Prelims Why is Sikkim Exempt from Income Tax? Sikkim remains exempt under the Income Tax Act of 1961, owing to its merger with India in 1975, a provision safeguarded under Article 371F of the Constitution. This special status ensures that Sikkimese residents do not pay income tax, a privilege exclusive …

Prelims The Panama Canal, a critical global trade route, is under threat due to declining water levels in Lake Gatun, an artificial reservoir essential for its functioning. About Lake Gatun Formation: Created by damming the Chagres River and its tributaries at Gatun. Function: Stores water for the Gaillard Cut, enabling …

GS III-Agriculture Optimal Climate for Coffee Cultivation Coffee thrives in a temperature range of 15°C to 28°C. The ideal annual rainfall requirement is between 150 cm and 250 cm. Given recent climatic irregularities, the Coffee Board has urged coffee-growing regions to establish interdisciplinary teams to assess plantation losses comprehensively. Coffee …

GS II-International Relations Strategic Importance of the Red Sea Route The Red Sea corridor serves as the shortest maritime route for trade between India and Europe. This passage facilitates approximately 12% of global trade and accounts for nearly 30% of worldwide container traffic. While the Cape of Good Hope route …

GS I Art and Culture Origins and Historical Background Gotipua originated in Odisha during the 16th century, under the reign of Bhoi king Rama Chandra Dev. The term ‘Gotipua’ is derived from the Oriya language, where ‘Goti’ means single and ‘Pua’ means boy. This dance form developed as a male …

GS I-History About Hampi Located in Karnataka’s Bellary District, Hampi lies along the banks of the Tungabhadra River. It served as the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, one of South India’s most prominent Hindu empires, thriving between the 14th and 16th centuries. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in …