

G7 Summit & India: Key Takeaways & an Opportunityto expand Ties with West - By Satish Kumar Karna
The G7 is an artifact of a bygone era. In the 1970s, when the G5 was expanded to include Canada and Italy, the new grouping really did dominate the world economy. Japan was booming, and many expected it to catch up to the US; Italy was growing, and nobody was thinking about China. Generally, it is perceived that without China and India, G7 has lost its relevance. Analysts also believe

Political and Constitutional Crisis in Nepal - By Satish Kumar Karna
Nepal has seen chaotic political changes in the last three decades. A decade-long armed struggle from 1996 to 2006 pushed the country to the backyard on all aspects of life. During the last 70 years, Nepal has witnessed seven Constitutions. Nepal’s Constitution of 2015 envisaged a ray of hope for its people, for transforming the country into a Federal Democratic Republic with the provision of government at three levels- Central,

The Race to Zero Emissions - By Chandrakant Singh
A host of countries have recently announced major commitments to significantly cut their carbon emissions, promising to reach "net zero" in the coming years. The term is becoming a global rallying cry, frequently cited as a necessary step to successfully beat back climate change, and the devastation it is causing. The global climate has always shown fluctuations. Since the beginning of industrialisation, however, the composition of the atmosphere has changed due

Simranpreet Kaur - Rank–1 (Sports Category) AIR - Punjab Public Service Commission 2021
CSC: Heartiest congratulations to you from Civil Services Chronicle for your success. How are you feeling about it? Simranpreet Kaur: Thank you Sir. It's a great feeling as the hard work put in has reaped fruits. CSC: What is your inspiration behind your success? Whom do you give credit for your success? What is the role of family and others (teacher, friends) in your preparation and success? Simranpreet Kaur: My inspiration for becoming a PCS officer was my parents who introduced the idea of Civil Services to me. This was further realised when I was awarded for representing India in the World Cup in Skeet Shooting on the Sports Day of my School and the chief guest was a sports person and a Civil Servant. This really inspired me to take up Civil Services.The role of my family has been a major one given the fact it's the family support which gives emotional strength in this journey and teachers who motivate you and help you become better in the respective subjects. CSC: What strategy one should follow for preparing General Studies for Prelims & Mains? Did you integrate your Prelims and Mains preparation or was itseparate? Simranpreet Kaur: The preparation of Civil Services is an integrated one for both Prelims and Mains. Step one is thoroughly understanding the syllabus and analysing the previous years’question papers. Followed by that one has to decide whether one requires coaching or not and depending upon their strengths and weaknesses formulate a strategy accordingly. Tests are really important for each stage of the examination as it helps one identify the areas which need more attention.Both mains and Prelims are covered together, however a few months before each stage of examination one has to shift the focus of preparation to the exam specific stage. CSC: How much time did you devote for Prelims, Mains, Interview, and Optional? How did you manage your time in both prelims and mains examinations? Simranpreet Kaur: It is nearly two years of preparation. I decided to prepare in an integrated way hence initially I prepared for both mains and prelims together. As my prelims was scheduled on 13th February, 2021, I gave three months before the exam completely to it.Followed by that in 1st April, 2021 to 8th April 2021, I had my mains hence a dedicated focus to it.Followed by that on 15th May, was my Interview hence the focus was to more an interview specific preparation. CSC: Did you prepare notes? How helpful are the notes? What is your advice on notes making? Simranpreet Kaur: For some subjects I had prepared notes like the mains specific topics and some even for Current Affairs, however they were prioritised on the basis of importance of the issues with regard to the exam.They were really helpful as the revision before the exam became quite easy.I believe, making notes or not is a personal choice, however in my opinion they are important as some days before the exam it becomes extremely difficult to revise from a large number of sources. CSC: Tell us something about preparation of essay paper. Simranpreet Kaur: I had practiced certain essays before the Mains exam and got them evaluated by my teachers and incorporated their suggestions in the exam. The knowledge of other four papers can be beautifully utilised in the paper with a touch of literature. CSC: What was your style of writing in the exam? How was it distinct from the general writing style? How did you develop this writing style? Simranpreet Kaur: My writing style was of - Introduction, Body, and Conclusion. However I used paragraphs, points, diagrams, etc. depending upon the demand of the question.I had developed the writing style by practicing a few questions after every subject was completed, then getting my answers evaluated by the teachers and incorporating their suggestions. CSC: How did you prepare for interview? Which types of questions were asked in the interview? Did you answer them all? Was there any specific area they emphasised upon? Simranpreet Kaur: My interview was mainly focussed on the Detailed Application Form (DAF) and on newspapers, along with some important contemporary issues and State specific information.I had prepared for the same and attended a few mocks and incorporated few suggestions. The questions were mostly State-oriented and factual and very less opinion-based.I was able to answer most of the questions and they asked some village specific questions which I was not able to answer. CSC: What do you think about importance of coaching in the preparation of this examination? Simranpreet Kaur: Coaching plays a very important role in giving direction to prepare for this examination and after that it's the self-study which helps one consolidate the learning on subjects. However, again, it’s a personal choice. One has to decide depending upon his/her abilities. CSC: What is the role of Civil Services Chronicle in your success? Simranpreet Kaur: I referred to Civil Services Chronicle magazine for some topics of current affairs to fill in the
Essay
India’s Policy Options in Middle-East
