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Agreement on Reciprocal Logistics Support (ARLS) India and Russia are finalising a defence agreement that will simplify interoperability and enable military platforms to receive support and supplies across bases in both nations- Agreement on Reciprocal Logistics Support (ARLS). It is an arrangement that will allow access to India and Russia, to each other’s military facilities for supplies and fuel, expanding the logistics support and operational turnaround of the Indian
Odisha’s first case of harlequin ichthyosis WHY? Mutations in the ABCA 12 gene are stated to cause harlequin ichthyosis. The ABCA12 protein plays a major role in transporting fats in cells which make up the outermost layer of skin. Severe mutations in the gene lead to the absence or partial production of the ABCA12 protein. This results in lack of lipid transport and as a result, the skin development is affected by varying degrees according to the severity of the mutation, a doc
SUPACE Portal The Supreme Court unveiled its Artificial Intelligence (AI) portal, the Supreme Court Portal for Assistance in Court’s Efficiency (SPACE). A pet project of Chief Justice of India S A Bobde, SUPACE is a tool that collects relevant facts and laws and makes them available to a judge. The portal is not designed to take decisions, but only to process facts and to make them available to judges looking for input for a decision. It is designed to make research easier for j
Thotlakonda Buddhist destination Historians and biologists campaign to protect the ancient Buddhist site of Thotlakonda - Home to around 90 species of birds. The site is found at a hill of Mangamaripeta Village, Bheemunipatnam Taluka of Visakhapatnam District, Andhra Pradesh. Significance of the site - In 1976, during a helicopter survey by the Indian Navy to set up a naval facility, ruins of the Buddhist site were spotted. Subsequently, the entire hill was declared as an area com
Lockdown Generation The International Labour Organization (ILO) termed the current young population as the ‘lockdown generation’ citing the massive impacts of the pandemic on them. The lockdown generation emerged, as young people constitute major victims of social and economic consequences of the pandemic, and there is a risk that they will be scarred throughout their working lives. According to ILO and various other estimates, during the pandemic, Some 90% of y
Exercise Khanjar- exercise between India and Kyrgyzstan India and Kyrgyzstan Special Forces have started a military exercise named Exercise Khanjar in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. About Exercise Khanjar Exercise Khanjar is a Joint Special Forces Military Exercise between India and Kyrgyzstan. The exercise was started in the year 2011. This is the Eighth Edition of the Exercise. The exercise aims to boost the strategic partnership between India and Kyrgyzstan. It also focuses on high-alti
Dekho Apna Desh Webinar on Khajuraho Temples The Ministry of Tourism recently organized a webinar on “Khajuraho Temples of Architectural Splendour” under Dekho Apna Desh. About Dekho Apna Desh webinar Ministry of Tourism launched the Dekho Apna Desh webinar series in April 2020. Its objective is to create awareness about and promote various tourism destinations in India. It is also an effort to showcase India’s rich diversity under Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.
World Press Freedom Index 2021 The World Press Freedom Index 2021 was recently released. About World Press Freedom Index: The index is Published by Reporters Sans Frontieres (RSF) or Reporters Without Borders since 2002. The Index ranks 180 countries and regions according to the level of freedom available to journalists. However, the index neither ranks public policies and nor is it an indicator of the quality of journalism in each country or region. The index r
Global Youth Mobilization Initiative Launched by UN Recently, United Nations agencies, youth organisations, and WHO have come together to launch the Global Youth Mobilization initiative for local Solutions. About Global Youth Mobilization Initiative: World Health Organization and United Nations Foundation are supporting Global Youth Mobilization Initiative. It is also led by the world’s six largest youth organisations, including The World Alliance of Young Men’s
Supplemental Oxygen Delivery System developed by DRDO Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has launched the SpO2 (Blood Oxygen Saturation) supplemental Oxygen Delivery System which will be useful for soldiers in extreme high-altitude areas. About DRDO’s Supplemental Oxygen Delivery System: The system delivers supplemental oxygen based on the SpO2 (Blood Oxygen Saturation) levels. Thus, it prevents the person from going into a state of Hypoxia. Hypoxia is
National Climate Vulnerability Assessment Report The Department of Science and Technology (DST) has recently released the National climate vulnerability assessment report. About National Climate Vulnerability Assessment Report: The National Climate Vulnerability Assessment Report identifies the most vulnerable states and districts in India, as per the current climate risk and key drivers of vulnerability. The report uses several key drivers of Vulnerability for the assessment-
EU’s Indo-Pacific Strategy approved by EU Council The Council of the European Union has approved the EU’s Indo-Pacific Strategy for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. About EU Indo-Pacific Strategy: The Indo-Pacific region spans from the east coast of Africa to the Pacific Island States with the world’s two most populous countries & economies — India and China. The strategy aims to contribute to the stability, security, prosperity, and sustainable developm
NASA's Ingenuity Rover takes flight in Mars' Atmosphere NASA’s Mars Helicopter Ingenuity has successfully flown on Mars. It is the first powered flight on another planet. About NASA’s Mars Helicopter Ingenuity Ingenuity is the first helicopter to fly on Mars. NASA’s rover called Perseverance carried it to the Red Planet. The helicopter’s main task is to carry out a technology demonstration to test the first powered flight on Mars. It also aims
Startup India Seed Fund Scheme Union Minister of Commerce & Industry recently launched the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS). About Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS): The scheme was announced during the Prarambh: the ‘Startup India International Summit’. Which marks the 5-year anniversary of the Startup India initiative. Objective: Startup India Seed Fund Scheme(SISFS) aims to provide financial assistance to startups. Assistance is provided for
Sudarshan Sen Committee for Asset Reconstruction Companies by RBI Reserve Bank of India(RBI) has set up the Sudarshan Sen committee to review the working of Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) Comprehensively. About Asset Reconstruction Company (ARC): Asset Reconstruction Company (ARC) is a specialized financial institution that buys the Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) from banks and financial institutions. It helps banks in cleaning up their balance sheets. Thus, it helps banks
Inclusive Internet Index 2021 Inclusive Internet Index 2021 has recently been released by Facebook. About Inclusive Internet Index, 2021 Facebook commissioned the Inclusive Internet Index, 2021, and The Economist Intelligence Unit develops the index. It seeks to measure the extent of accessibility and affordability of the Internet. Also, the internet should be able to enable positive social and economic outcomes at the individual and group levels. The index assesses the perf
India’s First “Disc Footed Bat found in Meghalaya Researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered India’s first disc footed bat near the Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary in Meghalaya. About Disc Footed Bat: This bat (Eudiscopus denticulus) is a bat species that is very different. It has a flat skull, prominent disk-like pads in the thumb, and bright orange colouration. This bat rests inside bamboo internodes. Their sticky disks and flatte
“Gender Samvaad” Event by Ministry of Rural Development The Ministry of Rural Development recently organized the Gender Samvaad Event. About Gender Samvaad Event: Gender Samvaad is a cooperation between Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission(DAY-NRLM) and Initiative for What Works to Advance Women and Girls in the Economy (IWWAGE). It aims to generate greater awareness about gender-related interventions under DAY-NRLM across the country. It focuse
National Startup Advisory Council The Minister of Commerce & Industry chaired the first meeting of the National Startup Advisory Council (NSAC) recently. About the National Startup Advisory Council (NSAC): National Startup Advisory Council (NSAC) was constituted by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade(DPIIT). Its purpose is to advise the Government on measures required to build a strong ecosystem for nurturing innovation and startups in the country.
