About BIMSTEC
Context: Recently, Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) has recently achieved an important milestone with the charter of the grouping coming into force on 20th May 2024. Relevance: GS-II: International Relations (Foreign Policies affecting India’s Interests, Important International groupings), Prelims Dimensions of the Article: About BIMSTEC History of Formation of the BIMSTEC […]
Decline in India’s Agricultural Trade Highlights Need for Balanced Policy
Context: Recently, data from the Department of Commerce revealed that India’s agricultural exports decreased by 8.2% in 2023-24, mainly due to government restrictions on various commodities. At the same time, agricultural imports fell by 7.9% due to lower edible oil prices. These trends highlight the necessity for a balanced agriculture export-import policy to stabilize the […]
What Are Microplastics?
Context: Recently, a study revealed the widespread occurrence of microplastics in the testicles of both humans and canines, potentially associated with decreased sperm count, with polyethene emerging as the predominant microplastic followed by PVC. Relevance: GS III- Environment and Ecology Dimensions of the Article: What are Microplastics? Microplastics are tiny plastic debris that are smaller than 5 mm in […]
Mitigating the e-waste Crisis
Context: Today, with advancements in science and technology, computers and mobile devices have become essential to our work and personal lives, making it difficult to imagine life without them. However, this widespread usage leads to a growing problem of e-waste, as consumers frequently upgrade their gadgets, resulting in a high turnover of electronic devices. Relevance: GS3- […]
Chabahar’s Opportunities and Challenges
Context: The recently finalized agreement between India and Iran, granting New Delhi the rights to invest in and manage the Shahid-Behesti terminal at Chabahar Port for an additional decade, has garnered significant attention. The agreement comes at a volatile time in West Asia, with ongoing conflict in Gaza, heightened Israel-Iran tensions, and domestic challenges in Tehran following the […]
Cyber Surakshit Bharat Initiative Overview
Context: The National e-Governance Division (NeGD) recently organised the 44th Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) Deep-Dive training programme under the Cyber Surakshit Bharat Initiative. Relevance: GS II: Government policies and Interventions Cyber Surakshit Bharat Initiative Overview Initiative Launch Goals and Partnerships Operational Framework Educational and Training Components Specialized Training Programme
CSIR and DSIR Unveil Electric Tiller to Support Small Farmers
Context: In a bid to empower small and marginal farmers, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) have introduced the CSIR-Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute’s Electric Tiller. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Dimensions of the Article: Electric Tiller for Small to Marginal Farmers Target Users Features […]
What are India’s Stakes in Iran’s Chabahar Port
The recent signing of a 10-year contract between India and Iran for the operation of the Chabahar port marks a significant milestone in India’s strategic and economic ambitions. This agreement involves India Ports Global Ltd (IPGL) and Ports & Maritime Organisation of Iran (PMO), witnessed by Union Minister for Shipping, Ports, and Waterways Sarbananda […]
How Punjab and Haryana Remain Key to National Food Security
Introduction India’s food security is intricately linked to the agricultural prowess of Punjab and Haryana. These two states have historically been the backbone of the country’s wheat and rice production, contributing significantly to the Central foodgrain pool. This blog explores their indispensable role, the challenges faced due to climate shocks, and the implications for […]
About Sweet Sorghum
Context: Sweet sorghum is a hardy, nutritious, biofuel crop that offers solutions in drought-hit southern Africa because of the El-Nino phenomenon. Relevance: Facts for Prelims About Sweet Sorghum: Overview: Required Climatic Conditions: Rainfall: Soil: Unique Features of Sorghum: Resilience: Uses: Product Varieties: -Source: Down To Earth