Winner - Phani Kondeti (Miyapur, Hyderabad) The history of conflicts and struggles of Middle-East is as old as that of India. Middle-East is a region of contradictions, stretching from the ravaged wilderness of Yemen to the modern cities of Turkey, from the troubled waters of Gaza to the hostile mountains of Iran. It is a region dominated by religious, sectarian, ethnic and political divisions, and it presents the biggest challenge to the Non-Aligned credentials of India for the foreseeable future. Turmoil in the Middle-East With the exception of few relatively stable Arab monarchies, every Nation in the Middle-East is going through a period

In Focus
Inland Vessels Bill 2021
On 16th June, 2021, the Union Cabinet gave nod to the Inland Vessels Bill, 2021. The bill, which will replace the Inland Vessels Act, 1917, aims at streamlining vessels running on inland waterways in the country. Objectives To bring uniformity in the application of the law relating to inland waterways and navigation within
Agriculture
Beed Model of Crop Insurance
Recently, Maharashtra government has urged the Central government for state-wide implementation of the ‘Beed Model’ of the crop insurance scheme - Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bhima Yogna (PMFBY). Reasons For Maharashtra, where farmers predominantly depend of monsoon rains to water their crops, the PMFBY turned out to be non-profitable for insurance companies given
Green Gold Collection for Bamboo Products
On 3rd June, 2021, the government launched Green Gold Collection, a dedicated window for bamboo products. This window is the result of collaborative work between the National Bamboo Mission and the Government e-Marketplace (GeM). It aims to provide bamboo artisans, weavers and entrepreneurs in rural areas with market access to Government
Government Policy
Government proposes Amendments to Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020
On 21st June, 2021, the government issued a set of new draft Consumer Protection (E-commerce) Rules, 2020 that proposes to bar e-commerce companies from allowing any display or promotion of misleading advertisement on their platforms. These Rules were first notified in July 2020 in exercise of powers conferred by Section 101(1)
New Stimulus Package amid 2nd Covid-19 Wave
On 28th June, 2021, the government announced a host of measures to provide relief to diverse sectors affected by the 2nd wave of COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 17 measures were announced. These included two measures announced earlier, i.e. additional Subsidy for DAP & P&K fertilizers, and extension of Pradhan Mantri
Industry
Toycathon 2021
On 24th June, 2021, Prime Minister interacted with the participants of Toycathon-2021 via video conferencing. During the meeting, PM highlighted the importance of the toys and game industry in Indian Economy. PM pitched for improving the country's standing in what he called ‘Toyconomy’ or the economic aspects of the toys
Infrastructure
Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme
On 30th June, 2021, the Union Cabinet approved a Reforms-based and Results-linked, Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme. This is the second reform scheme for power distribution companies (discoms) announced by the government, a year after the ambitious UDAY (Ujjawala Discom Assurance Yojana) scheme concluded in March 2020. Nodal agencies for the scheme’s implementation
Reports & Indices
NITI Aayog Releases “Fast Tracking Freight in India” Report
On 9tyh June, 2021, NITI Aayog along with Rocky Mountain Institute released a report titled- Fast Tracking Freight in India: A Roadmap for Clean and Cost-Effective Goods Transport. Objectives To establish a coherent vision for a cost-effective, clean, and optimised freight transport system in India To quantify the economic, environmental, and public
World Investment Report 2021
On 21st June, 2021, UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) released its World Investment report 2021. The World Investment Report supports policymakers by monitoring global and regional investment trends and national and international policy developments. This year’s report reviews investment in the Sustainable Development Goals and shows the influence of
News Bytes
India Joins OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework Tax Deal
On 2nd July, 2021, India joined the Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the G20 inclusive framework tax deal that is working towards addressing the tax challenges arising from the digitalisation of the economies globally. A total of 130 countries have agreed to an overhaul of global tax norms
National Statistics Day 2021
National Statistics Day is celebrated on June 29 on the birth anniversary of late Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis. Theme: The theme of National Statistics Day 2021 is “Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)-2: End Hunger, Achieve Food Security and Improved Nutrition and Promote Sustainable Agriculture”. Significance The Government has been celebrating the Statistics Day, to
Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI)
The growth of India’s domestic factory orders and production slowed to a 10-month low in May, 2021, as most states restricted businesses to contain the spread of Covid-19. The IHS Markit India Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) slipped to 50.8 in May from 55.5 in April, 2021. That was just above
Current Account Deficit
Recently, India's current account deficit (CAD) widened in the January-March quarter on the back of a higher trade deficit and lower net invisible receipts, the Reserve Bank of India said in a release. About Current Account Deficit It is the shortfall between the money received by selling products to other countries and
Seed Minikit Programme
The Seed Minikit Programme has been launched by Union Agriculture Minster by distributing Seed Minikits (higher yielding varieties of seeds) of Pulses and oilseeds to farmers. Nodal Agencies: The seed mini-kits are being provided by the following central agencies –National Seeds Corporation (NCS), NAFED, Gujarat State Seeds Corporation. The programme is wholly
News Snippets
PIB CORNER
PIB Corner
Retail and Wholesale Trades come under MSMEs On 2nd July 2021, the Minister of MSME and Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari has announced revised guidelines for MSMEs with inclusion of Retail and Wholesale trades as MSMEs. Benefits under this Scheme This will strengthen MSMEs and make them engines for economic
PIB Corner
