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Amazon River Faces Historic Low Water Levels as Climate Change-Induced Droughts Disrupt Transportation and Ecosystems

(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…

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Genome editing is bringing clarity to the study of hereditary cancers

(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…

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India signs $750-mn currency swap deal with forex-starved Maldives

(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…

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Scientists are working on a way to detect cancer with sound waves

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7) Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology Context ● Researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a groundbreaking ultrasound technique that transforms cancerous tissue into blood-circulating droplets, potentially replacing invasive biopsies. ● This method allows for the detection of cancer biomarkers in blood samples,…

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Muizzu to meet Modi, request India’s support over looming economic crisis

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 4) Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Bilateral Relations Context ● Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu’s state visit to India comes amid a looming economic crisis and significant debt repayments. ● During his talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he seeks support for currency swaps and…

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Rs 1,000 cr earmarked for Venture Fund to Space StartUps, says union Minister Jitendra Singh

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2062671&reg=3&lang=1 ) Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy Context ● The Indian government has announced significant developments in the space sector, highlighting a dramatic rise in private sector involvement and startup growth. ● This initiative aims to strengthen India’s position in global space exploration and technology through substantial investments and policy support.  Steps Taken…

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Trade not just globalised but it’s also now weaponised: Jaishankar

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Economy; Page: 15) Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy Context: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently speaking at the kautilya Economic Conclave highlights the implications of globalization and rising protectionism and the challenges faced by the global economy. Amidst escalating US-China trade tensions and India’s anti-dumping measures, Jaishankar emphasized the need for…

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Controversy Over Salt Pan Land Transfer for Dharavi Redevelopment Sparks Environmental Concerns

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 17) Topic: GS3 – Environment Context: The Centre recently approved the transfer of 256 acres of salt pan land in Mumbai to Dharavi Redevelopment Project Pvt Ltd (DRPPL), a joint venture between Adani Realty Group and the Maharashtra government, for building rental housing for slum dwellers. The decision faced…

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Union Cabinet Approves PMGSY-IV: ₹70,125 Crore for 62,500 km of Rural Roads to Connect 25,000 Villages

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Express Network; Page: 10) Topic: GS2 – Governance – Government Policies Context: The Union Cabinet has approved the fourth phase of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY-IV) to construct 62,500 km of all-weather roads, improving connectivity for 25,000 rural villages across India.  Analysis of News:      What is PMGSY? Launched on:25th December,…