About Gelephu Smart City Project
Context: Recently, Bhutan’s King has announced plans to build a massive “international city” in an area of over 1,000 sq. km. on its border with Assam. This project is known as the Gelephu Project. Relevance: Facts for Prelims Gelephu Smart City Project: Key Highlights Economic Corridor and Connectivity: Environmental Sustainability: Industry Focus: Special Administrative Region: Significance for Bhutan and South Asia: India-Bhutan […]
Rediscovery of Namdapha Flying Squirrel
Context: The Namdapha flying squirrel (Biswamoyopterus biswasi) has recently reappeared in Arunachal Pradesh after an absence of 42 years. The last documented sighting was in 1981 when a single individual was observed in the Namdapha Tiger Reserve in the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh. Relevance: GS III: Environment and Ecology Dimensions of the Article: Namdapha […]
China Bans Rare Earth Metal Technology Export
Context: China has recently implemented a ban on the export of technology crucial for the extraction and separation of Rare Earth Metals. This includes production technology for rare earth metals and alloy materials, as well as technology related to the preparation of certain rare earth magnets. The decision is part of an overhaul of technologies […]
About Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups
Context: The Centre has initiated a survey and registration process to identify eligible beneficiaries for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) within 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). This effort aims to ensure housing support for marginalized and vulnerable tribal communities under the PMAY-G scheme. Relevance: GS II : Government Policies and Interventions Dimensions of […]
Execution of Kakori Train Action Revolutionaries
Context: Ninety-six years ago, in December 1927, four key figures of the Indian independence movement faced execution. These revolutionaries, associated with the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA), were hanged for their involvement in the Kakori Train Action, a daring act where a train transporting funds to the British treasury was looted. Their sacrifice stands as a […]
UNODC Global Study on Homicide 2023
Context: The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has recently published the Global Study on Homicide 2023 report, revealing that homicide surpasses armed conflict and terrorism combined as a leading cause of death. The report delves into the various aspects of homicide, distinguishing between lawful and unlawful killings, intentional and unintentional acts. Additionally, […]
Volcanic Eruption Near Reykjanes
Context: The Icelandic Government has reassured that the recent volcanic eruption near Reykjanes, situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, does not pose a threat to human life. The eruption, occurring between Sýlingarfell and Hagafell, north of Grindavik on the Reykjanes Peninsula, holds significance given Iceland’s unique geological location. Relevance: GS I: Geography Dimensions of the Article: […]
Unpacking the First Ever COP Health Day
Context: The 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), convened in Dubai and hosted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), took place against the backdrop of unparalleled challenges faced by the planet. This year has witnessed record-breaking temperatures, devastating wildfires consuming communities, and floods erasing cities, providing unmistakable evidence of the ongoing crisis. Relevance: Mains Question: […]
International Monetary Fund’s Sovereign Debt Risk Assessment
Context: In the context of its Articles of Agreement, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) engages in annual bilateral discussions with its member countries. During these discussions, IMF staff gathers economic and financial data, engages in policy discussions with top officials, and subsequently compiles a report for review by the Fund’s executive board. Last Friday, the Finance Ministry released […]
Sahitya Akademi Award 2023
Context: The Sahitya Akademi has recently announced the Sahitya Akademi Award 2023 in 24 languages. Relevance: Facts for Prelims Key Points Sahitya Akademi Award: Recognizing Literary Excellence Establishment: Conferred by Sahitya Akademi: Number of Awards: Recognized Languages: Significance: Criteria for Awardee Selection: Other Sahitya Akademi Awards: