Accurate estimation of black carbon (BC), the second most important global warming pollutant after CO­2, will now be possible using optical instruments in the Himalayan region. Thanks to a parameter called the mass absorption cross-section (MAC) specific to the Himalayan region that scientists have estimated. It will also improve the …

Recently, the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) through its Operation Pangea XIV targeted the sale of fake medicines and products online. More than 1.10 lakh web links, including websites and online marketplaces, were taken down in the operation. Important points: Operation Pangea, is a well-established international effort of Interpol to …

Recently, the Indian Prime Minister announced the ‘Young, Upcoming and Versatile Authors’ (YUVA) scheme – a mentorship programme to train young authors. Important points: The scheme is aimed at training 75 aspiring writers below 30 years, who are ready to express themselves and project India and its culture and literature …

Recently, NITI Aayog and Piramal Foundation launched ‘Surakshit Hum Surakshit Tum Abhiyan’ in 112 aspirational districts. This drive was launched to assist the administration in providing home care support to Covid-19 patients, who are either asymptomatic or have mild symptoms. Most of these districts are in Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha and …

Recently, the US’ President and UK’s Prime Minister signed a new version of the 80-year old Atlantic Charter. Important point: The Atlantic Charter was a joint declaration released by US President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill on 14th August, 1941 (during World War II) following a …

Recently, the Maharashtra Government asked the Prime Minister for state-wide implementation of the ‘Beed model’ of the crop insurance scheme Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojna (PMFBY). Important point: Beed is a district of Maharashtra located in the drought-prone Marathwada region. 80-110 Formula: This model is also called 80-110 Formula. Under …

In a bid to encourage crop diversification, the Central Government has hiked the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Paddy, Pulses and Oilseeds (for all mandated Kharif Crops). Important point: The MSP is the rate at which the government purchases crops from farmers, and is based on a calculation of at …