Context The Government of India is focusing on cooperative societies to drive socio-economic growth through reforms and policies. Cooperatives are member-owned organizations that address shared economic, social, and cultural needs through democratic decision-making (as defined by the International Cooperative Alliance). Evolution of Cooperatives in India Pre-Independence Developments Early Beginnings: …
Read More »Daily Archives: November 16, 2024
Fundamental Rights Under the RPwD Act
Context The Supreme Court of India has directed the Union Government to enforce mandatory accessibility standards for public spaces and services, emphasizing that accessibility is a fundamental right under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016. Supreme Court’s Observations and Ruling Non-Compliance with RPwD Act: The Court …
Read More »Causes of Smog in North India
Context Northern India is witnessing early smog this winter, raising concerns about air quality and health. Factors Contributing to Early Smog Formation Weather-Related Factors: Weak Western Disturbances: Weak weather systems have brought moisture into the plains, creating conditions conducive to smog formation. Atmospheric Inversion: Lower temperatures and weaker sunlight …
Read More »Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs)
Context The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has retained State Bank of India (SBI), HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank as Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs) for 2023. What Are D-SIBs? Definition: D-SIBs are banks whose failure could severely disrupt the financial system and economy due to their: Size Complex …
Read More »Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher System
Context The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted flight tests of the Guided Pinaka Weapon System, validating it against Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR). Key Features of Pinaka System Developer: Designed and developed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), a laboratory under the DRDO. Versions …
Read More »Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES)
Context The MATES scheme, introduced by Australia’s Department of Home Affairs, allows Indian university graduates and early-career professionals to work in Australia for two years. This initiative stems from the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA), signed in 2023, which promotes legal migration and tackles illegal migration between India and …
Read More »Caste as a ‘Way of Life’: Path to Equality and Inclusion
Context Recent initiatives like the PM Vishwakarma scheme and the National Education Policy (NEP) treat caste as a cultural and occupational identity. While these efforts aim to promote inclusion, they raise concerns about achieving real equality. Key Concepts Culturalisation of Caste Caste is increasingly seen as part of culture, …
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