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…
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…
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…
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…
1. “Empowering women is the key to control population growth”. Discuss (150 words/10m) ANS “The empowerment of women is the most effective tool for development,” as said by Kofi Annan. One of the main issues facing our contemporary civilization is population growth. Indiscriminate population increase has both short-term and long-term effects. There are several ways…
1. Rs 1,000 cr earmarked for Venture Fund to Space StartUps, says union Minister Jitendra Singh (Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2062671®=3&lang=1 ) Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy Context The Indian government has announced significant developments in the space sector, highlighting a dramatic rise in private sector involvement and startup growth. This initiative aims to strengthen India’s position…
1. Stories Of Health And Hope (Source: Indian Express; Section: The Editorial Page; Page: 10) Topic: GS2- Governance Context: Recently, the scheme was extended to include ASHA and Anganwadi workers and all citizens aged 70 and above, irrespective of their socioeconomic status. This extension addresses the healthcare needs of approximately 37 lakh workers and 6…
1. A three-tier war in West Asia with no endgame (Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 8) Topic: GS2 – International Relations Context The article discusses the escalating conflict in West Asia following a deadly Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023. It critiques Israel’s military response, its attempt to reshape…
1. Muizzu to meet Modi, request India’s support over looming economic crisis (Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 4) Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Bilateral Relations Context Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu’s state visit to India comes amid a looming economic crisis and significant debt repayments. During his talks with Prime…