Daily Archives: January 4, 2025

Pallas’s Cats: A Rare Sighting in India

GS 3 – Environment – Species Why in news: The recent discovery of Pallas’s cat in Himachal Pradesh, India, during a snow leopard survey, provides the first photographic evidence of this elusive species in the region. This emphasizes the need to conserve lesser-known wildlife in the Indian Himalayas. Pallas’s Cat: …

Read More »

Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) System

GS 3 – Defence Context: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a contract with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) for the installation of air-independent propulsion (AIP) plugs. These will integrate the DRDO-developed AIP system into India’s Kalvari class submarines. Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) System Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) is …

Read More »

Thorium-Based Nuclear Energy Production

GS 3 – Science and technology Why in News? India’s top power producer, National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), has partnered with Clean Core Thorium Energy (CCTE) to explore the use of Thorium-based nuclear fuel. The collaboration focuses on the Advanced Nuclear Energy for Enriched Life (ANEEL) project, which aims to …

Read More »

INS Sarvekshak

GS 3 – Defence Context: India and Mauritius conducted a coordination meeting aboard the INS Sarvekshak to begin a Joint Hydrographic Survey. This ship, operated under the Southern Naval Command, plays a crucial role in mapping and surveying marine environments. Features of INS Sarvekshak: Type: Hydrographic Survey Ship Survey Equipment: …

Read More »

Gomti River and Its Protection Efforts

GS 1 – Geography The Territorial Army has recently set up a dedicated task force to focus on the rejuvenation and protection of the Gomti River, a vital water source in Uttar Pradesh. This initiative highlights the growing need for river conservation and the role of the armed forces in …

Read More »

Banana Cultivation in India

GS 3 – Agriculture India has seen a remarkable surge in banana exports, achieving a tenfold increase over the past decade. According to the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), India aims to hit $1 billion in banana exports within the next five years, emphasizing the growing …

Read More »

Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

GS 3 – Environment A recent four-day faunal survey at the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary has provided valuable additions to the sanctuary’s biodiversity records, enhancing the understanding of its rich fauna. About Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary: Location: Situated in the southern part of the Western Ghats, in Kollam district, Kerala. Area: Approximately …

Read More »

Tobacco Board of India

GS 3 – Economy The Tobacco Board of India has been actively engaged in strategic initiatives aimed at ensuring the sustainability and growth of the tobacco industry in India. About Tobacco Board of India: Established: 1st January 1976, under the Tobacco Board Act, 1975 (Act 4 of 1975). Leadership: The …

Read More »

Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024

Prelims Context: The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024 has been conferred to D Gukesh (Chess), Manu Bhakar (Shooting), Harmanpreet Singh (Hockey), and Praveen Kumar (Para-athletics). This prestigious award, formerly known as the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award, is the highest sporting honor in India. Awarding Body: The Ministry …

Read More »

Exercise Varuna 2025

GS 3 – Defence Why in news: Exercise Varuna 2025 is the 42nd annual naval exercise between the Indian and French Navies, highlighting their strong strategic partnership and boosting their operational coordination. Key Highlights: Participants: French Navy: Carrier Strike Group (CSG) led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier FNS Charles de …

Read More »