GS

MOST-FAVORED-NATION (MFN)

GS 3: Economy The Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) principle under the World Trade Organization (WTO) promotes fairness in international trade. It means that if a country offers a favourable trade benefit, like lower taxes or tariffs, to one country, it must offer the same deal to all other WTO members. This helps …

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Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)

GS 3: Economy  Definition: FTAs reduce trade barriers (tariffs, quotas) to promote economic cooperation between nations. Key Features: Reduction in Barriers: Encourages trade with fewer restrictions. Formal Agreements: Bilateral or multilateral pacts. Types of Agreements: Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA): Tariff reductions (e.g., India-MERCOSUR). FTA: Eliminates most tariffs (e.g., India-Sri Lanka …

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Stampedes

GS 3: Disaster Management  A stampede is sudden, chaotic crowd movement causing injuries or fatalities, often triggered by panic or overcrowding. Notable Incidents in India: 2008 Naina Devi Temple: Landslide rumors caused 145 deaths. 2017 Mumbai Bridge: Overcrowding led to 22 fatalities. 2022 Vaishno Devi Shrine: Panic caused 22 deaths. …

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Vice President of India

GS 2: Polity  Opposition’s No-Confidence Motion The opposition has moved a no-confidence motion against the Vice President, alleging biased conduct during Rajya Sabha proceedings. Key Reasons for Motion: Neutrality: Essential for presiding officers in democracy. Alleged Bias: Claims of favoritism in debates, procedures, and disciplinary actions. Democratic Values: Ensures Rajya …

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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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Sambhal’s Jama Masjid

GS 1-History Historical Background of the Jama Masjid, Sambhal The Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, is a historical and architectural marvel that stands as a testament to the region’s rich and diverse history. Constructed in 1526 by Mir Hindu Beg, an officer in the service of Mughal Emperor Babur, …

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Syrian Civil War

GS 2-IR Historical Context: Since 1971, Syria has been governed by the Assad family. Hafez al-Assad ruled as an authoritarian leader until his death in 2000, when his son, Bashar al-Assad, assumed power. Their regime was characterized by a tightly controlled state apparatus, suppression of dissent, and favoritism towards the …

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Maha Kumbh Mela 2025:

GS-1-Culture The Maha Kumbh Mela is scheduled to take place in Prayagraj from 13th January to 26th February 2025. What is the Kumbh Mela? The Kumbh Mela is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, held at four sacred locations in India: Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik, and Prayagraj. Each …

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CODEX ALIMENTARIUS COMMISSION

GS-2-International organisation The Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) is an international body established in May 1963 by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Its primary objective is to protect consumer health and ensure fair practices in food trade. Key Functions and Recognition: Codex Standards: The …

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INTERNATIONAL ATOMIC ENERGY AGENCY (IAEA)

GS-2-IR The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy while preventing its application for military purposes, including nuclear weapons. Established in 1957, it is often referred to as the world’s “Atoms for Peace” organization. Its governance is based on …

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World Malaria Report 2024

GS-2-Disease Why in News? The 2024 World Malaria Report has been published by the World Health Organization (WHO), highlighting India’s “significant progress” in reducing both malaria incidence and mortality. What is Malaria? About Malaria is an acute febrile illness caused by Plasmodium parasites, which are transmitted to humans through bites …

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INDO-PAK WAR 1971

GS-1- history Factors Leading to the Indo-Pak War of 1971 The roots of the conflict can be traced back to 1905 when Viceroy Curzon divided Bengal along religious lines. This partition created East Bengal, which had a Muslim majority, and West Bengal, where Hindus were the majority. Following the partition …

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The Schengen Area

GS 2 – International Relation Origin and Expansion The Schengen Area derives its name from Schengen, a small village in Luxembourg near the borders of France and Germany, where the landmark agreement was signed in 1985. Initially involving five of the six founding members of the European Union (excluding Italy), …

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The Chenab Rail Bridge

GS 3 – Infrastructure   The Indian Railways recently conducted a trial run on the Chenab Rail Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, located in Jammu and Kashmir. About the Chenab Rail Bridge Location: Between Bakkal and Kauri in Reasi district, Jammu and Kashmir. Height: The bridge stands 359 metres above …

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Privilege Motion in Parliament

GS 2 – Polity  Parliamentary Privileges are special rights granted to Members of Parliament (MPs) to facilitate the smooth functioning of legislative business. While there is no codified list, these privileges include freedom of speech in Parliamentary debates, where MPs are protected from court proceedings for their statements. If a …

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Disaster Management Act (DM Act) of 2005

GS 3 Disaster management  The Disaster Management Act (DM Act) of 2005 was enacted by the Government of India to ensure effective disaster management and address related concerns. It became operational in January 2006. Objective: The Act aims to manage disasters through mitigation strategies, capacity building, and other related measures. …

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India-Sri Lanka Relations

GS 2 – International Relation  India-Sri Lanka relations are defined by a blend of historical connections, strategic partnerships, and economic collaborations. Below is a detailed outline: Historical Ties India and Sri Lanka share a long-standing history of cultural, religious, and trade interactions dating back to ancient times. Strong cultural connections …

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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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