Recently, the Pacific Northwest and some parts of Canada recorded temperatures around 47 degrees, causing a “historic” heat wave. This is a result of a phenomenon referred to as a “heat dome”. Important points: The phenomenon begins when there is a strong change (or gradient) in ocean temperatures. In the process known as convection, the …

LEAF (Lowering Emissions by Accelerating Forest Finance) Coalition was announced at the Leaders Summit on Climate, 2021. LEAF coalition will be one of the largest ever public-private efforts to protect tropical forests and intend to mobilize at least USD 1 billion in financing to countries committed to protecting their tropical forests. Important …

Recently, the 7th edition of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) was hosted by the French Navy at Réunion island. It is a biennial event which was conceived by the Indian Navy in 2008. Important points: The IONS is a voluntary and inclusive initiative that brings together navies of Indian Ocean Region littoral states to increase maritime co-operation and enhance …

Recently, the Prime Minister of India addressed a virtual event to mark the completion of six years of Digital Indian programme Important points: The data and demographic dividend combined with India’s proven tech prowess presents massive opportunity for the country, and this decade will be ‘India’s techade’. Vision Areas: Digital infrastructure as Utility to Every …

Recently, India has ranked tenth (10th) in Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2020 by ITU (International Telecommunication Union) by moving up 37 places. The affirmation came just ahead of the sixth anniversary of Digital India on 1st July. Important points: The US topped (1st), followed by the UK (United Kingdom) and …

The Guindy National Park provides a number of ecosystem services to the people of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Ecosystem services are the direct and indirect contributions of ecosystems to human well-being. Important points: It is India’s eighth-smallest national park and one of the very few national parks located inside a city. …

Recently, due to Covid-19-Pandemic an app called chendavia is gaining popularity among the students of kalbeliya dance. Important points: Kalbeliya dances are an expression of the Kalbelia community’s traditional way of life. It is associated with a Rajasthani tribe of the same name. It was included in the United Nations …

According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), hydrogen will make up 12% of the energy mix by 2050. The agency also suggested that about 66% of this hydrogen used must come from water instead of natural gas. Recently, IRENA has released the ‘World Energy Transitions Outlook’ Report. Hydrogen Hydrogen …

Recently, Italy hosted the G-20 foreign ministers’ meeting to discuss the fight against Covid-19 and how to speed up the recovery of the global economy and boost sustainable development in Africa. Currently, Italy holds the presidency of G-20. The G-20 summit is scheduled to be held in Italy in October, …

The World Bank has approved a USD 500 million loan programme to support India’s informal working class to overcome the current pandemic distress. The loan will create greater flexibility for states to cope with the ongoing pandemic, future climate and disaster shocks. Important points: Of the USD 500 million commitment, …