Lithium

Why in News? Battery-grade lithium carbonate prices are projected to average around RMB 140,000 per tonne in August, representing a 10.3% month-on-month decline. About Lithium Lithium is a soft, silvery-white metal that belongs to Group 1 (alkali metals) of the periodic table. Properties of Lithium Lithium has the lowest density of all metals and is the lightest solid element. I

Singhbhum Craton

Why in News? Researchers recently identified a 3.5-billion-year-old layered rock formation within the Singhbhum Craton in eastern India. The formation could contain some of the earliest chemical evidence of life on Earth. About Singhbhum Craton The Singhbhum Craton is located in eastern India, mainly across Jharkhand and Odisha. It lies between the Chhota Nagpur Plateau and the Easter

Mushk Budji Rice

Why in News? Kashmir’s indigenous aromatic rice variety, Mushk Budji, is facing a “problem of plenty” as the government’s crop expansion programme into areas considered unsuitable for the variety has increased production and affected market prices, according to farmers. About Mushk Budji Mushk Budji is a highly aromatic, short-grain rice variety native to the K

India’s Professional Services Sector

NITI Aayog released a comprehensive report titled “India’s Services Sector: Insights on Regulatory Regime in Professional Services”. The report examines the regulatory framework governing knowledge-intensive professional services in India and identifies structural bottlenecks that affect professional mobility, services exports and global competitiveness. Significance of th

Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026

The MMDR Amendment Bill, 2026 seeks to establish a uniform and predictable fiscal framework for the mining sector by restricting State-level taxes, cesses and other levies on mineral rights and mineral-bearing lands. The Bill aims to reduce taxation-related uncertainty, encourage mineral production and investment, and strengthen India’s mineral security. However, it has raised importa

Geographical Indication (GI) Tags in India

Why in News? Geographical Indication (GI) tags are increasingly being used to protect India’s cultural heritage, traditional knowledge and local products by linking them to their geographical origin. GI protection helps prevent misuse, improves market recognition, and can strengthen the livelihoods of artisans, farmers, weavers and producer groups. What is a GI? A Geographical I

Kashmir Saffron

Latest News The ongoing crisis in West Asia and a sharp decline in saffron production in Iran, the world's largest saffron producer, have significantly increased the global demand for Kashmir saffron. This has created new export opportunities for saffron growers in Jammu & Kashmir. About Kashmir Saffron Kashmir saffron is one of the world's finest and most expensive spices

Tasgaon Lift Irrigation Scheme

Latest News The Maharashtra Krishna Valley Development Corporation (MKVDC) has issued the Letter of Award (LoA) to a joint venture involving Patel Engineering Ltd. (PEL) for implementing an irrigation project under the Tasgaon Lift Irrigation Scheme in Maharashtra. The project aims to strengthen irrigation infrastructure and improve agricultural productivity in Satara district. About Tas

New GI Tags (Jharkhand)

Latest News Recently, Jharkhand's Bhagaiya Silk, Kuchai Silk, Munda Jewellery, and Jharkhand Bamboo Craft were awarded the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) Tag, recognising their unique geographical origin, traditional craftsmanship, and cultural heritage. About Geographical Indication (GI) Tag A Geographical Indication (GI) is an Intellectual Property Right (IPR) th

Zardalu (Jardalu) Mango

Latest News Every summer, more than 125 quintals of Bhagalpur's famous Zardalu mangoes are carefully selected and sent to the President of India, the Prime Minister, and other constitutional dignitaries. This long-standing tradition has made the mango a symbol of Bihar's agricultural heritage and showcases the state's rich horticultural legacy. About Zardalu Mango Za

Screw Pine (Kewra)

Farmers in Ganjam district of Odisha have increasingly shifted from paddy cultivation to kewra (Screw Pine) cultivation due to repeated crop damage caused by wild boars. The transition reflects the plant's resilience, higher economic value, and lower vulnerability to wildlife raids. About Screw Pine The Screw Pine, commonly known as Kewra or Kewda (Pandanus odorifer), is a small bran

Jharia Coalfield

A recent scientific study has revealed that the century-old underground fires in the Jharia Coalfield may be burning at much higher temperatures than previously estimated and are releasing significant quantities of greenhouse gases, thereby contributing to climate change and posing serious environmental and health challenges. About Jharia Coalfield The Jharia Coalfield is situated in the

Kiwi

Jaggery (Gur)

India accounts for more than 70% of global jaggery production, making it the world's largest producer and consumer of this traditional natural sweetener. Recently, jaggery has gained renewed attention due to growing consumer preference for natural and minimally processed food products. What is Jaggery? Jaggery, commonly known as Gur, is a traditional, unrefined natural sweetener obta

Transport

WATER WAY

Inland Waterways

Inland waterways are increasingly emerging as a cost-effective, eco-friendly, and resilient mode of transport in India. Recently, the Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) highlighted the importance of strengthening inland water transport systems to improve India’s logistics efficiency and supply chain resilience. The importance of inland waterways has become even more significant in the backd

Aluminium

Recently, new scientific research revealed that aluminium can be made to behave similarly to transition metals such as palladium, rhodium, and platinum. This discovery is considered important because transition metals are widely used as catalysts in industrial and chemical reactions due to their unique electronic properties. About Aluminium Aluminium is a chemical element with the symbol

Energy Transition

The global shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy is shaped by competing priorities—energy security, economic stability, and climate responsibility. Leaders like Simon Stiell have warned that dependence on fossil fuels undermines national sovereignty, while activists such as Greta Thunberg highlight the urgency of faster action. However, the transition is not a simple binary choice;

Assam’s GI-Tagged Joha Rice

India has recently exported 25 metric tonnes of Assam’s GI-tagged Joha rice to countries like the United Kingdom and Italy. This development reflects India’s growing focus on promoting indigenous and high-value agricultural products in international markets. About Joha Rice Joha rice is an indigenous aromatic rice variety of Assam, known for its pleasant fragrance, fine grain

Ponduru Khadi

The Geographical Indications Registry has granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag to Ponduru Khadi, a traditional handspun and handwoven cotton fabric from Andhra Pradesh. About Ponduru Khadi Origin: Ponduru village, Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh. Local Name: Patnulu. Material Used: Hill cotton, punasa cotton, or red cotton, all indigenous to the Srikakulam r

Introduction to the Bureau of Port Security

The Bureau of Port Security (BoPS) is a newly proposed body in India designed to enhance the security of maritime vessels and port facilities. Recently, the Union Home Minister convened a meeting to formalize the constitution of this body, marking a significant step toward strengthening maritime security in the country. Legal and Administrative Framework Statutory Body: The BoPS

India’s First Indigenous Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Vessel

The Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways recently flagged off India’s first indigenously developed hydrogen fuel-cell vessel in Varanasi, marking a major milestone in the country’s transition towards clean and sustainable inland water transport. Technical and Design Features The vessel has been entirely designed and built in India by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL)

India’s Transport Sector in 2025

In 2025, India witnessed severe disruptions in its transport sector, including overcrowded trains during peak seasons and widespread flight cancellations. These events exposed the mismatch between rising demand and limited transport supply. The situation reflects deeper structural issues such as underinvestment, infrastructure stress, and policy constraints under a neoliberal economic framewor

Ponduru Khadi

Recently, Ponduru Khadi has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry. This recognition provides legal protection to the product and highlights its cultural and economic significance. About Ponduru Khadi Ponduru Khadi is a renowned handspun and handwoven cotton fabric originating from Andhr

Ramban Sulai Honey

The Prime Minister, in the 128th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, highlighted Ramban Sulai Honey from Jammu and Kashmir, noting that it has gained wider national recognition after receiving a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. About Ramban Sulai Honey Ramban Sulai Honey is produced in the Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir and is renowned for its rich taste, aromatic floral undert

Natural Farming:

Natural Farming: Context: Natural farming, particularly among apple growers in Shimla, marks a significant shift toward more sustainable agricultural practices in India. Apple cultivation has been a critical part of Himachal Pradesh's agricultural economy. However, over-reliance on chemical inputs, poor management practices, and the adverse effects of climate change have been leading to a

Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024

Context: The Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways introduced the Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024 to promote coastal trade and increase participation of Indian-flagged vessels owned and operated by Indian citizens. This step aims to address national security and commercial requirements, reflecting the government's intent to modernize and regulate the maritime sector more effectively

Rising Road Accidents in India:

Rising Road Accidents in India: Why in News? Data from the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has brought to light the increasing number of road accidents and fatalities in India. Despite the government’s commitment to reduce road accident deaths by 50% by 2030, the situation remains dire, with a notable rise in both road crashes and fatalities in 2023. Current State of

Vadhavan Port: An Emerging Maritime Gateway

Vadhavan Port: An Emerging Maritime Gateway Context The Vadhavan Port, a major greenfield port development project in Maharashtra, is currently under construction. This project is set to play a crucial role in India's port infrastructure and logistics sector. It is being developed jointly by the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) and the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB). Once operati

