Powering India’s Future
Context: In her seventh consecutive budget speech, the Finance Minister outlined measures that underscore India’s dedication to transitioning to clean energy. These measures include developing policies for pumped hydro storage and creating energy transition pathways to support nuclear energy and improve energy efficiency. However, the recent record-breaking summer heatwaves, which increased power demand, highlight the challenges posed […]
Balancing Competition and Sustainability for India
Context: Markets are at the heart of the economy, having evolved from the barter system to today’s digital platforms. The dynamics of supply and demand largely dictate pricing and consumer preferences. Climate change disrupts the supply side, causing an imbalance between supply and demand, which affects consumer demand and the overall economy. Relevance: GS3- Inclusive […]
National Handloom Day 2024
Context: Recently, the 10th National Handloom Day was celebrated on 7th August 2024. This day has been celebrated since 2015 and marks the launch of the Swadeshi Movement on 7th August 1905, part of the independence struggle promoting domestic handloom products. Relevance: GS-I Art and Culture Introduction National Handloom Day
Key Progress and Insights from the Ayushman Bharat Scheme
Context: Beneficiaries aged 70 years and above made up over 12 per cent of all admissions under the government’s flagship Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme, according to data presented in Parliament by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Relevance: Focus: GS II- Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to […]
President Droupadi Murmu Receives Fiji’s Highest Civilian Honor
Context: During her landmark visit to Fiji—the first ever by an Indian President—President Droupadi Murmu has been honored with the Companion of the Order of Fiji, the highest civilian award of the nation. This prestigious accolade is in recognition of the strong diplomatic and cultural ties between India and Fiji, highlighting the importance of their […]
Earth Observation Sattellite-8
Context: ISRO’s Earth Observation Sattellite-8 (EOS-8) is expected to be launched by the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)-D3 on August 15 from Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. Relevance: GS III: Science and Technology Earth Observation Sattellite-8 -Source: The Hindu
Overview of Sucralose
Context: A recent study from India examining the effects of replacing sucrose or table sugar with an artificial sweetener, sucralose, found no adverse impact on glucose or HbA1c levels and in fact indicated a slight improvement in body mass index (BMI). Relevance: Facts for Prelims Overview of Sucralose: Usage: Manufacturing Process: Post-Consumption Dynamics: -Source: The […]
GST on Insurance Premiums in India
Context: This year has seen a rise in the cost of health and life insurance premiums in India, further exacerbated by the addition of an 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST). This increase has made insurance less affordable for many, sparking protests by opposition leaders in Parliament who demand the removal of GST on these […]
Tiger Conservation Efficacy in Madhya Pradesh
Context: A Special Investigation Team (SIT) report has brought to light serious issues in the wildlife protection efforts in Madhya Pradesh, particularly after documenting the deaths of 43 tigers at Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve and Shahdol Forest Circle between 2021 and 2023. The report reveals critical lapses in the investigation processes, a lack of sufficient evidence […]
Amendments to Enhance Accountability in Waqf Boards
Context: The Indian Parliament is poised to introduce the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aimed at amending the Waqf Act, 1995. This legislation is designed to increase accountability and transparency within Waqf boards. A key aspect of the proposed amendments is the removal of provisions that currently grant Waqf Boards the unchecked authority to declare any […]