Coal phase-out in COP28 pledge
Context: India chose not to sign a global pledge to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 due to concerns about the draft text’s mention of phasing out coal. Additionally, India is likely to abstain from endorsing a health declaration due to references to health sector emissions. These decisions reflect India’s reservations about commitments that could […]
Staggering Hidden Costs of Global Agrifood Systems Exceed $10 Trillion
Context A recent report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) reveals the astonishing hidden costs of global agrifood systems, surpassing $10 trillion. In countries like India, these costs account for nearly 11% of GDP, leading to increased poverty, environmental damage, and health-related issues, including undernourishment and unhealthy diets. The report attributes these […]
Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC)
Context: Recently, India has been unanimously elected as a member representing the Asian region in the Executive Committee of Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) during its 46th meeting at Food and Agriculture organization (FAO) headquarters at Rome. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) Codex Standards:
Foreign Universities Best Bet for Better Education
Context A noticeable trend in recent times has been the increasing migration of Indian students to foreign countries for higher education and job opportunities, particularly in states like Kerala and Punjab. Several factors contribute to this exodus, prompting questions about the quality of education in India, the state of infrastructure in educational institutions, and the […]
A Dark Shadow on New Delhi’s Credibility On the U.S. indictment
Context: The recent release of a U.S. indictment against an Indian individual accused of targeting Khalistani separatists in North America, allegedly at the request of a government official, remains an unproven allegation awaiting trial. Nevertheless, it has already cast a somber shadow over New Delhi’s credibility concerning both covert capabilities and public communication, demanding a thoughtful response. […]
Dr Rajendra Prasad Birth Anniversary
Context: President of India Pays Homage to Dr Rajendra Prasad on his Birth Anniversary. Relevance: GS I: History Dimensions of the Article: Dr. Rajendra Prasad Ji: A Distinguished Indian Freedom Fighter and Statesman Books Authored by Dr. Rajendra Prasad:
World’s Major Straits
Fast Radio Bursts (FRB)
Context: Recently, scientists are trying to understand a new aspect of Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs), which are mysterious radio signals coming from distant galaxies. Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA), which is scheduled to launch in the early 2030s, will aid in studying FRBs and mysterious radio signals. Relevance: GS III- Science and Technology Dimensions of the Article: What is an FRB? […]
Union Cabinet Approves Terms of Reference for Sixteenth Finance Commission
Context: In a significant development, the Union Cabinet has granted approval for the Terms of Reference (ToR) of the Sixteenth Finance Commission. The commission’s primary mandate is to propose a revenue distribution formula between the Central and State governments for the upcoming five-year period, commencing on April 1, 2026. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance […]
Global Initiative of Academic Networks
Context: Eight years after its inception, the Ministry of Education is gearing up to restart the fourth phase of the Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN). Relevance: GS II: Education Dimensions of the Article: Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN) in Higher Education Aim: Objectives: Salient Features: Significance of GIAN Programme The Global Initiative of […]