WHO's Global Diabetes Compact Initiative The World Health Organization (WHO) recently launched a Global Diabetes Compact Initiative. About Global Diabetes Compact Initiative: Global Diabetes Compact aims to reduce the risk of diabetes. It will ensure that all people diagnosed with diabetes have access to equitable, comprehensive, affordable, quality treatment and care. This initiative launched at the Global Diabetes Summit. WHO and the government of Canada Co-hosted the summ
Paris Call for Trust and Security in Cyberspace India and the U.S. are being urged to join the Paris Call for Trust and Security in Cyberspace which now has 75 countries on board. It deals with the new cybersecurity threats faced in the world. About Paris Call for Trust and Security in Cyberspace: The Paris Call for Trust and Security in Cyberspace was announced in 2018 by the French President. It was announced during the Internet Governance Forum held at UNESCO and the Paris Peac
Global Food Policy Report 2021 by IFPRI The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) recently released the Global Food Policy Report, in 2021. About Global Food Policy Report, 2021: The report provides lessons drawn from the current crisis. Especially the lessons that can help transform food systems to reduce the impact of the ongoing pandemic, better prepare for future shocks, and address long-standing weaknesses and inequalities. Theme: “Tran
UN Food Systems Summit 2021 The Ministry of Agricultural and Farmers Welfare recently conducted a National Dialogue on UN Food Systems Summit, 2021. About UN Food Systems Summit,2021: The first-ever UN Food Systems Summit is expected to be held in September 2021. The summit will aim to strategize the actions for positive change in Agri-food systems in the world. It will help to realize the vision of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Summit will focus on levers and
India-UK agree for Nirav Modi's Extradition to India The U.K.’s Home Department has recently approved the extradition of Nirav Modi to India in connection with the Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud. About Extradition: Extradition is the formal process of surrendering an individual from one state to another state. The aim of the process is prosecution or punishment for crimes committed by an individual in the requesting country’s jurisdiction. The extradition of a fug
Great Indian Bustard poaching Great Indian Bustard and Conservation Efforts It is one of the heaviest Flight birds. They have weak eyesight. Habitat is grassland (not covered under Forest Conservation Act, 1980). It is endemic to the Indian subcontinent found in Central India, west India and eastern Pakistan. Bustard species found in India: Great Indian Bustard, Lesser Florican and Bengal Florican; Houbara Bustard in Pakistan. It is considered the flagship/ indicator grassland
Buddhist Remains found in Jharkhand Earlier this year, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) discovered Buddhist Remains from Hazaribagh on the eastern side of Jharkhand’s Sitagarha hills. What did the Archaeological Survey of India(ASI) discover? ASI discovered the remains of a Buddhist monastery along with some Shaivite remains which include: Four Statues of Taras, the “saviouresses” of the Thunderbolt Vehicle, displaying the Varada mudra(gesture of hand sh
Eatsmart Cities Challenge and Transport 4 All Challenge by Govt The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has recently launched the EatSmart Cities Challenge and Transport 4 All Challenge. About EatSmart Cities Challenge: EatSmart Cities Challenge is organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. The challenge is organised in association with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It aims to motivate Smart
India on US’s Currency Watch list The US treasury places India along with 10 other countries on its currency watch list. What is Currency Manipulator: Current Manipulators are countries engaging in “unfair currency practices” by deliberately devaluing their currency against the dollar. The practice would mean that the country in question is artificially lowering the value of its currency. By that, it aims to gain an unfair advantage over others. This is because
State of World Population Report 2021 by UN Population Fund The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) recently released its report “State of World Population Report 2021” titled ‘My Body is My Own. About State of World Population Report 2021: The State of World Population is an annual report published by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Bodily autonomy is the first time the focus of the report. It is defined as the power and agency to make choices abou
Regulations Review Authority 2.0 by RBI Recently the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced the setting up of a new Regulations Review Authority (RRA 2.0). About Regulations Review Authority(RRA): RBI earlier set up the first RRA for a period of one year from April 1, 1999. This is for reviewing the regulations, circulars, reporting systems, based on the feedback from the public, banks and financial institutions. About Regulations Review Authority (RRA 2.0): RRA 2.0 will st
New Delhi Dialogue 2021 on The Hydrogen Economy The Union Minister inaugurated The Hydrogen Economy – New Delhi Dialogue 2021. About Hydrogen Economy – New Delhi Dialogue 2021: New Delhi Dialogue 2021 is organized by The Energy Forum(TEF), an independent think tank in India in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Petroleum Industry(FIPI). FIPI is under the patronage of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. The dialogue aims to discuss emerging hydrogen ec
Electronic nose to detect “Hydrogen Sulphide” from Sewers Scientists from the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS), Bangalore have developed Electronic Nose to detect Hydrogen Sulphide from swamps and sewers. CeNS is an autonomous institute of the Department of Science & Technology About Hydrogen Sulphide: Hydrogen Sulphide is the chemical compound with the formula H2S. It is a colourless chalcogen hydride gas. It is with the characteristic foul
Digital Repository on Health, Nutrition- Poshan Gyan- Released NITI Aayog has launched a platform named “Poshan Gyan”. About Poshan Gyan: Niti Aayog launched Poshan Gyan in partnership with Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Centre for Social and Behaviour Change, Ashoka University. It is a National Digital Repository on health and nutrition. Key Features: It is a comprehensive online resource for anybody working in the nutrition sector in India. It
Online Grievance Management Portal for Scheduled Castes by NCSC National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) recently launched an Online Grievance Management Portal for Scheduled Castes .in the country About Online Grievance Management Portal: The Portal will allow submission of complaints about atrocities against the Scheduled Castes. The portal also allows users to track the progress of their complaints. It was developed in collaboration with the Bhaskaracharya Institute for S
E-SANTA Marketplace The Union Commerce and Industry Minister recently virtually inaugurated e-SANTA. About e-SANTA: e-SANTA stands for Electronic Solution for Augmenting NaCSA farmer’s trade in Aquaculture. e-SANTA is an electronic marketplace providing a platform to connect aqua farmers and buyers. The platform will also act as an alternative marketing tool between farmers & buyers by eliminating middlemen. Benefits of e-SANTA Platform: Enhances the life of
