Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

Lok Sabha Speaker constitutes 6 new Parliamentary Committees

Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Parliament & State Legislatures

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Parliamentary Committees

Why in the News?

Lok Sabha Speaker has constituted six new Parliamentary Committees, for a tenure of 1year:

	Origin	Composition	Functions
Public Accounts Committee (PAC)	Established in 1921 under the Government of India Act, 1919	22 members: 15 Lok Sabha + 7 Rajya Sabha; Chairman from the Opposition, Appointed by the LS Speaker.	Examines public expenditure, scrutinizes CAG reports, and ensures efficient use of public funds.
Committee on Estimates	Traces back to 1921; reconstituted in 1950 (recommended by John Mathai)	30 members, All from Lok Sabha; Elected annually through proportional representation. Minister CANNOT be a member.	Examines budget estimates, suggests economic efficiencies, and recommends alternative policies.
Committee on Public Undertakings	Established in 1964 based on the Krishna Menon Committee	22 members: 15 Lok Sabha + 7 Rajya Sabha; Chairman appointed by the Speaker, Chosen from Lok Sabha members	Examines accounts and reports of PSUs, and provides recommendations without interfering in operations.
Committee on Welfare of OBCs	The committee was constituted in June 2012	It comprises 30 members, with 20 from the Lok Sabha and 10 from the Rajya Sabha	Focuses on the implementation of policies for OBC welfare, evaluates reservations, and suggests improvements.
Committee on Welfare of SC/ST	N/A	The committee consists of 30 members, with 20 elected from the Lok Sabha and 10 from the Rajya Sabha.	Ensures implementation of safeguards for SCs and STs, reviews welfare programs, and suggests enhancements.
Joint Committee on Office of Profit	Joint Committee on Office of Profit was established by the Lok Sabha on July 23, 2019	15 members; 10 Lok + 5 from Rajya Sabha.	Examines cases of MPs/MLAs holding offices of profit, determine qualification, and maintains legislative integrity.

PYQ:

[2018] With reference to the Parliament of India, which of the following Parliamentary Committees scrutinizes and reports to the house whether the powers to make regulations, rules, sub-rules, by-laws, etc., conferred by the Constitution or delegated by the Parliament are being properly exercised by the Executive within the scope of such delegation?

(a) Committee on Government Assurances

(b) Committee on Subordinate Legislation

(d) Business Advisory Committee

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e-Commerce: The New Boom

What are Deceptive Dark Patterns?

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Deceptive Dark Patterns

Why in the News?

The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has released a report highlighting the use of deceptive dark patterns in Indian apps.

Key highlights of the ASCI Study:

The ASCI report aims to raise awareness among marketers and designers about the ethical implications of these deceptive patterns.
The study analyzed 12,000 screens across 53 leading Indian apps in 9 different industries.
The report identified the use of one or more of 12 deceptive patterns in most of these apps.

What are Deceptive Dark Patterns?

These practices use elements of digital choice architecture, particularly in user interfaces.
The goal is to manipulate or impair consumer autonomy, decision-making, or choice.
These patterns are often subtle, directing users toward decisions that may not align with their true preferences.
As a result, they compromise the ability of users to make informed choices.

Examples of Deceptive Patterns:

	Description	Example
Interface Interference	Directs users to specific choices using visual tricks.	Highlighting preferred options with bright colors.
Confirm Shaming	Uses guilt to push users toward certain actions.	Options like “Upgrade now” vs. “I don’t want a smarter software.”
Basket Sneaking	Adds unwanted items to cart without consent.	Automatically adding a donation to the shopping cart.
Privacy Deception	Tricks users into sharing more personal data.	Requiring unnecessary personal info during signup.
Drip Pricing	Reveals extra fees late in the purchase process.	Adding hidden charges at checkout.
Subscription Trap	Leads to unintended subscriptions without clear notice.	“Free trial” that auto-renews to a paid plan.

Importance of Ethical Design

Raising Awareness: Marketers are encouraged to study the guidelines issued by ASCI and the Department of Consumer Affairs to avoid unethical practices.
Conscious Patterns Website: Marketers can use resources like the Conscious Patterns website to test their apps and obtain a “conscious score” to ensure that their apps balance business needs with user interests.
Digital Responsibility: As the digital world evolves, ethical design practices are crucial for building and maintaining trust with customers.
Marketer and Designer Roles: Both marketers and app designers need to be vigilant about pursuing ethical design to create safe and trustworthy online environments.

