Daily Archives: March 12, 2025

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

GS I – Geography Geographical Location & Size: Situated in Central Africa, the DRC is Africa’s second-largest nation and ranks 11th globally in terms of land area. Has a narrow 40-km coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. Shares borders with nine nations: Republic of the Congo, Central African Republic, South Sudan, …

Read More »

Atacama Trench (Peru–Chile Trench)

GS I-Geography Geographical Location: Situated in the eastern South Pacific Ocean, along the northern Chilean coastline. Environmental Conditions: Depth: Extends beyond 8,000 meters, ranking among the deepest oceanic trenches. Extreme Factors: Crushing pressure due to immense depth. Near-freezing temperatures persist year-round. High sediment deposits influence the trench’s ecology. Perpetual darkness …

Read More »

Discovery of Dulcibella Camanchaca Research

Prelims-Species (GS I – Environment) Context: A recent discovery in the Atacama Trench has reshaped existing knowledge about deep-sea ecosystems, with the identification of Dulcibella camanchaca—a newly classified predatory amphipod. About Dulcibella Camanchaca New Species Identified: A previously unknown amphipod species was found at a depth of 7,902 meters in …

Read More »

North Sea

Prelims-Places in news (GS I – Geography) Context: A collision between a cargo ship and a U.S. military fuel tanker recently occurred in the North Sea. Geographical The North Sea is a marginal sea of the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by: West: England and Scotland South: The Netherlands, Belgium, and France …

Read More »

Pokkali Rice

GS III – Agriculture Characteristics: A traditional rice variety of Kerala, known for its high salt tolerance in waterlogged coastal regions. Recognized with a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag for its distinct farming method and heritage. Cultivation Cycle: June to November: Rice is cultivated during low salinity periods. November to April: …

Read More »

Kavaru in Kochi’s Backwaters

GS III- Environment, Geography Context: The phenomenon known as Kavaru has been observed in the undrained Pokkali rice fields and the Vembanad backwaters of Kerala. Understanding Kavaru Definition: Kavaru refers to bioluminescence, a natural process where microorganisms such as bacteria, algae, and fungi emit light in water. Trigger Factors: Increased …

Read More »

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)

GS-2-Health Context: A recent case of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) has gained attention following the death of the wife of an Oscar-winning actor. About Hantavirus Hantaviruses belong to a family of viruses primarily carried by rodents, which can lead to severe illness and fatalities in humans. Endemic Region: HPS is …

Read More »

Restoration of Jalanatheswarar Temple

GS-1-History and Culture Context: The Jalanatheswarar Temple, an architectural and religious landmark from the Chola era, is facing serious structural damage. The temple has not undergone Kumbhabhishekam (a vital Hindu temple consecration ritual) for over 15 years, raising concerns about its preservation. Significance of Kumbhabhishekam Kumbhabhishekam is a ritual performed …

Read More »

Dalai Lama Reincarnation

GS 1-History and Culture Context: Recent debates have intensified regarding the selection of the next Dalai Lama. The primary issue revolves around whether the Dalai Lama has the sole authority to choose his successor or if China has a role in this process. Reincarnation in Buddhism Concept of Reincarnation: In …

Read More »