GS 1 – HISTORY Context: In December, archaeologists uncovered a colossal 1.4-meter-tall Buddha head, along with tablets and stupas over 1,500 years old, at Ratnagiri, Odisha. This discovery reaffirms Ratnagiri’s role as a prominent hub for Vajrayana (Tantric) Buddhism, drawing scholars from across the world. Overview of Ratnagiri Buddhist Heritage …
Read More »Daily Archives: February 25, 2025
Reclassification of Barytes, Felspar, Mica, and Quartz as Major Minerals
GS 3 – GEOGRAPHY Context: The Ministry of Mines has reclassified Barytes, Felspar, Mica, and Quartz from minor minerals to major minerals. What is a Mineral? A mineral is a naturally occurring inorganic material that has a specific chemical composition and a crystalline structure. Distinction Between Major and Minor Minerals …
Read More »Dollar-Rupee Buy-Sell Swap Arrangement
GS 3 – ECONOMY Context: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is set to inject rupee liquidity for an extended period through another $10 billion dollar-rupee buy-sell swap. It’s a tool used by the RBI to manage liquidity and support the rupee’s value. How does it work? The RBI buys …
Read More »Zonal Councils in India
GS 2 – POLITY Context: The Union Home Minister recently led the 27th meeting of the Western Zonal Council in Pune. Introduction to Zonal Councils Zonal Councils were proposed by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1956 to ease linguistic tensions and encourage inter-state cooperation. Legal Framework: These councils were created …
Read More »Article 101(4) of the Indian Constitution
GS 2 – POLITY Context: MP Amritpal Singh, detained under the National Security Act, risks losing his parliamentary seat due to extended absence from the House. Understanding Article 101(4): An MP’s seat can be declared vacant if they are absent for 60 consecutive sittings without obtaining permission. This 60-day count …
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