PYQ

[2015] What are the impediments in marketing and supply chain management in developing the food processing industry in India? Can e-commerce help in overcoming this bottleneck?

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FDI in Indian economy

[pib] Amendments to the Foreign Exchange Management (Non-debt Instruments) Rules, 2019

Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Foreign Exchange Management (Non-debt Instruments) Rules, 2019, FEMA

Why in the News?

The Finance Ministry has issued a notification amending the Foreign Exchange Management (Non-debt Instruments) Rules, 2019, to simplify Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) rules.

Key amendments made by the Finance Ministry:

	Details
Cross-Border Share Swaps	Simplifies the process for Indian companies to engage in cross-border share swaps with foreign companies.
Clarity on Downstream Investments	Provides clearer guidelines on the treatment of downstream investments by OCI-owned entities on a non-repatriation basis, aligning them with NRI-owned entities.
FDI in White Label ATMs (WLAs)	Allows FDI in White Label ATMs to increase the geographical spread of ATMs, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas.
Standardization of ‘Control’ Definition	Standardizes the definition of ‘control’ to ensure consistency with other Acts and laws.
Harmonization of ‘Startup Company’ Definition	Aligns the definition of ‘startup company’ with the Government of India’s notification G.S.R. 127 (E) dated February 19, 2019.

About The Foreign Exchange Management (Non-debt Instruments) Rules, 2019

These rules govern foreign investment in India in non-debt instruments like equity shares, mutual funds, and real estate (excluding agricultural land).
These rules, effective from October 17, 2019, were issued under FEMA, 1999 (Foreign Exchange Management Act).

It covers the following key aspects:

FDI Regulation: Specifies guidelines for foreign direct investment (FDI) in various sectors, including sectoral caps and conditions.
Investment Vehicles: Allows investment through entities like Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), and mutual funds.
Repatriation: Provides a framework for repatriation of profits, dividends, and capital by foreign investors.
Reporting: Mandates detailed reporting for companies receiving foreign investments.
Sectoral Caps and Conditions: Sets sectoral limits and approval requirements for foreign investment, with some sectors requiring government approval.
Prohibited Sectors: Prohibits foreign investment in sectors like lottery, gambling, chit funds, and agricultural land.
Transfer of Shares: Outlines guidelines for share transfer between residents and non-residents, ensuring compliance with regulatory conditions.

PYQ:

[2020] With reference to Foreign Direct Investment in India, which one of the following is considered its major characteristic?

(a) It is the investment through capital instruments essentially in a listed company.

(b) It is a largely non-debt creating capital flow.

(d) It is the investment made by foreign institutional investors in the Government securities.

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Russian Invasion of Ukraine: Global Implications

Nord Stream Gas Pipeline

Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Important International Institutions

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Nord Stream Gas Pipeline

Why in the News?

The Wall Street Journal has reported that a group of Ukrainian patriots carried out the sabotage of the undersea pipelines(Nord Stream pipelines) in sep,2022 that supplied gas from Russia to Europe.

About Nord Stream Pipeline:

	Details
Overview	Natural gas pipeline under the Baltic Sea. Connects Russia and Germany.
Purpose	Built to transport natural gas from Russia to Europe, bypassing traditional transit countries like Ukraine.
Completion	Nord Stream 1: Completed in 2011, 1,224 km long, running from *Vyborg, Russia to Lubmin, Germany.* Nord Stream 2: Completed in 2012, running from *Ust-Luga, Russia to Lubmin, Germany,* with a capacity of 55 billion cubic meters per year.

Significance of the Pipelines

(A) For Europe:

Provides a steady and cost-effective supply of natural gas, essential for heating, power, and industry which ensures stable gas prices. If reduced supply from Russia could lead to price hikes and domestic unrest in europe.

(B) For Russia:

Revenue: Critical for Russia, with around 40% of its budget coming from gas and oil sales.
Geopolitical Influence: Strengthens Russia’s influence over Europe’s energy markets by securing its position as a major gas supplier.

