Conservation of Coastal Ecosystems in India: Imperatives & Implications - By Satish Kumar Karna
Marine resources from Indian Ocean can serve as the backbone of India’s economic growth. Blue economy, through sustainable use of oceans, has great potential for boosting the economic growth of India.Recently the first National Conference on Sustainable Coastal Management in India was held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. It was focused on enhancing climate resilience of India’s coastal communities and discussion on steps that shall be taken towards coastal management. It brought
Energy Security in India Ensuring Access to Affordable, Reliable and Sustainable Energy for All - By Chandrakant Singh
There is huge potential for further growth in energy demand in India due to an expanding economy and the forces of urbanisation and industrialisation. There are, however, critical questions about how demand growth will be met and energy security will be ensured. As per India Energy Outlook 2021, published by International Energy Agency (IEA), India has been ranked third largest primary energy consumer in the world. Also, World Energy Outlook 2021 states
India’s Bioeconomy: An Untapped Treasure - By Deepika Singh
As the world witnesses climate change, the drive towards sustainable development is no longer an alternative, it is a necessity. Bioeconomy can help to achieve development in an environment-friendly manner and be a solution for societal challenges. India’s bioeconomy, valued at over USD 80 billion in 2021, is expected to reach USD 300 billion by 2030. Thus, India can reap the benefits of bioeconomy provided it overcomes the constraints and
Cooperatives: Crucial for Making India Self-reliant - By Sharmila Senthil Kumar
India will become the third-largest economy in the world by the end of the decade, with the cooperative sector playing a pivotal role. The government will help to set up two lakh new dairy cooperatives at the village level before the 2024. On 6th September, 2022 the Central Government announced the constitution of a 47-member committee, headed by former Union Cabinet Minister Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu, for drafting the National Cooperation
State of the Education Report for India: Artificial Intelligence in Education
On 20th September, 2022, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) launched its fourth edition of State of the Education Report for India: Artificial Intelligence in Education – Here, There and Everywhere. The aim of this report is to advocate for and provide guidance towards the responsible and human-centred application
Global Innovation Index 2022
On 29th September, 2022, the 15th edition of the Global Innovation Index (GII) was published by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), a specialized agency of the United Nations. The GII 2022 report was published by WIPO, in partnership with the Portulans Institute and with the support of its corporate partners
Preserving Progress on Nutrition in India: Poshan Abhiyan in Pandemic Times
Recently, NITI Aayog released the 4th progress report on the POSHAN (Prime Minister’s Overarching Scheme for Holistic Nutrition) Abhiyaan, titled “Preserving Progress on Nutrition in India: Poshan Abhiyaan in Pandemic Times.” The report covers the period from January to December 2020, which mostly coincides with the active implementation of mission activities. Major
United in Science 2022
Recently, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) released the United in Science 2022 report. The report provides an overview of the most recent science related to climate change, impacts and responses. It provides unified scientific information to inform decision-makers and highlights some of the physical and socioeconomic impacts of the current and
Utkarsh Dwivedi - 5thAIR - UPSC Civil Services Examination 2021
Utkarsh Dwivedi, AIR 5, CSE 2021, is an epitome of motivation for many civil service aspirants who dream of becoming an IAS officer despite the hurdles. Presenting to you here is an interview with Mr. Ayush Sinha, founder and director of Forum IAS and Utkarsh Dwivedi. Ayush: Utkarsh, a very warm welcome to you and congratulations for securing Rank 5 in CSE 2021. What was your reaction when you saw the results of CSE 2021? Also, what were you doing in Haridwar when the results came in? Utkarsh: Thank you sir. Initially, I was happy and later, the excitement subsided as reality set in that it is time for responsibility. This was my third attempt of CSE and every time I failed, I had no one except my mother to cry about it. So, I went to my relative’s place in Haridwar so that I may not be alone if something were to go wrong again. Ayush: Please tell us about your education and family background. Utkarsh: My family includes my parents and a younger sibling. I have had school education from all across the country and later pursued Mechanical Engineering from VIT, Vellore. I came to Delhi in 2018 for CSE preparation right after I finished my graduation. Ayush: What are your thoughts on people starting their CSE preparation during second and/or third year of graduation? Utkarsh: Though I started my formal preparation after graduation, the informal one started in college itself. It good that people become clear as to what they have to do in life but it is equally important to enjoy the college life instead of missing out on the days later. Ayush: What was your strategy for the preparation of Prelims? What study sources did you refer to? Utkarsh: I wrote a lot of tests. In fact I have been a part of Forum IAS’s Prelims Test Series ever since my first year of preparation. I have also recommended to lot of my friends. UPSC is not only about knowing everything; there will be times when one will have to work on their intuition to get an answer right. I stuck to limited reading sources like NCERT, spectrum, Laxmikant. I joined Forum for test series and by the time I appeared for the exam, I had already solved more than 10,000 questions. Ayush: Unlike the trend where students buy test series during their second attempt of CSE preparation, why did you take the subscription in the first year itself? Utkarsh: Solving questions at Forum helped me realize the areas I needed to work on. Therefore, taking test series is way more beneficial than going for market-available test papers where you can just know the score. Ayush: Despite solving number of test papers, students score somewhere between 60-70 marks. Since you have cleared Mains thrice, what in your opinion are the mistakes these students must have been making? Utkarsh: Solving questions is just one portion of the preparation; analysis of the answers is the second one. One needs to analyse the correct as well as the incorrect options to dig dipper into the topic and to avoid repeating mistakes during the next attempt. This approach also helps in option elimination in case of MCQs. Ayush: How many questions did you attempt for the prelims? Utkarsh: I attempted more than 90 questions because attempting less questions does not take one too far as the paper has become more dynamic and unpredictable. Ayush: How did you deal with CSAT since it has become a disqualifying paper for many students? Utkarsh: I myself scored much less than what I scored in 2020 and the year prior to that. In my opinion, it is best to solve all the previous years’ papers right from 2013 till date and join some program for practice. In areas like logical reasoning and maths, one should make notes on the tricks that would save time. Ayush: One month before the prelims, how did your day look like? Utkarsh: I used to give tests from morning till afternoon and kept the evenings for revision. I used to get good sleep, and often talked with friends to refresh my mind. I would suggest people to solve previous years’ papers in the last week. This will orient the brain