Context (IE) A recent fire has caused significant damage to the naval frigate INS Brahmaputra. Key Points Significance: INS Brahmaputra is India’s first indigenous Brahmaputra-class guided missile frigate. Construction and Commissioning: Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited in Kolkata and commissioned in 2000. Armament: Missiles: Equipped with surface-to-surface …

Context (IE) Over the past twenty years, maize production in India has seen a remarkable increase, transforming it into a green revolution driven by the private sector. Production has surged from 11.5 million tonnes in 2000 to over 35 million tonnes in 2024, with yields rising from 1.8 tonnes to …

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has declared Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem as illegal, urging an end “as soon as possible.” This opinion, issued in response to a 2022 request from the UN General Assembly, predates the Israel-Hamas conflict but is likely to increase pressure …

Context Parliamentary reforms are crucial for improving the functioning and effectiveness of the legislative process in India. Issues with Parliament Functioning Bulldozing Legislations: The Government of India has passed significant legislation with minimal or no discussion. Often, bills that do not qualify as Money Bills are classified as such, bypassing …

A higher female labor force participation rate can significantly enhance family income and welfare, particularly in rural India. Women and Employment According to The India Employment Report (IER) 2024, the Female Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) in India is notably low compared to the global average (53.4%, 2019). The rate …

The Assam state government is hesitant to present its case to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) regarding the Baghjan blowout that occurred nearly four years ago in Tinsukia. Baghjan Blowout in Assam Incident Overview: In May 2020, an uncontrolled release of natural gas led to a massive fire that lasted …

The Supreme Court has reserved its decision on sub-caste reservations for SC/STs. Problems with Sub-Caste Reservations Weak Focus on Asset Creation: Without enhancing capital ownership and educational participation, sub-caste reservations result in a low share of jobs and educational opportunities. Example: Scheduled Castes (SCs) make up 18% of the population …

Concept The article examines critical reforms in NPS Lite aimed at including the informal sector in the National Pension Scheme. This is significant as workers in this sector typically lack access to benefits like provident funds or gratuity. National Pension System-Lite (NPS-Lite) Launched by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development …

Context A dive into the taxation system in India and its impact on the black money market. Black Money Definition: Also known as illicit wealth, black money refers to assets and income not declared to the government for taxation. Sources: Includes income from illegal activities like drug trafficking and money …

Context The Gulf region has played a crucial role in ensuring India’s energy security, which is vital for the country’s industrial growth, power, and transportation sectors. Energy Production and Consumption in India Global Standing: India is the world’s third-largest energy consumer after China and the United States. Energy Consumption: According …

Context In recent Indian political scenarios, many defectors have not only won subsequent elections but have also secured ministerial positions. This phenomenon has significant impacts on the political landscape. Impacts of Defection Government Instability: Defections can topple governments, particularly in coalition setups. For instance, the Karnataka government collapsed in 2019 …

Introduction of the Bill Karnataka has proposed the Draft Platform-based Gig Workers (Social Security & Welfare) Bill, following Rajasthan’s enactment of the Rajasthan Platform Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Act, 2023. The bill aims to address the social security and welfare needs of gig and platform workers. Context and …

Context The melting of polar ice caps due to climate change is causing the Earth to spin more slowly, resulting in longer days at an unprecedented rate. Polar Shifts: A 2021 study found that melting glaciers worldwide have redistributed enough water to cause the North and South Poles to move …

Context The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to frame a model policy on menstrual leave for women employees. This directive highlights the need for recognizing menstrual leave, which offers time off for those experiencing period pains, similar to sick leave. Currently, menstrual leave is not covered under standard sick …

Context (IE): The construction of embankments in the Brahmaputra basin to manage changing flood patterns has led to disastrous consequences. Historical Background: Initial Requests: Assam’s request for embankments dates back to 1950, inspired by American and Chinese dykes. Garg Committee: Established in 1951 and headed by G.R. Garg of the …

Context: The Supreme Court declared Md Rahim Ali, an Assam resident, to be a citizen of India, overturning a Foreigners’ Tribunal (FT) decision that had previously declared him a foreigner due to minor discrepancies in his documents (Source: IE). Judgment Significance: Alleviating Anxieties: This judgment is expected to alleviate concerns …

Context: The Supreme Court has requested a comprehensive report from States and High Courts on the establishment and functioning of Gram Nyayalayas Overview: Definition: Gram Nyayalayas are village courts deemed to be Courts of Judicial Magistrate of First Class, having civil and criminal jurisdiction to resolve minor disputes at the …