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Textile Sector – Cotton, Jute, Wool, Silk, Handloom, etc.

[pib] Oeko-Tex Certification for Eri Silk

Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Oeko-Tex Certification, Eri Silk

Why in the News?

The North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC), under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), has achieved the prestigious Oeko-Tex certification for its Eri Silk.

What is Oeko-Tex Certification?

	Details
Establishment	Founded in 1992 by the Oeko-Tex Association. Comprises 18 independent textile research and testing institutes.
Certification System	Independent testing and certification for textile safety and environmental standards.
Key Standards	– STANDARD 100: Tests textiles for harmful substances. – MADE IN GREEN: Ensures environmentally friendly and socially responsible production. – LEATHER STANDARD: For leather products, free from harmful chemicals. – STeP: Certification for sustainable textile production facilities. – ECO PASSPORT: Certifies safe chemicals used in textiles. – DETOX TO ZERO: Supports elimination of hazardous chemicals in production.
Testing Process	Products tested for harmful substances like heavy metals, formaldehyde, azo dyes, etc.
Global Recognition	Trusted worldwide for ensuring product safety, environmental friendliness, and social responsibility.
Benefits	– Consumers: Assurance of safe, chemical-free products. – Manufacturers: Access to global markets, improved brand reputation. – Environment: Promotes sustainable and eco-friendly production.
Usage	Found on clothing, home textiles, bedding, footwear, and more.

About Eri Silk

Eri Silk is the world’s only vegan silk, where the moth naturally exits the cocoon, making it cruelty-free.
- Unlike conventional silk production, where cocoons are boiled to extract the silk filament.
It is also known as Ahimsa Silk.
It is primarily produced in the North-Eastern states of India, especially Assam; also found in Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, and other states.
Its production is deeply rooted in the traditions of tribal communities in Assam and adjacent hill areas.

Significant Features of Eri Silk:

Production Process: Known as Ericulture; involves rearing silkworms on castor plants; the silk is spun rather than reeled due to the naturally pierced cocoons.
Eco-Friendly: Requires minimal chemicals and water; only 20 litters of water needed to convert 1 kg of raw Eri fiber into yarn.
Unique Properties: Isothermal (temperature-regulating), anti-fungal, washable, durable, and less shiny than other silks.

PYQ:

[2013] What is an FRP composite material? How are they manufactured? Discuss their application in aviation and automobile industries. (100 words)

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ISRO Missions and Discoveries

ISRO’s SSLV-D3 successfully launches EOS-08 Satellite

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: ISRO’s SSLV-D3, EOS-08 Satellite

Why in the News?

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the EOS-08 Earth Observation Satellite using the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)-D3.
- This marks the third and final development flight of the SSLV.

About EOS-08 Satellite:

	Details
Type	Earth Observation Satellite (EOS)
Design Platform	Built on ISRO’s Microsat/IMS-1 bus, known for its compact and efficient design.
Orbit	Operates in a Circular Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of 475 km with an inclination of 37.4°.
Mission Life	1 year
Payloads	– Electro Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR): Captures images in MIR and LWIR bands for surveillance, disaster monitoring, and environmental assessments. – Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry (GNSS-R) Payload: Monitors ocean surface winds, soil moisture, and inland water bodies using GNSS-R-based remote sensing. – SiC UV Dosimeter: Monitors UV irradiance, particularly for ISRO’s Gaganyaan Mission, ensuring safety against UV radiation.
Technological Innovations	– Integrated Avionics System: Combines Communication, Baseband, Storage, and Positioning (CBSP) functions into one system. – Embedded Technologies: Includes a Structural Panel Embedded with PCB, Embedded Battery, enhancing structural efficiency and power reliability. – Advanced Antennas: Micro-DGA (Dual Gimbal Antenna) and M-PAA (Phased Array Antenna) for precise control and enhanced signal transmission. – Flexible Solar Panels & Nano Star Sensor: Improves energy efficiency and satellite orientation in space.