to the actual examination pattern. Ayush: Which newspaper did you read and how much did you struggle in notes’ making? Utkarsh: I was always habitual of reading newspaper right from my college days. I read 3 newspapers, viz., The Hindu- Complete, The Indian Express- Editorial and explain page, and The Mint- primer, long story and editorial. Reading the newspaper helps in the Mains as well as during the interview. Ayush – Did you digitalize the notes or had hard copies for them? Utkarsh: I made hand-written notes during my first attempt. Later, I digitalized the notes using Evernote. Ayush: Did you have a specific hack for organizing your notes on Evernote? Utkarsh: I used ‘stacking’ method to organize my notes. I compiled different topics under their concerned subject and different subjects under their respective category (e.g. GS 1, GS 2 & so on). In this way, I had a notebook category-wise and subject-wise. Ayush: How was preparation of the Mains different from that of the Prelims? Utkarsh: In my opinion, both the exams require a different approach. For e.g. preparing notes on the same topic that can be asked in prelims and/or the Mains require an altogether different content. One thing that is inescapable and common for both the exams is practicing as many questions as possible. Ayush: In GS paper 1, questions rarely come from the topics Post-Independence History and World History. Would you recommend skipping these topics? Utkarsh: No, I would not advise to leave any topic as UPSC is unpredictable. One can never be sure how UPSC might frame paper the next time. Ayush: What was your approach for ‘Society’ & ‘Core Geography’? Utkarsh: I made notes of my own for ‘Society’ and also sought help from newspaper. For ‘Geography’, I referred NCERT and notes of the prelims. Ayush: How did you handle all the subjects under GS paper 3? Utkarsh: The students are unable to score
Shraddha Shukla - 15thAIR - Rajasthan Judicial Services Examination, 2021
CSC:Achieving top slot in the Judicial Services Examination is no small feat; accept our heartiest congratulations on your splendid success. Shraddha: Thank you. CSC:Can you recall the exact moment when you realized the importance of Judicial Services? Shraddha: From childhood, law always fascinated me as a tool which keeps our social and individual interest in a harmony and when I thought of pursuing it as a career, I got to know about Judiciary and what all it stands for. CSC:Finally, at what point of time did you make up your mind to make career in ‘Judicial Services’? Shraddha: In my 10th Standard, I decided that I would pursue law and go for Judicial Services. Since no one in my family has ever pursued law and me being of State Board topper in senior secondary exam (science stream), everyone expected me to pursue engineering or medicine; but I was confident about my decision. CSC: You must have read Toppers’ interviews in newspapers/magazines; what inspired you the most? Any particular success story which has influenced your journey to this result? Shraddha: Yes, I do read toppers’ interviews in newspapers/magazines and the thing that inspired me the most was their determination and hard work. One such story which inspired me was of Akanksha Tiwari Ma’am (Rank-1, UP Judicial Services 2018). CSC: Was JSE a planned decision or your parents’ wish? Did you keep in mind some time-frame for the preparation and number of attempts? Shraddha: It was my decision for which I had to convince my parents who were initially skeptical because I had no background in legal field but later on they firmly stood by me. I was not sure about the time-frame but I always desired to clear it in my very first attempt. CSC:What was your first step when you were really serious about making a career in Judicial Services? Shraddha: As I had already decided my goal during school days, I embarked upon that path. I joined Banaras Hindu University for BA.LL.B (Hons.) and after that I joined Ambition Law Institute for my preparation. CSC:Were you confident of your success in this examination and how did you react to this news of your success? Shraddha: I had a feeling that I would pass the exam but anxiety and fear before the result is a common tendency among all the aspirants. And after the results, it was like dream come true. I was filled with joy and my years of hard work had finally been paid off.CSC:Were you preparing for other career opportunities as well while preparing for your ultimate goal i.e. Career in Judicial Services? Shraddha: No, I was not preparing for other career opportunities. CSC:While the changing economic environment offers immense lucrative career opportunities in various sectors, still what kept you motivated towards Judicial Services? Shraddha: It was not a career opportunity for me but it was my dream to become a Judicial Officer which shaped my life accordingly; and I was not deviated by other things. CSC:'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? Shraddha: I used to divide the time to each subject according to its weightage in the examination. Mock papers helped me to overcome the problem of time management in writing mains. CSC:List some of the magazines, newspapers, books, etc. which you read for 'General Studies’ preparation. Shraddha: I referred Civil Services Chronicle, Indian Express, The Print, Live Law and Frontline. CSC:How did you prepare yourself for Interview? When and which Board did you face? How did your interview go on, how much time it lasted and what were the questions asked during the Interview? Shraddha: For Interview, I used to have discussions with my fellow aspirants on legal topics, jurisprudence and current scenarios. I faced Hon'ble Justice Sandeep Mehta's Panel. My Interview went on for 20-25 minutes. They asked me questions from law subjects and general awareness. CSC: What is the importance of medium of examination for exams like JSE? Shraddha: Since RJSE is conducted in both languages (Hindi and English), language is not a barrier; but one must choose the language in which he/she is comfortable. CSC: Does the educational, financial and demographic status of the family of an aspirant have any impact on the preparation? Shraddha: Yes, it does. The environment you grew up in, your cultural belongings and demography, etc. becomes part of your character and stays with you. CSC: According to a recent report published by reputed survey agency, Civil Services Chronicle is the largest read Career & Competition magazine. What is your opinion?Shraddha: I found Civil Services Chronicle very informative and precise. It helped me immensely in preparing the G.S. part of JSE. CSC: What is the secret of your success? Shraddha: Hard work, determination, supportive family and friends and healthy competitive spirit. CSC: To whom would you like to give the credit for your success? Shraddha: I would like to give the credit for my success to God, my family, friends and teachers & entire Team of Ambition. I want to extend my special gratitude to Mr. Alok Kumar Ranjan Sir (The Headmaster, Ambition Law Institute, Delhi). CSC: Tell us about some basic things an aspirant should give emphasis to? Shraddha: Writing Skills, Time Management, Conceptual Clarity and Learning Ability. CSC: Any suggestion/advice you would like to give to the future aspirants. Shraddha: Solve previous year questions and practice answer writing and read the Judgments of Hon'ble Supreme Court. CSC: Thank you very much and wishing you all the best for your future
Plans/Policies
National Logistics Policy
On17th September, 2022, the government released the National Logistics Policy. It seeks to address challenges faced by the transport sector and expedite the last-mile delivery while saving time and money for businesses. Need for Logistic Policy Highly Defragmented: India’s logistics sector is highly defragmented. Only, 10% of Indian logistics belongs to organized sector.
Banking And Finance
New Account Settlement System
On 1st October, 2022, the new account settlement system for the stock broking industry became operational. Settlement of Accounts The market regulator mandates stockbrokers to settle i.e., transfer the available credit balance from trading account to bank account, at least once in a quarter (90 days) or 30 days. The process of transferring
RBI removes Central Bank of India from PCA framework
Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) removed the Central Bank of India from its Prompt Corrective Action Framework (PCAF). The RBI had imposed the PCA norms on the Central Bank of India in June 2017 due to its high net NPA and negative return of assets (RoA). Reason of Removal The Bank
Agriculture
PM PRANAM Scheme
The Union government plans to introduce a new scheme - PM Promotion of Alternate Nutrients for Agriculture Management Yojana (PM PRANAM). Need for PM PRANAM Scheme According to government statistics, the combined demand for urea, MOP (Muriate of Potash), DAP (Di-Ammonium Phosphate) and NPKS (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) increased by 21% from
Asian Palm Oil Alliance
The apex edible oil industry associations from five major palm oil importing countries in Asia have come together for the first time to form an alliance -- Asian Palm Oil Alliance (APOA). APOA was launched during the Globoil Summit at Agra on 21 September 2022. The summit is one of the
Infrastructure
e-FAST - India’s First National Electric Freight Platform
On 8th September 2022, NITI Aayog, in collaboration with World Resources Institute (WRI), India, launched the country’s first national electric freight platform – e-FAST India (Electric Freight Accelerator for Sustainable Transport – India). Supported by the World Economic Forum, CALSTART and RMI India, the platform brings different stakeholders together, from across
REC Limited Joins Coveted 'Maharatna' Club
On 21st September, 2022, REC Ltd was accorded the status of a ‘Maharatna’ Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE). It is the 12th company to be given the Maharatna Status. About REC Incorporated in 1969, REC Limited, formerly Rural Electrification Corporation Limited, is a public Infrastructure Finance Company in India’s power sector. It comes
Miscellaneous
Kirit Parikh Committee for Reviewing of Gas Price Formula
Recently, the Centre set up a committee under noted energy expert Kirit Parikh to review the current gas pricing formula for domestically-produced gas to ensure “a fair price to the end consumer”. The panel has been asked to recommend a fair price to end-consumers and also suggest a market-oriented, transparent and
News Snippets
Goldilock Scenario
A Goldilocks scenario in an economy refers to an ideal situation where there is a steady growth. The economic growth is neither too high to trigger inflation and nor too low for a slowdown. In simple terms, in a goldilocks scenario, the economy is not expanding by a huge
Advance Tax
It is the income tax paid in advance for the income earned in a particular financial year. Usually, the tax is to be paid when the income is earned. As per section 208 of the Income Tax Act 1961, every person whose estimated tax liability for the year is
World’s First CNG Terminal
The world’s first compressed natural gas (CNG) terminal will be set up close to Gujarat’s Bhavnagar port. This large terminal can handle 1.5 million metric tonnes each year.The project will be supported by the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB), which is currently managing the Bhavnagar Port.
Fund of Funds for Startups
Fund of Funds is a multi-manager investment fund that helps the startups by reducing the risk of investing in bonds, stocks and other types of securities. The fund of funds can be domestic or international.The scheme allows the startups to be registered with DPIIT for tax benefits, easier compliance,
Coconut Development Board
It is a statutory body established by the government of India by an Act of Parliament (Coconut Development Board Act 1979) and came into existence in January 1981. Headquartered in Kochi, Kerala, It has regional offices in Bengaluru, Chennai, Guwahati and Patna. Thrust Areas - Production and distribution of
Board of Trade (BOT)
It has been reconstituted by merging Council for Trade Development and Promotion with Board of Trade in 2019. It advises the Government on policy measures connected with the Foreign Trade Policy in order to achieve the objectives of boosting India’s trade.It provides a platform to state governments and UTs for
AVGAS 100LL
AVGAS 100 LL is a special aviation fuel meant for piston engine aircrafts and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. Currently, India is importing this product from European countries. Indian Oil Corporation(IOC) has indigenously-produced AVGAS 100 LL at its Vadodara Refinery in Gujarat. It is a higher-octane Aviation fuel meeting the product
Polity & Governance
Revised National List of Essential Medicines 2022
On 13th September, 2022, the government published the revised National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM) 2022. The updated list has deleted 26 drugs from the previous one and added 34 drugs, increasing the list to 384 drugs. Need The revisions are done keeping in mind the changing profile of diseases in the country,
Centre Bans Export of Sensitive Maps and Geospatial Data
On 23th September, 2022, the government released a list of economic- and national security-related strategic and sensitive locations that cannot be mapped and exported. The move comes after India opened up geospatial data mapping last year for wider public use and to empower the industry. Purpose The prohibition of export of maps and
Social Audit
Recently, the Centre has directed the states and Union Territories to carry out the social audit of the mid-day meal scheme in every district by November 30, 2022. Also, according to the report titled ‘Social audit calendar vs audits completed’ released on 13th September 2022 by the Rural Development Ministry (MoRD),
Panel setup for Cooperative Policy
Recently, the Centre announced the constitution of a committee for drafting of the national cooperative policy document. The 47-member committee will be headed by former Union Minister Suresh Prabhu. Need The existing National Policy on Cooperatives was formulated in 2002. India has about 8.5 lakh co-operative societies with a member base of around 29
Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order 1968
On 27th September, 2022, a Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court allowed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to go ahead and decide on Maharashtra incumbent Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's claim that his faction represents the "real" Shiv Sena party. The Bench dismissed the Thackeray camp's plea to stay the Election
Judiciary
Article 142 and Complete Justice
Recently, the Supreme Court issued a notice to the Centre and Tamil Nadu governments on the pleas of Nalini Sriharan serving life sentences in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case. Earlier in May, 2022, the top Court invoked the extraordinary power conferred on the court under Article 142 of the Constitution in
Supreme Court to Examine the Practice of Excommunication
On 20th September, 2022, the Supreme Court decided to examine whether the excommunication of the Dawoodi Bohra community’s members can be continued. Dawoodi Bohra Community The Dawoodi Bohras are members of the Muslim community’s Shia sect. These trace their heritage to the Fatimi Imams, direct descendants of the Prophet Mohammed, in Egypt. The
Internal Security
PFI Declared Unlawful Association under UAPA
On 22nd September, 2022, the government declared the Popular Front of India (PFI) and its front organisations as an “unlawful association” under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). About UAPA Passed in 1967, the law aims at effective prevention of unlawful activities associations in India. It allows the government to declare an organisation
Plan/Policy/Initiatives
Draft Indian Telecommunication Bill 2022
On 21st September, 2022, the Draft Indian Telecommunication Bill, 2022 was released in public domain. It seeks toreplace the existing legislation governing telecommunications in India, namely, Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, the Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933, and the Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1950 (collectively, “Telegraph Laws”). Objectives Improving digital inclusion Growing the telecommunications
Miscellaneous
Swachh Survekshan Awards 2022
On 1st October 2022, President Droupadi Murmu gave away the Swachh Survekshan Awards 2022. Cleanest State Category With more than 1000 ULBs Madhya Pradesh emerged as the ‘Cleanest State’ in the category of “more than 100 Urban Local Bodies”, relegating Chhattisgarh, the Cleanest State of the previous 3 years, to second place. Maharashtra
News Snippets
Central Public Health and Environmental Engineering Organisation (CPHEEO)
It was constituted under the erstwhile Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) in 1953 as per the recommendations of the Environmental Hygiene Committee to deal with Water Supply and Sanitation in the Country. In 1973-74, the CPHEEO was affiliated to the Ministry of Urban
Article 174
Article 174 of the Constitution authorizes the Governor to summon, dissolve and prorogue the state legislative assembly. Article 174(2)(b) of the Constitution gives powers to the Governor to dissolve the Assembly on the aid and advice of the cabinet. However, the Governor can apply his mind when the advice comes
National Sports Development Fund
It was established in 1998 under the Charitable Endowments Act, 1890. Purpose of its creation was to impart momentum and flexibility in assisting the cause of sports. The Fund is managed by a Council constituted by the Central Government. Union Minister in charge of Youth Affairs and Sports is the
SCALE App
Skill Certification Assessment for Leather Employees (SCALE) app has been launched to provide a one-stop solution for the skilling, learning, assessment, and employment needs of the leather industry. The app was recently launched at the Central Leather Research Institute (CSIR),
Swachhta Saarthi Samaroh
SSF is a citizen-centric initiative to sensitise communities toward waste management and offer innovative solutions for the conversion of value from waste. It aims to empower people at the grass-root level under three categories: (a) school-going students, (b) college-going students, and (c) community workers/self-help groups/sanitary
International Relations
India-Japan 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministerial Meeting
On 8th September, 2022, India’s Defence Minister and External Affairs Minister, along with their Japanese counterparts, held the second India-Japan 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministerial Meeting in Tokyo. Key Highlights Global Cooperation: Acknowledging that global cooperation is required more than ever to address security challenges that have become more acute, both sides
22nd SCO Summit
On 15th and 16th September, 2022, the 22nd Meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of State was held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. After the summit, Uzbekistan handed over the rotating presidency of the SCO to India. Key Highlights Samarkand Declaration: It advocated commitment to peaceful settlement of differences and
Ministerial Meeting of India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council
From 18th to 19th September, 2022, the Ministerial meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council was held. The Strategic Partnership Council was instituted in October, 2019 during the visit of the Prime Minister of India to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It has two main pillars: (i) Political, Security, Social and
19th ASEAN-India Economic Ministers’ Meeting
On 16th September, 2022, the 19th ASEAN-India Economic Ministers’ meeting was held in Cambodia. The Economic Ministers or their representatives from all the 10 ASEAN countries, viz. Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam attended the meeting. Key Highlights Economic Relations: The leaders noted that trade and economic
7th Eastern Economic Forum
Recently, Russia hosted the seventh Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) in Vladivostok. India's Prime Minister virtually addressed the plenary session. The forum is a platform for entrepreneurs to expand their businesses into Russia’s Far East (RFE). As of 2022, almost 2,729 investment projects are being planned in the region. The agreements focus on
Miscellaneous
47th AIBD Annual Gathering / 20th AIBD General Conference
The 47th Asia-pacific Institute of Broadcasting Development (AIBD) Annual Gathering / 20th AIBD General Conference and Associated Meetings were held in New Delhi on 19-20 September, 2022. Key Points India’s Presidency of the AIBD has been extended for one more year. This was unanimously decided by the AIBD member countries. A range of
News Snippets
Mondiacult 2022
It is a UNESCO World Conference on Cultural Policies and Sustainable Development. It aims to shape a more robust and resilient cultural sector, fully anchored in the perspectives of sustainable development as well as promotion of solidarity, peace, and security. The first Mondiacult World Conference on Cultural Policies was held
UK India Business Council (UKIBC)
It is a membership-based, non-profit organisation founded in 2007 to foster trade and business relations between the United Kingdom and India. The organisation works with businesses in both countries, as well as the UK and Indian governments, to promote and increase bilateral trade. UKIBC is a sister organisation to
Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA)
The CICA is an intergovernmental forum aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and ensuring peace, security, and stability in Asia. The idea of creating the organization was first voiced by Kazakhstan’s First President Nursultan Nazarbayev in 1992 at the 47th session of the United Nations General Assembly, while the first CICA
Space Science
DART Spacecraft Successfully Crashes into Asteroid Dimorphos
Recently, NASA's Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) spacecraft successfully crashed into a distant asteroid Dimorphos at hypersonic speed in a test of the world's first planetary defence system. This was the first attempt to alter the motion of an asteroid or any celestial body. The mission was devised to determine whether
Defence And Security
Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS)
On 27th September, 2022, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted two successful test flight of Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missile from a ground based portable launcher at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha. Both the flight tests have completely met the
Government Policy/Initiatives
Modifications in Programme for Development of Semiconductors
On 21st September, 2022, the Union Cabinet approved modifications in the scheme for development of the semiconductor and display manufacturing ecosystem in India. The approval was accorded to make India’s $10 billion chip-making initiative more attractive to investors. Background In December 2021, India announced its roughly $10 billion dollar production-linked incentive (PLI)
PLI Scheme for Solar PV Modules
On 21st September, 2022, the Union Cabinet approved the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy’s proposal for implementation of the Production Linked Incentive Scheme (Tranche II) on ‘National Programme on High Efficiency Solar PV Modules’, with an outlay of Rs.19,500 crore for achieving manufacturing capacity of Giga Watt (GW) scale
New Technology & Innovations
India’s First Avalanche Monitoring Radar
Recently, the Indian Army and the Defence Geoinformatics Research Establishment (DGRE) jointly installed the Avalanche Monitoring Radar, first of its kind in India, at an altitude of 15,000 feet in north Sikkim. An avalanche refers to a very large amount of snow that slides quickly down the side of a mountain. Avalanche
Basic Sciences
KSTAR Achieves Nuclear Fusion Breakthrough
Recently, the Korea Superconducting Tokamak Advanced Research (KSTAR) attained temperatures over 100 million degrees Celsius in a reaction that lasted for about 30 seconds. KSTAR - also known as the Korean artificial sun - is a nuclear fusion reactor developed by researchers at the Seoul National University in South Korea. Nuclear
Miscellaneous
WHO’s Global Guidance Framework for the Responsible Use of the Life Sciences
Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) came out with the first-ever global guidance framework for the responsible use of life sciences. This is the first global, technical and normative framework for informing the development of national frameworks and approaches for mitigating biorisks and governing dual-use research. Context Life sciences and technologies
9th Session of Governing Body of ITPGRFA
Recently, the Ninth Session of the Governing Body (GB9) of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) was held in New Delhi. Key Highlights Resolution on Farmers’ Rights: A resolution on implementation of Farmers’ Rights under Article 9 of the treaty was finally agreed upon, ensuring equilibrium
