UPSC Important editorials - ACQ IAS Academy

What Consumption Expenditure Survey Leaves Unanswered

Why in News? The release of the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) for 2022-23 marks a significant milestone after a decade-long hiatus. The factsheet offers valuable insights into present patterns of household consumption, but decisive conclusions should not be made due to changes in methodology, survey design, and item coverage. Also, it is crucial to understand key takeawa

01 Mar,2024 GS-2 Development Processes & the Development Industry

The evolving role of the Colombo Security Conclave

Context: Recently, India’s National Security Adviser (NSA), took part in the 6th NSA meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) which agreed upon a road map for the year 2024. About: Originally known as the Trilateral for Maritime Security Cooperation, this regional security grouping was established in 2011. The primary aim is to foster a safe, secure, and stable Indian Ocean

01 Mar,2024 GS-3 Various Security Forces & Agencies & Their Mandate

Opportune pause - Indian Science Congress (ISC)

Context: The Indian Science Congress (ISC) 109th edition, originally to be held in Lucknow University in 2024, has been cast in doubt after the University pulled out citing an ongoing dispute between the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the ISC Association. News: The Indian Science Congress (ISC) is an annual event for scientific discussions

01 Mar,2024 GS-3 Achievements of Indians in Science & Technology

Milli-second burst detected by AstroSat

Context: AstroSat, India’s first multi-wavelength space-based observatory, has detected bright sub-second X-ray bursts from a new and unique neutron star with ultrahigh magnetic field (magnetar), which can help understand the intriguing extreme astrophysical conditions of magnetars. Magnetars They are neutron stars having an ultrahigh magnetic field that are much stronger

01 Mar,2024 GS-3 S&T Developments & their Applications & Effects in Everyday Life

Are antibiotics over-prescribed in India?

Context: The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) recently found that over half of the nearly 10,000 hospital patients surveyed for a study were given antibiotics to prevent, rather than treat, infection. The survey mapped patients treated on one to five days each at 20 tertiary care institutes across 15 States and two Union Territories between November 2021 and April 2022. It

01 Feb,2024 GS-3 S&T Developments & their Applications & Effects in Everyday Life

Free legal aid in India

Context: Supreme Court judge Justice BR Gavai has been nominated as the Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC), replacing Justice Sanjiv Khanna – the seniormost judge of the top court after the Chief Justice of India (CJI). What is the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee: The Supreme Court Legal Services Committee, formed under Section 3A of the

26 Jan,2024 GS-2 Indian Constitution

India’s stubborn income poverty problem

Context: Declining multidimensional poverty is good news but income poverty, which has remained defiantly high for the last five years, must be fixed. Progressing Indian economy: NSO estimates GDP growth at 7.3%, Sensex crosses 72,000, and foreign exchange reserves exceed $620 billion. Inflation contained within RBI's desired band of 4 plus/minus 2 percent. India has achieved a re

22 Jan,2024 GS-1 Poverty and Developmental issues

Warming up to climate change: How do we know humans are causing global warming?

Background: 2023 could have been the hottest year in the 174-year observational record and probably the hottest in 125,000 years. It was dotted with lethal heat waves, devastating floods, droughts, and record-low ice levels in the Arctic and Antarctic. These are only a handful of the effects of climate change. Evidences of increasing temperature on earth surface: There are several lines of e

20 Jan,2024 GS-1 Physical Geography

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

16 Jan,2024 GS-1 Economic Geography

The hottest year

Context: With temperatures at all-time high in 2023, 2024 will be pivotal in reducing emissions, without compromising developmental needs News: COP 21 Agreement: Eight years ago in Paris, countries agreed to limit global temperature increases to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and strive for a 1.5-degree Celsius limit as a defense against climate change. Unwritt

16 Jan,2024 GS-1 Physical Geography

Floods and a ‘preventive measure’ that needs review

Context: The article underscores the enduring consequences of choices made post-Cyclone Michuang in Chennai, particularly concerning electricity disruptions. The core concept emphasizes the importance of accountability in decision-making during crises, underscoring the delicate equilibrium between safety precautions and potential risks for vulnerable groups, notably the elderly. Moving forward ent

16 Jan,2024 GS-3 Issues of Buffer Stocks & Food Security

ISRO launches XPoSat

Context: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully placed its inaugural X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) into a meticulous circular orbit at an altitude of 650 km following a 21-minute flight on January 1. XPoSat represents the globe's second satellite mission exclusively focused on conducting X-ray polarimetry measurements. About XPoSat: XPoSat, India's

14 Jan,2024 GS-3 S&T Developments & their Applications & Effects in Everyday Life

The Collegium system has failed India

Context: There are not enough judges at all levels of the judicial hierarchy to deal with the increased workload. The result is that there is little time to reflect on issues which can change the course of the nation’s march forward. The collegium system has also been in news for tussles between the judiciary and the executive and the slow pace of judicial appointments. About collegium sy

14 Jan,2024 GS-2 Indian Constitution

A look back at AI in 2023: The dangers and the hope

CONTEXT: In 2023, the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on social and economic relations was significant, attributed to the success of large language models (LLMs), such as ChatGPT, in solving complex tasks. Concerns about the dangers of LLMs and publicly deployed AI systems started to be voiced by both industry and state actors, highlighting potential perils that were previously ignored by t

10 Jan,2024 GS-3 S&T Developments & their Applications & Effects in Everyday Life

ULFA peace accord

Context: The pro-talks faction of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) on Friday signed a historic tripartite peace deal with the Government of India and the state government of Assam. Background: Roots in Assamese anxieties Assamese people have a unique culture, language, and strong identity. In the 19th century, the region's economic growth in tea, coal, and

09 Jan,2024 GS-3 Challenges to Internal Security Through Communication Networks

Press and periodicals Bill 2023

Context: Seeking to repeal the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867, the Bill contains a unique provision disallowing persons convicted of terrorist acts or unlawful activities, or those who have acted against state security, from publishing periodicals. Background: Key features of Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867 The Press and Registration of Books (PRB) Act 1867 is resp

08 Jan,2024 GS-2 Government Policies & Interventions for Development

Women’s Reservation Bill 2023

Context: In a special session of Parliament in September, after a wait of nearly three decades, the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam was passed, making possible a more women-friendly House. It envisaged reservation of one-third of the seats in Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women. After presidential assent on September 29, it became law. Background: Initiation During Atal Bihari Vajpaye

08 Jan,2024 GS-2 Indian Constitution

How the PM JANMAN scheme can help Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups

BACKGROUND: The Union Cabinet granted approval on November 29 for the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN). This initiative is designed to furnish households and habitations belonging to Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) with fundamental amenities, including secure housing, clean drinking water, sanitation facilities, enhanced access to education, health, and nu

06 Jan,2024 GS-2 Government Policies & Interventions for Development

India must strengthen ties with Vietnam

Background: India set up its Consul General's office in Hanoi in 1956, while Vietnam established its diplomatic mission in 1972. During the Vietnam War, India supported Vietnam against U.S. intervention, despite the strain it caused in Indo-U.S. relations. The ties were reinforced in the early 1990s when India launched its "Look East Policy," focusing on economic integration and poli

06 Jan,2024 GS-2 Bilateral, Regional & Global Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India's Interests

Red Sea attacks, Panama Canal drought: How trouble at two shipping choke points could impact global trade

Background: The Red Sea attacks have been carried out by Yemen-based Houthi rebels, who have been in a civil war with the Yemeni government for about a decade. They say the attacks are to protest Israel’s military offensive in Gaza. Shipping via the Panama Canal has dropped by over 50% due to drought conditions at the 51-mile stretch. Due to the shortage of water, shi

05 Jan,2024 GS-2 Effect of Policies & Politics of Developed & Developing Countries on India's Interests

There is no substitute for an industrial policy

Key words: Make in India (MII), Self-sufficiency, Protectionism, Jobs, Exports, PLI, NIP, Informal Economy, MSMEs, China Background: For decades, the role of government intervention in shaping economic development has been fiercely contested. While free-market proponents advocate for minimal interference, others argue for strategic government involvement to guide and

05 Jan,2024 GS-3 Changes In Industrial Policy & their Effects on Industrial Growth

THE PIR PANJAL CHALLENGE

BACKGROUND: While the Kashmir region, Impact of Article 370 Abrogation: Abrogation has reduced support for separatism in Kashmir, pushing terrorists towards Poonch-Rajouri. Troop Redeployment Concerns: Shifting troops to other sectors, like Ladakh, might weaken optimal deployment in Poonch-Rajouri. HQ Northern Command needs to balance redeployment with ensuring adequate sec

04 Jan,2024 GS-2 Indian Constitution

Is the climate fight lost? 5 reasons to be hopeful it is not.

CONTEXT: Fight against climate change: From cheap renewables to lucrative green investments, there is lots of progress and innovation, according to experts. Key highlights: Carbon emissions are expected to reach record highs, but a study by the New Climate Institute provides reasons for hope. Climate awareness has become mainstream, with increased media coverage and global climate prote

04 Jan,2024 GS-1 Physical Geography

A tale of two villages, one in UP, one in Tamil Nadu: Tracking change, over decades

Use from exam point of view: description of each village can be used as a separate case study or example patterns of change taking place in rural India Case studies: Palakurichi Trends in agriculture located in the lower Cauvery delta of the old Thanjavur region. historically known as the “rice bowl of South India” Mettur dam’s construction in 1934 a

01 Jan,2024 GS-1 Urbanization, their problems and their remedies

THE SHAPE OF CLIMATE JUSTICE IN A WARMING INDIA

Why in the News? The recently held G-20 summit at Delhi decided upon tripling renewable energy capacity and voluntary doubling of the rate of energy efficiency improvement by 2030, as a part of the Delhi Declaration. What should be the ideals for a just energy-transition? Here are some key ideals for ensuring a just and equitable ener

20 Oct,2023 GS-3 Environmental Conservation

AN OPPORTUNITY TO RECAST INDIA’S FOOD SYSTEM

Why in the News? The World Food Day was celebrated on October 16. India’s food system: India feeds the largest population in the world. The primary goal of a food system is to ensure nutrition security for all. To achieve the primary goal, the producers producing the food should make reasonable economic returns that are resilient over time. Such resilience is dep

20 Oct,2023 GS-3 Issues of Buffer Stocks & Food Security

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SAFETY TEST FOR GAGANYAAN

Why in the News? ISRO is set to carry out the first of a series of tests of systems and procedures of Gaganyaan mission, in less than two months after the Chandrayaan-3 Moon landing. The safety test: The Flight Test Vehicle Abort Mission-1 (TV-D1): It will demonstrate the performance of the Crew Escape System of the Gaganyaan project. The flight will be the first

20 Oct,2023 GS-3 Indigenization of Technology & Developing New Technology

THE EXPLOSION OF DIGITAL UNCERTAINTY

Why in the News? The Government of India, recently released a comprehensive report on the opportunities afforded by this current wave of Artificial Intelligence (AI). What is Digital Uncertainity? Digital uncertainty involves unpredictability and ambiguities regarding the socio-economic impacts of rapidly evolving digital technologies such as AI, social media, cryptocurrencies, and

19 Oct,2023 GS-3 Basics of Cyber Security

THE OLD MIDDLE-EAST WILL NOT BE BACK

Why in the News? Israel has launched intense airstrikes in Gaza after the territory's militant rulers carried out an unprecedented attack on Israel killing thousands and abducting hundreds of people as captives. “Old Middle East” will not be back: Though terror attack by Hamas on Israel can have an impact on the rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Israel, it shall be

19 Oct,2023 GS-2 Bilateral, Regional & Global Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India's Interests

MARSQUAKE-MARS MISSIONS

Why in the News? Just like on Earth, the surface of Mars sometimes vigorously shakes and unsurprisingly, that is called a marsquake and the largest ever such marsquake was recorded in history happened in 2022. Reason behind the Marsquake: The quake had a magnitude of 4.7 and had seismic signal similar to previous quakes that were caused by meteoroid impacts. However, the po

19 Oct,2023 GS-3 S&T Developments & their Applications & Effects in Everyday Life

DEMOLISHING THE FRAME FROM OUTSIDE THE CONSTITUTION

Why in the News? The Delhi Police arrested two persons of news portal NewsClick by invoking the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act on the charges of Accessing funds from pro-China elements Coverage of events such as the farmers’ protests in 2020-21, that undermined the internal security of India. The line set by “basic structure doctrine” has been crossed

18 Oct,2023 GS-2 Indian Constitution

CENTRALISED PROCUREMENT AS A POWERFUL HEALTH IDEA

Why in the News? A recent paper titled “A National Cancer Grid pooled procurement initiative, India”, demonstrates the viability of idea of the centralised procurement of pharmaceuticals. Need for a Centralised procurement system: Pooled buyer model for drug procurement can address issues such as Price efficiency as they can conduct direct negotiations wi

18 Oct,2023 GS-2 Government Policies & Interventions for Development

A LOOMING INVASION: IMPLICATIONS FOR GAZA, HAMAS, PALESTINIAN CAUSE

Why in the News? Israel issued a new warning to Palestinians to leave northern Gaza and offered a three-hour window for evacuation to southern Gaza, ahead of a launch of ground invasion against the Palestinian militant group Hamas. What will be the implications of an Israeli ground invasion for Gaza and Israel? The Gaza Strip is a very narrow strip of

18 Oct,2023 GS-2 Bilateral, Regional & Global Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India's Interests

UN-THE LAWS OF WAR

Why in the News? Hamas, a Palestine-based terrorist group launched a surprise attack on Israel, killing hundreds of civilians and taking many as hostage which witnessed retaliatory attack from Israel triggering a war. What are the laws of war? The UN Charter spells out under what conditions or when can countries use force in their international rela

17 Oct,2023 GS-2 Important International Institutions

THE UN APPROVED KENYA-LED SECURITY MISSION TO HAITI

THE UN APPROVED KENYA-LED SECURITY MISSION TO HAITI Why in the News? Haiti approached the United Nations seeking urgent help to combat deadly gang violence in the country, which has been responded by sending a foreign security mission to combat the spiralling violence in the country. UNSC approved foreign security mission: The United Nations Security Coun

17 Oct,2023 GS-2 Bilateral, Regional & Global Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India's Interests

FORMATION OF ISRAEL

Why in the News? In the ongoing Israel-Palestine dispute, the Israeli military has ordered thousands of civilians to leave Gaza City as it prepares for a possible ground offensive. Anti-semitism and Zionism: Acco

17 Oct,2023 GS-2 Bilateral, Regional & Global Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India's Interests

ABORTION LAWS IN INDIA

ABORTION LAWS IN INDIA Why in the News? The Supreme Court has referred a case to a larger Bench involving a 26 weeks pregnant married woman seeking abortion citing her inability to take care of the child due to post-partum depression and other health issues. She has two other children. The SC initially agreed to her plea but 2 days later, a two-jud

16 Oct,2023 GS-1 Role of Women and Women’s Organization

THE INDIAN OCEAN RIM ASSOCIATION

THE INDIAN OCEAN RIM ASSOCIATION Why in the News? Recently, the Indian Ocean Rim Association’s (IORA) Council of Ministers (COM) was held in Colombo under the banner theme of ‘Reinforcing Indian Ocean Identity’. What is the IORA and how was it formed? IORA was formed in 1997 as Indian Ocean Region-Association for Regional Cooperatio

16 Oct,2023 GS-2 International Organization

ISRAEL’S MISSILE DEFENCE SHIELD- IRON DOME

ISRAEL’S MISSILE DEFENCE SHIELD- IRON DOME Why in the News? Around 2,200 rockets were fired towards southern and central Israel through a multi-pronged attack by Gaza-based militant group Hamas from land, sea and air, which was shot down by ‘Iron Dome’ defensive shield of Israel. Israel’s Iron Dome air defence system: Iron Dome is a short-range anti-rocket, a

16 Oct,2023 GS-3 Indigenization of Technology & Developing New Technology

The Feminisation of Economic Enquiry - Economics Nobel

Why in News? Professor Claudia Goldin became the 3rd woman to be awarded the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences which is commonly referred to as the Nobel Prize for Economics. Highlights of her work: Goldin demonstrated how and why gender differences in earnings and employment rates have changed over time, by analysing 200 years of the United States’ archives.

14 Oct,2023 GS-3 Indian Economy & Issues Relating to Growth, Development & Employment

Criticism of Global Hunger Index Methodology

Why in the News? The Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2023 ranked India 111 among 125 nations, a fall of four places from last year has received a push-back by the Indian government. India scored poorer than several of its neighboring countries on the index, including Pakistan (102nd), Bangladesh (81st), Nepal (69th), and Sri Lanka (60th). Global Hunger Index (GHI): Th

14 Oct,2023 GS-3 Economic Index

Australia’s Indigenous Voice Referendum

Why in the News? Australians will vote in a referendum to be held soon, to decide whether the country’s indigenous peoples should be formally consulted in making laws. Who are the ‘First Peoples of Australia’? ‘First Peoples of Australia’ or ‘aboriginal’, refers to the indigenous inhabitants of the continent. They are people who

14 Oct,2023 GS-2 Comparison of the Indian Constitutional Scheme With That of Other Countries Parliament & State Legislatures

Hamas and its supporters are ‘beyond belief’

Why in the News? The recent attack of Hamas on Israel which has led to flaring up of a full-fledged war, has been condoned by some while condemned by other countries. The War’s effect on the Palestinian cause Views of many European observers: The Hamas attack on Israel is considered wrong and indefensible. However, Hamas launched the attack as consequence o

13 Oct,2023 GS-2 Bilateral, Regional & Global Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India's Interests

Bihar’s caste census to promote better social justice

Caste Census in Bihar CATEGORY PERCENTAGE Backward Classes 27.13% Extremely Backward Classes 36% Schedule Castes 19.65% Schedule Tribes 1.68% Unreserved categories 15.2% Why in the News? The data of caste-based survey known as the Bihar Jaati Adharit Ganana, conducted by Bihar gove

13 Oct,2023 GS-2 Government Policies & Interventions for Development

Large ozone hole detected over Antarctica

Why in the News? Recent satellite measurements by European Space Agency Copernicus Sentinel-5P satellite as part of the EU’s environmental monitoring program over Antarctica have detected a giant hole in the ozone layer. The hole i.e., the “ozone-depleted area” was 26 million square kilometers (10 million square miles) in size, roughly three times the size of Brazil.

13 Oct,2023 GS-3 Environmental Pollution & Degradation

UN Security Council (UNSC) reform

Why in the News? The recently ongoing General Assembly session of the UNSC saw voices for reform of the institution dominated by the political strategies of only five countries can called for reforms of the council. Call for UNSC reform: It was announced that the Security Council reform must be accomplished in time for the 50th anniversary of t

12 Oct,2023 GS-2 Important International Institutions

Role of structural inequalities in the incidence of hypertension

Why in the News? September 29 was observed as the World Heart Day to raise awareness about prevention, detection and treatment of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and promote heart-healthy lifestyles. Prevalence of Hypertension in India: National Family Health Survey-5 (2019–2021) revealed that 18.3% of the country’s population ha

12 Oct,2023 GS-3 S&T Developments & their Applications & Effects in Everyday Life

India and the Palestinians

Why in the News? India has expressed support to Israel stating that “people of India stand in solidarity with Israel in this difficult hour”, soon after the Hamas attack on Israel. Why was India’s diplomatic policy leaned towards Palestine in the initial years? India voted against UN Resolution 181 (II) in 1947, which partitioned M

12 Oct,2023 GS-2 Bilateral, Regional & Global Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India's Interests

Women want change, society needs change

Why in the News? The 17th edition of the Global Gender Gap Report 2023 of the World Economic Forum (WEF) has reflected that at the current rate of progress, it will take 131 years to close the global gender gap and it is 149 years in populous South Asian countries including India. Women in Leadership roles: As proxy leaders H

11 Oct,2023 GS-1 Role of Women and Women’s Organization

The Maldives, the evolution of a democracy

The Maldives, the evolution of a democracy Why in the News? The Maldives, South Asia’s smallest nation-state, held its latest Presidential election successfully, indicating that democracy is thriving and free and fair election has enhanced the country’s international prestige. Five men, shared future: President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom (1978 to 20

11 Oct,2023 GS-2 India and its Neighborhood – Relations

Hamas attack: Israel-Saudi deal as target

Hamas attack: Israel-Saudi deal as target Why in the News? Hamas, the Palestinian militant group launched a surprise attack on Israel, which triggered the latter to officially declare war against the former in the Gaza strip. Reasons for the Hamas attack: To disrupt or destroy ongoing negotiations for the normalisation of ties between Israel and Saudi Ara

11 Oct,2023 GS-2 Bilateral, Regional & Global Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India's Interests

THE HAMAS ATTACK CAN SHAKE THE WEST ASIAN GEOSTRATEGIC ARCHITECTURE

THE HAMAS ATTACK CAN SHAKE THE WEST ASIAN GEOSTRATEGIC ARCHITECTURE Why in the News? The Hamas operation Toofan Al-Aqsa (Al-Aqsa Flood) on Israel has led to launch of retaliatory full-fledged attacks on Gaza by the latter on a war-mode. Key takeaways: From a military perspective, Israel is not under an existential threat because it can push back Hama

09 Oct,2023 GS-2 Bilateral, Regional & Global Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India's Interests

THE YOM KIPPUR WAR

THE YOM KIPPUR WAR Why in the News? The Yom Kippur war or the Ramadan war which started 50 years and reset equations in the Middle East forever is compared to the current attack of Hamas on Israel. Why is the current violence being compared with the Yom Kippur war? The current attack by Hamas has been the deadliest attack on Israel killing 400 Israelis so

09 Oct,2023 GS-2 Bilateral, Regional & Global Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India's Interests

Hamas’ surprise attack on Israel

Hamas’ surprise attack on Israel Why in the News? Israel witnessed the largest attack from Gaza, the tiny Palestinian enclave, resulting in one of the worst security crises in 50 years. News in Detail: A highly coordinated attack on Israel that involved Hamas militants infiltrating Israeli cities, hitting military bases and killing and taking hostage soldiers

08 Oct,2023 GS-2 Bilateral, Regional & Global Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India's Interests

Significance of quantum dots in nanotechnology

Significance of quantum dots in nanotechnology Why in the News? The Nobel Prize for chemistry 2023 was awarded to Alexei I. Ekimov, Louis E. Brus, and Moungi G. Bawendi “for the discovery and synthesis of quantum dots”. What is a quantum dot? It is a small assembly of atoms around a few nanometres wide. The small assembly of atoms gives

08 Oct,2023 GS-3 Indigenization of Technology & Developing New Technology

Aligning higher education with the United Nations SDGs

Aligning higher education with the United Nations SDGs NEP 2020 and SDGs: SDGs are a matter of urgency that requires actions by all countries, both developed and developing, to end poverty and other socio-economic and environmental problems. It requires aligning of strategies that will improve the standard of life and education, reduce inequality, and harness economic growth. The SDG

07 Oct,2023 GS-2 Government Policies & Interventions for Development

Press Freedom in India

Press, the fourth pillar of democracy: India’s rank at the World Press Freedom index (published by Reporters Without Borders) has been continually declining which now stands at 161 out of 180 (In 2014, it was at 140; in 2022, it was at 150). freedom of the press is considered a part of the freedom of speech and expression guaranteed by Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution. However,

07 Oct,2023 GS-2 Indian Constitution

Counting Rural women’s labor

Why in the News? India has one of the lowest female labour force participation rates (LFPR) in the world which is disheartening as the International Day of Rural Women is approaching. The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data: It indicates that LFPR (women in the working age group of 15-59 years) is only 35.6% in India. The LFPR of India is lower than other South Asi

06 Oct,2023 GS-3 Indian Economy & Issues Relating to Growth, Development & Employment

India’s Banking sector

Transformative reforms undertaken: Consolidation in the public sector banking space Emergence of private banks Specialised non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) Emerging fintech ecosystem have increased the diversity quotient of the financial sector and made it inclusive. The legacy issues of non-performing assets (NPAs) have been left behind by banks. Interna

06 Oct,2023 GS-3 Indian Economy & Issues Related to Mobilization of Resources

Retribution for the south, accolade for the north

Retribution for the south, accolade for the north Why in the News? The South Indian states face the risk of reduced political representation due to its lower population size compared to the northern states, amid the recent passing of Women Reservation bill, 2023 in the Parliament. Delimitation and political representation: Article 81 of the Constitution:

05 Oct,2023 GS-1 Human Geography

An Accounting System for Carbon

An Accounting System for Carbon Climate ‘polycrisis’: It was a term made popular by Adam Tooze. It refers to the interconnected and compounding crises related to climate change that are affecting the planet not only in few sectors but across several sectors and domains. It encompasses all dimensions of impacts of climate change such as physical, social, e

05 Oct,2023 GS-3 Environmental Conservation

Chemistry Nobel Prize 2023

Chemistry Nobel Prize 2023 Why in the News? The 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry has been awarded to Moungi G. Bawendi, Louis E. Brus and Alexei I. Ekimov “for the discovery and synthesis of quantum dots” and have been lauded as pioneers in the exploration of the nanoworld. Work of the Awardees: In 1980s, Louis Brus and Alexei Ekimov succeeded in

05 Oct,2023 GS-3 Awareness in Different Fields

The triumph of Vachathi over a hostile state

The triumph of Vachathi over a hostile state Why in the News? The Madras High Court’s judgment recently upheld the human rights of the people of Vachathi in Tamil Nadu by recognising that coordinated and large-scale repression by uniformed forces cannot take place without orders from the top levels of the government. What was the issue? Vachath

04 Oct,2023 GS-2 Structure, Organization & Functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary

The trouble with a Nobel for mRNA COVID vaccines

The trouble with a Nobel for mRNA COVID vaccines Why in the News? The Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine, 2023 was given to Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman for developing the mRNA vaccine technology. The mRNA technology developed by the awardees: messenger RNA (mRNA) is a template used for protein production when genetic information encoded in DNA is tr

04 Oct,2023 GS-3 S&T Developments & their Applications & Effects in Everyday Life

Nobel Prize for Physics 2023

Nobel Prize for Physics 2023 Why in the News? Recently Pierre Agostini, Ferenc Krausz and Anne L’Huillier have been awarded Nobel Prize in physics, 2023 for their contribution to making it possible to watch electrons move. Significance of their work: Atoms or molecules make movements, or changes took place generally in picoseconds (10^-12) or femtosecond

04 Oct,2023 GS-3 Awareness in Different Fields

The narrative of development and populism

The narrative of development and populism Why in the News? With election is round the corner in many states, and the General elections to be held in 2024, many developmental schemes and promises are given by various political parties. Development and populism: In the election-bound State of Madhya Pradesh, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of projects wo

03 Oct,2023 GS-2 Pressure Groups & Formal/informal Associations & Their Role in Polity

Criminal law Bills and a hollow decolonisation

Criminal law Bills and a hollow decolonisation Why in the News? Three criminal law Bills were introduced in the Parliament in 2022, after an earlier attempt of setting up the Committee for Reforms in Criminal Law in 2020. Colonisation: It is a process of oppression where the colonised become vehicles for the supreme colonial power to fulfil its desires. The colon

03 Oct,2023 GS-2 Structure, Organization & Functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary

Bihar Survey

Bihar Survey Why in the News? The Bihar govt. has released the results of its survey of castes in the state, which was a result of unanimous decision of an all-party meeting in the state. The survey involved a 17-question form on caste, religion, and economic status. An app was used to collect the data for tabulation and processing. Key findings of the Caste survey: T

03 Oct,2023 GS-1 Social Empowerment

Protecting protected monuments

Protecting protected monuments Why in the News? A parliamentary committee headed by Rajya Sabha MP V Vijaisai Reddy has recommended that the list of centrally protected monuments (CPM) should be “rationalised” as 3,691 of CPM in India are “minor” monuments. The CPMs have to be categorised on the basis of their national significance, unique

02 Oct,2023 GS-1 Art , Architecture & Culture

Constitutional Ideas of Gandhi and Ambedkar

Constitutional Ideas of Gandhi and Ambedkar Hind Swaraj: Gandhi’s constitutional ideas Mahatma Gandhi presented an indigenous account of what the Constitution would look like in 1908. Without decolonising the Constitution, India may become independent but would not have swaraj. Ousting British from India can lead to establishment of a new democratic gover

02 Oct,2023 GS-2 Comparison of the Indian Constitutional Scheme With That of Other Countries Parliament & State Legislatures

India’s statistical performance on the global stage

India’s statistical performance on the global stage Why in the News? India has been recently elected to the United Nations Statistical Commission which has raised the need to focus on India’s own official statistical system. India&rsq

02 Oct,2023 GS-2 International Organization

Using Aadhaar in Welfare Schemes

Using Aadhaar in Welfare Schemes Why in the News? Recently, the international credit rating agency Moody’s Investor Service released a report, ‘Decentralised Finance and Digital Assets’, which pointed out security and privacy vulnerabilities posed by centralised ID systems like Aadhaar. The report advocated for decentralised digital identity s

01 Oct,2023 GS-2 Government Policies & Interventions for Development

NASA’s asteroid-hunting spacecraft OSIRIS-Rex

NASA’s asteroid-hunting spacecraft OSIRIS-Rex Why in the News? Recently, NASA’s asteroid-hunting spacecraft OSIRIS-REx (Origins-Spectral Interpretation-Resource Identification-Security-Regolith Explorer) collected samples from asteroid 101955 Bennu and landed in the Utah desert. What was OSIRIS-REx’s mission? The OSIRIS-REx spacecr

01 Oct,2023 GS-3 S&T Developments & their Applications & Effects in Everyday Life

Push for more women, this time in the police

Push for more women, this time in the police Reservation, actual availability in the police: Through horizontal reservation policy present in many states, 30% or 33% of the vacant posts (of direct recruitment) can be filled up by women in the police forces. Horizontal reservation — if the minimum reserved vacant posts are not filled up in eac

30 Sep,2023 GS-2 Ministries and Departments of the Government

The threat from Illicit trade in India

The threat from Illicit trade in India Why in the News? Around 3.5 tonnes of gold, 18 crore cigarette sticks, 140 metric tonnes of red sanders and 90 tonnes of heroin were seized along with other drugs during the last financial year. Highlights of a report released by FICCI CASCADE: In the organised crime segment, India has a lower score of 4.3 against 5.2 for an average of 122 coun

30 Sep,2023 GS-3 Linkages of Organized Crime with Terrorism

India’s kidney transplant deficit

India’s kidney transplant deficit Why in the News? India’s organ shortage has increased alarmingly, for which government’s recent reforms (February 2023) allow more flexibility in age and domicile requirements while registering to obtain an organ. Kidney transplantation in India: There is a high prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in India, affecting about 1

29 Sep,2023 GS-3 S&T Developments & their Applications & Effects in Everyday Life

The digital world of cookies

The digital world of cookies What are cookies? These are bits of code, stored on a device when one visits websites online. Cookies help in personalisation and user convenience and therefore, play a pivotal role in shaping any online experience. How do cookies work? Cookies remember a user’s login information on websites, which prevents the ne

29 Sep,2023 GS-3 Basics of Cyber Security

India needs comprehensive sexuality education

Why in the news? Recently, a man and his son were booked under the POCSO Act for sexually abusing a five-year-old girl for over six months. National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB): It has reported that 51,863 cases were reported under the POCSO Act in 2021, of which 64% were of sexual assault. Problems due to lack of proper sex education: The first se

29 Aug,2023 GS-2 Government Policies & Interventions for Development

Leveraging air power is critical to India’s big power ambitions

The Indian air force has been looked upon as a mere support service, adjunct to the service-specific operational strategies of the continental and maritime domains, thus portraying India as a surface-centric security force. Key advantages offered by Air force: Creating a unique hard power deterrence over the South China Sea. Ensuring maritime and ae

29 Aug,2023 GS-3 Indigenization of Technology & Developing New Technology

India’s Rohingya refugee children are not criminals

Why in the News? Recently, tear gas shells were used in an enclosed space in a Rohingyas refugee detention or holding centre in Jammu and there are allegations that the explosion led to death of an infant. It reflects the poor treatment of Rohingya refugees who are living in harsh conditions in the detention camps. It has been 6 years since Rohingyas fled from M

28 Aug,2023 GS-2 Important International Institutions

Need for Review of Basic Structure Doctrine

Why in the News? Recently, former CJI and present Rajya Sahbha MP Ranjan Gogoi held that the “Basic Structure Doctrine” has “a very debatable jurisprudential basis”, raising a question of its review. Evolution of Basic Structure doctrine: Shankari Prasad case (1951) The constitutional validity of the 1st amendment to the

28 Aug,2023 GS-2 Indian Constitution

Rethink the emerging dynamics of India’s fiscal federalism

Rethink the emerging dynamics of India’s fiscal federalism Indian Federalism: A ‘holding together federation’ with a built-in unitary bias. Dual Polity: Separate independent Govts at Centre & States. Written Constitution: Powers of Centre & States clearly marked out in the form a written book. Division of Powers: Powers

27 Aug,2023 GS-2 Issues & Challenges Pertaining to the Federal Structure

What is the care protocol for babies in India?

What is the care protocol for babies in India? Why in the News? Recently, a former British nurse Lucy Letby was sentenced to life in prison after being held guilty in the worst child serial killer case in the history of the U.K. Letby was convicted of murdering 7 babies and trying to kill 6 others between June 2015 and

27 Aug,2023 GS-2 Government Policies & Interventions for Development

Cleantech, for an inclusive green future in India

Cleantech, for an inclusive green future in India Green economy paradigm: It involves adoption of climate action that aligns with the development aspirations of the population and contributes to overall economic growth. It provides an optimistic pathway to align development and environmental outcomes Building a solar park or an e-vehicle charging station shall expand infrastructur

26 Aug,2023 GS-3 Environmental Conservation

Infrastructure investments and the slowing job creation

Infrastructure investments and the slowing job creation Unemployment in India: India is the fastest-growing large economy in the world, but the unemployment rate has also increased. More than 50% of India’s population is <25 years and more than 65% is >35 years of age. The unemployment rate of India stands at 8% as per the data of Centre for Mon

25 Aug,2023 GS-3 Infrastructure

ICMR study on long COVID

ICMR study on long COVID Why in the News? A recent study was conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on the post Covid-19 conditions and its report has been recently published. The WHO estimates that 10 to 20 per cent of Covid patients develop prolonged symptoms. Key findings of the Study: Nearly 6.5% people hospitalised

25 Aug,2023 GS-3 S&T Developments & their Applications & Effects in Everyday Life

Needed, a well-crafted social security net for all

Needed, a well-crafted social security net for all India’s social security system: Periodic Labour Force Survey Annual Report 2021-22: About 53% of all of the salaried workforce does not have any social security benefits in India. They have no access to a provident fund (PF), pension, and health care and disability insurance. Only 1.9% of the poorest 20% of Ind