NIPUN Bharat: Initiative towards Foundational Literacy and Numeracy On 5th July 2021, the Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education launched National Initiative for Proficiency in Reading with Understanding and Numeracy (NIPUN Bharat). Vision of this Mission Foundational Literacy and Numeracy: The vision of NIPUN Bharat Mission aims at creating an
PIB Corner
‘Freight Smart Cities’ The Commerce Ministry’s Logistocs division has recently unveiled the concept of ‘Freight Smart Cities’ to improve the efficiency of urban freight and create an opportunity for reduction in the logistics costs. Why Freight Smart Cities? With growing urbanisation, requirements of rapid economic growth including e-commerce and associated first and
PIB Corner
Amendments in e-Commerce Rules to bring in Transparency The Union Government has proposed several amendments in the e-commerce rules to bring transparency and curb the prevalent unfair trade practices in the online marketing platforms. The government has recently come up with a draft of the proposed amendments to the Consumer Protection

In Focus
Model Tenancy Act 2021
On 2nd June, 2021, the Union Cabinet approved the Model Tenancy Act for circulation to all States / Union Territories for adaptation by way of enacting fresh legislation or amending existing rental laws suitably. Objectives To regulate renting of residential and commercial premises by establishing conditions for tenancy, eviction, and management of
Legislative
Delimitation Exercise kicks off in Jammu & Kashmir
On 19th June, 2021, the Delimitation Commission for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir kicked off the exercise by writing to all 20 District Commissioners (DC), seeking basic demographic, topographic information as well as the local administration’s impressions of political aspirations of the district. Further, the Union government on 24th
Executive
Censorship of Cinema: Draft Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill 2021
On 18th June, 2021, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting sought public feedback on draft Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2021, which proposes to bring back its “revisionary powers” over the Central Board of Film Certification. It seeks to amend the Cinematograph Act of 1952. Background An Expert Committee under the Chairmanship of Justice Mukul
Judiciary
Defining Limits of Sedition
Recently, the Supreme Court (SC) noted that it is time to define the limits of sedition. The observation was made while dealing with the writ petitions filed by two news channels seeking the quashing of FIR and contempt petitions. About the Case The Andhra Pradesh government had accused News channels TV5 and ABN
Draft Model Rules for Live-Streaming and Recording of Court Proceedings
On 7th June, 2021, the Supreme Court’s e-Committee released the Draft Model Rules for live-streaming and recording of court proceedings. These model rules are released under the National Policy and Action Plan for implementation of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the Indian judiciary. These Rules are framed by the High Court
Plan/Policy/Initiatives
6th Anniversary of Smart Cities Mission, AMRUT and PMAY-U
On 25th June, 2021, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) organized an online event to commemorate 6 years of the launch of three transformative Urban Missions vis. Smart Cities Mission (SCM), AMRUT and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban (PMAY-U), which were launched on 25th June, 2015. The three schemes were part
Model Panchayat Citizens Charter
On 4th June, 2021, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) in collaboration with National Institute of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR) released a Model Panchayat Citizens Charter. Objective To empower the citizens in relation to public services and to improve the quality of services without any prejudice, and in accordance with
Social Issues
SAGE Initiative
On 4th June, 2021, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched the SAGE (Seniorcare Aging Growth Engine) initiative and SAGE portal for elderly persons. Background The SAGE project is shaped on the recommendations of the empowered expert committee report on startups for elderly. The report highlights that the business opportunities in
Disability Early Intervention Centres
On 17th June, 2021, the Union Social Justice and Empowerment Ministry launched 14 cross disability early intervention centres (DEIC) across the country to provide support to infants and young children at risk of or with disabilities. About DEIC The objective of these centers is to make the differently-abled people virtually self-reliant in
Assam to Implement Two-Child Policy
On 18th June, 2021, Assam government announced the gradual implementation of the two-child policy for availing government benefits in Assam. In September 2017, the Assam assembly had passed the 'Population and Women Empowerment Policy of Assam' in the state. Assam currently has a two-child norm along with requirements of minimum educational qualifications
Survey/Study/Reports
Niti Aayog Report on Not-for-Profit Hospital Model
On 30th June, 2021, NITI Aayog released a comprehensive study on the not-for-profit hospital model in the country, in a step towards closing the information gap on such institutions and facilitating robust policymaking in this area. The aim of this study is to understand the operating model of some of the
All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2019-20
On 10th June, 2021, the government released the report of All India Survey on Higher Education 2019-20. This Report provides key performance indicators on the current status of Higher education in the country. The report was initiated in the year 2011.It is the 10th in the series of AISHE annually released
News Bytes
UN CEO’s Water Mandate
On 5th June, 2021, National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC), India’s largest power utility Under Ministry of Power has become a signatory to the prestigious UN Global Compact’s CEO Water Mandate. NTPC will imbibe the 3 R’s (reduce, reuse, recycle) for water conservation and management while carrying out its core
Attorney General of India
The central government has extended the term of K.K. Venugopal as Attorney General (AG) for one more year. This is the second time the Centre has extended his tenure. Venugopal received his first extension of term in 2020. K.K. Venugopal was appointed the 15th AG of India in 2017. About Attorney General of
Task Force for Mission Karmayogi
