity Funds Passive Equity Funds (Index Funds/ETFs) Investment Strategy Actively managed by fund managers Passively track a specific benchmark index Research and Analysis In-depth research and analysis to select individual… Continue reading

India’s 2+2 Ministerial Dialogues: Partnerships and Objectives

Central Idea Indian Defence Minister and External Affairs Minister recently hosted their US counterparts for the fifth annual 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in New Delhi. Understanding 2+2 Dialogues Purpose: 2+2 dialogues involve the participation of high-level representatives, typically the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Defence, from two nations. This format aims to expand the scope of… Continue reading

Understanding the Forest Conservation Amendment Act of 2023

Central Idea The Forest Conservation Amendment Act of 2023 has emerged with limited public discourse, raising concerns about its ramifications for forests and indigenous communities. While aimed at addressing climate change and deforestation, the law’s provisions have sparked debates over forest utilization, economic gain, and the rights of forest dwellers, particularly indigenous communities. Forest Conservation… Continue reading

Euclid Space Telescope unveils mysteries of Dark Universe

Central Idea European astronomers have unveiled the first images captured by the newly launched Euclid space telescope. These groundbreaking images offer a glimpse into Euclid’s extraordinary capabilities, demonstrating its capacity to observe billions of galaxies situated up to 10 billion light years away. What is Euclid Mission? Euclid’s mission, led by the European Space Agency… Continue reading

500-Years of Aldrovandi’s Herbarium

Central Idea Researchers have found a 500-year-old herbarium from Italy, particularly Bologna in the north. This collection, meticulously crafted by Italian naturalist Ulisse Aldrovandi between 1551 and 1586, offered a window into the past. Aldrovandi’s Herbarium Floristic Changes: The herbarium, containing 5,000 specimens, unveiled a tapestry of historical changes in Italy’s flora over five centuries.… Continue reading

Ben Gurion Canal Project: Joining Red Sea with Mediterranean

Central Idea Israel’s aspirations to gain full control over the Gaza Strip and eliminate Hamas may be linked to an ambitious economic opportunity—the creation of the Ben Gurion Canal Project. Ben Gurion Canal Project Vision: Named after Israel’s founding father, David Ben-Gurion, the Ben Gurion Canal Project remains an ambitious infrastructure proposal. Route: It envisions… Continue reading

I&B Ministry introduces draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023

Central Idea The Information & Broadcasting Ministry recently unveiled the draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023, a transformative legislation designed to modernize and streamline the broadcasting sector in India. This bill presents a unified regulatory framework encompassing traditional broadcasting, OTT content, digital news, and current affairs. Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023 Description What is it… Continue reading

Insights into White Holes, Time, and the Universe

Central Idea In a discussion with a theoretical physicist, we explore the intriguing concepts of white holes, the nature of time, and their profound implications for our comprehension of the cosmos. We delve into theories, from the transition of black holes to white holes to the fundamental granularity of space-time, providing a glimpse into the… Continue reading

Governors can’t sit on Bills passed by Assembly: Supreme Court

Central Idea In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court has asserted that a State Governor cannot obstruct crucial bills passed by a State Legislature. The court delivered this verdict in response to a writ petition filed by the Punjab government. The Punjab government approached the Supreme Court, challenging Governor Banwarilal Purohit’s decision to withhold some… Continue reading

National Coal Index (NCI) surges this Month

Central Idea In a recent development, the National Coal Index (NCI) saw a substantial rise in September, marking its first increase since April 2023. This surge in the NCI is linked to global coal price fluctuations and holds significant implications for India’s coal sector. Understanding the National Coal Index (NCI) What is it? The NCI… Continue reading

What is Stable Auroral Arc?

Central Idea Recently, the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) in Ladakh has astounded the world with mesmerizing images of a rare red-colored aurora, known as a Stable Auroral Arc (SAR). What is Stable Auroral Arc (SAR)? Rare Phenomenon: SAR is a unique atmospheric occurrence witnessed during a potent G3-class geomagnetic storm. Unconventional Origins: Unlike typical auroras… Continue reading

Kerala’s Pension Dilemma: A Review of the Contributory Pension Scheme

Central Idea A report on Kerala’s contributory pension scheme (introduced in 2013) has been released after a recent Supreme Court verdict. This scheme, introduced in 2013, has sparked a debate due to its financial impact on the state. Let’s take a closer look at the National Pension System (NPS), Kerala’s pension scenario, and the findings… Continue reading

Speedy Disposal of Cases against Lawmakers: What SC Guidelines on the matter say

Central Idea The Supreme Court has issued guidelines to ensure the quick resolution of criminal cases involving Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs) across India. These guidelines aim to address the long-pending issue of lawmakers facing criminal charges. Background Advocate’s Plea: These directions were issued in response to a plea filed… Continue reading

Regulating Political Funding: Rules around the world, India’s challenges

Central Idea Campaign financing plays a pivotal role in democratic societies, yet the approach to regulating it must be tailored to the nuances of each country’s political system. As exemplified by the United States and India, where political dynamics vary significantly, it is imperative to adopt a framework that aligns with the prevailing political landscape.… Continue reading

Pusa-2090: A Potential Solution to Stubble Burning

Central Idea In response to stubble burning challenge, the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) has developed Pusa-2090, an improved version of Pusa-44, offering similar yields but with a shorter maturity period. About Pusa-2090 Development: IARI developed Pusa-2090 by crossing Pusa-44 with CB-501, an early-maturing Japonica rice line known for stronger stems and higher grain production.… Continue reading

Challenges and Ambiguities in Biotechnology Policy for GM Insects

Central Idea In April 2023, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) issued the ‘Guidelines for Genetically Engineered (GE) Insects’. The guidelines note that GE insects are becoming globally available and are intended to help Indian researchers navigate regulatory requirements. However, the guidelines don’t specify the purposes for which GE insects may be approved in India or… Continue reading

Loss and Damage Fund (LDF) talks leave developing nations at new disadvantage

Central Idea In the escalating climate crisis, the terms “adaptation” and “loss and damage” (L&D) have taken center stage. While the concept was embraced at COP 27, recent meetings of the Transitional Committee (TC) to operationalize the fund have encountered major roadblocks. Birth of the L&D Fund Historic Pollution Accountability: The call for affluent nations… Continue reading

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