Back2Basics: Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)-D3

SSLV is designed to launch Mini, Micro, or Nanosatellites (10 to 500 kg) into a 500 km planar orbit.
SSLV is a 3-stage launch vehicle with all solid propulsion stages and a liquid propulsion-based Velocity Trimming Module (VTM) as the terminal stage.
SSLV is designed for low cost and low turn-around time.
The vehicle offers flexibility in accommodating multiple satellites and is capable of launch-on-demand.
SSLV requires minimal launch infrastructure, making it a versatile option for satellite deployment.

PYQ:

[2018] With reference to India’s satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements:

PSLVs launch the satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites.
Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth.
GSLV Mk III is a four-stage launch l vehicle with the first and third stages l using solid rocket motors; and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3

(d) 3 only

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Port Infrastructure and Shipping Industry – Sagarmala Project, SDC, CEZ, etc.

[pib] Green Tug Transition Program (GTTP)

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Green Tug Transition Program (GTTP)

Why in the News?

The Union Minister of Port Shipping and Waterways has launched the standard operating procedures for Green Tug Transition Program (GTTP).

What is the Green Tug Transition Program (GTTP)?

The GTTP aims to transition conventional fuel-based harbour tugs to greener, more sustainable alternatives.
The program is a part of India’s broader efforts to decarbonize maritime operations and promote environmental sustainability in the maritime sector.
The GTTP is also aligned with the ‘Panch Karma Sankalp,’ a strategic framework for enhancing India’s commitment to a greener and more sustainable maritime industry.

Key Features:

(1) Decarbonization of Maritime Operations

Objective: Replace conventional tugs with green tugs powered by cleaner fuels like battery-electric, hybrid, methanol, and green hydrogen.
Impact: Significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in Indian ports.

(2) Phased Implementation

Phase 1 (2024-2027): Four Major Ports (Jawaharlal Nehru, Deendayal, Paradip, and V.O. Chidambaranar) will each procure or charter two green tugs.
Technology: Initial tugs will be battery-electric with provisions for adopting newer technologies.

(3) Standardization and Compliance

ASTDS-GTTP Standards: By 2040, all tugs in Indian Major Ports will comply with green standards, ensuring an eco-friendly fleet.

(4) Alignment with National Visions

Maritime India Vision 2030: Supports goals like sourcing 60% of port power from renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions by 30% per ton of cargo by 2030.
Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047: Aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from port vessels by 30% by 2030.

PYQ:

[2023] Consider the following pairs:

Port	Well known as
1. Kamarajar Port	First major port in India registered as a company
2. Mundra Port	Largest privately owned port in India
3. Visakhapatnam Port	Largest container port in India

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

(a) Only one pair
(b) Only two pairs
(c) All three pairs
(d) None of the pairs

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Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

Indian Astronomers discover new method for Solar Cycle Amplitude Prediction

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Space Weather, Solar Supergranular Cells

Why in the News?

Astronomers from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) have developed a new method to predict the amplitude of the upcoming solar cycle.
- This discovery is based on 100 years of solar data from the IIA’s Kodaikanal Solar Observatory.

What is Space Weather?

Space weather refers to the varying conditions within the solar system and its heliosphere, influenced by the Sun and solar wind.
The main components of space weather include: solar wind, coronal mass ejections, and solar flares.
These components can compress the Earth’s magnetosphere, triggering geomagnetic storms.
This can disrupt communication, power transmission, damage spacecraft electronics, and pose threats to astronauts.

Solar Cycle and Its Importance

The activity of the Sun follows an approximately 11-year periodic cycle, marked by variations in the number of sunspots on the Sun’s surface.
This solar cycle influences space weather, Earth’s atmosphere, and climate variations.
Predicting the amplitude of the solar cycle is a major challenge in astrophysics, as it directly affects related phenomena and space weather.

Research Findings

IIA researchers discovered that the width of supergranular cells on the solar surface during the minimum year of the solar cycle is correlated with the number of sunspots observed during the subsequent solar cycle maximum.
This simple method can be used to predict the strength of the upcoming solar cycle, which is valuable for space weather forecasting.

What are Supergranular Cells?

Supergranular Cells are large convective cells on the Sun’s surface, with diameters of about 30,000 km.
These cells are part of the solar convection zone where hot plasma rises, cools as it reaches the surface, and then sinks back down in a continuous cycle.
Characteristics:
- Supergranular cells are larger than granules, another type of convective cell on the Sun. Its borders, known as supergranular lanes, are about 5,000 km thick.
- Plasma within these cells moves from the center of the cell toward the edges, where it sinks back into the Sun’s interior. This movement creates a network of lanes that can be observed on the solar surface.
- Supergranular cells are associated with the magnetic field concentrations on the Sun’s surface, often where sunspots and other magnetic features appear.

