New Policy to Extend Lifespan of National Highways Through White-Topping
Context: The Union government is in the process of formulating a policy designed to reinforce and extend the lifespan of aging national highways. This initiative will employ a technique known as white-topping, which provides a durable and sustainable solution for roadway maintenance. Relevance: Facts for Prelims Enhancements in National Highway Infrastructure -Source: Times of India […]
OpenAI Set to Unveil Advanced AI Model
Context: OpenAI is gearing up to release its most sophisticated artificial intelligence model yet, codenamed Project Strawberry. The launch is scheduled to occur between September and November 2024, marking a significant advancement in AI capabilities. Relevance: Facts for Prelims Project Strawberry Overview Functional Capabilities Strategic Role in AI Evolution -Source: The Hindu
India Surpasses China in MSCI Emerging Markets Investable Market Index
Context: India has recently surpassed China in terms of weight within the MSCI Emerging Markets Investable Market Index (IMI), marking a significant milestone as it becomes the largest country by weight in this index for the first time. However, China continues to lead in the MSCI Emerging Market Standard Index. The MSCI EM IMI is […]
Over 85% of Indian Districts Face Severe Climate Risks
Context: More than 85% of districts in India are exposed to extreme climate events such as floods, droughts and cyclones, according to a new study. Relevance: GS III: Disaster Management Dimensions of the Article: Overview of India’s Climate Crisis Intensifying Climate Disruptions Evolving Climate Risk Profile Emerging Patterns of Climate Variability Enhancing Resilience through Advanced […]
About The Gulf Cooperation Council
Context: External Affairs Minister arrived in Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh, to attend the First India-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Overview Importance of GCC for India India-GCC Relationships Overview Diplomatic Engagements Economic Interactions Trade Agreements Energy Collaborations Diaspora and Financial Contributions […]
India’s Transition from Maize Exporter to Importer
Context: India’s recent drive to boost ethanol production using corn has seen the country transition from being one of Asia’s leading maize exporters to becoming a net importer. This pivot is profoundly affecting local industries dependent on corn and is reshaping the global maize supply chain dynamics. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Dimensions of the Article: […]
About The INDIAsize Initiative
Context: The government will soon roll out the much-awaited ‘INDIAsize’ initiative, the Union Textiles Minister said recently. Relevance: Facts for Prelims INDIAsize Initiative
Indian Naval Ship Participates in Joint Exercise in the Mediterranean
Context: The Indian Naval Ship Tabar recently engaged in a Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) with the Spanish Navy’s ship Atalaya, conducting the exercise in the Mediterranean Sea. This initiative underscores India’s ongoing commitment to strengthening maritime collaboration and enhancing operational coordination with international naval forces. Relevance: Facts for Prelims Enhancing Naval Cooperation Through the Maritime […]
The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Warfare
Context: With the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in military technology, countries are grappling with the potential of AI-enabled warfare. A global summit in Seoul is addressing the responsible use of AI in the military domain, focusing on shaping international norms and ethical guidelines. India, although actively engaged in discussions around AI in civilian use, […]
Eye Drops to Reduce Dependency on Reading Glasses
Context: Entod Pharmaceuticals, a Mumbai-based company, recently announced that the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has approved their new eye drop called “PresVu.” This product is designed specifically to reduce dependency on reading glasses for individuals suffering from presbyopia, a common age-related vision condition that affects a large portion of the population above 40. […]