Trade Facilitation Mobile App by DGFT Union Minister of Commerce and Industry has launched the Directorate General of Foreign Trade’s (DGFT) Trade Facilitation Mobile Application. About Trade Facilitation Mobile Application: Tata Consultancy Services(TCS) developed the Trade Facilitation Mobile Application. It is as per the directions of the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). It aims to promote ease of doing business by providing quick access to informati
2021- Raisina Dialogue The Prime Minister delivered a video address at the Inaugural Session of the Raisina Dialogue. About Raisina Dialogue: Raisina Dialogue is an annual multilateral conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics. The Ministry of External Affairs and the Observer Research Foundation have been jointly organizing it since 2016. The conference discusses cooperation on the most challenging international policy matters. It involves a variety of global policymakers in
Indus and Ganges River Dolphins were Detected to be 2 different species According to an analysis of the Indus and Ganges River dolphins, it was found they are not one but two separate different species. What is the current classification? Currently, Indus and Ganges River dolphins are classified as two subspecies of South Asian river dolphins(Platanista gangetica). What has the analysis revealed? The researchers examined the DNA samples of the Indus and Gangetic Rive
Fukushima Radioactive Water to be Released in Seas Japan is planning to release about 1 million metric tons of radioactive water from the damaged Fukushima nuclear power plant. About Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant: Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant is located in the town of Okuma, Japan. The reactor is located on the country’s east coast. It is about 220 km north-east of the capital Tokyo. The 2011 Earthquake, destroyed the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant’s electricity and coo
WHO guidelines to control Transmission of Zoonotic Diseases The World Health Organization(WHO), World Organization for Animal Health and United Nations Environment Programme jointly released guidelines to control “Zoonotic Diseases” for governments. Guidelines ask to reduce the risk of transmission of zoonotic pathogens to humans in food production and marketing chains. What are Zoonotic Diseases? Zoonosis is an infectious disease that jumps from a non-human anima
Indian Rhino Vision 2020 Indian Rhino Vision 2020 (IRV 2020) ended with the release of two rhinos. An adult male and a female rhino were transported to Assam’s Manas National Park from Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. Indian Rhino Vision Plan 2020: Indian Rhino Vision Plan 2020 was launched in 2005. The vision of IRV was: Increase the Rhino Population in Assam from about 2000 to 3000 by 2020. Ensure that one-horned rhinos are spread over seven protected areas in the Indi
Mandatory Gold Hallmarking The government said that it is fully prepared to implement the mandatory hallmarking of gold jewellery and artefacts from June 1, 2021. What is Gold hallmarking? Gold hallmarking is a purity certification of precious metal. At present, It is voluntary in nature. Gold Hallmarking in India: In 2019, the Government announced that hallmarking of gold jewellery and artefacts will be made mandatory across the country. The government had given jewelle
Danube Sturgeon- Illegal Selling According to a report released by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the illegal sale of Danube Sturgeon, one of the most endangered species in the world, is rampant in the lower Danube (River) region, especially in Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia and Ukraine. The Danube is the second longest river in Europe after the Volga. It rises in the Black Forest mountains of western Germany and flows for some 2,850 km to its mouth
Regional New Year's Days Context Puthandu Pirappu, Rongali Bihu, Naba Barsha and Vaisakhadi, Ugadi, and Gudi Padwa will be celebrated in different parts of the country on 14th and 15th April 2021. In the month of Chaitra (March-April) of the Hindu calendar, most of the regional New Year Days are celebrated. Ugadi is the Telugu New Year that usually comes in March. In Punjab the year starts with the first of Vaisakh, coinciding with the ripening of the rabi
Sushil Chandra -24th CEC Context Sushil Chandra assumed charge as the 24th Chief Election Commissioner of India, succeeding Sunil Arora. About: Shri Sushil Chandra has been serving in the Commission as Election Commissioner since 15 February 2019. He is also Member of the Delimitation Commission since 18th February 2020 looking after the Delimitation of Jammu Kashmir UT. Having held several posts in the Income-Tax Department for nearly 39 years, Sh Sushil C
34th Foundation Day of C-DAC Context This 13th of April is the 34th Foundation Day of the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), the premier R&D organization of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) Three novel innovative technologies – Cyber Security Operation Centre (CSoC) as a service ,offering end to end security solutions including managed security services. C-DAC’s indigenous High-Performance Computing software
Aahaar Kranti Mission The Union Minister for Science and Technology will launch a mission called `Aahaar Kranti’. About Aahaar Kranti Mission: Vijnana Bharati (Vibha) and the Global Indian Scientists’ and Technocrats’ Forum (GIST) will launch Aahaar Kranti Mission. The mission will aim to spread the message of the need for a nutritionally balanced diet. It will highlight the importance of being accessible to all local fruits and vegetables. Key Features of
Women and Men in India Report, 2020 The National Statistical Office released the Women and Men in India report, in 2020. About Women and Men in India Report, 2020: NSO produces this report annually. This is the 22nd issue in its series. The report consolidates the crucial socio-economic indicators that portray gender situations in the country. Key Findings from the Report: Population and Related Statistics: India’s projected population in 2021 is 136.13 Crore wi
Antarctica’s Thwaites Glacier is Melting Researchers at a Sweden University released a new finding related to the melting of the Thwaites Glacier. About Thwaites Glacier: Thwaites Glacier is a 120 km wide, fast-moving glacier located in Antarctica. Because of its size (1.9 lakh square km), it contains enough water to raise the world sea level by more than half a meter. It’s melting already contributes 4% to global sea-level rise each year. It is estimated that it wou
e-SANTA The term e-SANTA was coined for the web portal, meaning Electronic Solution for Augmenting NaCSA farmers' Trade in Aquaculture. e-SANTA is an electronic marketplace providing a platform to connect aqua farmers and the buyers. It will enable the farmers to get a better price and the exporters to directly purchase quality products from the farmers enhancing traceability, a key factor in international trade. National Centre for Sustainable Aquaculture (NaCSA) is an extensi
Raisina Dialogue 2021 What is Raisina Dialogue? It is a multilateral conference held annually in New Delhi, India. Since its inception in 2016, the conference has emerged as India’s flagship conference on geopolitics and geo-economics. The conference is hosted by the Observer Research Foundation, an independent think tank, in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs of India. The conference is structured as a multi-stakeholder, cross-sectoral discussion, involving
Bar Headed Geese with a Mongolian Band Wildlife Science and Conservation Center of Mongolia follow unique conservation methods like banding. The band consists of details like: Colour of the band- This green colour band Conservation centre name- Wildlife Conservation and Science Center in Mongolia Where is found- Salt lake near Tsakhir soum in province Arkhangai of Central Mongolia. Capture location- N48.126314, E99.143451. Details of Bird- This bird was identified