24 Aug,2023 GS-2 Government Policies & Interventions for Development

Implementing a car safety programme

Implementing a car safety programme Why in the News? The Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP) was rolled out by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to create a rating system indicating the safety of cars in a collision and is planned to come into effect from October 1, 2023. What is Bharat NCAP? An indigenous star-rating system for crash tes

24 Aug,2023 GS-3 Changes In Industrial Policy & their Effects on Industrial Growth

Consumption-based poverty Estimation is still relevant

Why in the news? A recent report by NITI Aayog on multidimensional poverty and the Global Multi-dimensional Poverty Index Report, 2023 have shown a declining trend of Poverty in India. The NITI Aayog report on multidimensional poverty Decline of percentage of poor from 25% in 2015-16 to 15% in 2019-21. 135 million people were lifted out of poverty during this period. Th

16 Aug,2023 GS-3 Indian Economy & Issues Relating to Planning

Turning a Deaf ear to Himalayas

Tourism in Himalayas: As per the NITI Aayog report, the growth of tourism in Indian Himalayan Region is expected to grow at an average annual rate of 7.9% from 2013 to 2023. The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR): The Himalayan landscapes spans across three regions – Western Himalayas, Sikkim and Western Arunachal Pradesh. IHR extends from the Indus River in the

16 Aug,2023 GS-3 Environmental Conservation

New Bills for holistic revamp of Criminal laws

Why in the news? Three new bills have been introduced in the Lok Sabha seeking to replace the colonial era laws – the Indian Penal Code, Criminal Code of Procedure and the Indian Evidence Act. News in Detail: An Expert committee was formed in May 2020 to undertake public consultations and make recommendations to the Government regarding the reform of criminal laws in In

12 Aug,2023 GS-2 Structure, Organization & Functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary

The Organized Crime Plaguing Ecuador

Why in the News? The Presidential candidate of Ecuador, Fernando Villavicencio famously called enemy of drug cartels was assassinated allegedly by organized gangs linked to narco-trafficking in India. News in Detail: Ecuador is a relatively peaceful country with 18 million population in south America. Located between the major producers of cocaine- Colombia and Peru, it is

12 Aug,2023 GS-2 Bilateral, Regional & Global Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India's Interests

The Chief Election commissioner and other Election Commissioners Bill, 2023

Why in the News? The Rajya Sabha has introduced the Chief Election commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, conditions of service and Term of office) Bill, 2023 seeking to dilute the SC verdict on composition of the Selection committee. Appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other Election Commissioners (ECs): Constitutional Provision: Article 324

11 Aug,2023 GS-2 Indian Constitution

Tackling Deepfakes

What are Deepfakes? Deepfakes are videos, images and audios created or edited with a form of artificial intelligence (AI) model to create a convincingly true version of a real video/image or audio. How are deep fakes created? It is created using techniques in machine learning (ML), a subfield of AI especially Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) In the GAN process, two ML s

11 Aug,2023 GS-3 Basics of Cyber Security

Cluster Bomb use

Cluster Bomb use Why in the News? The US has decided to send cluster munitions or cluster bombs as a part of the new military aid package to Ukraine for its war efforts against Russia. Cluster bombs: Cluster munitions or cluster bombs are weapons that Releases multiple explosive submunitions/ bomblets into the air. Explodes as soon as they hit the ground and kills and inj

10 Aug,2023 GS-2 International Organization

Jeddah Conference on the Russia-Ukraine War

Jeddah Conference on the Russia-Ukraine War Why in the News? The Jeddah conference on the Ukraine war was held in Saudi Arabia recently to formulate a peace plan in the crisis-ridden region. Jeddah conference: It was attended by more than 42 countries excluding Russia, which was not invited for the conference. The main aim of the conference was to build a consensus among major pow

10 Aug,2023 GS-2 Bilateral, Regional & Global Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India's Interests

Climate Events and an umbrella for Urban Health

Climate Events and an umbrella for Urban Health The Monsoon season in India has led to large scale devastation with events of Cyclonic storm Biparjoy, floods in the state of Assam and heavy rain led damages in parts of North India. But the climate events also pose a challenge of common water and Vector-borne diseases especially in the Urban centres. Disease Vulnerability in the urban areas:

09 Aug,2023 GS-3 S&T Developments & their Applications & Effects in Everyday Life

Learning from the CHIPS Act of the US

Learning from the CHIPS Act of the US Why in the news? The United States’s Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors and Science (CHIPS) Act, 2022 which aims to strengthen its semiconductor industry, has completed one year as a law. What are the Provisions of the law and what lessons can India learn from it? Provisions o

09 Aug,2023 GS-3 S&T Developments & their Applications & Effects in Everyday Life

Jammu and Kashmir: Four years on

Jammu and Kashmir: Four years on Why in the News? The Fourth anniversary of the decision of abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganization of J&K into a Union Territory on Aug 5, 2019, has been observed recently. Article 370 and Article 35A: Article 370 was introduced as a temporary provision that conferred special status to J&K a. Only those aspects of the Indian Co

08 Aug,2023 GS-3 Role of External State & Non-State Actors in Creating Challenges to Internal Security

China’s worldview, its postulates and a reality check

China’s worldview, its postulates and a reality check China’s worldviews: China’s growth is driven by a multitude of factors Acceleration by technology Economic strength Demographic potential Beijing’s one of the underlying principles include, ‘changes unseen in a century’, that lays

08 Aug,2023 GS-2 India and its Neighborhood – Relations

Manipur Violence

Manipur Violence Why in the News? The State of Manipur is registering fresh cases of violence with one man shot and 15 houses burnt. Manipur: The Northeastern state of India, sharing borders with Nagaland, Mizoram and Assam and international border with Myanmar (2 regions- Sagaing region and Chin state) wit

07 Aug,2023 GS-3 Role of External State & Non-State Actors in Creating Challenges to Internal Security

Communal Violence in India

Communal Violence in India Why in the News? Cases of Communal violence have been registered in Nuh and Mewat of Haryana has raised the issue of communal violence, triggered by clashes that erupted during a Hindu religious procession in a Muslim dominated region of Nuh. Communal violence in India: It involves people b

07 Aug,2023 GS-3 Linkages Between Development & Spread of Extremism

Anti-Defection Law

Anti-Defection Law The Tenth Schedule was inserted in the Constitution in 1985 by the 52nd Amendment Act (Rajeev Gandhi Government). It lays down the process by which legislators may be disqualified on grounds of defection by the Presiding Officer of a legislature based on a petition by any other member of the House. The law applies to both Parliament and s

13 Jul,2023 GS-2 Indian Constitution

Quiet Diplomacy Could Ease South China Sea Tensions

Quiet Diplomacy Could Ease South China Sea Tensions What is Quiet Diplomacy? “Quiet diplomacy” refers to one state’s efforts to influence the behavior of another state through discreet negotiations or actions. Quiet diplomacy operates behind the scenes and may rely on back channeling rather than on public talks. It may also involve deal making and strategic partne

13 Jul,2023 GS-2 Bilateral, Regional & Global Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India's Interests

Aero India 2023

At Air Force Station Yelahanka in Bengaluru, the 14th edition of India's five-day biannual air show, "Aero India," recently took place. About Aero India 2023 About: Aero India is a renowned international aviation trade event that gives the Indian aviation-defence sector, particularly the aerospace sector, a chance to present its goods, technologies, and solutions to nationa

24 Feb,2023 GS-3 Various Security Forces & Agencies & Their Mandate

National Guidelines for Organ Transplantation

The National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization's guidelines contained a stipulation that only allowed patients under the age of 65 to register for transplants. This rule has been abolished by the Union Health Ministry. The Transplantation of Human Organs Act, 1994 in India sets up a number of rules regarding the removal and preservation of human organs. Additionally, it controls th

21 Feb,2023 GS-3 S&T Developments & their Applications & Effects in Everyday Life

lead poisoning

The enormous environmental damage, human exposure, and serious public health issues brought on by the widespread use of lead have affected many regions of the world. Regarding Lead Poisoning: Lead poisoning, also known as chronic intoxication, is brought on by the body absorbing lead, and symptoms include weakness or paralysis of the muscles, as well as weariness, nausea, diarrhoea,

21 Feb,2023 GS-3 Environmental Pollution & Degradation

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What Consumption Expenditure Survey Leaves Unanswered

The evolving role of the Colombo Security Conclave

Opportune pause - Indian Science Congress (ISC)

Milli-second burst detected by AstroSat

Are antibiotics over-prescribed in India?

Free legal aid in India

India’s stubborn income poverty problem

Warming up to climate change: How do we know humans are causing global warming?

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

The hottest year

Floods and a ‘preventive measure’ that needs review

ISRO launches XPoSat

The Collegium system has failed India

A look back at AI in 2023: The dangers and the hope

ULFA peace accord

Press and periodicals Bill 2023

Women’s Reservation Bill 2023

How the PM JANMAN scheme can help Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups

India must strengthen ties with Vietnam

Red Sea attacks, Panama Canal drought: How trouble at two shipping choke points could impact global trade

There is no substitute for an industrial policy

THE PIR PANJAL CHALLENGE

Is the climate fight lost? 5 reasons to be hopeful it is not.

A tale of two villages, one in UP, one in Tamil Nadu: Tracking change, over decades

THE SHAPE OF CLIMATE JUSTICE IN A WARMING INDIA

AN OPPORTUNITY TO RECAST INDIA’S FOOD SYSTEM

SAFETY TEST FOR GAGANYAAN

THE EXPLOSION OF DIGITAL UNCERTAINTY

THE OLD MIDDLE-EAST WILL NOT BE BACK

MARSQUAKE-MARS MISSIONS

DEMOLISHING THE FRAME FROM OUTSIDE THE CONSTITUTION

CENTRALISED PROCUREMENT AS A POWERFUL HEALTH IDEA

A LOOMING INVASION: IMPLICATIONS FOR GAZA, HAMAS, PALESTINIAN CAUSE

UN-THE LAWS OF WAR

THE UN APPROVED KENYA-LED SECURITY MISSION TO HAITI

FORMATION OF ISRAEL

ABORTION LAWS IN INDIA

THE INDIAN OCEAN RIM ASSOCIATION

ISRAEL’S MISSILE DEFENCE SHIELD- IRON DOME

The Feminisation of Economic Enquiry - Economics Nobel

Criticism of Global Hunger Index Methodology

Australia’s Indigenous Voice Referendum

Hamas and its supporters are ‘beyond belief’

Bihar’s caste census to promote better social justice

Large ozone hole detected over Antarctica

UN Security Council (UNSC) reform

Role of structural inequalities in the incidence of hypertension

India and the Palestinians

Women want change, society needs change

The Maldives, the evolution of a democracy

Hamas attack: Israel-Saudi deal as target

THE HAMAS ATTACK CAN SHAKE THE WEST ASIAN GEOSTRATEGIC ARCHITECTURE

THE YOM KIPPUR WAR

Hamas’ surprise attack on Israel

Significance of quantum dots in nanotechnology

Aligning higher education with the United Nations SDGs

Press Freedom in India

Counting Rural women’s labor

India’s Banking sector

Retribution for the south, accolade for the north

An Accounting System for Carbon

Chemistry Nobel Prize 2023

The triumph of Vachathi over a hostile state

The trouble with a Nobel for mRNA COVID vaccines

Nobel Prize for Physics 2023

The narrative of development and populism

Criminal law Bills and a hollow decolonisation

Bihar Survey

Protecting protected monuments

Constitutional Ideas of Gandhi and Ambedkar

India’s statistical performance on the global stage

Using Aadhaar in Welfare Schemes

NASA’s asteroid-hunting spacecraft OSIRIS-Rex

Push for more women, this time in the police

The threat from Illicit trade in India

India’s kidney transplant deficit

The digital world of cookies

India needs comprehensive sexuality education