Context A study conducted in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone has discovered that metallic nodules on the seafloor are responsible for producing “dark oxygen.” Dark Oxygen: This term refers to oxygen produced in the deep-sea abyssal region, where photosynthesis is not possible. It is generated by polymetallic nodules that split water molecules …

Context An article highlights the issues faced by a migrant couple from Uttar Pradesh, emphasizing the broader challenges and legislative landscape surrounding migrant workers. Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act, 1979: Purpose: Focuses on the welfare of migrant workers by mandating: Establishments employing migrant workers to register with the destination states. Contractors …

Context The Supreme Court of India has recently agreed to hear a case that will likely shape the contours of the “right to be forgotten.” Right to be Forgotten: Definition: Loosely described as the right to remove or erase one’s digital footprint from internet searches when it violates the right …

Context The Department of Higher Education and IIT Kanpur have launched the SATHEE (Self-Assessment, Test and Help for Entrance Examination) portal to assist students in preparing for competitive exams. SATHEE Portal Features: Free Access: Provides free, high-quality educational content and guidance to students across India. Platforms: Accessible through a web …

Context According to the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Poshan Tracker data reveals that approximately 17% of children aged 0-5 years are underweight, 36% are stunted, and 6% are wasted. Findings of Poshan Tracker: Stunting Rates: Uttar Pradesh (46.36%), Lakshadweep (46.31%), Maharashtra (44.59%), and Madhya Pradesh (41.61%). Wasting Rates: …

Context India hosted the 2nd BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat, focusing on providing an informal platform to discuss cooperation and accelerate action in areas such as security, connectivity, trade, and investment within the Bay of Bengal. India aims to strengthen relationships with its eastern neighbors to counter China’s influence in the …

Context Typhoon Gaemi caused the sinking of the MT Terra Nova, which was carrying 1.4 million liters of oil, in Manila Bay. This oil spill could become the largest in Philippine history. The Coast Guard is deploying containment booms and skimmers for mitigation. Containment Booms: Floating barriers made of plastic, …

Context The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare announced in Rajya Sabha that the agriculture sector is now included under the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme, 2023. Carbon Credit Trading Scheme, 2023 Initiative: Launched by the Ministry of Power to implement a carbon trading mechanism in India. Carbon Credit Certificates: …

Context The Bihar Assembly passed the ‘Bihar Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill’ to address question paper leaks and other malpractices in government recruitment examinations. Recent Cases of Paper Leaks NEET-UG medical entrance examination, 2024 Rajasthan Eligibility for Elementary Teachers, 2023 Uttarakhand Subordinate Service Selection Commission Examination, 2023 UP …

Context (ORF): At the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit, themed ‘Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence,’ the Kampala Outcome document was adopted. Uganda, as the NAM Chair from December 2023, aims to strengthen NAM and promote unity among the Global South. NAM in a Multi-Polar World Evolution: Non-alignment has evolved, …

Context (PIB): India has assumed the Chair of the Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre (ADPC) from China for the year 2024-25 in Bangkok, Thailand. Overview of ADPC: Purpose: ADPC is an autonomous international organization focused on cooperation and implementation of disaster risk reduction and building climate resilience. Geographical Scope: Operates in …

Context (IE): The Kerala High Court has temporarily halted the release of the Justice Hema Commission report, which examined the working conditions of women in the film industry. The interim stay was issued based on concerns that releasing the report would be against public interest and infringe on individuals’ privacy …

Context (PIB): The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) presented the initiatives taken to reduce air pollution in Rajya Sabha. Key Initiatives: National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): Launched by MoEFCC in 2019, aiming to improve air quality in Million Plus Cities and non-attainment cities (those unable to meet …

Context (PIB): The Budget proposes a comprehensive rationalization of the GST tax structure along with a review of the Custom Duty rate structure to support domestic manufacturing. What is an Inverted Duty Structure? Definition: An inverted duty structure occurs when the taxes on input items are higher compared to the …

Context (PIB): The ‘Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi’ initiative was launched in 2023 under the Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 scheme to enhance the focus of the Anganwadi system on early childhood care and education (ECCE). Objective: Transform Anganwadi centres into learning hubs with high-quality infrastructure and well-trained Anganwadi workers. Focus: …

Context (TH): SC Affirms States’ Right to Tax Mineral Lands. The Supreme Court clarified that the royalty paid by mining companies to the government is not considered a tax but a contractual payment. The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act of 1957 (MMDRA) governs the exploration, mining, and regulation …