Lab on Wheels Programme by DelhiTechnological University Delhi Education Minister inaugurated Delhi Technological University (DTU) Lab on Wheels programme. About Lab on Wheels Programme: The Programme aims to impart education in the fields of Mathematics and Science. Especially the students from marginalised and poor economic backgrounds. The programme aims to stimulate their interest in these subjects while pursuing higher education. The programme becomes mutually benef
SC's Verdict: People are Free to Choose Religion The Supreme Court refused to entertain a PIL seeking directions to the Centre to ban black magic, superstition, and deceitful religious conversion. What was the case filed? A petition was filed in the Supreme Court seeking to control black magic, superstition & mass religious conversion of SC/STs. The petition also mentions the religious conversions through intimidation, threats & gifts. The plea argued that such fo
AICTE's “Lilavati Awards” 2020 Union Minister of Education has presented the AICTE Lilavati Awards 2020 on women empowerment to the winners. About Lilavati Awards: Lilavati Award is an initiative of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). It aims to recognise efforts by AICTE-approved institutions to treat women with equality and fairness. The award has got its name after the 12th-century book called “Lilavati”. The Mathematician Bhaska
Recent Dolphin Census Report Released The Odisha State Forest and Environment Department released the final data on the dolphin census that covered almost the entire coast of Odisha. Key Findings: The number of dolphins increased by 311 in Odisha taking the total number up to 544 Dolphins. In the 2020 census, there were a total of 233 dolphins in the Odisha state. Census recorded three species of Dolphins: Irrawaddy, bottle-nose, and humpback dolphins. Irrawaddy Dolphins: The pop
Shaphari Scheme – To Include Shrimp Farms in Aquaculture Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) recently launched a certification scheme for aquaculture called the “Shaphari Scheme”. About Shaphari Scheme: Safari is a Sanskrit word that means the superior quality of fishery products suitable for human consumption. Purpose: It is an Antibiotics free Certification Scheme. It certifies hatcheries and farms for the production of antibiotic-free sh
India - Denmark MoU on Atal Innovation Mission As part of the Indo-Danish bilateral Green strategic partnership, India is all set to take a giant leap towards building a world-class innovation ecosystem as Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) of India’s premier policy think tank NITI Aayog and Embassy of Denmark to India today officially announced their collaboration. Under this ambitious partnership, Innovation Center Denmark in India will collaborate with AIM to support various cu
Judicial Appointments Context: CJI Sharad A. Bobde had recommended Justice Nuthalapati Venkata Ramana, the seniormost judge of the Supreme Court, for appointment as the 48th Chief Justice of India. About NV Ramana: Student leader working for farmers and industrial workers to journalist for a leading Telugu newspaper to a first-generation lawyer. He was Additional Advocate General for Andhra Pradesh before being called to the State High Court Bench in 2001. Justice Ramana was
British Era Lighthouses of Odisha The Ministry wants to develop them as hubs of tourism under the Sagarmala project. The British-era False Point lighthouse, a 129-ft massive minaret-like structure of red-white bands with a huge embossed star, is visible from quite a distance from the Bay of Bengal. Its location close to massive mangrove vegetation infested with crocodiles makes it an adventurous tourist place on the eastern coast. Barely 40 km away, the Paradip lighthouse is another
People are Free to Choose Religion: Supreme Court The Supreme Court refused to entertain a PIL seeking directions to the Centre to ban black magic, superstition, and deceitful religious conversion. About the case in the SC A petition was filed in the Supreme Court seeking to control black magic, superstition & mass religious conversion of SC/STs. The petition also mentions the religious conversions through intimidation, threats & gifts. The plea argued that such forceful re
Tech developed for Improved Lithium-ion Battery Performance Researchers from IIT Guwahati have developed a technique to improve the performance of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which power most of the portable devices used today. New Technology The 2019 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was jointly awarded to Stanley Whittingham, John Goodenough and Akira Yoshino for work that led to the development of lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are used in mos
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2021 IBC (Amendment) Ordinance, 2021 Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2021 promulgated on 4th April, 2021 provides for pre-packaged insolvency resolution process (PPIRP) for corporate debtors classified as micro, small and medium enterprises. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) notified the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (Pre-packaged Insolvency Resolution Process) Regulations, 2021 (
NITI Aayog’s Draft National Policy on Migrant Workers NITI Aayog, along with a working subgroup of officials and members of civil society, has prepared a draft National Migrant Labour policy. It puts forward several radical ideas including the adoption of a rights-based approach and creating an additional layer of institutions to create a more enabling policy environment for migrants. Highlights of the Draft policy It proposes a new National Migration Policy and
Tika Utsav to begin on Jyotirao Phule’s Birth Anniversary The 'Tika Utsav (vaccination festival)', started on the birth anniversary of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule (11th April) will continue till the birth anniversary of Babasaheb Ambedkar on 14th April 2021. The aim of the four day festival is to vaccinate as many people as possible for the priority groups and zero wastage of Covid-19 vaccine. Jyotirao Phule was an Indian
Achieving Paris Agreement- the key to save endemic species: Study According to a study published in the journal Biological Conservation, 90% of the endemic species will face extinction unless the goals of the Paris Agreement are met. For example, Kolar Leaf Nose Bat is endemic to India and endemic to only one cave in Hanumanahalli village in Kolar district, Karnataka Endemic species are those plants and animals that exist only in one geographical region. Species can be endemic
Government launches “Madhukranti portal” and “Honey Corners” of NAFED Union Agriculture Minister has launched the “MadhuKranti portal” and “Honey Corners” of NAFED. MadhuKranti portal: It is an initiative of the National Bee Board under the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission. It is developed for online registration to achieve a traceability source of Honey and other beehive products on a digital platform. The portal wil
Dolphin boom in Odisha’s Chilika lake Syllabus subtopic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment Prelims and Mains focus: about the census and its findings; about Irrawaddy dolphins and why they are important; about Chilika lake Dolphin boom in Odisha’s Chilika lake The population of dolphins in Chilika, India’s largest brackish water lake, and along the Odisha coast has doubled this year compared with last year.
Chilika Lake was a part of the Bay of Bengal: Study According to a study by the National Institute of Oceanography(NIO), Chilika lake was once a part of the Bay of Bengal. Evidences- Archeological Studies: The marine archaeological studies clearly show that the Chilika once was a safe harbour for cargo ships going to Southeast Asia and other parts of the world. Palur Port: Greek geographer Claudius Ptolemy(150 CE) described Palur as an important port of Kalinga and
Global Minimum Corporate Income Tax The US Treasury Secretary has urged the world’s 20 advanced nations to move in the direction of adopting a global minimum corporate income tax. What is the Global Minimum Corporate Tax Rate? It is a type of corporate tax. Under this, If a company moves some of its operations to another country having low-tax jurisdiction, then the company have to pay the difference between that minimum rate and whatever the firm paid on its overseas earnin
Meeting of Education Ministers of E9 Countries Recently, a consultation meeting of Education Ministers of E9 countries was held on the theme ‘E9 initiative: Scaling up digital learning to accelerate progress towards SDG4’. Major Highlights The United Nations (UN) is spearheading a global initiative on digital learning and skills for all, targeting marginalized children and youth and aiming to close the digital divide and drive rapid chan
Navigating the Rupee depreciation The rupee has been falling and recently, the rupee fell sharply by 105 paise. It is considered as one of the biggest single-session falls in 20 months. Currently, the rupee stands at 74.47 against the US dollar. Reasons for Rupee Depreciation A combination of factors are responsible for rupee depreciation, such as Concerns over Covid-19 has created uncertainty in the market. This affected the FDI(Foreign Direct Investment) and FII(Foreig
Major Committees – Indian Banking system Committee Purpose Banking and Financial Sector Reforms Basel Committee Banking Supervision Bimal Jalan For New Bank Licenses Raghuram Rajan Committee For Financial Sector Reforms For Banki
India’s Banking Sector a brief Timeline – UPSC PRELIMS GS Paper-3 Banking system – Prelims and Personality test Banking is considered to be the “Backbone of a Nation’s Economy”. It is the most leading part of the financial sector of the country as it is responsible for more than 70 % of the funds that flow through the financial sector in the country. The advancement of the Indian Banking System can be classified into 3distinct Phases: 1. The P
Indian Banking system & Related Terms - UPSC GS-PAPER-3 Economics-Banking and associated terms Rates Base Rate – This is the minimum rate at which a bank can lend to its customers. It cannot lend below the base rate. All interest rates determined for various loans will use the base rate as the benchmark. Fixed Rate – A fixed rate is when the rate of interest for a loan remains constant throughout the entire tenure. Floating Rate – Opposite of fixed rate, a
Sri Sri Harichand Thakur The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has paid homage to Sri Harichand Thakur on his Jayanti. About Shri Shri Harichand Thakur Harichand Thakur, sometimes known as Shri Shri Harichand Thakur worked among the untouchable people of Bengal Presidency. He formed the Matua sect of Hindus. According to historian Sekhar Bandyopadhyay, Thakur “experienced Atma darshan or self-revelation, through which he realized that he was the incarnation of God himself, b
PM releases Hindi Version of Odisha Itihaas by Dr. Harekrushna Mahtab Odisha Itihaas Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently released the Hindi translation of the book, ‘Odisha Itihaas’, written by former chief minister Harekrushna Mahatab. Releasing the book, which is already available in Oriya and English, the Prime Minister said, “It is important that the diverse and comprehensive history of Odisha should reach the people of the country.” Harekrushna Ma
Non-uniformity of Himalayas foresees significantly large earthquake events Scientists have found that the Himalayas are not uniform and assume different physical and mechanical properties in different directions — a property present in crystals that is called ‘anisotropy’. This could result in significantly large earthquake events in the Himalayas. The northwest region of India, an area covering Garhwal and Himachal Pradesh, has been hit by four destructive moderate
Post Matric Scholarship Scheme for Scheduled Castes The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs had revamped the post-matric scholarship scheme earlier for students from the Scheduled Castes (SCs), including a new funding pattern of 60-40 for the Centre and States. Equality in the Constitution Equality enshrined in the Constitution is not mathematical equality and does not mean all citizens will be treated alike without any distinction. To this effect, the Constitution underlines two di
Project REHAB Khadi and Village Industries Commission(KVIC) has launched a unique project called Project REHAB (Reducing Elephant – Human Attacks using Bees). About Project REHAB: Project RE-HAB stands for Reducing Elephant-Human Attacks using Bees. It is an initiative of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC). The project has been launched as a sub-mission of KVIC’s National Honey Mission. It intends to create “bee fences” to thwart elephant a
India-Netherlands Virtual Summit Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in a virtual meeting discussed regional and global issues of mutual interest with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte. During the Summit, the two leaders exchanged views on further expanding the relationship in trade and economy, water management, agriculture sector, smart cities, science & technology, healthcare and space. The two Prime Ministers also agreed on instituting a ‘Strategic Partnersh
Copyright (Amendment) Rules, 2021 In India, the copyright regime is governed by the Copyright Act, 1957 and the Copyright Rules, 2013. The amendments have been introduced with the objective of bringing the existing rules in parity with other relevant legislations. New Provisions: The amendments have harmonised the Copyright Rules with the provisions of Finance Act, 2017 whereby the Copyright Board has been merged with Appellate Board. To reinforce transparency in working of co
Clean Ganga Fund- Role in Ganga Conservation The main goal of the Government’s flagship program Namami Gange has been to make Ganga clean and restore its pristine glory. Rejuvenation of such a long river not only poses tremendous challenges but also requires huge investment. The Government has already quadrupled the budget, but still, it will not be sufficient for such a mammoth amount of work. Therefore, a Clean Ganga Fund was created by the Government, in which everyone can contri
Jal Jeevan Mission: Working Mechanism & Governance Jal Jeevan Mission – Har Ghar Jal announced on 15th August 2019, to provide Functional Household Tap Connection (FHTC) to every rural home by 2024, which is in its third year of implementation. National Jal Jeevan Mission, Ministry of Jal Shakti will soon roll out the annual planning exercise with States. The working mechanism is as follows: While implementing, States/ UTs are to give priority to water quality-affected