Former Infosys CEO S D Shibu Lal has been appointed chairperson of a three-member task force formed to help the government in bringing major bureaucratic reforms through its ambitious “Mission Karmayogi“. A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), namely ‘Karmayogi Bharat’, would be set up as a not-for-profit company. It will be set up
News Snippets

In Focus
G7 Summit 2021
Between 11 to 13 June, 2021 the leaders of seven nations — the U.S., Germany, the U.K., France, Canada, Japan and Italy — met in Cornwall in south-west England, marking the 47th edition of the “Group of Seven” summit. About the Summit The theme of the summit was ‘Build Back Better World
World Issues
UN’s Myanmar Resolution
On June 18, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution on the “situation in Myanmar” with a vote of 119-1. Background The military of Myanmar has taken charge and declared a year-long state of emergency. It seized control on 1 February following a general election which Ms Suu Kyi's NLD party won
At UNHRC, Grave Concerns raised over Xinjiang
On June 22, 2021, expressing grave concerns over the "Uyghur genocide" in China's Xinjiang province, Canada delivered a joint statement on behalf of 42 countries at the UN Humans Rights Council. Resolution Highlights The Resolution urges China to allow immediate, meaningful and unfettered access to Xinjiang for independent observers. The statement was backed
India And Its Bilateral Relations
India - Sri Lanka
On 16th June, 2021, India extended a line of credit (LOC) of $100 million to Sri Lank through the Exim Bank for financing projects in the solar energy sector in Sri Lanka. About the Project Over the last five years, Sri Lanka has sought to tap more renewable sources of power, particularly
India-China Relations: A Year after Galwan
It's been a year since the Galwan clash, when 20 Indian soldiers and an undisclosed number of Chinese troops lost their lives in the worst border clash between the two neighbours in 40 years. Key Highlights The incident along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) has had far-reaching repercussions. It eroded the
International Trade & Treaties
New Atlantic Charter
On 16 June, 2021, US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Johnson signed a new version of the ‘Atlantic Charter’ during the former’s first overseas visit since assuming the Presidency earlier this year. Background The Atlantic Charter was a joint declaration issued during World War II (1939-45) by the United States
Antarctic Treaty
On 23rd June, 2021, the 1959 Antarctic Treaty celebrated its 60th anniversary. Negotiated during the middle of the Cold War by 12 countries with Antarctic interests, it remains the only example of a single treaty that governs a whole continent. Background The Antarctic Treaty System is the whole complex of arrangements made
International Organisations
UNHRC Resolution on Israel Human Right Violation on Palestine
A resolution titled “Ensuring respect for international human rights law and humanitarian law in Occupied Palestinian Territory including East Jerusalem and in Israel” passed at the United Nation Human Rights Council (UNHRC) calling for a commission of inquiry into human rights violations during the Israel-Hamas conflict, which was presented by
OPCW Report on use of Chemical Weapons by Syria
Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), the head of the international chemical weapons watchdog told the U.N. Security Council that its experts have investigated 77 allegations against Syria, and concluded that in 17 cases chemical weapons were likely or definitely used. Key Highlights Syria joined the Chemical Weapons Convention in
42nd Session of FAO Conference
The 42nd session of the Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) Conference was held recently. For the first time ever, the FAO conference was held in a virtual mode. Recently, the Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare addressed the 42nd session of Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) Conference. Key Points from
2021 NATO Summit
The 31st formal meeting of the heads of state and heads of government of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) was held in Brussels, Belgium, on 14 June 2021. Major outcomes of the 2021 Summit 1.NATO Countries’ Communique on China and Russia The NATO members issued a communiqué highlighting the “threat” presented by
India completes Term as Chair of ILO’s Governing Body
On 24th June, 2021, India completed its tenure as Chair of the Governing Body of the International Labour Organisation after holding the position for the period October 2020-June 2021. Key Points India had assumed the chairmanship of the Governing Body of the International Labour Organisation after a gap of 35 years. During India’s
Bilateral, Regional & Global Groupings
BRICS opposes Exceptionalism: China
On 7th June, 2021, while addressing BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, China said that BRICS countries pursue openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation, and reject "bloc politics and ideological confrontation". China’s Foreign Ministry stated that the idea behind the statement was to forge a common understanding among the BRICS countries when there
EU urged to consider its GSP+ Status given to Sri Lanka
On 16th June, 2021 a resolution was adopted by the European Parliament, urging the EU Commission to consider temporary withdrawal of the GSP+ status given to Sri Lanka. Background Sri Lanka regained the GSP+, or the EU’s ‘Generalised Scheme of Preferences’ in 2017. Colombo is committed to implement 27 international conventions on human
SCO Meet 2021
On 23rd June, 2021, National Security Advisor Mr. Ajit Doval attended a meeting of the top security officials from the member nations of the Shanghai Corporation Organisation (SCO) in Tajikistan’s capital Dushanbe. Background Tajikistan is the chair of the grouping. It took the chairmanship at a meeting of the SCO Heads of
Reports
Global Expansion of Nuclear Arsenal: SIPRI Report
According to a recent report published in the SIPRI Yearbook 2021, the numbers of nuclear warheads which are ready and deployed have increased globally. The SIPRI Yearbook is released by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) which researches international armament and conflict. The SIPRI “Yearbook 2021” assesses the current state of
News Bytes
Maldives wins 76th UNGA Presidential Election
Foreign Minister of Maldives, Mr. Abdulla Shahid elected as the President of the United Nations General Assembly for 2021-22, winning 143 votes or nearly three fourths of the 191 countries that voted in the annual election, while his rival, former Afghanistan Foreign Minister Zalmai Rassoul won 48. In the SAARC region,
