India’s Balancing Act Policy - By Satish Kumar Karna
“There are no permanent friends or foes in diplomacy; there are only permanent interests”. However, India should be careful while backing Israel and should take a more balanced and pragmatic approach while dealing with Israel-Palestine conflict. The Israel Palestine conflict in West Asia (Middle East) is about land and identity. The conflict is rooted not only in contending claims to the Holy Land but disputes over Jerusalem, borders, security, and
Climate Change Vulnerability - By Chandrakant Singh
The third IPCC report defines climate change vulnerability as "the degree to which a region is susceptible to, and unable to cope with, adverse effects of climate change, including climate variability and extremes". Climate change is already occurring and impacting natural ecosystems and human societies. Climate change and climate variability are adversely impacting both biophysical systems (mountains, rivers, forests, wetlands, etc.) and socio-economic systems (hill communities, coastal communities, agriculture, animal
Governor vs Speaker: Tussle of Power and Constitutional Morality - By Satish Kumar Karna
The credibility of democracy depends on how its institutions work in practice. At the same time, the sustainability of democracy depends not only on the constitutional principles but also on constitutional morality and constitutional propriety. As defined by Ambedkar, constitutional morality refers to the conventions and protocols that govern decision-making where the constitution vests discretionary power or is silent. In the last six years, the legal-political tussle for power between
Deepak Kumar - Rank–10 AIR - BPSC
C.S.C.: Heartiest congratulations to you from Civil Services Chronicle for your success. How are you feeling about it? Deepak Kumar: Thanksa lot. It really feels special to get the first choice post. It seems the years of labour paid back. There is a feeling of gratitude towards all who supported me in this long journey. C.S.C.: What inspired you for becoming a BPS officer? Whom do you give credit for your success? What is the role of family and others (teacher, friends) in your preparation and success? Deepak Kumar: The work done by various IPS officers in public field and especially in my district has inspired me to come in this field. Recent work of Harprit Kaur madam, the work of Paresh Saxena sir and work of IAS Kundan Kumar sir inspired me a lot. The credit of my success goes to Mami-Papa, my elder brother (Arun Kumar), my respected teachers who have not been merely teachers but the guiding principles (like Sarvesh Sir, Lalit Sir), Shubhash Chandra Bhaiya (IRS), and my close friends. Role of family remained vital in supporting me with all the resources they can. Teachers and friends played very important role in making preparation, selecting right resources and directing my preparation in right direction. C.S.C.:What strategy one should follow for preparing General Studies Prelims & Mains? Did you integrate your Prelims and Mains preparation or was it separate? Deepak Kumar: Analyze the syllabus, previous years question paper and understand the demand of exam. Map the areas form where questions are being asked again and again, and prepare for that area based on its importance form exam perspective. Aspirants should have a basic and pragmatic calculation of marks they need to score in various papers to get the desirable rank and post. Choose optional wisely.Preparation of prelims and Mains in an integrated way was my strategy.Whatever facts & figures, standard books I studied for prelims, I used those concepts, facts and figures for mains as well. It helped me saving time and fruitful utilization of knowledge I gained through prelims preparation. C.S.C.:How much time did you devote for Prelims, Mains, Interview, and Optional? How did you manage your time in both Prelims and Mains examinations? Deepak Kumar: Since I have prepared Civil Services twice and qualified its prelims two times, I just prepared for Bihar special – mostly form Crown Publication books, then current affair from Bihar Samgrah, and science portion form Lucent General Knowledge. All this I covered in 20 days. For Mains, apart from standard books for civil services exam, I went through the book by Sarvesh sir for Bihar specific approach. Answer writing in Sarvesh sir Test series for BPSC helped me a lot in Mains and discussion of test was really helpful. For optional, I followed IMS study material both for UPSC and BPSC with some selected books like Malik and Arora, books of Krishna Series. In BPSC, questions are relatively easy and IMS materials are enough for preparation. For interview, I attended Mock Test of Sarvesh sir, in 63rd BPSC I also attended the mock of Patanjali IAS and Dristi IAS. C.S.C.:What was your optional? What was the basis of selecting this optional? Deepak Kumar: Math was my optional subject as I enjoy this subject since my school days. It also gave me window to study non-humanity subject. So, a balance between Math and GS helped in continuing my study for long. C.S.C.:How did you prepare for interview? How should one prepare for the interview? DeepakKumar: I prepared for interview on general terms like about myself: educational background, optional, why in public service, hometown/village, about Bihar, and potential and issues state is facing. Current affair is particularly important and questions are asked on the issues trending at the time of interview. One must be ready for logical questions rather than factual questions. One should try to be apolitical and stick to constitutional provisions. C.S.C.:What is the importance of coaching in the preparation of exam? Deepak Kumar: I particularly didn’t attend class room program of any coaching institute. But, for test series of good quality like that of Sharthak Samwad for BPSC is very helpful,and test discussion is even more important. Writing GS test series in exam mode helps in developing answer writing approach. C.S.C.:What is your source of preparation? Which books, magazines, newspapers and online sources were used by you during preparation? Deepak Kumar: Some youtube channels like Mrunal helped mein developing the basic understanding of history, geography and economics. After that, I read basic books for Civil services like – Lakshmikant for polity, Spectrum for history. For BPSC, special Sarthak Samwad books on Hisotry,Polity and economics are really helpful. C.S.C.:Suggest book list for preparing Prelims, GS & CSAT and Mains Paper 1 to 4 and Essay. Deepak Kumar: Book list for Prelims: Lucent (especially for Science), Crown Publication – Introduction of Bihar or Bihar ek Parichay (Imtiyaz Ahmad), Bihar Samagrh for current; For Mains: Selected topics form Lakshmi kant and Spectrum, and Sarthak Samwad. Along with this, newspaper-The Hindu or Indian Express are very
Kirti - Rank–1 AIR - Gujarat Judicial Services Examination - 2020
C.S.C: Achieving top slot in the Judicial Services Examination is no small feat, accept our heartiest congratulations on your splendid success.Kirti: Thank you so much. Much obliged. C.S.C: Describe the exact moment when you came to know about the importance of Judicial Services? Kirti: It was after I visited a court for the first time and witnessed the fame and respect received by the Judicial Officers. C.S.C: Many candidates have set impressions about Interview Boards. Do you consider such thoughts help or hinder one’s performance in Interview? Kirti: No, not at all, since the Board is there to select and not to reject candidates. One should focus on his own personality, legal knowledge and work on building own confidence instead of setting impressions about the Interview Board. C.S.C: What was your first step when you were really serious about making a career in Judicial Services? Kirti: I joined Ambition Law Institute, Delhi which I consider to be my first step towards my journey. C.S.C: In how many attempts have you achieved this success? How do you visualize your preparation/previous attempts? Kirti: This was my fourth attempt. I was used to analyse each attempt and tried to make amends in the next attempt. C.S.C: Were you preparing for other career opportunities as well while preparing for your ultimate goal i.e. Career in Judicial Services? Kirti: No, I prepared for the Judicial Service only and wanted to focus on it. I thought that my best efforts would come out only when I dedicate better part of time to preparation. C.S.C: While the changing economic environment offers immense lucrative career opportunities in various sectors, still what kept you motivated towards Judicial Services? Kirti: The dignity of this post, opportunity to serve the society, and my family’s support kept me motivated. C.S.C: What’s important and what’s not? Share your thoughts and opinions. Kirti: Most important thing is to have faith in ourselves despite of many unsuccessful attempts. Secondly, patience is very important. Surround yourself with people who motivate you and stay away from negative thoughts. C.S.C: ‘Time Management’ is a key factor while making preparations as well as in writing examination papers. Did you come across such a problem during this period? If yes, then how did you manage things? Kirti: Definitely,while I was in Ambition Law Institute, Alok Sir always told us to focus on answer writing.Answers should be specific and must also be done in a time bound manner. In Ambition Law Institute, we used to get a topic daily for answer writing, which certainly helped me during Main preparation because through that I did daily exercise of answer writing. I had covered quite a number of topics already. C.S.C: List some of the Magazines, Newspapers, Books, etc. which you read for ‘General Studies’ preparation. Kirti: For magazine, I studied Civil Services Chronicle and for newspapers, I read The Hindu as well as Indian Express. C.S.C: How did you prepare for the Interview? How was the interview Board? How did your interview go on, how much time it lasted? Kirti: My strategy was to be thorough with the Law subjects and also be aware of recent judgments of the Supreme Court and High Courts. I also did research about the latest amendments.My interview board was very polite and my interview went well. It lasted for about 10 minutes. C.S.C: What is the importance of medium of language for exams like JSE? Kirti: It doesn’t really matter if one has good command over his language. C.S.C: According to a recent report published by a reputed survey agency, Civil Services Chronicle is the largest read Career & Competition magazine. What is your opinion? Kirti: So true, I along with my other fellow aspirants highly relied upon Civil Services Chronicle for GS preparation. C.S.C:To whom would you like to give the credit for your success? Kirti: My parents, they constantly supported me throughout my journey. I believe that god has been very kind to us. I would also like to thank Ambition Law Institute for guiding me through this journey. C.S.C:Any suggestion/advice you would like to give to the future aspirants. Kirti: Never give up. Keep working hard and have faith in your preparation. Hard work always pays off. C.S.C: Thank you very much and wishing you all the best for your future
Essay
The Idea of Self-Reliant India
Winner- Monika Dash (Nalco Nagar, Angul, Odisha) The basic thrust for any species around the world is to make their offspring self-reliant. The birds teach their nestlings to spread the wings and gather food, human teach their young ones from birth till the time they are old enough to earn a living by providing them food, shelter, education, and guidance all through the growing age. This pattern is followed among families, communities, societies, and nations at large. Today the whole world is facing unprecedented turmoil – the Covid19 pandemic that has made the people and resources around the world struggle collectively with
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IFFCO to Launch Nano Urea Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO) will launch Nano Urea in the market shortly. 500-ml Nano Urea, which costs 240 rupees, is equivalent to 45kg of normal urea. Nano Urea is environment friendly and cuts the input cost of the farmers by 15 percent. Apart from enriching the
Agriculture
Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture
On 10th May, 2021, the government in order to promote the growth of the horticulture sector in the country provided an enhanced allocation of Rs. 2250 Crore for the year 2021-22 towards Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH). About MIDH Launched in 2014, it is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for the
Large Area Certification Scheme
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare announced that around 14,491 hectares of land in Andaman and Nicobar Islands have been certified as organic. This is the first large contiguous territory to be certified under government scheme. The organic certification was provided under the Large Area Certification Scheme of the Participatory
Horticulture Cluster Development Programme
On 1st June, 2021, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare launched the Horticulture Cluster Development Programme (CDP) in order to promote the export of horticultural produce across the country. Objective To create cluster-specific brands to enhance the competitiveness of cluster crops To leverage geographical specialisation and promote integrated and market-led development of
Government Policy
Indian Insurance Companies (Foreign Investment) Amendment Rules 2021
On 20th May, 2021, the Finance Ministry formally notified the amendment to the Indian Insurance Companies (Foreign Investment) Rules, 2015 and clarified on the final rules for increasing the foreign direct investment limit in the insurance sector to 74% from the existing 49%. It is to be noted that the Parliament
CBDT notifies Threshold for Significant Economic Presence
On 3rd May, 2021, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) notified a threshold for Significant Economic Presence (SEP). This will come into effect from the 1st April 2022. Key Points The threshold of aggregate payment of Rs. 2 crores and user base of 3 lakhs seems quite low considering the user base
SEBI Proposed Framework for Gold Exchange in India
On 17th May, 2021, the Securities and Exchange Board of India(SEBI) issued a Consultation Paper detailing the proposed framework for the Gold Exchange in India and the draft SEBI (Vault Managers) Regulations, 2021 for regulating the gold exchange-related business of the Vault Managers. Objective To institutionalise a framework for operationalizing the regulated
Government Extends Emergency Credit Scheme for MSMEs