Chenab Bridge- Final Arch Closure Completed Recently, Indian Railways completed the arch closure of the iconic Chenab Bridge in Jammu & Kashmir. Key Highlights It is the world's highest railway bridge and is part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project (USBRL). The Project was declared as a Project of National Importance in March 2002. This bridge is 1,315-metre long and is the highest railw
IMF's World Economic Outlook Report- 2021 The International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) World Economic Outlook has raised its Financial Year (FY) 2021 growth forecast for India to 12.5% from 11.5% estimated earlier in January 2021. Highlights of the Report: Indian economy is expected to grow by 12.5% in 2021 and 6.9% in 2022. In 2020, India’s economy witnessed an estimated contraction of 8%. The growth rate for India in 2021 is st
Kazakhstan and India- Defence Minister Bilateral Talks The Defence Minister of Kazakhstan visited India recently with a focus on boosting bilateral defence cooperation. Both countries share common interests of actively combating the threat of global terrorism and maintaining peace. The meet will enable greater military to military contact and cooperation between Kazakhstan and India. India – Kazakhstan Relations: Relations between India and Kaz
Sikh Guru Teg Bahadur's 400th Birth Anniversary Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will chair a meeting of the High-Level Committee to approve policies, plans and programs related to the commemoration of the 400th birth anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Guru Tegh Bahadur (1621–1675) Guru Tegh Bahadur was the ninth of ten Gurus of the Sikh religion. He was born at Amritsar in 1621 and was the youngest son of Guru Hargobind. His term as Guru ran from 1665 to 1675. One
Solar Power Park in India- UPSC FACTS GS-Paper-3 Renewable Energy – Infrastructure development- Prelims & UPSC Interview Context: Renewable energy mainly solar energy is the most important topic of discussion in 21st Century, when the World has faced the problem of Climate change and energy security. This topic is highly important for UPSC mains examination under Paper-3 Infrastructure and Energy security. India lying in a tropical belt has the advantage of receivin
Wind Energy in India- Renewable Energy GS-Paper-3 Renewable Energy – Infrastructure development- Prelims & UPSC Interview Context: Renewable energy mainly Wind energy is the most important topic of discussion in the 21st Century when the World has faced the problem of Climate change and Energy security. This topic is highly important for UPSC's main examination under Paper-3 Infrastructure and Energy security. As per a report by Fitch Solutions Macro Research,&n
India Energy Outlook Report, 2021 GS-Paper-3 Energy security – Infrastructure development- Prelims & UPSC Interview Context: The International Energy Agency (IEA) has recently released the India Energy Outlook 2021 report. The report is highly important for UPSC examination topic ENERGY SECURITY. (1) Energy consumption India at present is the fourth-largest global energy consumer behind China, the United States and the European Union. It will overtake the European Unio
Indian astronomers from Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences have tracked a rare supernova explosion and traced it to one of the hottest kind of stars called Wolf–Rayet stars or WR stars. The rare Wolf–Rayet stars are highly luminous objects a thousand times that of the Sun. They strip their outer hydrogen envelope which is associated with the fusion of Helium and other elements in the massive core. Supernova A supernova
India's Rising Supercomputing Capabilities India is fast emerging as a leader in high-power computing with the National Super Computing Mission (NSM) boosting it to meet the increased computational demands of academia, researchers, MSMEs, and startups in areas like oil exploration, flood prediction as well as genomics and drug discovery. Completion in of Phase II of NSM in September 2021 will take the country’s computing power to 16 Petaflops (PF). Infrastructure planned in
First Meeting of BRICS Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors As 2021 BRICS Chair, India’s approach is focused on strengthening intra-BRICS cooperation based on Continuity, Consolidation and Consensus. BRICS Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors discussed the financial cooperation agenda set by India for 2021 - Global Economic Outlook and Response to COVID-19 pandemic, New Development Bank (NDB) Activities, Social Infrastructure Financing and Use of Digital Technologies,
92% of Projects under PMAY-G Completed Under the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G), 92% target of completion has been achieved in the 1st phase of the scheme i.e. from 2016-17 to 2018-19 with intended beneficiaries also coming down from 2.95 cr to 2.14 cr due to duplication and other incidences. Rural Housing In India The public housing programme in the country started with the rehabilitation of refugees immediately after independence and since then, it has bee
Global Gender Gap Report 2021 Global Gender Gap Report 2021 was released recently. Released by World Economic Forum Key takeaways India has fallen 28 places It is now one of the worst performers in South Asia, It is ranked below neighbouring countries – Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Myanmar. India’s rank: 140 among 156 countries. South Asia incidentally is one of the worst performing regions, followed only by the Middle
Modernization plan of Central Warehouse Corporation Recently Min of Food Supplies talked about modernizing Central Warehousing Corporation and improving its storage capacities. Other modernizing aspects that were talked about were: doubling its warehouse storage capacity by end of the year 2023 and achieving a turnover of Rs 10000 crore tariff rationalization and setting of warehouses should be done independently by CWC without any bureaucratic interferen
K-Shaped Recovery A K-shaped recovery occurs when, following a recession, different parts of the economy recover at different rates, times, or magnitudes. This is in contrast to an even, uniform recovery across sectors, industries, or groups of people. A K-shaped recovery leads to changes in the structure of the economy or the broader society as economic outcomes and relations are fundamentally changed before and after the recession. This type of recovery is called K-shaped beca
Blockchain Enabled Interface for Indian Spices Spices Board India and UNDP India's Accelerator Lab sign MoU to develop a blockchain-powered traceability Interface for Indian spices. This new interface will serve to enhance transparency in the supply chain and trade. India is the largest exporter, producer and consumer of spices in the world. What are Blockchains? Blockchains are a new data structure that is secure, cryptography-based
Impacts of Desert Dust Particles on Indian Summer Monsoon A new study shows the impacts of desert dust coming from the West, Central, and East Asia in the Indian Summer Monsoon. Impact of Desert Dust Particles on Indian Summer Monsoon: Strong winds carry the dust particles from the Middle East into the atmosphere. Dust particles absorb solar radiation and become extremely hot. This causes heating of the atmosphere. Heat decreases the air pressure and changes wind circulatio
Exercise La Perouse Indian Navy Ships are participating, for the first time; in the multi-lateral maritime exercise La Pérouse, conducted in the Eastern Indian Ocean Region The Indian Navy ships and aircraft will exercise with ships and aircraft of the French Navy, Royal Australian Navy, Japan Maritime Self Defence Force and the United States Navy. Exercise La Pérouse will see complex operations including surface warfare, anti-air warfare and air defence e
Advanced Chaff Technology by DRDO for Naval Safety DRDO has developed an Advanced Chaff Technology to safeguard the naval ships against enemy missile attacks. The successful development of Advanced Chaff Technology by DLJ is another step towards Atmanirbhar Bharat. Chaff is a passive expendable electronic countermeasure technology used worldwide to protect naval ships from enemy radar and Radio Frequency (RF) missile seekers. The importance of this develo
Increased FDI Inflows in FY 2020-21 India has attracted the highest ever total FDI inflow of US$ 81.72 billion during the financial year 2020-21 and it is 10% higher as compared to the last financial year 2019-20 (US$ 74.39 billion). FDI equity inflow grew by 19% in the F.Y. 2020-21 (US$ 59.64 billion) compared to the previous year F.Y. 2019-20 (US$ 49.98 billion). In terms of top investor countries, Singapore is at the apex with 29%, followed by the U.S.A (23%) and Mauritius (9%
PLI Scheme for White Goods Taking another important step towards the vision of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat', the Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, approved the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for White Goods (Air Conditioners and LED Lights) with a budgetary outlay of Rs. 6,238 crores. The prime objective of the PLI scheme is to make manufacturing in India globally competitive by removing sectoral disabilities, creating economies of scale and ensu
PLI scheme: 'National Programme on High-Efficiency Solar PV Modules The Cabinet has approved the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy's proposal for the implementation of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme 'National Programme on High-Efficiency Solar PV (Photo Voltic) Modules' for achieving manufacturing capacity of Giga Watt (GW) scale in high-efficiency solar PV modules with an outlay of Rs.4,500 crore. Analysis of PLI Scheme on Solar PV Modules
How Asian desert dust enhances Indian summer monsoon Dust swarms can influence moisture transport, increase precipitation, rainfall Carl Sagan once described Earth as a ‘small speck of dust, a seemingly insignificant tiny particle. But the dust has incredible power: it is known to influence monsoons, hurricanes and even fertilize rainforests. A new study now details how dust coming from the deserts in West, Central and East Asia plays an important role in the Indian Summer Mo
Indian Army to participate in Exercise “Shantir Ogroshena-2021” About Exercise ‘Shantir Ogroshena-2021’: Exercise Shantir Ogroshena (Front Runner of the Peace) is a multinational military exercise. The 2021 edition of the Exercise will be held in Bangladesh. It is held there to commemorate the birth centenary of Bangladesh’s ‘Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The theme of the exercise is “Robust Peacekeeping Operatio
India contributes $300,000 to UN Women India recently announced the contribution of USD 300,000 to the UN Women to support gender equality and women empowerment. About UN Women: UN Women is the United Nations entity, dedicated to promoting gender equality and the empowerment of women. Headquartered in New York. Established in 2010 by the United Nations General Assembly to accelerate the progress in meeting women’s needs worldwide. It was formed by merging the four p
National Policy for Rare Diseases 2021 Released The Union Health Ministry recently released the policy. Rare Diseases: WHO defines a rare disease as a lifelong disease or disorder that often highly weakens an individual. It has a prevalence of 1 or less per 1000 population. Example: Haemophilia, Thalassemia, Sickle cell anaemia, and auto-immune diseases among others. However, every country has its own definition of rare diseases. The US defines rare diseases as a disease o
NITI Aayog's “AIM-PRIME” scheme to support science-based startups Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation launched AIM-PRIME (Program for Researchers on Innovations, Market-Readiness & Entrepreneurship). About AIM-PRIME: AIM-PRIME Program aims at promoting science-based, deep technology. For that, it will provide training and guidance over a period of 12 months. Implementation to be done by Venture Center – a non-
Migratory Birds Found Dead near Pong Lake As many as 27 migratory birds died on account of avian influenza in Himachal Pradesh’s Pong Dam Wildlife Sanctuary. The lake is fed by the Beas River. Its numerous perennial tributaries are Gaj, Neogal, Binwa, Uhl, Bangana, and Baner. Government of India also declared Pong Dam Lake as a “Wetland of National Importance” The sanctuary area is covered with tropical and subtropical forests & it shelters a great number of In
International Ranger Award Winner from Rajaji Tiger Reserve Mahinder Giri, a range officer from Rajaji Tiger Reserve won the prestigious International Ranger Award. He is the only ranger from Asia to win this award recently. About the International Ranger Award: The International Ranger Award was created in 2020. It is conferred by The IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas(WCPA) in collaboration with the International Ranger Federation, Global Wildlife Conservation, an
Environment Related Important Dates GS-Paper-ENVIRONMENT DATES- Prelims Context: Environmentally important dates are highly important for PRELIMS in the UPSC examination and also a student can utilize in MAINS. This article is about Environmentally Important Days, being celebrated in India to increase awareness regarding various aspects, and concerns on the environment. February February 2 World Wetlands Day February 27
President Biden Revokes Immigrant Ban In 2020 the US President imposed a ban on H-1B visas. The current US President decided to reverse the ban & allowed a 2020 ban to expire on March 31st. About the 2020 H1-B Visa Ban: In 2020, the previous US President signed an executive order suspending the entry of H-1B and other foreign work visa holders. This decision was to protect American jobs after the Covid-19 pandemic impacts. However, the ban did not have its intended impact.
17th BIMSTEC Summit- Key Talking Points India’s External Affairs Minister recently attended the 17th ministerial meet of the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) countries. About the Ministerial Meet: Sri Lanka Chaired the 17th Ministerial Meeting. Dr. S. Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to take BIMSTEC forward. About BIMSTEC: BIMSTEC is a regional organization consisting of members from So
New Small Freshwater Fish found- Schistura Hiranyakeshi It is a new small freshwater fish species discovered near Amboli in Sawantwadi tehsil of Sindhudurg district. It is a rare sub-species of Schistura, a freshwater loach. Named after the Hiranyakeshi River near Amboli village, this fish is a colourful fish that lives in water and streams in an abundance of oxygen. It was important to conserve this species as it might face extinction due to fishing activities. Jammu and Kashm
AIM-PRIME AIM-PRIME (Program for Researchers on Innovations, Market-Readiness & Entrepreneurship) aims to translate science-based deep-tech research to startups & ventures across India. Partners - Atal Innovation Mission has joined hands with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) to launch this initiative, which will be implemented by Venture Center, a technology business incubator. Beneficiaries - The program is open to technology developers (early-stage deep t
Culex Mosquito With the change in season and rise in temperature, culex or common house mosquitoes have made reappearance across Delhi. Unlike Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which spread dengue and chikungunya and breed in clean water, culex mosquitoes breed in unclean stagnant water. Culex mosquitoes are known as carriers or vectors of diseases such as Japanese encephalitis, West Nile Virus and Lymphatic filariasis. They bite by detecting body heat and carbon dioxide that humans exh
Comprehensive Environmental Pollution Index The comprehensive Environmental Pollution Index (CEPI) is a rational number to characterise the quality of the environment at a given location following the algorithm of source, pathway and receptor. An increase in the CEPI score denotes adverse effects on the receiving environment. A Delhi-based think-tank Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) did an assessment of Tamil Nadu’s CEPI scores. Groundwater is becoming more polluted in T
PRISM Scheme by Ministry of Science & Tech Union Minister for Science & Technology inaugurated the PRISM (Promoting Innovations in Individuals, Startups, and MSMEs) scheme recently. About PRISM Scheme: PRISM is an initiative of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research(DSIR), Ministry of Science and Technology. To help an individual innovator to become a successful technopreneur. It promotes, supports, and funds implementable and commercially viable innov
Global Gender Gap Index 2021 This Index was released by the World Economic Forum in 2006. The Gender Gap Index acts as a compass to track the progress on their toward gender parity of the countries in four areas, Political Empowerment, Economic Participation and Opportunity, Educational Attainment and Health and Survival. It examines the drivers of gender gaps and outlines the policies and practices needed for a gender-inclusive recovery. The index scores th
Food Waste Index 2021 The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) report aims to advance progress on the Sustainable Development Goal 12.3 SDG 12.3 aims at halving per capita global food waste at the retail and consumer levels and reducing food losses along production and supply chains. This report presents food waste data collection, analysis and modelling to date, generating a new estimate of global food waste. It publishes a methodology for countries to measure
PLI Scheme for Food Processing Industry Union Cabinet has approved the PLI (Production Linked Incentive) Scheme for Food Processing Industry. About PLI scheme for Food Processing Industry The scheme will be implemented over a 6-year period from 2021-22 to 2026-27. The scheme aims to support the creation of global food manufacturing champions according to the natural resources of India. Objectives of the Scheme PLI scheme will support food manufacturing org
Investment Opportunities in India’s Healthcare Sector Report- NITI Aayog Highlights of the Report: The report outlines the investment opportunities in various segments of India’s healthcare sector. This includes hospitals, medical devices and equipment, health insurance, telemedicine, home healthcare, and medical value travel. India’s Healthcare Industry: Healthcare Sector Growth Rate: India’s healthcare industry is growing at a Growth Rate&nbs
A group of lepidopterists discovers a new species of butterfly. It was named as “Nacaduba Sinhala Ramaswamii Sadasivan”. Note: A lepidopterist is a person who specializes in studying butterflies and moths. About the New Species: It is a Line Blue Butterfly Species that belongs to the Nacaduba genus group. Line Blues are small butterflies belonging to the subfamily Lycaenidae. Their distribution ranges from India
National Award for Excellence in Forestry The National Award of Excellence for Outstanding Research in Forestry for the year 2019 has been awarded to Kannan C S Warrier, a scientist at the Institute of Forest Genetics and Tree Breeding (IFGTB). This award is conferred by the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE). The award has been awarded to Kannan C S Warrier for releasing three salt-tolerant productive clones of Casuarina that are suita
DSIR-PRISM Scheme DSIR-PRISM Scheme will be aligned with three National Initiatives like Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA), Smart India Hackathon (SIH) and Rural Technology Action Group (RuTAG), IIT Delhi. Dept. of Scientific and Industrial Research - Promoting Innovations in Individuals, Startups and MSMEs (DSIR-PRISM) scheme supports individual innovators enabling inclusive development of India. It aims at transforming an innovator into a technopreneur by promoting and funding implementable
National Capital Territory of Delhi Amendment Bill, 2021 The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) moved the NCT of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2021 to the Lok Sabha where it proposed that “government” in Delhi means the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi. Key Provisions: Delhi’s present status is a Union Territory with a Legislative Assembly - an outcome of the 69th Amendment Act. The act introduced Articles 239AA and 239BB in the Constitution. They have cre
Insurance Amendment Bill, 2021 The government introduced a bill in Rajya Sabha to amend the Insurance Act, of 1938 and raise the foreign direct investment cap to 74% from 49%. Provisions: The Act allows foreign investors to hold up to 49% of the capital in an Indian insurance company, which must be owned and controlled by an Indian entity. The Bill increases the limit on foreign investment in an Indian insurance company from 49% to 74%, and removes restrictions on ownership and con
Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve Odisha government has proposed a second biosphere reserve in the southern part of the state at Mahendragiri. Similipal Biosphere Reserve is Odisha’s first such reserve, which was notified in 1996. The area of the proposed Mahendragiri Biosphere Reserve is spread over Gajapati and Ganjam districts in the Eastern Ghats and is near the Mahendragiri peak. Soura Tribe: They are a Munda ethnic group from eastern India living in southern O
Global Wind Report 2021 The Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) has released the Global Wind Report, 2021. About Global Wind Report: The Global Wind Report highlights the role of wind power on the road to net zero emissions. Key Findings of the report: The world’s capacity to generate electricity from wind jumped 53% in 2020. A total of 93 gigawatts (GW) capacity was installed in the year. However, this is not sufficient for the world to reach a ‘net
Vajra Prahaar Exercise between India & US The 11th edition of Indo-US Joint Special Forces Exercise Vajra Prahar was conducted at Special Forces Training School located at Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh. About Exercise Vajra Prahar: Exercise Vajra Prahar is a Special Forces joint military training exercise. It takes place alternately in India and the US since 2010. The exercise enables sharing of best practices and experience in areas such as joint mission planning capabiliti
Heart of Asia Peace Conference India’s Foreign Minister is attending the 9th ministerial conference of the Heart of Asia – Istanbul Process in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. About Heart of Asia-Istanbul Process: It is a regional initiative of Afghanistan and the Republic of Turkey. It was launched in November 2011 in Istanbul, Turkey. The process aims to promote economic and political cooperation for Afghanistan's peace through dialogue and confidence-building
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