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MNRE Exempts Export-Oriented Green Hydrogen Projects from Domestic Solar Module Mandate to Lower Costs

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Economy; Page: 13) Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy Context: ● The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has exempted export-oriented green hydrogen projects from its domestic solar module shortlist to lower costs and boost global competitiveness. ● This exemption allows projects to use cheaper imported solar modules instead of domestic…

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MoRTH Introduces Real-Time GIS-Based Toll Monitoring and Plans for Satellite-Based Tolling System

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 12) Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology; GS2 – Governance Context: ● The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) has developed a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based software for real-time monitoring of wait times at highway toll plazas. ● This software, developed by Indian Highways Management Company Ltd (IHMCL)…

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New high-performance gas sensor can monitor low level nitrogen oxides pollution

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2051321 ) Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology Context ● Researchers have developed a groundbreaking gas sensor using mixed spinel zinc ferrite (ZnFe2O4) nanostructures, capable of detecting nitrogen oxides (NOx) at ultra-low concentrations (ppb levels) and room temperature. ● This advancement addresses key challenges in gas sensing, offering a more precise and affordable…

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Modi’s Landmark Visit to Brunei: Strengthening Defence and Strategic Ties Amid Indo-Pacific Tensions

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Govt & Politics; Page: 05) Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Bilateral Relations Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Brunei’s capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, to strengthen bilateral ties amid regional tensions due to China’s aggressive posture in the Indo-Pacific. This marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei,…

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India’s BioE3 Policy: Pioneering Sustainable Economic Transformation Through Biotechnology

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 16) Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology Context: The article discusses India’s BioE3 policy, which aims to drive sustainable economic growth by integrating biotechnology into industrial and manufacturing processes.  Analysis of News:       Overview of the BioE3 Policy The BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) policy, recently unveiled…

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Amid high tensions with Israel, Iran’s missile programme comes into focus

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 15) Topic: GS2 – International Relations Context ● Iran’s missile programme, long seen as a key element of its defence, faced scrutiny after a largely unsuccessful April 2024 assault on Israel. ● Despite launching hundreds of projectiles, many failed or were intercepted, raising questions about…

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Kavach expansion: Railways floats tenders worth over ₹2,200 crore

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 12) Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy –  Infrastructure –  Railways Context ● Indian Railways has initiated tenders worth over ₹2,200 crore for the installation of the indigenous Kavach automatic train protection system across 7,228 route kilometres. ● The move aims to enhance safety by preventing…

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The harm principle: how John Mill’s theory defines the extent of liberty

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 11) Topic: GS4 – Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude Context ● John Stuart Mill’s On Liberty introduces the harm principle, arguing that individual freedoms should only be restricted to prevent harm to others. ● His theory advocates for minimal state intervention in personal liberties while recognizing…

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Cabinet approves one more semiconductor unit under India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2050859 ) Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy, GS2 – Governance Context ● The Union Cabinet approved Kaynes Semicon Pvt Ltd’s Rs 3,300 crore investment to set up a semiconductor unit in Sanand, Gujarat, with a capacity of 60 lakh chips per day. ● This unit is part of India’s broader semiconductor ecosystem development…

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West Bengal Proposes Death Penalty for Severe Rape Cases in New Aparajita Woman and Child Bill

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Govt & Politics; Page: 05) Topic: GS2 – Governance Context: The West Bengal government has introduced the Aparajita Woman and Child Bill (West Bengal Criminal Laws and Amendment) Bill 2024 to create a safer environment for women and children by imposing stricter penalties for rape and sexual offenses. This Bill is…