Editorials

Context: Jawaharlal Nehru’s vision for a secular, democratic India grounded in inclusivity and scientific progress remains a key guiding principle for addressing modern socio-political challenges. Nehru’s Vision for India: Secular, Inclusive Nation: Nehru envisioned India as a secular democracy where all religions coexist peacefully. He emphasized safeguarding citizens’ rights irrespective …

Context: The CEO of Niti Aayog recently suggested that India should reconsider its decision not to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), especially in light of changing global trade dynamics and new opportunities. Background: In 2019, India decided not to join the RCEP, a trade agreement covering 30% of …

Context (PIB): India has emerged as one of the top 10 countries globally for patents, trademarks, and industrial designs, as highlighted in the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) 2024 report. The country saw a remarkable surge in patent grants, with the Indian Patent Office issuing 149.4% more patents in 2023 …

Context (PIB): The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the first flight test of the Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM). This missile is part of a Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)-approved project and was developed under the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) guidelines. The missile was designed and …

Context (IE): The 29th edition of the Conference of the Parties (COP) began in Baku, Azerbaijan. This event highlights critical discussions about global climate action and environmental sustainability. Let’s take a closer look at some key environment-related terms in the news. Carbon Footprint The carbon footprint refers to the total …

Context (IE) In 2024, India’s democracy stands at a critical juncture, where increasing female participation in political roles is essential to diversify decision-making, enrich policy discussions, and mature the democratic process. India’s Legacy in Women’s Political Empowerment Early Voting Rights: India was among the pioneering nations to grant women equal …

Context: India’s Defence Space Agency (DSA) has launched “Antariksha Abhyas – 2024,” the first dedicated military exercise aimed at preparing India for space-based warfare and defense. This initiative marks a significant step towards integrating space capabilities within India’s military operations, underlining space as a crucial area in defense strategy. Key …

Context: Scientists at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have created a new method using enzymes from a cow’s gut to break down “biofilm barriers,” which can enhance drug effectiveness against bacteria. Understanding Biofilms What Are Biofilms? Biofilms are dense, matrix-like structures produced by bacteria to protect themselves from external …

As India’s cities grow rapidly, with an estimated 270 million people expected to live in urban areas over the next two decades, Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers potential solutions for sustainable city management. This aligns with the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047” for a developed India. How AI Supports Urban Sustainability …

Context: Due to reduced rainfall, the arrival of migratory birds to Kashmir’s Hokersar wetland has been impacted. About Hokersar Wetland Location: Situated in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, Hokersar is fondly known as the “Queen Wetland of Kashmir.” Conservation Status: It was first designated a conservation reserve under the Jammu & …

Context: The U.S. recently sanctioned around 400 global entities, including 19 Indian firms, for alleged involvement in Russia’s defense and technology sectors, primarily by supplying dual-use technologies (items with both civilian and military applications).   Understanding Economic Sanctions: Purpose of Sanctions: Economic sanctions restrict trade, investments, and financial transactions to …

Context: The recent agreement between India and China aims to address border issues along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) that intensified after 2020. This agreement focuses on easing tensions, disengaging troops, and lowering military presence. Here are the key points: Patrolling Protocols: The agreement restores patrolling routes to their …

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research – National Research Centre on Equines (ICAR-NRC Equine) in Haryana has been recognized as a World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Reference Laboratory for Equine Piroplasmosis. This status, facilitated by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal …

The launch of the ‘EV as a Service’ program by Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) aims to support India’s transition to electric vehicles by deploying 5,000 electric cars within government ministries and public sector units over the next two years. This initiative aligns with India’s ambitious net-zero goal by 2070 …

Context: The Baku Climate Summit (COP 29) is set to prioritize climate finance, marking the first dedicated focus on this issue in over a decade. The summit aims to implement financial structures to facilitate global climate action.   Key Agenda Points at COP 29 Establishing New Climate Finance Goals Target: …

Context: The QS World University Rankings for Asia 2025 included 984 institutions from Eastern, Southern, South-Eastern, and Central Asia. India emerged with the highest number of ranked institutions, underscoring its rapidly advancing higher education landscape. Notably, India occupies seven of the top ten positions in Southern Asia.   India’s Standing …

Context: Recently launched by the Finance Minister, the National MSME Cluster Outreach Programme aims to increase access to financial services and support the nationwide growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Organized By: This initiative is a collaborative effort of the Ministry of Finance, the Small Industries Development Bank …

Context: Kerala has raised a challenge against the Centre’s imposition of a Net Borrowing Ceiling (NBC) in the Supreme Court, arguing that it infringes on fiscal independence and state sovereignty. The Court will examine whether the Centre’s borrowing limits potentially conflict with federal principles and the fiscal autonomy of States, …

Context With Donald Trump’s re-election, a new phase in US-India relations may emerge, marked by a reinforced “America First” agenda and implications for global diplomacy and trade. Global Implications of Trump’s Second Term Domestic Priorities: Trump is expected to focus heavily on domestic issues like immigration, inflation, and trade protectionism. …

Context Concerns over ageing populations in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have fueled discussions on pro-natalist policies as potential solutions. National and Regional Population Growth Trends Total Fertility Rate (TFR): In 2021, India’s TFR fell to 1.9, below the replacement rate of 2.1, indicating slower population growth. Population Momentum: Despite …