Bitcoin: Legalised by El Salvador
On 8th June, 2021, El Salvador, a small coastal country in Central America, became the first in the world to make Bitcoin (a digital currency) a legal tender. Key Points The development in El Salvador changes little in terms of Indian monetary calculations around cryptocurrencies. The dynamic underpinning the whole move is
Joe Biden-Vladimir Putin Geneva Summit
President Joe Biden of the U.S. and President Vladimir Putin of Russiamet in the Villa La Grange, in Geneva, Switzerland on June 16, 2021. Joe Biden called it as ‘great power’ summit. Outcome of the Meeting They have decided to return their Ambassadors to the Embassies. Announced “a strategic stability dialogue” to discuss
G20 Labour and Employment Ministers’ Meeting
The Declaration issued at the conclusion of the G20 Labour and Employment Ministerial Meeting in Italy echoes the ILO Global Call to Action for a Human-Centred Recovery, adopted by delegates at the June session of the 2021 International Labour Conference. G20 set target beyond the Brisbane Target Shaping a human-centred recovery that
Iran refuses to give Nuclear Site Images to IAEA
On 28th June, 2021, the Speaker of Iran’s Parliament said Tehran will never hand over images from inside of some Iranian nuclear sites to the U.N. nuclear watchdog - International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) as a monitoring agreement with the agency had expired. Background In 2015, Iran agreed a long-term deal on
First-Ever Israeli Embassy opens in UAE
On 30th June, 2021, Israel’s new foreign minister inaugurated its first embassy in the United Arab Emirates. Background The UAE and Bahrain normalised relations with Israel last year (2020) under so-called “Abraham Accords” crafted by the U.S. administration. Key Features of Abraham Accords Under the agreement, UAE and Bahrain will establish embassies and exchange
News Snippets
News Snippets
I-Familia The Interpol has launched a new global database named “I-Familia” to identify missing persons through family DNA and help the police solve cold cases in member countries.I-Familia has three components: a dedicated global database to host the DNA profiles provided by relatives, held separately from

In Focus
CAR T-cell Therapy: Heralding a New Era in Cancer Treatment
In a significant development, on 4th June, 2021, India’s first CAR-T cell therapy was done at the Tata Memorial Centre (TMC) in Mumbai, starting a new chapter in cancer care in the country. This was made possible through a fruitful collaboration between the Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH) and Indian Institute
Astronomy
Chandrayaan-2 Solar X-ray Monitor Unravels Mysteries of the Solar Corona
On 22nd June, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said that the Solar X-ray Monitor (XSM) on board India’s Chandrayaan-2 Mission has provided outstanding science results on the solar corona and heliophysics. Mysteries of the Solar Corona Several potentially life-changing phenomena related to the Sun still remain a mystery. Some of these
New Research Points to Possibility of Life on Jupiter
According to latest research by a team of scientists, life in Jupiter’s clouds could be possible. The study has been conducted by School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast (QUB), Northern Ireland. Key Findings The clouds surrounding the planet Jupiter have water conditions that could allow Earth-like life to exist. These clouds
PASIPHAE Sky Survey Project
Recently, the Wide Area Linear Optical Polarimeter (WALOP) was in news. It is an instrument that will be used in Polar-Areas Stellar-Imaging in Polarisation High-Accuracy Experiment (PASIPHAE), an upcoming sky survey project. The instrument is in an advanced stage of development at the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA),
Understanding Heavy Metal Abundance in CEMP Stars
In a recent study, a team of Indian scientists has made a significant discovery with respect to the mystery of abundance of heavy metals in oldest metal-poor stars. Key Highlights Metal-poor stars that show enhancement of carbon are technically called Carbon Enhanced Metal Poor (CEMP) stars. These stars were formed from the ejected
Space Science
ESA’s EnVision Mission
On 10th June, 2021, the European Space Agency (ESA) selected EnVision as its next orbiter that will visit Venus in the early 2030s. This closely follows NASA’s announcement of two missions to Venus, DAVINCI+ and VERITAS. About the Mission EnVision is an ESA led mission with contributions from NASA. To be launched on
Shenzhou-12 Manned Mission: Astronauts Dock with Space Station
On 17th June, the first group of three Chinese astronauts entered the country’s under-construction space station, Tiangong. Key Highlights The Shenzhou-12 spaceship, carrying the three astronauts, was launched from the Jiuquan Launch Centre in the Gobi desert and the astronauts entered core module Tianhe around six and a half hours later. The spaceship
Reports
UNESCO Science Report 2021
On 11th June, 2021, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) published the ‘UNESCO Science Report 2021: The Race against Time for Smarter Development’. Published every five years, the report provides an update of trends in science governance, aggregating data on spending, personnel, scientific publications and patents. The latest
Defence And Security
Defence Innovation with iDEX-DIO
The Defence Ministry recently approved budgetary support of Rs. 498.8 crore to Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) - Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) for the next five years. Key Highlights The conceptualization of the iDEX framework and establishment of the DIO by the Department of Defence Production (DDP) aims at creating an ecosystem
Cyber Security
IISS Report Assesses India’s Cyber Power
The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) recently released a report, titled ‘Cyber Capabilities and National Power: A Net Assessment’. The report provides a major new qualitative assessment of cyber power of 15 countries as well as a new qualitative framework for understanding how to rank global state cyber capacity. The
Indigenous Technology
Novel Technique for Early Detection of Cyclones
A team of Indian scientists has devised a promising technique for early detection of development or strengthening of tropical cyclones in the atmospheric column prior to satellite detection over ocean surface in North Indian Ocean region. Detecting Cyclones Early: The New Technique To date, remote sensing techniques have detected cyclones the earliest.
