Chinese Occupation of “Xiaokang” Border Defence Villages Raises Concerns
Context: In a recent development, Chinese nationals have started occupying previously vacant “Xiaokang” border defence villages along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China. Constructed by China in 2019, the presence of these villages has sparked concerns within the Indian Army, prompting scrutiny over the occupants’ intentions and the strategic implications for […]
The Raisina Dialogue
Context: At the ninth edition of the annual Raisina Dialogue, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar characterized India as a “bridging power,” emphasizing its commitment to finding common ground through a nuanced “multi-vector” policy. He portrayed India as a global friend, adopting the role of a “Vishwamitra” or a friend of the world, reflecting the nation’s lofty […]
About Raisina Dialogue Overview
Context: The ninth edition of the Raisina Dialogue will be held from February 21 to 23rd in New Delhi. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Raisina Dialogue Overview: Annual Conference: Purpose: Participants: Organizers: Theme 2024: Thematic Pillars:
About IBSA Forum
Context: Recently, India has contributed USD 1 million to a fund established by India, Brazil and South Africa. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: IBSA Forum Objectives: The main objectives of the IBSA Forum are to strengthen the South-South cooperation and promote the interests of developing countries in the global arena. Some […]
ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement
Context: The 3rd meeting of AITIGA Joint Committee for undertaking the review of ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) was hosted by India in Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi from 16-19 February 2024. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: About Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) […]
About INDUS-X Summit
Context: The defence ministry said the ‘INDUS-X’ summit in Delhi marks a “significant milestone” in the collaborative efforts between the two countries. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: U.S.-India Defense Accelerator Ecosystem (INDUS-X): Promoting Collaborative Defense Innovation Launch and Background: Objective: Key Components of INDUS-X: Focus Areas: Specific Goals: Leadership and Collaboration: […]
Historic Appointment of Nationalist First Minister in Northern Ireland
Context: In a groundbreaking development, a pro-Irish unity politician has made history by becoming the first Nationalist First Minister of Northern Ireland. This significant move takes place amidst political deadlock, reflecting the complex divisions within the region. Rooted in Northern Ireland’s troubled past, this historic appointment holds the promise of fostering reconciliation and steering the […]
Kosovo Attains Visa-Free Access to Schengen Zone
Context: Kosovo has achieved a significant milestone by securing visa-free access to the Schengen zone, the world’s largest free movement area in Europe. This development marks Kosovo as the final western Balkan non-European Union (EU) nation to benefit from the waiver of visa requirements. Under this arrangement, citizens of Kosovo are granted visa-free entry into […]
UN World Restoration Flagships
Context: The United Nations named seven initiatives from across Africa, Latin America, the Mediterranean and Southeast Asia as the intergovernmental organisation’s World Restoration Flagships. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: UN World Restoration Flagships Overview Initiation and Leadership: Objective: Award Recognition: Global Commitments: Seven Recognized Initiatives: Restoring Mediterranean Forests Initiative: Living Indus […]
About International Energy Agency
Focus: GS-II: International Relations (Important International Groupings and Organizations), GS-III: Environment and Ecology Why in News? Recently the Prime Minister of India addressed then International Energy Agency’s Ministerial Meeting. About the International Energy Agency (IEA) IEA’s Role and Functions Membership of IEA