On 30th May, 2021, as a part of its push to bolster the economy amid the second Covid wave, the Union Government expanded the scope of the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) to provide more relief to small businesses. The following amendments and inclusions have been made under the Emergency
Infrastructure
India Energy Dashboards Version 2.0
On 12th April, 2021, NITI Aayog launched India Energy Dashboards (IED) Version 2.0. The Version 1.0 in May 2017. About IED NITI Aayog’s India Energy Dashboards (IED) aims to provide single-window access to the energy data in the country. It aims to provide interesting visualisation of data to get an intuitive understanding of
Industry
Reclassification of Promoters by SEBI
On 11th May, 2021, markets regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) proposed to rationalise the definition of 'promoter group' and move to the concept of 'person in control' as well as reduce the minimum lock-in periods. Objective The objective behind introducing the amendments was to streamline the process as multiple
Model Insurance Villages
On 3rd May, 2021, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) suggested setting up model insured villages across the country to increase insurance penetration in rural areas with special focus on agriculture and allied activities. Objective The idea behind the model village concept is to offer comprehensive insurance protection to
Reports & Indices
RBI’s Annual Report 2020-21
On 27th May, 2021, the Reserve Bank of India released its Annual Report 2020-21. Major Highlights Value of Rupee The rupee gained by 3.5 per cent (based on USD/rupee closing rates as at end-March 2021 over end-March 2020) but underperformed vis-a-vis its Asian peers during 2020-21. RBI Balance Sheet The size of the RBI balance
SEBI Technical Group’s Report on “Social Stock Exchanges”
On 6th May, 2021, a technical group on Social Stock Exchanges (SSEs), constituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) submitted its report to the government. Background Pursuant to announcement made by the Finance Minister in her budget speech for FY 2019-20 regarding Social Stock Exchanges, SEBI had constituted a
Asian Development Outlook 2021
Asian Development Bank (ADB) has released Asian Development Outlook report for 2021. Key Highlights India Specific The Indian economy is projected to grow at 11% in the current financial year (which ends on March 31, 2022) amid the “strong” vaccine drive. However, the recent surge in COVID cases may put the country’s economic recovery
News Bytes
Draft Rules for Road-Trains
On 23rd April, 2021, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highwayshas issued draft standards for road-trains. About Draft rules for Road-Trains To revolutionize the transport of goods and reduce the overall logistic costs, the Automotive Industry Standards Committee has amended its AIS-113 Standard to include the safety requirements of Road-Trains and
On Tap Licenses for Banks
On 15th April, 2021, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released the names of applicants under the Guidelines for ‘on tap’ Licensing of Universal Banks and Small Finance Banks. The last time RBI handed out universal bank licenses was in 2014 when it allowed IDFC and Bandhan. This comes weeks after
Di-ammonium Phosphate
Due to a hike in fertiliser prices by the companies, the government announced an increase in subsidy for di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) fertilisers from Rs 500 per bag (50-kg) to Rs 1,200 per bag. About DAP It is one of a series of water-soluble ammonium phosphate salts that can be produced when
Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules 2011
Considering the present pandemic situation of COVID-19 and for meeting the demand of medical devices, government has permitted the importers of medical devices to import the following categories medical devices for three months from 28.04.2021 onwards. The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, make it mandatory to get the approvals prior
Dip in Revenue Receipts
The government is facing a second year of revenue shortfalls due to the resurgence of the coronavirus and the subsequent localised lockdowns. Key Points Moody’s Investors Service slashed its 2021-22 economic growth forecast for India from 13.7% to 9.3%. The biggest toll of the second Covid-19 wave is demand shock—loss of mobility, lower
Kharif Strategy 2021
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has adopted Kharif Strategy 2021, to achieve self-sufficiency in the production of oilseeds. About It is an ambitious plan for the free distribution of high yielding varieties of seeds to the farmers for the Kharif season 2021 in the form of more than 8
India Recorded highest ever FDI Inflow
India recorded highest ever FDI inflow of over $81 billion in FY21. 10% more than what was received in the year before, with Singapore, US and Mauritius being the top investors. Reasons Steps taken to improve ease of doing business and to attract investments into domestic manufacturing capacity. An ambitious infrastructure project pipeline. Major Investing
News Snippets
In Focus
NITI Aayog’s Report on Connected Commerce
On 10th May, 2021, NITI Aayog released a report titled ‘Connected Commerce: Creating a Roadmap for a Digitally Inclusive Bharat. It aims to promote digital financial inclusion, and confidence in electronic payments. Background Based on five roundtable discussions held in October and November 2020, the report highlights key issues and opportunities, with inferences
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Section 142 of the Code on Social Security Notified Section 142 of the Social Security Code, 2020 has been notified by Ministry of Labour & Employment covering applicability of Aaadhar. The notification of section will enable Ministry of Labour and Employment to collect Aaadhar details for the database of beneficiaries under
Legislative
Re-Nomination to Rajya Sabha
Recently, former journalist Swapan Dasgupta, who had resigned from Rajya Sabha, has been renominated to the upper house of parliament by the government to complete his remainder term. This has created a constitutional debate as whether the renomination is constitutional or not. Constitution on Re-Nomination Article 80(1)(a) of the Constitution, read with Article
Section 51 of Disaster Management Act, 2005
Recently, former Chief Secretary of West Bengal was served a show cause notice by the Union Home Ministry under Section 51 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005. The notice was served for failing to comply with the Centre’s directions to attend the review meeting on Cyclone ‘Yaas’ chaired by the Prime
The Tribunals Reforms (Rationalization and Conditions of Service) Ordinance, 2021
The Tribunals Reforms (Rationalisation and Conditions of Service) Ordinance, 2021 was promulgated on April 4, 2021. It dissolves certain existing appellate bodies (as mentioned in table below) and transfers their functions (such as adjudication of appeals) to other existing judicial bodies. Transfer of functions of key appellate bodies as proposed under
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY) 3.0
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY) has been reintroduced for two months (May and June) to ameliorate the hardships faced by the poor and needy due to various disruptions caused by the resurgence of COVID-19 in the country. It was launched to supply free food grains to migrants and poor