News Bytes
Triboelectric Nanogenerator (TENG)
Scientists from the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences, Bengaluru, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, have fabricated a simple, cost-effective, bio-compatible, transparent nanogenerator that can generate electricity from vibrations all around. The team designed a transparent triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) using thermoplastic
SERB and Intel India Launch ‘Fund for Industrial Research Engagement’ (FIRE)
The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), a statutory body of Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, launched the first-of-its-kind research initiative called ‘Fund for Industrial Research Engagement (FIRE)’ in collaboration with Intel India on June 29, 2021. It is a novel initiative to bring together industry
Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO)
1st July, 2021 marks the beginning of construction of the world’s largest radio telescope, the Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO). Headquartered in the United Kingdom, the SKAO will be an array of 197 dishes located in South Africa and 1,31,072 antennas in western Australia and operate in the 50 MegaHertz-15.3
News Snippets
News Snippets
NATRAX National Automotive Test Tracks (NATRAX) is the High Speed Track (HST) - the longest such track in Asia - located in Indore. It is a state-of-the-art automotive testing and certification centre. The High Speed Track is 11.3 km long. It is the world’s fifth high speed test track. The project has been completed
PIB CORNER
PIB Corner
World’s First Genetically Modified Rubber Planted in Guwahati The world’s first genetically modified (GM) rubber plant was planted on the outskirts of Guwahati, Assam, on 22nd June 2021. It was developed at the Kerala-based Rubber Research Institute of India (RRII). The GM rubber plant, the first of its kind developed exclusively for the

In Focus
Deep Ocean Mission
On 16th June, 2021, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the proposal of Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) on Deep Ocean Mission. The mission aims to explore deep ocean for resources and develop deep sea technologies for sustainable use of ocean resources. The Mission Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) will be
Climate Change
WMO verifies Record High Temperature for Antarctica
On 1st July, 2021, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) confirmed that on 6th February, 2020, the Esperanza station (Argentina’s research station in Trinity Peninsula) experienced a temperature of 18.3 degrees Celsius. This is a new record high temperature for Antarctica. Compared to the Arctic, the Antarctic is poorly covered in terms
UN High-level Dialogue on Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought
On 14th June, 2021, the United Nations convened a High-level Dialogue on Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought. It aimed to assess the progress made in fighting land degradation and map the way forward on global efforts to revive and restore healthy land. Key Priorities The deliberations highlighted the following points: Land is the
Biodiversity
Odisha plans to create Natural Barriers to Cyclonic Storms
Recently, the Odisha government proposed to take up mangrove and casuarina plantation along its coast with the aim to create natural barriers to cyclonic storms. The initiative draws inspiration from the exceptional protection that the state’s mangroves have offered during major cyclonic events. Key Highlights The state has around 480 km long
Reports
SDSN’s Sustainable Development Report 2021
On 14th June, 2021, the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) released its Sustainable Development Report, 2021. The report, apart from measuring the progress made by the countries towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), outlines the short-term impacts of COVID-19 on the SDGs and describes how the SDGs can frame the
Sustainable Development
UN Proposes Global Roadmap for Universal Access to Sustainable Energy
On 18th June, 2021, the United Nations launched a proposed global roadmap to achieve clean, affordable energy for all by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050. The proposed roadmap will inform the High-level Dialogue on Energy, to be held in September 2021. The Proposed Roadmap The proposed roadmap will be considered
UNESCO Launches First Ocean Decade Actions
On the eve of World Oceans Day on 8th June, 2021, UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) announced the first Actions officially endorsed as part of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, 2021-2030. Context of the Ocean Decade The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the Ocean Decade (UN Decade
Sustainable Water Management: Insights on Water Source Sustainability
The Indian Water Resources Society (IWRS) and IIT Roorkee jointly organized an International e-Conference on Water Source Sustainability from 18th to 20th June, 2021. The Conference The conference focussed on different aspects of water management like supply and demand, technological upgradation of traditional methods of water conservation, technological developments for ensuring the
News Bytes
Conservation Pact on Black Softshell Turtle in Assam
Recently, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Kamrup district administration, two green NGOs, the Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden and a major temple in Assam the for long-term conservation of the rare freshwater black softshell turtle (Nilssonia nigricans). A vision document 2030 was launched after Turtle Survival Alliance
Dihing Patkai National Park Inaugurated
On 3rd July, 2021, the newly notified Dihing Patkai National Park was formally inaugurated. In June 2021, Assam government notified Dihing Patkai as the state’s 7th National Park. The notification came within a few days after the government upgraded the Raimona reserve forest to a National Park (the 6th National
News Snippets
News Snippets
Sea Snot It is a slimy layer of grey or green sludge, which is formed when algae are overloaded with nutrients. It causes considerable damage to the marine ecosystem. Warm weather caused by global warming, water pollution, uncontrolled dumping of household and industrial waste into the seas results in overloading of nutrients. Recently, Turkey’s
PIB CORNER
PIB Corner
‘BOLD’ Initiative to fight Land Degradation & Desertification A project named “Bamboo Oasis on Lands in Drought” (BOLD), first of its kind exercise in India was launched on 4th July 2021 from the tribal village Nichla Mandwa in Udaipur, Rajasthan. The project has been launched as part of Khadi and Village Industries
News Notes
Newsmakers
Antonio Guterres The UN Security Council has recommended Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for a second fiveyear term as chief of the world organisation beginning January 1, 2022. India had supported to Guterres for his candidature as chief of the world body for a second term. Guterres is the first former head of government to
Appointments
Ebrahim Raisi The Chief Justice of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi has been elected as the President of Iran and will assume charge on 3rd August 2021 replacing Hassan Rouhani. Manoj Kumar Senior Indian Administrative Service officer Manoj Kumar Parida was 17th June 2021 appointed as Chairman, National Authority Chemical Weapons Convention (NACWC). NACWC has been
Obituary
Kenneth Kaunda Kenneth David Kaunda, Zambia’s founding president and a champion of African nationalism who spearheaded the fights to end white minority rule across southern Africa, has died on 17th June 2021. Kaunda came to prominence as a leader of the campaign to end colonial rule of his country, then known as
Defence
DRDO successfully flight tests New Generation ‘Agni P’ Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully flight tested a New Generation Nuclear Capable Ballistic Missile Agni P from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam island off the coast of Odisha, Balasore on June 28, 2021. Agni P is a new generation advanced variant of Agni
Survey/Study/Report
Global Peace Index 2021 The Global Peace Index (GPI) 2021 which ranked 163 independent states and territories according to their level of peacefulness was released by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), Australia. India has moved up two places from its previous year’s ranking to become the 135th most peaceful country
Places in News
Great Barrier Reef The United Nations Educational,Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has recommended the Great Barrier Reef, Australia - the world’s biggest coral reef system - beplaced on a list of ‘in danger’ world heritage sites, a move opposed by the Australian government. World heritage sites are global icons and “in danger”
Awards
UN Land for Life Award Familial Forestry, an environmental conservation project by Rajasthan's Shyam Sunder Jyani, bagged the prestigious United Nations' Land for Life Award 2021. United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) announced the winner on June 17 2021 (World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, observed with the theme “Restoration.Land.Recovery.
World of Sports
Athletics Indian Flag-bearers for Tokyo 2020 Olympics Opening Ceremony: Mary Kom and Manpreet Singh Indian Olympic Association have announced that 6-time world champion boxer M C Mary Kom and men's hockey team skipper Manpreet Singh will be India's flag bearers at the opening ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics on 23 July 2021. Closing Ceremony: Bajrang

History
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
The Goa government on 6th June, 2021, released a short film on Chhatrapati Shivaji on the occasion of the anniversary of Maratha king’s coronation day. About Shivaji Shivaji was born on 19th February, 1630 at the Shivneri Fort, near the city of Junnar in what is now Pune district. Shivaji's father Shahaji Bhonsle
Ram Prasad Bismil
Recently, the Ministry of Culture organised a special ceremony at Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh to mark the birth anniversary of freedom fighter Ram Prasad Bismil. About Ram Prasad Bismil He was born on June 11, 1897, in a nondescript village in Uttar Pradesh’s Shahjahanpur district. He was among the most notable Indian revolutionaries who
Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay
Recently, the Nation paid homage to Rishi Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay on his Jayanti on 27th June. About Bankim Chandra Chattopadhayay He was born on June 27, 1838 in the village Kantalpara of the 24 Paraganas District of Bengal. The word 'Bankim Chandra' in Bengali means 'the moon on the second day of
Art & Culture
Reclining Buddha
India’s largest statue of the Reclining Buddha will be installed at the Buddha International Welfare Mission temple in Bodh Gaya. About Reclining Buddha A reclining Buddha statue or image represents ‘The Buddha’ during his last illness, about to enter Parinirvana, the stage of great salvation after death that can only be attained
National Maritime Heritage Complex
On 16thJune, 2021, the Ministry of Culture (MoC) and Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for ‘Cooperation in Development of National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal, Gujarat’. About National Maritime Heritage Complex It is to be developed in the vicinity of the ASI site
Raja Parba Festival
On 14th June, 2021, the Prime Minister extended his best wishes to the people of Odisha on the auspicious occasion of Raja Parba. About Raja Parba Festival It is a three-day-long festival celebrated in Odisha dedicated to Mother Earth (Bhuma Devi) and womanhood at large. It is celebrated for three days during the
Copperplate Inscriptions found at Srisailam Temple
The Bhramarambha Mallikarjuna Devasthanam, engaged in reviving ancient Ganta Matham near Srisailam temple complex, chanced upon six sets of copperplate inscriptions.There were 18 copper leaves found.Out of the six sets, four have inscriptions in Sanskrit and Nandi-Nāgarī script and the other two plates are in Telugu script. About Srisailam Temple Also known
Tulu Language
Recently, there has been campaign in Karnataka and Kerala requesting the government to accord official language status to Tulu language and include it in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. In 2020, ‘Jai Tulunad’ conducted an online campaign demanding to include Tulu in the new National Education Policy (NEP). About Tulu Language Tulu
New Caves discovered at Nashik’s Pandav Leni Complex
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has found three more caves in the Trirashmi Buddhist cave complex, also known as Pandav Leni, near Nashik, Maharashtra. It seems to have been monks’ dwelling that had been made before the Trirashmi caves. About Pandav Leni Caves It is a group of 25 caves that were
‘Snaana Yatra’ of Lord Jagannath
The famous Snana Yatra of Lord Jagannath is a ceremonial grand shower festival celebrated on the Purnima (full moon day) of the Hindu month of Jyeshtha. Jagannath Temple, Puri Located in Puri(Odisha), it was built in 12th Century AD by King Anatavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty. The temple is called
News Snippets
News Snippets
Puya (Meitei Texts) The Meitei community — which inhabits the valley of Manipur — has a rich, albeit little-known manuscript tradition called ‘puya’, written on handmade paper as well as on leaf, bamboo, and wood. They encompass a wide spectrum of themes including genealogy, literature, history,
Prelims Specials
Bill & Acts in News
Places of Worship Act, 1991 The Supreme Court of India has recently asked the Centre to respond to a plea challenging the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991. About Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991 The law seeks to maintain the “religious character” of places of worship as it was in
Important Bodies in News
National Start-Up Advisory Council (NSAC) Recently, 1st meeting of the National Start-Up Advisory Council was held in April 2021. The Union Government has notified the structure of the National Start-Up Advisory Council in January 2020 to advice on measures needed to build a strong ecosystem for nurturing innovation and start-ups in the
Judiciary & Important Judgements
Maratha Quota Unconstitutional: Supreme Court of India A five-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court recently struck down the Maharashtra law granting reservation to the Maratha community in admissions and government jobs in the state. The court had framed six questions of law on the issue; it unanimously agreed on three
Legislature & Executive
Legislative Council in West Bengal Recently, the West Bengal government approved the setting up of a Legislative Council in the state. It was a promise made by the party in its election manifesto. West Bengal’s Legislative Council was abolished 50 years ago (1969) by a coalition government of Left parties. Currently, six states
Governance & Federal Issues
Sixth Schedule Recently, Arunachal Pradesh assembly unanimously passed a resolution for the entire state to be included in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. About 6th Schedule of the Constitution Sixth schedule to the Constitution provides power to tribal communities to administer the tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram under the
Articles of the Constitution in News
Article 164(3) As the demand for online swearing-in of the new government in Kerala gets louder, jurists say there is no legal infirmity in a government assuming office through online mode. About Article 164(3) The Article 164 (3) of the Constitution states that “before a Minister enters upon his office, the Governor shall
International Relations & Bilateral Developments
BRICS Employment Working Group Meeting The 1st BRICS Employment Working Group (EWG) Meeting was held on 11-12 May 2021 in Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, New Delhi in virtual format. India has assumed BRICS Presidency this year. The prime agenda for the discussions were Promoting Social Security Agreements amongst BRICS nations, formalization of
Science & Technology (Space Technology)
Humans in Space Policy for India 2021 The Department of Space (DoS), an Indian government department responsible for administration of the Indian space program, as part of a series of new policy initiatives, has prepared a draft “Humans in Space Policy for India 2021 and released it for public suggestions. The Department
Science & Technology ( Defence Technology)
Hypersonic Technology Demonstration Vehicle (HSTDV) Recently, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully demonstrated the hypersonic air-breathing scramjet technology with the flight test of Hypersonic Technology Demonstration Vehicle (HSTDV) from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Launch Complex at Wheeler Island, off the coast of Odisha. About HSTDV The Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV) is
Science & Technology (Biotechnology)
Genome Sequencing IndiGen, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research's (CSIR) resource, was completed in six months, and the results were recently published. About IndiGen Programme It aims to undertake whole genome sequencing of a thousand Indian individuals representing diverse ethnic groups from India. It is funded by the CSIR India (autonomous body).
Science & Technology (Other Major Developments)
National Strategy on Blockchain The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has prepared a draft framework for the use of blockchain technology in government services and intends to use it in the areas of property record keeping, digital certificates, power distribution, health records, as well as supply chain management. About Draft
History/ Art & Culture (Personalities in News)
Baba Banda Singh Bahadur (350th Anniversary) The Prime Minister recently paid tribute to Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Ji on his 350th Jayanti. About Banda Singh Bahadur Banda Bahadur was born in October 1670 in a Rajput family doing farming in village Rajouri in Jammu and Kashmir. He was named Lachman Dev. At age 15,
History/ Art & Culture (Sculpture & Architecture)
Ancient Buddhist Monastery The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has unearthed a Buddhist monastery, believed to be at least 900 years old, buried under a mound in a village situated in a hilly area of Hazaribagh district of Jharkhand. The finding comes after discovery of an ancient Buddhist shrine recently, buried under
History/ Art & Culture (Painting & Other Art Forms)
Cave Paintings Recently, World’s oldest known cave painting (painted at least 45,500 years ago) was found in the limestone cave of Leang Tedongnge, Indonesia. Cave or rock paintings are paintings painted on cave or rock walls and ceilings. They have been found in Europe, Africa, Australia and Southeast Asia. More on Discovered Cave
History/ Art & Culture (Historical Events)
Gurudwara Reform Movement On February 21, 2021, the centenary of Sri Nankana Sahib massacre, popularly known as Saka Nankana Sahib was observed. About Saka Nankana Sahib The Nankana massacre (or Saka Nankana) took place in Nankana Sahib gurdwara on 20 February 1921, at that time a part of the British India but today
History/ Art & Culture (Global Initiatives to Conserve Cultural Heritage)
UNESCO World Heritage Sites Recently, six Indian places have been added to the tentative list of UNESCO’s (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) world heritage sites. The submissions were made by Archaeological Survey of India, which is responsible for the conservation and preservation of Indian monuments. The Six New Indian Places/Sites Satpura
History/ Art & Culture (Miscellaneous)
GI Tags Recently, GI tags were awarded to multiple products. Recently Awarded GI Tags Kashmir Saffron (Jammu & Kashmir) It is cultivated in Karewas (highlands) of Jammu & Kashmir. It is only saffron in world grown at an altitude of 1,600 m to 1,800 m. In ancient Sanskrit literature, saffron is referred to as