Supreme Court Split Verdict on GM Mustard
Context: Recently, the Supreme Court pronounced a split verdict on the validity of the Centre’s 2022 decision granting conditional approval for the environmental release of genetically modified (GM) mustard crops. This decision reflects the ongoing debate and legal challenges surrounding the introduction and regulation of GM crops in India. Relevance: Dimensions of the Article: Supreme […]
2024 UNAIDS Global AIDS Update
Context: Recently, the 2024 UNAIDS Global AIDS Update, titled “The Urgency of Now: AIDS at a Crossroads,” presented a critical overview of the current state of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the global response to it. This update underscores the pressing need for renewed efforts and strategies to combat the epidemic effectively. Relevance: GS II: International […]
MEA’s Development Assistance Plans in Union Budget 2024-25
Context: In the recently announced Union Budget 2024-25, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has outlined its development assistance plans, focusing on strategic partners and neighbouring countries. This initiative aims to promote regional connectivity, cooperation, and stability in line with India’s Neighbourhood First Policy. Relevance: GS III: Indian Economy Dimensions of the Article: Distribution of […]
About The Angel Tax
Context: Recently, the Union Minister for Finance proposed to abolish ‘angel tax’ for all classes of investors, while presenting the Union Budget 2024-25 in Parliament. Relevance: GS III: Indian Economy Angel Tax Definition: Legal Basis: Tax Rate: Exemption for Startups (2019): Investor Conditions: Purpose: -Source: The Hindu
About The Skill Loan Scheme
Context: The finance minister recently announced a revision to the model skill loan scheme, which will now facilitate loans up to Rs 7.5 lakh backed by a guarantee from a government-promoted fund. Relevance: GS III: Indian Economy Dimensions of the Article: Skill Loan Scheme Introduction: Eligibility: Features: Credit Guarantee Fund: Key Points: -Source: Business Standards
About Chandra Shekhar Azad
Context: On 23rd July, India paid tribute to the freedom fighter Chandra Shekhar Azad on his birth anniversary. Relevance: GS I: History About Chandra Shekhar Azad: Contribution to Freedom Movement: Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) Kakori Conspiracy Hindustan Socialist Republican Association -Source: The Hindu
Ban Lifted on Public Servants’ Participation in RSS Activities
Context: Recently, the Indian government lifted a longstanding ban preventing public servants from participating in Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activities. This decision, issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), removed references to the RSS from official memorandums dating back to 1966, 1970, and 1980. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the […]
India’s Climate Change Position and Critique of EU’s CBAT
Context: In the Economic Survey (ES) 2023-24 presented in Parliament, the Indian government expressed a distinct stance on climate change, acknowledging the likely failure to meet the 1.5℃ target. Additionally, the ES criticized the European Union’s proposed Carbon Border Adjustment Tax (CBAT), deeming it contrary to the Paris Agreement’s spirit and highlighting concerns about protectionism. […]
Rising Demand for Separate Bhil Pradesh State
Context: Recently, there has been a growing demand for the formation of a separate Bhil state, “Bhil Pradesh,” in Rajasthan and neighbouring states. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: Bhills: An Overview Background: Cultural and Religious Practices: Demand for Bhil Pradesh Historical Context: Proposed Area: Reasons for Demand: Criticisms: Regions Demanding […]
About Mashco Piro Tribe
Context: Recently, the previously uncontacted Mashco Piro tribe emerged in Peru due to encroachment and a search for food and safety. Relevance: GS II: Tribes Mashco Piro Tribe Overview: Interactions and Risks: Historical Context: Protection Efforts: Perú Geography: Economic Resources: -Source: Indian Express