Haryana State Employment of Local Candidates Act, 2020
The Haryana state assembly recently passed the Haryana State Employment of Local Candidates Act, 2020. The Act seeks to reserve 75% of new jobs for local candidates in various companies, societies, trusts, and limited liability partnership firms situated in the state of Haryana. This reservation will be for local candidates
SWAMITVA Scheme
Recently, the Union Minister of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj has issued guidelines regarding the SVAMITVA scheme. The scheme was launched on the National Panchayati Raj Day (April 24). About the Scheme SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas) scheme is a collaborative effort of the Ministry
UAPA (Unlawful Activities [Prevention] Act), 1967
The Ministry of Home Affairs has stated that there was over 72% rise in number of UAPA (Unlawful Activities [Prevention] Act) cases in 2019 compared to 2015. About UAPA The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 was enacted to provide for more effective prevention of certain unlawful activities of individuals and associations, and
Executive
NITI Aayog’s SDG Index
Recently, NITI Aayog released the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) index 2020-21. About NITI Aayog’s SDG Index The NITI Aayog’s SDG index evaluates the progress of States and Union Territories on various parameters including health, education, gender, economic growth, institutions, climate change and environment. The SDG India Index 2020–21, developed in collaboration with the
Gram Unnat-Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA) Programme
Recently, the Government has launched the Gram UJALA Programme – an ambitious scheme offering the world’s cheapest LED bulbs in rural areas at a mere Rs. 10. About the Programme Coverage In its first phase launched from Arrah in Bihar, 15 million LED bulbs will be distributed across villages of 5 districts -
Judiciary
Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991
The Supreme Court of India has 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 1947 — except in the
Supreme Court on Maratha Reservation Law
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 of those issues, while the verdict was
Social Issues
Global Gender Gap (GGG) Report
Recently, World Economic Forum (WEF) released Global Gender Gap Report 2021. About GGG Report Global Gender Gap Index was first introduced by the WEF in 2006 as a framework to benchmark progress on disparities between women and men across countries, and over time. Global Gender Gap Index measures scores on a 0 to
Swachh Survekshan (SS) 2021
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) recently launched the field assessment of Swachh Survekshan (SS) 2021, the sixth edition of the annual cleanliness survey conducted by the Government of India. About SS SS was introduced in 2016 as a competitive framework to encourage cities to improve the status of
Commitment to Reduce Inequality Index 2020
Government of India (Minister of Employment and Labour) has recently slammed 2020 Commitment to Reducing Inequality (CRI) Index, which placed India at rank 151 in terms of workers’ rights and 129 overall out of 158 countries. Ministry contended that methodology does not take into account the various provisions that have been
Highest Demand under MGNREGA
Amid the surge in Covid-19 cases, about 2 crore families across the country availed of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) in April—80% higher than the corresponding figure last year, according to the data on the MGNREGA’s website. Important Facts The data, reported by states till May 9, shows
Art And Culture
Kumbh Mela
Recently, Kumbh Mela was organized amid rising COVID 19 cases and surging 2nd wave of COVID 19. It has brought the largest pilgrimage function to the spotlight. About Kumbh Mela Kumbh Mela is a mass congregation of pilgrims who gather to take a bath/dip (Shahi Snan) in a sacred river. People from
New Indian Sites added to Tentative List of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites
Six Indian sites have been added to the tentative list of UNESCO’s 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 sites are – Satpura Tiger Reserve (Madhya Pradesh) Iconic Riverfront/Ghats of the historic city of Varanasi
News Bytes
Women and Men in India Report 2020
Recently, National Statistical Office released the Women and Men in India report, 2020. Key Findings Population Related Statistics India’s projected population in 2021 is 136.13 Crore with 48.65% female population. The projected sex ratio is likely to increase from 943 in 2011 to 948 in 2021. Sex ratio at birth was 899 in 2016-18 against
World Press Freedom Index, 2021
Reporters Without Borders or Reporters Sans Frontieres (RSF) recently released the annual World Freedom Index, 2021. The index ranks 180 countries, topped by Norway followed by Finland and Denmark. Important Findings Journalism, the main vaccine against disinformation, is completely or partly blocked in 73% of the 180 countries. Only 12 of the Index’s
Native Languages
Recently, the Vice President elaborated on the importance of strong foundational skills in native languages in the initial years of informal learning at home. Constitution on Native Languages 8th Schedule of the Constitution: It lists the official languages of the country. Initially, there were 14 languages listed in the schedule, it now
News Snippets
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Article 164(4) It states, "A Minister who for any period of six consecutive months is not a member of the Legislature of the State shall at the expiration of that period cease to be a minister”. In short, Article 164(4) provides a restriction for a non-legislator Minister (including Chief Minister) to continue
In Focus
Rural Health Statistics
Recently, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare released the ‘Rural Health Statistics’ report 2019-20. Rural Health Statistics is an annual publication based on the Health Facility level data reported by the States/UTs. Important Figures As on 31st March 2020, there are 155404 and 2517 Sub Centres (SC), 24918 and 5895 Primary Health
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Rwanda Genocide: French Prez recognises France’s Responsibility French President Emmanuel Macron, in a visit to Rwanda, recognised France’s responsibility in the 1994 Rwandan genocide. His comments came during a solemn speech at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where 2,50,000 victims of the mass killings are buried. Macron said that only Rwandans could forgive
World Issues
Mali Suspended from African Union
On 30th May, 2021, West African leaders suspended Mali from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) bodies after a second coup by the Malian military. The suspension from ECOWAS takes immediate effect until the deadline of the end of February 2022 when they are supposed to hand over to
Currency Swap between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka
On 26th May, 2021, Bangladesh Bank, Bangladesh’s central bank approved a $200 million currency swap agreement with Sri Lanka, which will help Colombo tide over its foreign exchange crisis. Key Points Sri Lanka, staring at an external debt repayment schedule of $4.05 million in 2021 is in urgent need of foreign exchange.
China’s Three-Child Policy
On 31st May, 2021, China announced that married couples may have up to three children - in a major shift from a limit of two after recent data showed a dramatic decline in births in the world’s most populous country. Need China had a fertility rate of just 1.3 children per woman
US Opposes Militarization of Artic
On the eve of an Arctic Council meeting of Foreign Ministers, the US has expressed concerns about increased military activities in the Arctic. This comes after Russia defended its military activities in the strategic region. Potential Concerns As climate change makes the Arctic more accessible, interest in the region's natural resources, its navigation
Permanent Commission Proposed For Israel Human Rights Violations
On 28th May, 2021, Member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) called on the U.N. Human Rights Council to set up a permanent commission to report on human rights violations in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank. About the Proposed Commission A special session of the council was held to
Lithuania quits China’s 17+1 Cooperation
On 23rd May, 2021, Lithuania announced that it is quitting the China-led “17+1” grouping by blaming the platform ‘divisive’ from the European Union’s perspective. The Baltic country urged fellow EU members to pursue “a much more effective 27+1 approach and communication with China.” About 17+1 Initiative The 17+1 (China and Central and Eastern
India-Australia Meeting
On 1st June, 2021, India and Australia reviewed cooperation in various sectors. Key Highlights Agriculture Sector The India-Australia Grains Partnership aims to use Australia’s expertise in post-harvest management to strengthen rural grain storage and supply chains so as to reduce losses and wastage. National Institute of Agricultural Marketing will be the nodal organisation from
India And Its Bilateral Relations
Project DANTAK
On 24th April, 2021, Border Roads Organisation’s (BRO) project DANTAK completed 60 years in Bhutan. About Project DANTAK It was established on April 24, 1961 as a result of the visionary leadership of His Majesty the Third King and then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. DANTAK was tasked to construct the pioneering motorable
India backs Maldives’s candidature for UNGA President
India has decided to vote in support of Maldives’ Foreign Minister at the election for the President of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for 2021-22 period. This time the UNGA head will be chosen from the Asia-Pacific grouping. By joining the Indian Ocean Regional Association, rejoining the Commonwealth three years after
First BRICS Employment Working Group Meeting
On 13th May, 2021, India hosted the first BRICS Employment Working Group (EWG) Meeting in virtual format. India has assumed BRICS Presidency in January, 2021. Apart from representatives of member nations, i.e Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, the representatives of International Labour Organization (ILO) and International Social Security Agency (ISSA)
International Organisations
Asian Development Bank
Indian Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister, who is the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) Governor for India, recently participated in the Governors’ Seminar on “Cooperation for a Resilient Future”, held as part of ADB’s annual meeting 2021. India appreciated the ADB for providing timely financial support for Covid and non-Covid projects. About ADB ADB
G7 Foreign Ministers Summit
On 4th May, 201, Foreign Ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) countries (USA, UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan) held a meeting in London, UK. India is not a G7 member but was invited by Britain to this summit, along with Australia, South Africa and South Korea. Outcomes US pledged
Reports
World Employment and Social Outlook Report 2021
On 3rd June, 2021, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) has released the annual World Employment and Social Outlook: Trends 2021 (WESO) report. About WESO Report The report analyses key labour market issues including unemployment, labour under-utilisation, working poverty, income inequality, labour income share and factors that exclude people from decent work. It highlights
World Energy Investment Report 2021
On 4th June, 2021, the International Energy Agency (IEA) published the World Energy Investment Report, 2021. About the Report It examines how investors are assessing risks and opportunities across all areas of fuel and electricity supply, efficiency and research and development against a backdrop of a recovery in global energy demand as
News Bytes
Herero and Nama Genocide
Recently, Germany has officially recognized genocide against the Herero and Nama people in present-day Namibia during its colonial rule over a century ago. About Herero and Namaqua Genocide It was the first genocide of the 20th century waged by the German Empire against the Herero (Ovaherero), the Nama, and the San in
Digital Border
On 24th May, 2021, the United Kingdom (UK) Home Office launched a scheme to create a digital border as part of its plans for immigration reform. Background The Home Office originally launched an e-Borders programme in 2003, aiming to improve the use of information to track people across borders but failed to
China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Trilateral Dialogue
On 3rd June, 2021, June, China, Afghanistan and Pakistan jointly held the Fourth China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Trilateral Foreign Ministers' Dialogue virtually. Key Points The three sides commended the progress in trilateral cooperation since the Third Dialogue held in Islamabad on September 7, 2019, and underscored their readiness to further deepen and expand their cooperation
E9 Countries
On 6th April, 2021, India attended a consultation meeting of Education Ministers of E9 countries on the theme 'E9 initiative: Scaling up digital learning to accelerate progress towards SDG-4. About E9 Countries E9 is a forum of nine countries, namely Bangladesh, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Nigeria and Pakistan that aims
8888 Uprising
It was a series of nationwide protests, marches and civil unrest in Burma (Myanmar) that peaked in August 1988. Columns of demonstrators from all walks of life stood united under the emblem of the fighting peacock which would go on to become a powerful symbol of democracy in the country.