Copper Reserves

India to send industry delegation for copper mining opportunities in Zambia. The Mines Ministry has proposed sending an Indian industry delegation to copper-rich Zambia to discuss potential copper exploration and mining projects in the southern African country. China Nonferrous Mining Corporation (CNMC) is among the largest producers of copper in Zambia. Copper Copper is a goo

Kachchhi Kharek (GI TAG)

Kachchhi Kharek, the indigenous variety of dates of Kutch, has become the second fruit of Gujarat to get a geographical indication (GI) tag from the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks (CGPDT) of India. Kachchhi Kharek The presence of dates in Kachchh (Kutch) is believed to be around 400-500 years old.It is believed that date palm groves along the north-weste

GI-Tagged Products from Odisha

Context: Seven products from Odisha, including traditional foods and handicrafts, have received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. About Geographical Indication (GI) Tag: A Geographical Indication (GI) is a label affixed to products originating from a specific geographical location, possessing unique qualities or a reputation attributable to that origin. Nodal Agency and Legal Framewor

Krishnarajasagar (KRS) dam

Context: Karnataka HC bans mining activity near KRS reservoir. High Court says ban will apply even on existing mining licences, adding, it will be in force till the completion of a study by experts and decision taken by the State committee on dam safety. About Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS) Dam: Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS) Dam is a gravity dam. Situated below the confluence of the Kaveri River wit

Pulses in India – FACTS for UPSC

India is poised to become the world’s largest producer of lentils (masoor) in the 2023-24 crop year due to increased acreage. Lentils Scientific name – Lens culinaris It is a small annual legume of the pea family (Fabaceae) and its edible seed. Types – Green lentils, Red &a

Coal production in country

Context: The coal production in the country has shot up to over 664 million tonnes during the current financial year which is a robust 12.29 percent increase over the corresponding figure of over 591 million tonnes for the same period of the previous year. Significance: This increase ensures a consistent and robust coal supply to meet the energy needs of the power sector. Efficient coal

Donkey routes: En route Europe, how Indians visit several countries to create ‘travel history’

Context: Last year, Serbia had to change its visa rules because of the illegal migrants, including Indians, flooding it as an entry point to Europe. Background: Serbia modified its visa rules last year due to pressure from the European Union, prompted by the misuse of its visa-free regime. Indians, among others, were exploiting this route as an illegal transit to enter European countries li

REGIONAL RAPID TRANSIT SYSTEM (RRTS)

RRTS is India’s first mass rapid system dedicated to regional connectivity. It is capable of running at speeds up to 180 km/hour with semi high-speed rail connectivity at its core. The integrated, mass transit network aims to ensure “balanced and sustainable urban development” through better connectivity and access across the NCR. The RRTS also known as Namo Bharat has b

COAL PRODUCTION IN INDIA

Coal production in India is a significant part of the country's energy and industrial sectors. India has one of the world's largest coal reserves, and coal remains a crucial source of energy for power generation, as well as a key raw material for various industries, including steel and cement production. Coal production in India is mainly overseen by Coal India Limited (CIL), a state-ow

KEN- BETWA RIVER LINKAGE

KEN- BETWA RIVER LINKAGE Why in the News? The Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP) involving cost of Rs 44,605-crore has finally secured the final forest clearance after 6 years of getting the provisional nod. Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP):     It is the first project under the National Perspective Plan for interlinking of rivers.  The project intends to

Chapter 6: Non-Possession – The Gandhian Thought

Gandhiji wrote a few pieces titled "Guide to Health." He stated that all human acts are carried out by the mind with the assistance of the ten senses. These are separated into five action senses and five perception senses. It is suggested that the body be considered as God's temple. Gandhi's self-discipline was the foundation of his sustainable and modest existence. G

Chapter 3: Role of Meditational Approaches in Mental Well-Being

Introduction The absence of disease or infirmity is not sufficient to be considered healthy, according to the World Health Organisation. Hippocrates’ Science of Medicine establishes the objective of medicine as the complete eradication of the distress of the sick. Holistic health and healing Only treatments or procedures that promote the wellbeing of the entire person, inc

Chapter 2: Yoga for Global Well-being

Introduction Yoga is not just a physical exercise but a lifestyle that incorporates physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It helps to reduce stress and anxiety that is a cause of blood pressure, depression, and heart disease.   Concepts and Principles of Yoga Yoga's Yama and Niyama teachings encourage practitioners to create an inner sense of serenity and s