GS1

GS1 SOCIETY Overview The ASER 2024, conducted by NGO Pratham, surveyed over 649,000 children across 605 rural districts, offering insights into rural education trends in India. Key Findings on Enrolment Government school enrolment declined to 66.8%, similar to 2018 levels, after peaking at 72.9% during COVID-19. Private school enrolment has …

GS 1 – HISTORY Origin: Etikoppaka village, Andhra Pradesh Significance: Showcased during the 76th Republic Day parade Historical Background The craft dates back over 400 years, with roots linked to ancient civilizations, including the Indus Valley. Passed down through generations, it embodies the cultural legacy of Andhra Pradesh. Artisans have …

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 …

 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, …

GS1 – SOCIETY The Koraga tribe, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), is witnessing a population decline from 20,000 two decades ago to approximately 16,000 today, with projections indicating further drops to around 12,000. Challenges Faced Health and Demographics: Falling birth rates and high infant mortality. Widespread malnutrition and limited …

GS1 SOCIETY Recent archaeological studies in Tamil Nadu have pushed the timeline of iron technology back to the early 4th millennium BCE, significantly earlier than the previously accepted period of 1500-2000 BCE. Key Findings: Over 85 iron objects, including tools and weapons, were found, indicating advanced metallurgical techniques. Sites like …

GS 1 – HISTORY Context: The ASI has resumed excavations at Ratnagiri, an important Buddhist center from Emperor Ashoka’s reign, crucial in spreading Buddhism. Key Discoveries: Colossal Buddha sculptures and a monolithic elephant statue. Votive stupas, inscribed stones, pottery, and brick wall remnants from a Buddhist monastery. Artifacts revealing trade …

GS1 INDIAN HERITAGE The National Tribal Health Conclave 2025, organized under the Dharti Aaba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoH&FW), aims to address the unique health challenges faced by tribal communities. Key healthcare issues for tribes …

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 …

GS 1 – ART AND CULTURE Context: The recent visit by Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam to the Sun Temple has spotlighted its global significance and Odisha’s exceptional craftsmanship. Location: Situated in the town of Konark, Odisha, close to the Bay of Bengal. Historical Background: Period of Construction: Built during the …

GS 1 – ART AND CULTURE Context: The 38th National Games held in Uttarakhand has drawn criticism due to the decision to place Kalaripayattu, Kerala’s ancient martial art, in the demonstration category rather than the main events. What is it? Kalaripayattu is among the world’s oldest martial art forms, known …

GS 1 – MODERN INDIA Context: On January 17, Punjab Chief Minister paid tribute at the Namdhari Shaheed Smarak in Malerkotla to honor the martyrs of the Kuka Rebellion, a significant anti-British movement in Punjab’s history. What is the Kuka Rebellion? The Kuka Rebellion was an anti-British uprising initiated by …

GS3 – ENVIRONMENT:  Overview: In 2024, India successfully phased out the use of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) in manufacturing, aligning with its commitments under the Montreal Protocol. This action is critical for ozone layer protection and addressing climate change, marking a significant step toward sustainable environmental practices. Montreal Protocol Overview: The Montreal …

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, …

GS1 INDIAN HERITAGE Overview: The World Monuments Fund (WMF) has added the Musi River Historic Buildings in Hyderabad to its World Monuments Watch list, highlighting the need for urgent preservation efforts. This recognition coincides with local government plans to revitalize the river and its heritage structures, aiming to boost tourism …

GS2 POLITY Event Summary: On January 18, 2025, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi led the e-Distribution of SVAMITVA Property Cards, marking a significant milestone in rural governance and empowerment. Around 65 lakh property cards were distributed to over 50,000 villages across 10 states and 2 Union Territories, aiming to enhance …

GS 1 – ANCIENT INDIA Recent Discovery Archaeologists uncovered a mud-brick stadium and a marketplace from the Mature Harappan Phase at Rakhigarhi. Stadium Features: Precisely engineered seating arena with an inclined design for optimal viewing, indicating a sporting culture during the Harappan era. About Rakhigarhi Significance: Recognized as one of …

GS 1 – ART AND CULTURE President Droupadi Murmu’s special guests will receive a unique gift box showcasing some of South India’s finest GI-tagged crafts. Here are the notable items featured in the hamper: Pochampally Ikat Pencil Pouch: Hailing from Telangana, the Pochampally Ikat is renowned for its distinct geometric …

GS 1 – ART AND CULTURE Why in the News? The recent passing of Ustad Zakir Hussain has reignited discussions on the origins and development of the tabla. Etymology – The term “tabla” is derived from the Arabic word tabl, which means drum. Origins The origin of the tabla is …

GS 1-ART AND CULTURE Ingenious system consisting of 103 well-like structures called Kundis (aqueducts). Operates based on the law of gravity, ensuring smooth water flow from the first to the last Kundi. Water recharge mechanism: Intercepts subsoil groundwater through underground channels. Stores water in structures known as Bhandaras, partially underground …