Ukraine Bid to Join NATO
Recently, Ukrainian President urged the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to speed up his country’s membership in the alliance. Ukraine hopes to be invited this year to join a NATO Membership Action Plan (MAP). Relations between Ukraine and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) started in 1994. Ukraine applied to begin a
In Focus
G-7 agrees to 'Historic' Global Minimum Corporate Tax Rate
On 5th June, 2021, finance ministers from the G7 nations reached a landmark – backing the creation of a global minimum corporate tax rate of at least 15%, an agreement that could then form the basis of a worldwide deal. The decision was taken at the G7 Leaders' Summit held from
PIB CORNER
PIB Corner
Sun Halo The people in Bengaluru and Hyderabad witnessed a bright rainbow ring around the Sun for a few minutes recently, a rare optical and atmospheric phenomenon. The phenomenon popularly known as the ‘22 degree circular halo’ of the Sun or occasionally the Moon (also called a Moon ring or winter halo),
Astronomy
Evolution of the Milky Way: New Insights
A recent study led by researchers at Ohio State University has provided the latest evidence into the formation of the Milky Way galaxy, including the merger with a key satellite galaxy. Milky Way and Gaia-Enceladus: The Merger The researchers used different approaches and data sources for their study, including a spectroscopic survey
New Study on 3-D Distribution of Molecular and Atomic Hydrogen in Andromeda Galaxy
A researcher from Raman Research Institute (RRI), Bengaluru, has estimated the three-dimensional distribution of molecular and atomic hydrogen in the Andromeda galaxy. The findings can lead to clues to the star formation processes and the evolution of galaxies. Context of the Research Galaxies - like the Milky Way - consist of discs
Study Sheds New Light on Big Bang Theory
Recently, a team of scientists from the Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, investigated what happened to a specific kind of plasma - the first matter ever to be present during the first microsecond of Big Bang. Their findings offer crucial insights on the evolution of the universe. Key Highlights As per
Space Organisations
Solar Orbiter Captures First Coronal Mass Ejection
In its first, the SoloHI instrument onboard the European Space Agency and NASA’s Solar Orbiter recently captured the first sight of coronal mass ejection (CME) from the Sun. Solar Orbiter Heliospheric Imager (SoloHI) instrument watches the solar wind, dust and cosmic rays that fill the space between the Sun and the
China’s Zhurong Rover Lands on the Red Planet
On 14th May, 2021, the Zhurong rover and lander onboard the Tianwen-1 spacecraft landed successfully on the Martian surface, marking a historic milestone in China’s interplanetary space exploration journey. It also sent back first images from the surface of Mars. With the successful touchdown, China is now the second nation to
Parker Solar Probe discovers Natural Radio Emission in Venusian Atmosphere
In what was the first direct measurement of the Venusian atmosphere in nearly 30 years, NASA’s Parker Solar Probe, during a brief swing by Venus, detected a natural radio signal that revealed the spacecraft had flown through the planet’s upper atmosphere. Researchers had last obtained direct measurements of Venus’ ionosphere from
OSIRIS-Rex heads back Home with Asteroid Sample
On 10th May, 2021, NASA’s Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security, Regolith Explorer (OSIRIS-REx) spacecraft started its journey back to Earth with a bountiful sample of rocks and dust from the near-Earth asteroid Bennu. OSIRIS-Rex Mission Launched on 8th September, 2016, OSIRIS-REx is NASA’s asteroid study and sample return mission. American firm
New NASA Missions to Study Venus
NASA has selected two new missions to Venus, Earth’s nearest planetary neighbour. A part of NASA’s Discovery Program, the missions aim to understand how Venus became an inferno-like world when it has so many other characteristics similar to ours – and may have been the first habitable world in the solar
New Initiatives
National Programme on Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery Storage
Recently, the Union Cabinet approved the proposal of Department of Heavy Industry (Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises) for implementation of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme 'National Programme on Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery Storage.’ Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) ACCs are new generation advanced storage technologies that can store electric
MeitY Launches Three New Initiatives
Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, recently inaugurated three path breaking initiatives for National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI). With this launch, NIXI, along with Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and MeitY, will play a supporting role for the IPv6 awareness and adoption in the country. IP Guru:
Biosciences/Biotechnology
Optogenetic Therapy restores Partial Vision in Blind Patient
In a major breakthrough, scientists have partially restored vision in a blind patient using optogenetic therapy. The patient was suffering from retinitis pigmentosa, a rare, inherited degenerative eye disease where the loss of photoreceptors can lead to complete blindness. This is the first case of partial functional recovery in a
WHO and Switzerland Launch First BioHub Facility
On 25th May, 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) and Switzerland signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch a BioHub facility that will allow rapid sharing of pathogens between laboratories and partners to facilitate better analysis and preparedness against them. The facility is being established as part of the
Basic Sciences
New Theory by Indian Scientists Solves Mystery behind Complex Phenomena in Plasma
In a significant development, Indian scientists have recently come up with a theory that helps understand the complicated nature of Sun-Earth interactions occurring in Earth’s magnetosphere - an area of space around Earth that is controlled by the Earth’s magnetic field. Background NASA's expedition to unlock the complicated nature of Sun-Earth interactions
Defence And Security
Indian Navy designs Oxygen Recycling System
