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India’s Farm Sector Growth Driven by Livestock and Fisheries, Crop Growth Lags: NITI Aayog Report

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 14) Topic: GS3– Agriculture Context: India’s agriculture sector has shown improved growth over the past two decades, particularly under the Narendra Modi government. The NITI Aayog paper highlights that agriculture’s Gross Value Added (GVA) growth averaged 2.9% annually from 1984-2004, but increased to 3.5% during the UPA government (2004-2014)…

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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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8 October 2024 : PIB Summary For UPSC

1. Bilateral Investment Treaty between India and the United Arab Emirates, comes into effect (Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2062692&reg=3&lang=1 ) Context The India-UAE Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT), effective from August 31, 2024, replaces the expired BIPPA, ensuring investment protection and fostering economic cooperation. This treaty aims to enhance bilateral investments by boosting investor confidence and providing a…

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8 October 2024 : Daily Answer Writing

Q1) Critically assess the role of microfinance in satisfactorily addressing the interconnected challenges of poverty and unemployment. (150 Words/10 Marks) ANS Microfinance refers to small loans and other financial services designed, specifically for poor and low-income households who face difficulties in accessing formal finance. RBI has defined microfinance as any collateral-free loan provided to a…

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8 October 2024 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis

1. Middle path in Middle East  (Source: Indian Express; Section: The Ideas Page; Page: 11) Topic: GS2- International Relations Context: The article discusses India’s strategic need to balance its relationships with Iran, Israel, and the Arab world amid rising regional tensions, prioritizing its deeper interests in Arab stability and peace. India’s Strategic Dilemma in the…

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8 October 2024 : The Hindu Editorial Analysis

1. A re-balancing of India’s great power relations (Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 8) Topic: GS2 – International Relations Context India’s participation in the Quad Leaders’ Summit and its diplomatic engagements with Russia highlight its delicate balancing act between strategic alliances with the U.S., Russia, and China. As Russia strengthens…

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8 October 2024 : Daily Current Affairs

1. 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…

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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,…