News Snippets
NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation)
NavIC is the name of the independent stand-alone navigation satellite system of India. This system was earlier known as IRNSS (Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System). It has been developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). NavIC comprises eight satellites and covers the whole of India’s landmass and up to
NASA’s Sonification Project
NASA is adding another layer of experience to the images gathered by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) through the sonification of the images and data captured. Sonification is the process that translates data into sound. Elements of the image, like brightness and position, are assigned pitches and volumes. NASA’s
Biodiversity
India and the US Launch “Trees Outside Forests in India”
Recently, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India and the US Agency for International Development (USAID) announced the launch of a new program, “Trees Outside Forests in India.” USAID’s forestry activities in India support important priorities of the US and Indian governments, contributing to the Forestry Pillar
Study on Poaching of Sea Turtles
According to a recent study, more than 1.1 million sea turtles have been illegally killed and in some cases trafficked from 1990 to 2020. Over 44,000 turtles were targeted annually over the last decade. Illegal killing and trafficking of animals and plants pose a serious threat to wildlife biodiversity. The black
Pollution
Drop in Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) Levels in India
According to a recent study conducted by Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, there has been a significant drop in Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) levels in India in the last decade as compared to the previous three decades. SO2 is an atmospheric pollutant and can be converted to sulfate aerosols in humid
Sustainable Development
28th World Ozone Day
On 16th September, 2022, India observed the 28th World Ozone Day. World Ozone Day is celebrated on 16th September each year to commemorate the signing of the Montreal Protocol. The theme of World Ozone Day 2022 is “Montreal Protocol@35: global cooperation protecting life on earth”. Montreal Protocol About: The Montreal Protocol on Substances
New Roadmap for Legacy Waste Management
On 15th September, 2022, the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) released three new toolkits on municipal solid waste management. One of the toolkits outlines a roadmap for legacy waste management in a bid to support India’s garbage-free cities agenda. What is Legacy Waste? Although the term ‘legacy waste’ has not been
Green Fins Hub
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), along with UK-based charity Reef-World Foundation, recently launched the Green Fins Hub, a global digital platform which is expected to give a major boost to sustainable marine tourism. Key Points Aim: It aims to protect coral reefs through environment-friendly guidelines promoting sustainable diving and snorkelling. It provides
Reports
Breakthrough Agenda Report 2022
Recently, the Breakthrough Agenda Report 2022 was released by the International Energy Agency (IEA), the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the UN Climate Change High-Level Champions. It assesses progress on reducing emissions in five key sectors – power, road transport, steel, hydrogen and agriculture. Together, these sectors account for nearly
News Snippets
Global Registry of Fossil Fuels
The Global Registry of Fossil Fuels is the first-ever fully transparent, public database which tracks fossil fuel production worldwide and its impacts on the global carbon budget. It has been developed by Carbon Tracker Initiative, with data support from Global Energy Monitor. It will help governments make decisions to align
Alliance for Industry Decarbonization
Recently, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) along with 13 companies across all industry sectors launched the global Alliance for Industry Decarbonisation. The Alliance was created to achieve country-specific net-zero goals faster, encourage action for decarbonizing industrial value chains, and enhance understanding and adoption of renewables-based solutions by industry.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel
Recently, airlines under the Tata umbrella have signed a memorandum of understanding with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–Indian Institute of Petroleum (CSIR-IIP) to collaborate and work together on research, development and deployment of sustainable aviation fuels. Sustainable aviation fuel is made from sustainable resources, such as forestry and
News Notes
Appointments
Giorgia Meloni
Giorgia Meloni, leader of the Brothers of Italy party won the Italian election, defeating Mario Draghi.By doing so, Giorgia has become Italy’s first female prime minister, and that too, of a right-wing
Charles III
Charles III (Charles Philip Arthur George) became King of the United Kingdom and 14 other Commonwealth realms on 8 September 2022 upon the death of his mother, Elizabeth
Mohammed bin Salman
Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz named his son and heir Prince Mohammed bin Salman as the kingdom's Prime Minister and his second son Prince Khalid as Defence Minister, through a royal
Lt General (retd) Anil Chauhan
On 30th September 2022 Lt General (retd) Anil Chauhan assumed charge as the country’s second Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).The post has been vacant for over nine months since the death of the first CDS Gen Bipin Rawat in a chopper crash in December 2021.This is the first instance since
Obituary
Vernon Francis Dvorak
He was an American meteorologist who developed the Dvorak technique – used widely to estimate tropical cyclone intensity based solely on visible and infrared satellite images.
Naresh Kumar
He had reached the fourth round of Wimbledon in 1955 and third round of French Open in 1958. A recipient of Arjuna Award, he was the first tennis coach to receive Dronacharya Lifetime Achievement Award in 2000. He was also the second lawn tennis player, after Ramanathan Krishnan, to win
KN Singh
Former Chief Justice of India Kamal Narain Singh had tenure of only 17 days (November 25, 1991 to December 12, 1991) as the CJI, making him the chief justice with the shortest tenure.
Braj Basi Lal
He was considered as India’s most senior archaeologist. He was awarded Padma Bhushan in 2000 and Padma Vibhushan in
Ram Chandra Manjhi
He was a doyen of Bhojpuri folk theatre art “Launda Naach”. He was awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2017 and was awarded Padma Shri in
Defence
Taragiri: Third Stealth Frigate under Project 17A
On 11th September 2022, Taragiri, the indigenously-designed Nilgiri-class stealth guided-missile frigate constructed by Mazgaon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), was launched in Mumbai.Taragiri is the third stealth frigate built as part of Project 17A after Nilgiri, which was launched in 2019 and Udaygiri, launched in May 2022.Taragiri', named after a hill
LCH ‘Prachand’
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has inducted the first batch of its indigenously built Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) 'Prachand'. It has been developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.Major FeaturesPressurised Cabin: It gives protection against nuclear radiation, or a biological or chemical attack.Altitude: Prachand is the only attack helicopter in the entire
'Project Cheetah'
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is looking to equip its existing fleet of Israel-made Heron unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) drones with better communication facilities and missiles as part of its ambitious ‘Project Cheetah’.Apart from UAVs or drones with the IAF, the ambitious ‘Project Cheetah’ also aims to upgrade Israeli drones
Military Operations/Exercises
JIMEX 22
The sixth edition of Japan-India Maritime Exercise 2022 (JIMEX 22) hosted by the Indian Navy in the Bay of Bengal.JIMEX 22 involved two Phases; exercises at sea and a harbour phase at Visakhapatnam.This edition marked the 10th anniversary of JIMEX, which began in Japan in 2012. It also coincides with
Ex Kakadu
Biennial multinational naval exercise Ex Kakadu was hosted by the Royal Australian Navy.The two-week-long Exercise, both in harbour and sea, involved ships and maritime aircraft from 14 Navies.India participated in the exercise with INS Satpura and P8I Maritime Patrol Aircraft.
Operation Southern Readiness
INS Sunayna participated in the capacity building exercise Operation Southern Readiness conducted by Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) at Seychelles from 24-27 Sep 2022.This is the maiden participation of an Indian Navy ship in CMF exercise.The joint training exercise was attended by representative delegations from India, the US, Italy, Australia, Canada,
Awards
Nobel Prizes 2022
Medicine The Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine was awarded to Swedish scientist Svante Paabo for his extraordinary discovery which proved modern humans share DNA with extinct relatives Neanderthals and Denisovans. The Swedish scientist provided key insights into our immune system and what makes us unique compared with our extinct cousins. Svante
Dadasaheb Phalke Award, 2020
Renowned film actress, director and producer and an accomplished Indian classical dancer Ms Asha Parekh was awarded the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for the year 2020.Starting her career as a child actor she made her debut as lead heroine in ‘Dil Deke Dekho’ and has gone on to act in over
Bihari Puraskar 2022
Writer Dr. Madhav Hada will be awarded the 32nd Bihari Puraskar for his 2015 literary criticism book ‘Pachrang Chola Pahar Sakhi Ri’.Hada’s book ‘Pachrang Chola Pahar Sakhi Ri’ focuses on the life of medieval devotee poet Meera.In 2021, author Madhu Kankariya won this award for her 2018 novel ‘Hum Yahan
History
Ambedkar Circuit
Recently, the government announced a special tourist train to cover the Ambedkar Circuit. About Ambedkar Circuit The government had first proposed the Ambedkar Circuit, or Panchteerth, in 2016. The five cities in the tourist circuit as announced are Mhow, London, Nagpur, Delhi and Mumbai. About the Sites Janma Bhoomi: Ambedkar’s birthplace in Madhya Pradesh’s
Art & Culture
India’s Diverse Culture showcased at ‘Kartavya Path’
On 9th September, 2022, the Prime Minister inaugurated the revamped Central Vista Avenue. The historic Rajpath was also renamed as ‘Kartavya Path’ ahead of the inauguration. The inauguration was marked by a mix of tribal dances, classical music, and celebratory art forms across the country. Cultural Events during Inauguration Panch Vadayam Kerala’s Panch Vadayam
Sittanavasal Rock-cut Cave
Recently, the Archaeological Survey of India has undertaken conservation measures and also introduced digital checks to track public access in Sittanavasal rock-cut cave, in Pudukottai district of Tamil Nadu. About Sittanavasal Sittanavasal is the name used synonymously for the hamlet and the hillock that houses the following- Arivar Koil (temple of Arhats -
Three Indian Cities in UNESCO Network of Learning Cities
Recently, three cities in India have joined the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities. These include two cities Thrissur and Nilambur in Kerala and Warangal in Telangana. About the Cities Thrissur - Cultural Capital of Kerala Popularly known as the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur is home to academic and research institutions. It
International Day of Sign Languages
International Day of Sign Languages (IDSL) is celebrated annually across the world on 23 September. The Theme of the year 2022 is “Sign Language Unite Us.” Background In 2017, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed September 23 as the official day to celebrate the International Day of Sign Languages. The date commemorates the
Bathukamma Floral Festival
Bathukamma is a colourful and vibrant festival of Telangana and celebrated by women, with flowers that grow exclusively in this region. Celebration Time As per the Sathavahana calendar, every year, Bathukamma is celebrated for nine days from Bhadrapada Pournami till Durgashtami. With this festival, Sharath Ruthu starts, and Varsha Ruthu ends. This
Hoysala Temples
Recently, the Union Culture Ministry announced that the Hoysala Temples of Belur, Halebid and Somnathapura in Karnataka are India’s official nominations for the UNESCO World Heritage List for the year 2022-2023. The ‘Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala’ have been on UNESCO‘s Tentative List since April 15, 2014, and they are testimony
Miscellaneous
Dharamshala Declaration
The three-day National Conference of State Tourism Minister from 18th to 20th September 2022 adopted “Dharamshala Declaration”. About Dharamshala Declaration Aim: It aims to recognise India’s role in contributing towards global tourism as well as focusing on recovery by also promoting domestic tourism. Action Plan: In the declaration, the Tourism Ministry has come
News Snippets
Khneng Embroidery Art
Khneng embroidery, traditionally done on eri silk, is an art form unique to Mustoh and the Shella region, Cherrapunjee, Meghalaya. The embroidery is traditionally done on an eri silk shawl, adding aesthetic and economic value through intricate designs applied as a border. The pattern resembles the multi-legged centipedes.
Rosh Hashanah
Rosh Hashanah means “head of the year” in Hebrew. It is a time for reflection and repentance. It is referred to as the “day of judgment.” 2022 edition of Rosh Hashanah marks the start of year 5783 in the Hebrew calendar. Rosh Hashanah has its roots in the Talmud, although
Surjapuri and Bajjika Dialects
Surjapuri It is spoken mainly in Kishanganj and other parts of Seemanchal in northeastern Bihar, including the districts of Katihar, Purnia, and Araria. The dialect, a mix of Bangla, Urdu, and Hindi, is also spoken in contiguous parts of West Bengal. Bajjika It is one of five dialects spoken in
Mamangam Trade Festival of Kerala
Mamangam was a 28-day-long trade festival celebrated once every 12 years on the banks of the Bharathappuzha, also known as Nila. Traders from various parts of India and as well as places such as China, Ceylon, Arabia and Europe used to arrive by ship at the Ponnani port and then
Hyderabad State Liberation Day
The erstwhile princely state of Hyderabad – which covered the modern-day Marathwada region in Maharashtra, the Hyderabad-Karnataka region in Karnataka, and all districts in current-day Telangana – became part of the Union of India on September 17, 1948. Operation Polo was the code name of the Hyderabad “police action” in
Puli Thevar
Puli Thevar or Pooli Devar was a Hindu Marava chieftain, who was also known as poligar or Palayakkarar. Thevar was a Tamil Palaiyakkarar who ruled Nerkattumseval, Tamil Nadu. He is known for the Polygars revolt against the British. . His most notable achievements were his battles with Marudhanayagam.
Kalachuri Dynasty
Also known as Kalachuris of Mahishmati, they were an Indian dynasty that ruled in west-central India between 6th and 7th centuries.They are also known as the Haihayas or as the Early Kalachuris to distinguish them from their later namesakes, especially the Kalachuris of Tripuri.The Kalachuri territory included parts of present-day
Indian Society
Conversion Therapy
Recently, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has written to all State Medical Councils banning conversion therapy and calling it a “professional misconduct”. The NMC was following a Madras High Court directive to issue an official notification listing conversion therapy as a wrong, under the Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquettes and
Social Issues
Nikah-Halala
Recently, a Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court decided to hear a batch of petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the practice of Nikah Halala allowed by Muslim personal law. About the Petition Sameena Begum, a Delhi-based victim of instant triple talaq and a fraud marriage approached the Supreme Court in 2018
Plan & Policies
PM Schools for Rising India
On 5th September, 2022 (National Teacher’s Day), the Prime Minister announced a new initiative - PM SHRI Schools (PM ScHools for Rising India). This will be a new centrally sponsored scheme for upgradation and development of more than 14500 Schools across the country by strengthening the selected existing schools from amongst
Studentship Program for Ayurveda Research Ken
The Central Council of Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) has prepared the 'Studentship Program for Ayurveda Research Ken’ (SPARK) for the students of Ayurveda (BAMS) studying in recognized Ayurveda colleges. Aim To support the research ideas of young undergraduate students enrolled in Ayurveda colleges across the country. About SPARK SPARK is a unique initiative
Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana
On September 23rd, 2022, Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) completed four years of its implementation. About AB PM-JAY Launched in 2018, it was launched as recommended by the National Health Policy 2017, to achieve the vision of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). It subsumed the then-existing Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana
Reports & Indices
Global Estimates of Modern Slavery
On 12th September, 2022, the latest Global Estimates of Modern Slavery: Forced Labour and Forced Marriage report was published by the International Labour Organization (ILO), International Organization for Migration (IOM) and international human rights group Walk Free. Major Findings Forced Labour There are 27.6 million people in situations of forced labour on any
Cost of Universalizing Early Childhood Education in India
On 22nd September, 2022, Cost of Universalising Early Childhood Education in India, a study was launched by Bal Raksha Bharat and the Centre for Budget and Governance Accountability (CBGA). The study analyzes the budget to calculate the fund flow and spending on early childhood education in India. This study is the
Sample Registration System Statistical Report 2020
As per the Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2020 released on 22nd September 2022 by Registrar General of India (RGI), the country has been witnessing a progressive reduction in IMR, U5MR and NMR since 2014 towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) targets by 2030. Major Findings Under 5 Mortality
News Snippets
UN Women
It is the United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women. Four strategic priorities of UN Women:Women lead, participate in and benefit equally from governance systems.Women have income security, decent work and economic autonomy.All women and girls live a life free from all forms of violence.Women
Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS)
It was started in the year 1997-98 to impart quality education to ST children in remote areas in order to enable them to avail of opportunities in high and professional educational courses and get employment in various sectors. Grants were given for construction of schools and recurring expenses to the
Operation Megha Chakra
It is a Central Bureau of Investigation’s (CBI’s) rapid response to online child sexual exploitation with international linkages and organised cyber-enabled financial crimes. The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2019 defines Child Pornography as ‘any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a child which includes a
Kangaroo Mother Care
It is a method of care of preterm infants. The method involves infants being carried, usually by the mother, with skin-to-skin contact. This guide is intended for health professionals responsible for the care of low-birth-weight and preterm infants.
Child Welfare Committees
As per the Section 27(1) of Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 (JJ Act), Child Welfare Committees (CWCs) are to be constituted by State Government by notification in the Official Gazette for every district. The Committee shall consist of a Chairperson, and four other members as
National Service Scheme (NSS)
It was launched during 1969, the birth centenary year of Mahatma Gandhi, in 37 universities. NSS is an extension of the higher education system to orient the student youth to community service while they are studying in educational institutions. It is being implemented by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and
Harijan Sevak Sangh
Harijan Sevak Sangh is a non-profit organisation founded by Mahatma Gandhi to eradicate untouchability in India, working for Harijan or Dalit people and upliftment of Depressed Class of India. It was founded on September 30, 1932, in the wake of Gandhiji’s Epic Fast at Yervada Jail, Pune, resulting in the
Cognitive Dissonance
It explains how individuals or groups rationalise their support and belief toward different religions, cults or political parties, partially blinding themselves to reduce the contradictions between their thoughts and behaviour. Theory proposes that inconsistency between one’s thoughts and behaviours would lead to an uncomfortable psychological or emotional tension (cognitive dissonance).
National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS)
NESTS, established in 2019, is an autonomous society at the Central level under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. It is responsible for recommending the syllabi, the school and hostel standards, and the teacher recruitment guidelines, while its counterpart SESTSs are in charge of implementing these guidelines with room for
Sign Learn App
It was launched by Ministry for Social Justice and Empowerment. It is based on the Indian sign language dictionary of the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) which contains 10,000 words. Aim: To make the ISL dictionary easily available and to make it more accessible for the public
Andaman & Nicobar Islands
India’s First Swachh Sujal Pradesh
The Union Jal Shakti Ministery declared Andaman and Nicobar Islands as India’s first Swachh Sujal Pradesh. Now, Andaman and Nicobar Islands will also be known as India’s first “Clean and Sujal Pradesh”. All the villages of the state have been certified as ‘Har Ghar Jal’ and ‘ODF Plus’. There are
Delhi
Delhi Model Virtual School
It is India's first virtual school affiliated by the Delhi Board of School Education. It has been launched for children who cannot go to school physically for any reasons. It has been developed by Google and School Net India. It will be used for preparing students for competitive exams like
Uttar Pradesh
Bhartaul: First Village in State to have RO Water in Every Household
Bhartaul, Bithiri Chainpur block of Bareilly, has become the first village in Uttar Pradesh to achieve the distinction of supplying RO water to every household. It has around 7,000 people and every household is provided with clean and safe RO water. The installation of RO has been under
Chunar Logistics Park
It will be built in Mirzapur district. The Project will meet the business needs of Eastern UP and adjoining areas. It will also play an important role in promoting rail freight transportation and reduce logistics cost and transit time, thereby giving a fillip to the local carpet and handicrafts
Ayushman Utkrishta Award 2022
Uttar Pradesh was awarded the ‘Ayushman Utkrishta Award 2022’ at the Aarogya Manthan programme for adding various facilities to the National Health Facility Register. UP was the best performing state in the nation after it added 28,728 new health facilities to the National Health Facility Register. Karnataka ranks second with
Farrukhabad ‘jail ka khana’ gets 5-star FSSAI Rating
The Fatehgarh Central jail in Uttar Pradesh's Farrukhabad district has earned five-star rating from the Food Safety Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for the quality of food it serves to inmates. It is a recognition of food quality and hygiene, which means the inmates are getting quality food items prepared
Rajasthan
Mahila Nidhi
Mahila Nidhi has been established to help women self-help groups get loans from banks, increase the income of poor and marginal women, and social and economic progress of women through skill development. The scheme will facilitate crediting of loans up to Rs 40,000 within 48 hours and above Rs 40,000
Rural Olympic Games
Rajasthan chief minister inaugurated a month-long Rajiv Gandhi Rural Olympic Games in Jodhpur. Games like volleyball, hockey, tennis ball cricket, and kho kho will be part of the events. The rural olympics organised in eleven thousand gram panchayats across the state is an outreach to the rural population, especially the
Kerala
Alappuzha Declared as the Fifth Full Digital Banking District
Alappuzha has become the fifth fully digital banking district in the state. A declaration was made by the Reserve bank of India Kerala and Lakshadweep Regional Director regarding this. The initiative of this project was taken by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) with the support of the State
Khader Committee Report
The Dr M A Khader Committee appointed to recommend reforms in the school education system in Kerala has called for revolutionary measures in its final report. The major recommendations of the committee include some notable changes from the present system of education. Mainly it advocates the transformation of the
Free Breakfast Scheme
The breakfast scheme for government school students from class 1 to 5 was launched in Madurai. The social reformer, Pandithar Iyothee Thassar, when the Colonel Olcott School was built in Chennai during the early 1990s, sowed the seeds for providing mid-day meals to school children. Later, Mayor Pitti Theagarayar
Karnataka
VentuRISE Global Startup Challenge
It aims to aid entrepreneurs in the manufacturing and sustainability-related industries The global startups will give business owners from all over the world a stage to present their cutting-edge goods or solutions and make connections with potential
Kannada Language Comprehensive Development Bill
The proposed legislation gives preference to Kannadigas in government jobs and also provides for reservation to locals in private jobs generated in the state. Features highlighted in the Bill include reservation in higher, technical and professional education to those who studied in Kannada medium schools, “introduction of Kannada as essential
Punyakoti Dattu Yojana
The Karnataka government has appointed Kannada actor Kiccha Sudeep as the brand ambassador for “a cattle adoption scheme. This program encourages private and public organizations to adopt cows from goshalas (cow shelters) since the goal of the program is to encourage the public to provide better amenities for the
Meghalaya
Rural Backyard Piggery Scheme
It aims to ensure the farmers earn a sustainable livelihood through different livestock farming activities. Under phase 1, the government has earmarked Rs 15.18 crore under which four high-yielding improved varieties will be distributed to 6000 families. To make the state self-sufficient in pork, the government is implementing one of
Chhattisgarh
Hamar Beti Hamar Maan
The focus of the campaign is creating awareness on safety measures among school- and college-going girls and prioritising registration and investigation of women-related crimes. Under the campaign, lady police officers and personnel will visit schools and colleges in the state to hold discussions and give guidance on legal rights,
Odisha
Encyclopedia on Tribes
Five edited volumes of ‘Encyclopedia of Tribes in Odisha’ was published by Scheduled Castes & Scheduled Tribes Research and Training Institute (SCSTRTI) and Odisha State Tribal Museum. As per 2011 census, tribes account for 22.85% of the Odisha’s population. Odisha is home to third largest tribal population of India. Odisha
Assam
SAANS
The Assam government has decided to use SAANS, an air pressure machine developed by a Bangalore-based start-up, in the state-run hospitals across the state. ‘SAANS’ is a portable neonatal Continuous Positive Air Pressure (CPAP) system that can provide lifesaving breathing support to infants in hospital settings as well as
Nagaland
Mobile Attendance Application
Nagaland Prison Department goes digital by introducing the mobile attendance application for Prison staff. The Prison Staff Attendance is a mobile app along with an admin portal that aims to provide a comprehensive attendance management system that can make processes hassle-free and provide a seamlessly integrated system for monitoring
Bihar
No-bag Day
The Bihar government is set to introduce a "no-bag day" rule in schools and a mandatory games period at least once a week to reduce the burden on students. The weekly”no-bag day” will have task-based practical classes. The objective of such a policy is to engage students in various activities
Manipur
CM Da Haisi
The web portal is called “CM Da Haisi,” which translates to “to inform the CM,” and the public can express their complaints there by visiting www.cmdahaisi.mn.gov.in. The Public Grievances Redressal and Anti-Corruption Cell, located at the CM Secretariat, will use the portal to communicate with the relevant
Sports In News
Cricket
Duleep Trophy 2022-23
The 59th Duleep Trophy, a first-class cricket tournament in India was held in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry from 8-25 September 2022.In the final, West Zone defeated South Zone to win their 19th title.Player of the Series: Jaydev Unadkat (West Zone)Most Runs: Yashasvi Jaiswal (West Zone) (497)Most Wickets: Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore
Football
Durand Cup 2022
Bengaluru won their first-ever Durand Cup by defeating the debutants – Mumbai City. The final match took place at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. The 131st edition of Durand Cup, the oldest football tournament in Asia, and also the first edition since it got recognised by Asian Football Confederation was held
Tennis
US Open 2022
The 142nd US Open tournament took place in New York, United States. This was the first time at any tennis major that coaching was allowed from the stands. The only requirement is that coaches must remain in their designated seats and can only communicate with players when they are on the
Prelims Specials
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In this special section, we have come up with comprehensive content on ‘Public Policies and Welfare Schemes’. This is an important section of the UPSC syllabus as every year, many questions are asked from it. The policy inputs/ guidelines are directly asked in the Preliminary examination. Also, it forms an important aspect of answer writing. Based on an analysis of the previous years’ Civil Services Preliminary examination question papers, the following aspects of each scheme have been incorporated: Launch Date, Nodal Agency, Objectives, Target Groups, Key Features/Guidelines, Significance/ Impact/Implications, and Concern Areas. Apart from factual content, a brief analytical overview has also been included for the benefit of our readers. |
Public Policies & Welfare Schemes
Socio- Economic Development
Socio- Economic Development -Education, Women and Child Development
Strengthening Teaching-Learning and Results for States (STARS) Project Launch Date: 14th October 2020 (Performance of STARS was reviewed recently) Nodal Agency: Ministry of Education (aided by World Bank) Objectives: It envisions improving the overall monitoring and measurement activities in the Indian School Education System through interventions. Target Groups: It covers 6 States i.e., Himachal
Socio- Economic Development -Rural Development
Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), 2005 Launch Date: 2nd February 2006 Nodal Agency : Ministry of Rural Development Objectives Providing not less than 100 days of unskilled manual work as a guaranteed employment in a financial year to every household in rural areas as per demand, resulting in creation of productive
Socio- Economic Development -Social Justice and Empowerment
Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan/ Accessible India Campaign (AIC) Launch Date: 3rd December 2015 Nodal Agency : Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment Objectives For achieving universal accessibility for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). Targets under the Scheme – Making 50% of all the government buildings of NCT and all the State capitals fully accessible. Completing accessibility audit of
Socio- Economic Development -Health & Family Welfare
Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (ABHIM) Launch Date: 25th October 2021 Nodal Agency : Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Objectives To ensure a robust public health infrastructure in both urban and rural areas, capable of responding to public health emergencies or disease outbreaks. To establish an IT-enabled disease surveillance system through a network of
Socio- Economic Development - Minorities
Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM Vikas) Scheme Launch Date: 2nd April 2022 Nodal Agency : Ministry of Minority Affairs Objectives To increase the capacity of minority and artisan groups through focused interventions that guarantee chances for work and a means of subsistence. To offer formal education and certification to school dropouts from families in
Economy
Economy Agriculture, Fisheries & Animal Husbandry
National Mission on Edible Oils–Oil Palm (NMEO OP) Launch Date: 2014-15 Nodal Agency : Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Objectives To enhance the edible oilseeds production and oils availability in the country by harnessing Oil Palm area expansion, increasing current palm oil production. To reduce import burden on edible oils. Target Groups: Oilseeds cultivators Key
Economy -Textile Industry
Scheme for Integrated Textile Park (SITP) Launch Date: 2005 Nodal Agency : Ministry of Textiles Objectives To provide the industry with world class state of the art infrastructure facilities for setting up their textile units. To facilitate textile units to meet international environmental and social standards. To mobilize private investment in the textile sector
Economy -Finance
Scheme for Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) Launch Date: 1st January 2021 Nodal Agency : Ministry of Finance Objectives: To boost exports i.e., enhancing Exports to International Markets. Target Groups: Export Industry Key Features/Guidelines This scheme is applicable on all export goods with effect from 1st January, 2021. This scheme is WTO-compliant
Science & Technology
Science & Technology - Information Technology, Communications and Electronics
Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Promoting Telecom & Networking Products Launch Date: 24th February 2021 Nodal Agency : Ministry of Communications Objectives :-To boost domestic manufacturing and attract investments in the target segments of telecom and networking products in order to encourage “Make in India”. To boost export of telecom and networking products
Science & Technology - Technology & Innovation
Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) Launch Date: 13th December 2008 Nodal Agency : Ministry of Science and Technology Objectives: To communicate to the youth population of the country the excitements of creative pursuit of science and attract talent to the study of science at an early stage and build
Science & Technology - Space & Defence
Bhuvan-ISRO’s Geo-Portal Launch Date: February 2021 Nodal Agency : Department of Space Objectives: To develop a software application that will allow users to explore a 2D/3D representation of surface of the Earth. Key Features/Guidelines It provides 1 m resolution satellite data for more than 350 cities and services several users for their remote sensing application
Ecology & Environment
Ecology & Environment - Environment
Climate Resilience Building among Farmers through Crop Residue Management Launch Date: 28th December 2017 Nodal Agency : Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) Objectives: To lower Green House Gases Emissions in project areas by creating awareness among farmers through crop residue management and promoting alternate uses of crop residue. To create implementable
Ecology & Environment - New and Renewable Energy
PM-Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahaabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) Scheme Launch Date: July 2019 Nodal Agency : Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Objectives: To provide financial and water security to farmers. 20 lakh farmers to be provided assistance for setting up stand-alone solar pumps. Another 15 lakh farmers to be helped to solarise their grid-connected