The Diving School of the Southern Naval Command of the Indian Navy has conceptualised and designed an Oxygen Recycling System (ORS) to help alleviate the current oxygen (O2) shortage in the country. The Diving School has expertise in this area as the basic concept is used in some of the
Israel’s Iron Dome Aerial Defence System
Israel’s Iron Dome aerial defence system was in news during the recent conflict between Israel and Palestine wherein both sides took to air strikes. Interceptor missiles from the Iron Dome successfully shot down hundreds of rockets fired from Gaza. The Iron Dome It is a multi-mission system capable of intercepting rockets, artillery,
News Bytes
Black Fungus Disease
Within a short span of time, the black fungus disease has become a serious public health menace in India. The number of persons catching the infection is constantly increasing at an alarming rate. Black fungus is a rare but serious fungal infection. It is also known as mucormycosis. Mucormycetes is
Indian Astronomers Develop New Method to Identify Cluster Stars
A team of Indian astronomers from Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) - an autonomous institute of the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India - has developed a new method based on Machine Learning that can identify cluster stars with a high degree of certainty. Cluster stars refer to
DRDO Lab develops Antibody Detection Kit ‘DIPCOVAN’
A laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) - Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences (DIPAS) - has developed an antibody detection-based kit 'DIPCOVAN', the DIPAS-VDx COVID-19 IgG Antibody Microwell ELISA for sero-surveillance. The kit has been developed in association with Vanguard Diagnostics Private Limited, New Delhi.
Perseverance Mars Rover Extracts Oxygen on Mars
Achieving a major milestone, the Mars Oxygen In-Situ Resource Utilization Experiment (MOXIE) aboard NASA's Perseverance rover was, for the first time, able to extract oxygen from the thin Martian atmosphere. MOXIE is a technology demonstrator and was designed to ensure the instrument survived the launch from Earth, a nearly seven-month
National Technology Day
India celebrated National Technology Day on 11th May, 2021. Since 1999, the day is being celebrated as National Technology Day. It is celebrated to commemorate various innovations and technological excellence achieved by the country. 11th May, 1998 happens to be an important day as it is on this day that
India’s 1st Reactor on PPP Model
The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) will construct the country’s first research reactor on public-private partnership (PPP) model.The research reactor, which will be designed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), will produce radioisotopes, and is expected to bring down the costs of nuclear medicine that is used in cancer treatment
News Snippets
NEWS SNIPPETS
2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG) It is an anti-COVID-19 drug, indigenously developed by the Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS) - a DRDO lab - in collaboration with Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories (DRL). Clinical trials have shown that 2-DG helps in faster recovery of hospitalised patients and
In Focus
Protein-Antibody Conjugates (PACs): A Major Breakthrough in Cancer Research
Recently, a team of scientists from the University of Massachusetts (U.S.) engineered a nanoparticle that has the potential to revolutionize treatment of ailments like cancer and many other incurable diseases. This new research combines two different approaches to drug delivery - biologics and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) - to produce nanoparticles called
PIB CORNER
PIB Corner
India has only one Hoolock Gibbon Species Fourteen years after reports noting that India has two separate species of the gibbon – the hoolock gibbon and the eastern hoolock gibbon – a genetic analysis by Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad has now proved that there is only one
Climate Change
Climate Breakthroughs Summit
On 27th May, 2021, the Climate Breakthroughs Summit was held virtually. During the summit, world leaders discussed and demonstrated progress in critical sectors of the global economy, including steel, shipping, green hydrogen and nature. About the Summit Climate Breakthroughs Summit is a collaboration between the World Economic Forum, Mission Possible Partnership, the
Global Annual to Decadal Climate Update
According to the Global Annual to Decadal Climate Update – recently released by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) - it is almost certain that before 2025, the global temperature will hit an all-time high. The report is produced by the United Kingdom’s Met Office, the WMO’s lead centre for annual
State of the Global Climate 2020 Report
Recently, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) released its ‘State of the Global Climate 2020’ report. The report highlighted the current global scenario with respect to some key climate indicators. Key Highlights The emission of major greenhouse gases increased in 2019 and 2020. It is estimated that their emission will be higher in
Flora And Fauna
WWF Report on Snow Leopard
On 17th May, 2021, the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF) released a report titled ‘Over 100 Years of Snow Leopard Research: A Spatially Explicit Review of the State of Knowledge in the Snow Leopard Range’. It highlights some critical gaps in our knowledge of the threatened big cat and
Forest Bird Species on the Decline in Western Himalaya
A new study - led by the Centre for Ecology, Development and Research (CEDAR), Dehradun - has noted that there was a drastic loss of bird species in all modified landscapes. The results were published recently in Global Ecology and Conservation. Key Findings of the Study The researchers analysed the natural oak-dominated
Biodiversity
India’s Deep Sea Fauna
A recent publication by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has revealed that India is home to 4,371 species of deep sea fauna, including 1,032 species under kingdom Protista and 3,339 species under kingdom Animalia. India’s Deep Sea Faunal Diversity The detailed findings have been recently published by the Ministry of Environment,
Global Forest Goals Report 2021
The Global Forest Goals Report 2021, prepared by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, was released recently. It is the first evaluation of where the world stands in implementing the United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests 2017-2030. Key Highlights As per the report, 1.6 billion people, i.e., 25% of
Policy/New Initiatives
National Mission on Use of Biomass in Coal Based Thermal Power Plants
The Ministry of Power, Government of India, is finalizing the details of a new National Mission on Use of Biomass in Coal Based Thermal Power Plants with the aim of addressing the issue of air pollution due to farm stubble burning and reducing the carbon footprint of coal based thermal
Sustainable Development
UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration
The United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration - a rallying call for the protection and revival of ecosystems all around the world for the benefit of people and nature – was launched on the eve of World Environment Day, 2021. Ecosystem Restoration It is defined as the process of reversing the
Investments in Nature-based Solutions need to triple by 2030 for Sustainable Development
On 27th May, 2021, the United Nations published a report, titled ‘State of Finance for Nature’. It looked into the current status and future need for investments in nature-based solutions (NbS) that are aimed at ensuring sustainable development. State of Finance for Nature: Key Findings The report was jointly produced by the
8th Global Nitrogen Conference
The 8th Global Nitrogen Conference was recently held virtually. The triennial conference is organized by the International Nitrogen Initiative (INI). The conference, scheduled to be held last year, was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Nitrogen Conference The event brings together stakeholders from around the world dealing with reactive nitrogen compounds
News Bytes
12th Clean Energy Ministerial and the Industrial Deep Decarbonisation Initiative
To promote industrial energy efficiency, India and the United Kingdom launched a new workstream under the Clean Energy Ministerial’s (CEM) Industrial Deep Decarbonisation Initiative (IDDI) at the 12th Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM12). The Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) is a high-level global forum to promote policies and programmes that advance clean
Global Warming Responsible for One-third of the World’s Heat Deaths
According to a new study that aimed to calculate the human cost of climate change, more than one-third of the world’s heat deaths each year are due directly to global warming. Scientists say even more people die from other extreme weather events amplified by global warming such as storms, flooding
Bryocrumia malabarica – New Species of Bryophyte
Bryocrumia malabarica is a new species of Bryophyte of the genus Bryocrumia that was recently discovered in Kerala. The term Bryophyte refers to any nonvascular seedless plant—namely, any of the mosses, hornworts and liverworts. Most bryophytes lack complex tissue organization, but show considerable diversity in form and ecology. They are widely
Blackbuck Population doubles in Odisha
The blackbuck population in Odisha has doubled in the last six years, according to the latest census data released recently by the forest department of the state. In Odisha, blackbucks (Antilope cervicapra) are confined to Balukhand-Konark coastal plain/wildlife sanctuary in Puri District and Balipadar-Bhetnoi and adjacent areas in Ganjam District. The
News Snippets
News Snippets
International Day for Biological Diversity It is celebrated every year on 22nd May; also known as ‘Biodiversity Day’. This year’s theme is: “We’re part of the solution”. It aims to create awareness among people and enhance efforts towards conserving biological diversity in land and waterscapes
In Focus
Protected Planet Report 2020: Equity and Effectiveness are Crucial Post-2020
Recently a report, titled ‘Protected Planet Report 2020’, was released by the United Nations. It assessed the progress the world has made towards the ambitious goals, known as Aichi Biodiversity Target 11, agreed to by countries in 2010 at the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity. The Report The 2020 edition provides
News Notes
Newsmakers
Antonio Guterres The UN Security Council has recommended Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for a second five-year term as chief of the world organisation beginning January 1, 2022. Last month, India had conveyed its support to Guterres for his candidature as chief of the world body for a second term beginning January 2022. Raul Castro Raul
On the Hot Seat
Abdulla Shahid Maldives’ Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid has been elected as President of the 76th session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly. The 193-member General Assembly voted on June 07, 2021, to elect the President, who will preside over the 76th session of the UN body that will start in September
Faces Only in Memory
Anerood Jugnauth Sir Anerood Jugnauth who served both as President and Prime Minister of Mauritius passed away on 3rd June 2021. Jugnauth was Mauritius' longest-serving prime minister and held the post for more than 18 years. He was conferred with the Padma Vibhushan award by India in 2020. Michael Collins One of three members
Places in News
Farzad-B Gas Field India on 17th May 2021 lost the ONGC Videsh Ltd-discovered Farzad-B Gas Field in the Persian Gulf after Iran awarded a contract for developing the giant gas field to a local company - Petropars Group. Malerkotla On May 14, 2021, Malerkotla was declared as the 23rd district of Punjab that
Miscellaneous
India elected to ECOSOC India along with 17 other countries has been elected to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for the 2022-24 term beginning on January 1, 2022. India was elected in the Asia-Pacific States Category along with Afghanistan, Kazakhstan and Oman. ECOSOC is one of the 6 main organs
World of Awards
World Food Prize 2021 Leading nutrition expert Dr. Shakuntala Haraksingh Thilsted, who descends from a family of Indian migrants to Trinidad and Tobago was announced as the 2021 World Food Prize Laureate for her achievements in pioneering fish-based food systems to improve nutrition, health and livelihoods for millions around the world. World
World of Sports
Boxing Asian Boxing Championship 2021 With 15 medals, the Indian boxing contingent achieved their best-ever show at the ASBC Asian Boxing Championships held in the UAE. The 19-member Indian contingent concluded the campaign with the highest-ever 15 medals including 2 gold, 5 silver and 8 bronze. All the boxers of the 10-member Indian
