GEOGRAPHY

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 …

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HIMALAYAN TRAGEDY – Impact and Control

GS-1: Geography (Avalanches, Himalayan Terrain) GS-3: Disaster Management (Rescue Operations, Preparedness Strategies) Key Highlights Avalanche Disaster in Uttarakhand: Avalanche at Mana village (Uttarakhand) buried 54 workers at a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) site. 23 workers were rescued, but 8 died due to extreme snowfall at 10,500 feet altitude. Indian Army, …

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Mount Vesuvius: Brain Vitrification

PRELIMS BITS – MAPS Context Researchers have confirmed that a man’s brain underwent vitrification during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, making it the only recorded instance of human brain tissue transforming into glass. What is Vitrification? Vitrification refers to the process in which a material turns into …

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HOTTEST AND DRIEST MONTH IN INDIA – FEBRUARY 2025

GS1 GEOGRAPHY:  Record-Breaking Temperatures February 2025 was the hottest February in 125 years. Average temperature: 22.04°C (1.49°C above normal). Maximum temperature: 29.07°C (second highest since 1901). Central India experienced the worst heat, with a 1.94°C temperature rise above normal. Rainfall Deficiency Overall rainfall deficit: 59% below normal. Central India saw …

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CONFLICT MINERALS: ISSUES AND IMPLICATIONS

GS1 GEOGRAPHY:  Introduction Context: The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has filed lawsuits against Apple’s subsidiaries in France and Belgium, alleging the use of conflict minerals sourced from sub-Saharan Africa. Focus: This highlights the global challenge of conflict minerals and their role in fueling violence and exploitation. What Are Conflict …

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Baltic Sea

GS1-GEOGRAPHY Context: Security experts have raised alarms about the heightened risk of an oil spill in the Baltic Sea due to Russia’s use of an aging and poorly maintained “shadow fleet” of oil tankers, which operate without Western insurance coverage. Geographical Significance of the Baltic Sea The Baltic Sea is …

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Extreme Arctic Warming

GS1: Geography Context – In February 2025, the Arctic witnessed an unprecedented temperature rise, exceeding the average by more than 20°C. This extreme warming event has raised serious concerns about its consequences for global climate stability. Rapid Arctic Warming Unprecedented Temperature Surge: The North Pole recorded a temperature spike of …

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INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF GLACIERS

GS1: Geography The United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation to highlight the importance of glaciers and the need for climate action. Glaciers hold 70% of the world’s freshwater, and their rapid melting threatens water supplies, raises sea levels, and risks coastal areas. What Are …

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Storm Eowyn: A Devastating Bomb Cyclone

GS 1 – Geography Storm Eowyn, a powerful bomb cyclone, has caused severe destruction across the British Isles, particularly affecting Ireland and Scotland. What is Storm Eowyn? Definition: A rapidly intensifying storm that experienced an extreme air pressure drop of 50 millibars within 24 hours, surpassing the threshold for “explosive …

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CENTRE DRAFTS RULES FOR UNIFORM IST ADOPTION

 GS 1 – GEOGRAPHY Time Zone: IST (UTC+05:30) was adopted in 1906 and standardized post-independence at 82°30’E near Mirzapur. Key Provisions: Exclusive Use of IST: Mandates IST for all official and commercial activities. Time-Synchronisation Systems: Establish mechanisms to ensure precise and secure timekeeping. Importance of Standard Timekeeping: Sectors Benefited: Banking, …

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Siachen Glacier

GS 1 – GEOGRAPHY Recent Development: India’s Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battleground, now has 4G and 5G services, enhancing communication for soldiers in extreme conditions and showcasing India’s focus on technology in strategic areas. About Siachen Glacier: Geographical Location: Located in the Karakoram Range in the Himalayan region, known …

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INDO-MYANMAR BORDER REGULATIONS

GS1 GEOGRAPHY Overview: India has recently strengthened its border regulations for foreigners entering Northeastern states bordering Myanmar, reversing a period of relative openness. This move has implications for local communities and cross-border relationships. Protected Area Regime (PAR): The Indian government has reinstated the Protected Area Regime (PAR) in Manipur, Mizoram, …

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ARTESIAN WELL

GS 1 – GEOGRAPHY Why in News? Recently, significant amounts of water have been gushing out from underground in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, attributed to the presence of an Artesian Well. Experts have rejected the idea that the water is linked to the ancient Saraswati River, suggesting instead that the water may …

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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 …

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India Meteorological Department (IMD)

GS 1 – Geography Why in News? The India Meteorological Department (IMD) will celebrate 150 years of service on January 15, 2025. Establishment and Historical Background Formation: IMD was established in 1875, with H.F. Blanford as the first Meteorological Reporter. Early Developments: Science and meteorology in India began with the …

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River Mahanadi

GS1: Geography Introduction: The Mahanadi is a major river in East-Central India, known as the “Gift of Chhattisgarh and Odisha.” It is the sixth-largest river in India by discharge and plays a crucial role in the socio-economic development of the region. Key Facts: Source: Originates from the Sihawa hills in …

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Daylight Saving Time (DST):

GS 1-Geography  Daylight Saving Time (DST) is a practice where clocks are advanced by one hour during the summer months and set back in autumn to maximize the use of daylight. This system allows for longer evenings, potentially reducing the need for artificial lighting and optimizing the daylight available for …

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Panna Tiger Reserve

GS 1 -Geography  Panna Tiger Reserve is located in the northern part of Madhya Pradesh, nestled within the Vindhyan mountain range. Covering an area of 542 square kilometers, it stands as the only Tiger Reserve in the Bundelkhand In recognition of its ecological significance, the reserve was designated as a …

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Narmada River

GS 1 – geography  The Narmada River, also known as the Reva, is one of the most prominent rivers in India. Originating from the central highlands, it flows westward, cutting through the Vindhya and Satpura ranges, making it a vital geographical and cultural landmark. Origin: Amarkantak Plateau, Madhya Pradesh (elevation …

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