Golden Rice
Context: Recently, a court in the Philippines recently revoked biosafety permits for commercial propagation of genetically modified golden rice and Bt eggplant. Relevance: Facts for Prelims Golden Rice Introduction: Development: Cultivation: Economic and Nutritional Impact: -Source: Down To Earth
Himalayan serow
Context: Recently, a Himalayan serow was spotted in the central part of Nameri National Park and Tiger Reserve. Relevance: GS III: Species in News Dimensions of the Article: Himalayan Serow Physical Description: Species Variants: Dietary Habits: Habitat and Distribution: Conservation Status: Key Facts About Nameri Tiger Reserve Location: Geographical Boundaries: Flora: Fauna: -Source: The Hindu […]
Environmental Concerns Over Sky Lantern Festival Near Olive Ridley Turtle Nesting Site
Context: Recently, the traditional Chinese sky lantern festival has ignited outrage among environmentalists and wildlife conservationists due to its proximity to a nesting site of the endangered Olive Ridley turtles. According to environmentalists, the bamboo or metal wire frames of these lanterns take months to decompose and pose a significant threat by trapping wildlife, including […]
Legal Framework of Voting Rights and Candidacy
Context: Amritpal Singh, the imprisoned leader of the pro-Khalistan group Waris Punjab De, announced his candidacy for the Lok Sabha elections from Punjab’s Khadoor Sahib constituency on June 1. Despite facing criminal charges, he is eligible to run for office unless convicted. However, like other inmates in Indian prisons, he will be prohibited from voting […]
CCI Chairperson Highlights Monopolistic Tendencies in Digital Markets
Context: Recently, during the 15th annual day celebrations of the Competition Commission of India (CCI), the Chairperson emphasized the tendency of digital markets to concentrate, leading to monopolistic practices. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: What is a Digital Market? Digital markets, often referred to as online markets, are virtual spaces […]
Recent Fire Tragedies Highlight Need for Enhanced Fire Safety Regulations
Context: Recent fire incidents at a gaming zone in Rajkot, Gujarat, and a children’s hospital in Delhi have resulted in at least 40 fatalities within 24 hours. These tragedies have brought attention to the need for stricter fire safety regulations and enforcement, especially in buildings prone to man-made disasters. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance […]
Increasing Political Influence on Indian Higher Education
Context: Indian higher education has a long history of intertwining with political agendas. This trend has intensified in recent years, affecting various aspects of academic life and compromising institutional integrity. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: Higher Education in India Overview: Popular Subject Areas: Participation Rate: Influence of Politics on Indian […]
Open Access is Crucial for Self-Reliance in Science
Context: A recent editorial in Nature praised India’s rise as a scientific powerhouse, mirroring its growing economic influence. India’s science ecosystem is on a remarkable path, now ranking third globally in research output and eleventh in quality, according to the Nature Index. However, achieving significant scientific discoveries and innovation depends on robust infrastructure and resources, which remain […]
The Threat of Building Fires
Context: The catastrophic fires at a gaming center in Rajkot, Gujarat, and a newborn nursing clinic in Delhi, occurring within 24 hours of each other and resulting in over 30 fatalities, highlight a persistent issue in India: widespread negligence regarding building fire safety by various stakeholders, including builders, owners, and regulatory authorities. Relevance: Mains Question: […]
About Tele-MANAS
Context: The National Tele-Mental Health Programme in India has reached a significant milestone, receiving over 10 lakh calls on its Tele-MANAS toll-free number, averaging 3,500 calls per day. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance About Tele-MANAS: Tele-MANAS will be organised in two tier system; About MANAS: Aim: