(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 10) Topic: GS2 – Governance Context On October 3, the Supreme Court declared caste-based division of labour in prisons as unconstitutional, violating prisoners’ fundamental rights. Provisions in State prison manuals, which reinforced caste inequalities, were struck down. The court directed States and Union Territories to…
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 11) Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy – Infrastructure Context As India’s urban population grows, adopting high-performance buildings (HPBs) can address sustainability challenges and meet climate goals. HPBs optimise energy efficiency and enhance occupant well-being, positioning them as vital for future urban development. Importance of Sustainability…
(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 14) Topic: GS3– Agriculture Context: India’s agriculture sector has shown improved growth over the past two decades, particularly under the Narendra Modi government. The NITI Aayog paper highlights that agriculture’s Gross Value Added (GVA) growth averaged 2.9% annually from 1984-2004, but increased to 3.5% during the UPA government (2004-2014)…
(Source: Indian Express; Section: The World) Topic: GS3 – Environment Context: The Amazon River, the world’s largest river, is experiencing unprecedented low water levels due to climate change-induced droughts. In some areas, water levels have fallen to historic lows, with sections of the river shrinking to mere pools only a few feet deep. Key tributaries…
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7) Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology Context Genetic editing, particularly through techniques like CRISPR, allows precise modifications in DNA, holding immense promise in treating cancer. This technology can correct mutations, personalise treatments, and overcome drug resistance. What Is Genetic Editing? Genetic editing is a…
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 4) Topic: GS2 – International relations Context India’s recent $750 million currency swap agreement with the Maldives aims to alleviate the island nation’s foreign currency crisis. This partnership emphasises India’s commitment to supporting the Maldives amid its economic challenges. The agreements signed also include launching…
1. Bilateral Investment Treaty between India and the United Arab Emirates, comes into effect (Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2062692®=3&lang=1 ) Context The India-UAE Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT), effective from August 31, 2024, replaces the expired BIPPA, ensuring investment protection and fostering economic cooperation. This treaty aims to enhance bilateral investments by boosting investor confidence and providing a…
Q1) Critically assess the role of microfinance in satisfactorily addressing the interconnected challenges of poverty and unemployment. (150 Words/10 Marks) ANS Microfinance refers to small loans and other financial services designed, specifically for poor and low-income households who face difficulties in accessing formal finance. RBI has defined microfinance as any collateral-free loan provided to a…
1. Middle path in Middle East (Source: Indian Express; Section: The Ideas Page; Page: 11) Topic: GS2- International Relations Context: The article discusses India’s strategic need to balance its relationships with Iran, Israel, and the Arab world amid rising regional tensions, prioritizing its deeper interests in Arab stability and peace. India’s Strategic Dilemma in the…
1. A re-balancing of India’s great power relations (Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 8) Topic: GS2 – International Relations Context India’s participation in the Quad Leaders’ Summit and its diplomatic engagements with Russia highlight its delicate balancing act between strategic alliances with the U.S., Russia, and China. As Russia strengthens…