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