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SC Upholds States’ Power to Tax Industrial Alcohol in Landmark 8:1 Ruling

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 12) Topic: GS2 – Governance Context: The article discusses the Supreme Court’s ruling affirming states’ authority to tax industrial alcohol, reinforcing their control over revenue from intoxicating liquors.  Analysis of News:    What is Industrial Alcohol? Industrial alcohol, unlike alcoholic beverages, is not meant for human consumption (denatured). It finds applications…

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Spraying Diamond Dust: A Bold Proposal to Combat Global Warming Through Geoengineering

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 12) Topic: GS3 – Science & Technology GS3 – Environment Context: The article explores the potential of using diamond dust in solar radiation management (SRM) as a geoengineering solution to mitigate global warming, while discussing the challenges and risks associated with such interventions.  Analysis of News:       Spraying Diamond Dust:…

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UN Biodiversity Conference (COP16) Focuses on 30×30 Conservation Targets, Equitable Sharing of Genetic Resources, and Mobilizing $200 Billion for Global Biodiversity

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 17) Topic: GS3 – Environment Context: The article discusses the key objectives of the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP16).  Analysis of News:                                      UN Biodiversity Conference and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Countries are currently meeting in Cali, Colombia, for the UN Biodiversity Conference, preceding the annual climate…

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Secularism is a core part of the Constitution: SC

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 4) Topic: GS2 – Indian Polity – Indian constitution – Significant Provisions Context ●  The Supreme Court reaffirmed that secularism is an integral part of the Basic Structure of the Indian Constitution while hearing petitions challenging the inclusion of “socialist” and “secular” in the Preamble….

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India and China Reach Agreement on Patrolling in Ladakh, Easing Military Standoff

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Cover Page; Page: 01) Topic: GS2 – International Relations Context: India and China have reached an agreement on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, which marks significant progress in resolving the military standoff that began in 2020. This development aims to restore peace and stability…

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On climate finance to developing nations

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 10) Topic: GS2 – International Relations ,GS3 – Environment Context ● The upcoming COP29 aims to address critical climate finance issues, particularly concerning developing countries vulnerable to climate change. ● Despite their minimal contribution to global emissions, these nations face significant challenges in financing climate…

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What do the Atlantic Ocean hurricane forecasts foretell for India?

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7) Topic: GS1 – Geography – Important Geophysical phenomena – Cyclones Context ● The article discusses the challenges and unpredictability in forecasting hurricanes and cyclones, particularly in the context of changing climate patterns. ● It highlights India’s progress in disaster management while emphasising the vulnerabilities…

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Rising Reliance on Agriculture in Rural India Amid Economic Growth: A Post-Pandemic Paradox

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 14) Topic: GS3 – Agriculture Context: The article analyzes the growing dependence on agriculture for livelihoods in rural India, despite the country’s overall economic growth and diversification challenges.  Analysis of News:    Rising Dependence on Farming in Rural India The recent NABARD All India Rural Financial Inclusion Survey (2021-22) reveals…

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India’s Solar Ambitions Face Hurdles Amid Heavy Reliance on Chinese Imports and Domestic Manufacturing Challenges

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Economy; Page: 13) Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy Context: India has set an ambitious target of installing 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, with solar power accounting for over 80% of this goal. However, this plan faces significant challenges due to the country’s heavy reliance on imported solar equipment,…