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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…

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Union Cabinet Approves ₹2,817 Crore Digital Agriculture Mission to Revolutionize Farming with Advanced Digital Infrastructure

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 12) Topic: GS2 – Governance – Government Policies Context: The Union Cabinet has approved a ₹2,817 crore Digital Agriculture Mission aimed at creating Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in the agriculture sector. This mission seeks to revolutionize farming through advanced technology and digital solutions.  Analysis of News:               Mission Components AgriStack:…