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Cities in Asia are growing upwards more than outwards

Topic: GS1 –  Society – Urbanization, their problems and their remedies (Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7) Context A study in Nature Cities reveals that cities, especially in Asia, are growing vertically faster than horizontally to accommodate increased populations. The research highlights the need for updated urban planning to address…

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Ensure LGBTQIA+ couples get ration cards, says Centre

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 4) Topic: GS2 – Social Justice – Vulnerable sections. Context The Indian government has issued new directives to recognize LGBTQIA+ couples for ration cards, healthcare rights, and financial services, following the Supreme Court’s 2023 judgement on marriage equality. These interim measures aim to reduce discrimination…

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Diverging Paths: Wheat Faces Production Woes While Rice Battles Surplus in India’s Cereal Landscape

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 13) Topic: GS3 – Agriculture Context: The article highlights the contrasting challenges of surplus in rice and production constraints in wheat, emphasizing the need for distinct policy approaches for each cereal.  Analysis of News:    Economists and policymakers often group wheat and rice together as part of a “cereal…

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Record Surge in Undocumented Indian Crossings from Canada to the US Raises Concerns Over Visa Policies and Border Security

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Cover page; Page: 01) Topic: GS2 – International Relations Context: The article highlights a record increase in undocumented Indian crossings from Canada to the US, driven by visa policies and border conditions, alongside rising asylum claims in the UK.  Analysis of News:                       Migrant The International Organization for Migration defines a migrant…

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Government Aims to Open Over 3 Crore New Jan Dhan Accounts in 2024-25 as Scheme Marks 10 Years

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Economy; Page: 13) Topic: GS2 – Governance – Government Policies Context: The Indian government aims to open over 3 crore new accounts under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) in the financial year 2024-25. This target is part of the ongoing efforts to enhance financial inclusion across the country.  Analysis…

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Government Bans 156 Fixed-Dose Combination Drugs, Targeting Irrational and Ineffective Medications

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained;) Topic: GS2 – Social Justice – Health GS3 – Science and Technology Context: The Indian government has recently banned 156 Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) drugs, including well-known medications like Cheston Cold and Foracet, used for cold, fever, and pain relief. This action represents the largest crackdown on FDCs since 2018, when…

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Union Cabinet Approves Railway Projects Worth Rs 6,456 Crore

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Govt & Politics; Page: 05) Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy – Infrastructure Context: The Union Cabinet approved three major railway projects involving two new lines and one multi-tracking project, with an estimated cost of Rs 6,456 crore. These projects will expand the railway network by 296 km across seven districts in…

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Supreme Court Reaffirms: ‘Bail is the Rule, Jail the Exception’ Even Under PMLA

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Cover Page; Page: 01) Topic: GS2 – Governance Context: The Supreme Court reaffirmed that the legal principle “bail is the rule and jail is the exception” applies even in cases registered under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) 2002.  Analysis of News:   What is PMLA, 2002? The Prevention of Money…

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High amount of microplastics in Indian personal care products

Topic: GS2 – Social Justice – Health (Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7) Context ● Recent research reveals that personal care products in India contain harmful microplastics, including polyethylene and polycaprolactone. ● Despite claims of being “eco-friendly” or “natural,” many products contribute to plastic pollution, posing significant environmental and health…

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Wanted: a strategy to turn climate research into disaster management

Topic: GS3 – Disaster and disaster management. (Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7) Context ● India is addressing its diverse natural hazards through improved disaster management and climate resilience efforts. ● Challenges include the need for better localised forecasts and effective implementation of climate research. ● Enhancing weather readiness involves…