PYQ:

[2022] If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth?

GPS and navigation systems could fail.
Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.
Power grids could be damaged.
Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.
Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.
Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.
Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over pola-regions could be interrupted.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only
(b) 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only
(c) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7

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Tiger Conservation Efforts – Project Tiger, etc.

Corbett Tiger Reserve

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Corbett Tiger Reserve

Why in the News?

The Jim Corbett National Park and Tiger Reserve authorities have recently concluded an awareness campaign to celebrate World Elephant Day (August 12).

About Corbett Tiger Reserve

	Details
Location	Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand. Spread over Pauri, Nainital, and Almora districts.
Establishment	Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park (first National Park of India). Renamed Corbett National Park in 1957 in honor of Jim Corbett. Total area now extends to 1,288.31 sq. km.
Terrain	Several valleys, with rivers *Ramganga, Pallaen,* and Sonanadi flowing through them.
Geographical Features	Spread over the *Bhabar* and lower Shivalik regions. Porous tract with boulders and sand deposits, deep water table.
Flora	Sal and mixed forests, with grasslands called ‘*Chaur’. Evergreen Sal, Sheesham, and Kanju* trees are common. Lantana weed is a widespread irritant in the reserve.
Fauna	Home to tigers and elephants as key species. Also hosts leopards, small carnivores, ungulates like sambar and spotted deer, birds, reptiles (gharials, crocodiles), and fishes.

PYQ:

[2020] Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under “Critical Tiger Habitat”?

(a) Corbett

(b) Ranthambore

(d) Sunderbans

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Artificial Intelligence (AI) Breakthrough

National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS)

Prelims Only | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: E-Technology In The Aid Of Farmers

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS)

Why in the News?

The Centre has launched the AI-based National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) to help farmers connect with agriculture scientists and experts for pests’ control.

What is the National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS)?

The NPSS is an AI-based platform launched by the government on August 15, 2024.
It is designed to help farmers connect with agricultural scientists and experts for effective pest control using their phones.
It aims to reduce farmers’ dependence on pesticide retailers.
It provides data for selected crops i.e. Rice, Cotton, Maize, Mango and Chilies.

How will farmers use it?

Farmers can take photos of infested crops or pests using the NPSS platform, which are then analyzed by scientists and experts.
Then they will suggest the correct quantity of the pesticide at the right time, reducing excessive pesticide use.
Target Groups: Approximately 14 crore farmers across India.

Significance

It will reduce crop damage, improve pest management practices, and reduce the risk of soil damage by minimizing excessive pesticide use.

PYQ:

[2014] With reference to Neem tree, consider the following statements:

1. Neem oil can be used as a pesticide to control the proliferation of some species of insects and mites.

2. Neem seeds are used in the manufacture of biofuels and hospital detergents.

3. Neem oil has applications in pharmaceutical industry.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

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Type: Prelims Only

Why in the News?

PYQ:

Why in the News?

Key highlights of the ASCI Study:

What are Deceptive Dark Patterns?

Examples of Deceptive Patterns:

Importance of Ethical Design

PYQ

Why in the News?

Key amendments made by the Finance Ministry:

About The Foreign Exchange Management (Non-debt Instruments) Rules, 2019

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About Nord Stream Pipeline:

Significance of the Pipelines

(A) For Europe:

(B) For Russia:

Why in the News?

What is Oeko-Tex Certification?

About Eri Silk

Significant Features of Eri Silk:

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About EOS-08 Satellite:

Back2Basics: Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)-D3

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is the Green Tug Transition Program (GTTP)?

Key Features:

(1) Decarbonization of Maritime Operations

(2) Phased Implementation

(3) Standardization and Compliance

(4) Alignment with National Visions

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is Space Weather?

Solar Cycle and Its Importance

Research Findings

What are Supergranular Cells?

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About Corbett Tiger Reserve

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is the National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS)?

How will farmers use it?

Significance

PYQ: