Supreme Court Rejects Centre’s Plea for Administrative Spectrum Allocation
Context: The Supreme Court of India has made a significant decision by rejecting the Centre’s plea to permit administrative allocation of spectrum. This decision reaffirms the principle of open and transparent auction for allocating this scarce natural resource. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: Reasons for Supreme Court’s Rejection of Centre’s […]
Nepal’s Rs-100 Currency Note to Feature Map Controversy
Context: The Government of Nepal has announced plans to introduce a new Rs-100 currency note featuring the country’s map, including territories claimed by India. This move is likely to fuel tensions between the two neighboring countries, which have long-standing border disputes. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: Nepal’s Introduction of New Currency […]
Expansion of Glacial Lakes in Himalayan Region
Context: Recent satellite monitoring data from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has revealed a significant expansion of glacial lakes in the Himalayan region between 1984 and 2023. This expansion raises concerns about potential risks for downstream areas, highlighting the need for further attention and monitoring of glacial dynamics in the region. Relevance: GS I: […]
New Marine Tardigrade Species Named After Chandrayaan-3 Mission
Context: Researchers at the Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) have discovered a new species of marine tardigrade along the southeast coast of Tamil Nadu. Named Batillipes chandrayaani, the species pays homage to the Chandrayaan-3 moon mission. Relevance: Facts for Prelims About Batillipes Chandrayaani Discovery: Features: Tardigrades: Hardiness: -Source: The Hindu
Diplomatic Passport Overview
Context: Recently, embroiled in a sex abuse case, one of the Indian political Party’s Member of Parliament (MP) fled to Germany on a diplomatic passport. Relevance: Facts for Prelims Diplomatic Passport Overview Issuing Authority Revocation of Passport Operational Visa Exemption Agreement India’s Agreements: Similar Agreements: -Source: Indian Express
INCOIS Study Explores Indian Ocean Floor Mapping
Context: Scientists at the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) have recently undertaken a study aimed at mapping the Indian Ocean floor. This endeavor seeks to gain deeper insights into ocean currents and dynamics. Relevance: Facts for Prelims Key Highlights of the Study: Influence of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Maldives: Improvements in […]
US Federal Reserve Holds Rates Amid Inflation Concerns
Context: The US Federal Reserve recently announced its decision to maintain its benchmark interest rate unchanged, citing a rise in inflation. The Fed indicated that it would closely monitor incoming price data before considering any rate cuts. This decision contrasts with earlier predictions by analysts, who anticipated a rate cut at the Fed’s May 1 […]
ILO Report Urges Climate-Proofing of Labour Conditions
Context: The International Labour Organisation (ILO) recently released a report titled “Ensuring safety and health at work in a changing climate” to address the global health threats faced by workers. The report highlights the urgent need to climate-proof the future of labour and adapt to the evolving work environment due to climate change. It reveals […]
H5N1 Outbreak Highlights Animal Welfare Concerns in India
Context: The recent H5N1 outbreak has shed light on significant vulnerabilities in India’s industrial livestock sector, emphasizing the urgent need for a comprehensive reassessment of animal welfare within the country’s environmental and legal frameworks. This outbreak underscores the importance of the One Health principle, which integrates public health, ecosystem health, and biodiversity conservation. Relevance: GS […]
About Goldman Environmental Prize
Context: Alok Shukla, convenor of the Chhattisgarh Bachao Andolan and founding member of the Hasdeo Aranya Bachao Sangharsh Samiti, has been awarded the 2024 Goldman Prize from Asia. Relevance: Facts for Prelims About Goldman Environmental Prize The Goldman Environmental Prize, often referred to as the “Green Nobel,” is a prestigious award that recognizes individuals for […]