Climate Change and the Silk Road
Context: A recent study by Chinese scientists published in the journal Science Bulletin found that the main route of the ancient Silk Road shifted northward due to climate change. The study provides a valuable case study for examining the relationship between climate change and the spatial evolution of human societies. Relevance: GS II: International Relations […]
Expansion of BRICS
Context: Recently, BRICS foreign ministers held their first meeting since the BRICS was expanded to add Egypt, Iran, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia in 2023. They have joined the BRICS with effect from 1st January 2024. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: What is BRICS? Significance of the Enlarged BRICS Group: Geopolitical […]
New Non-Permanent Members of UNSC
Context: Recently, Pakistan, Somalia, Denmark, Greece, and Panama have been chosen as non-permanent members of the UN Security Council (UNSC), serving a 2-year term from 1st January 2025 to 31st December 2026. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: How are new members elected to the UNSC? United Nations Security Council Membership Functions […]
G7 (Group of Seven)
Context: G7 leaders start their annual summit on June 13 looking to double down on support for Ukraine in its war with Russia and offer a united face in confronting China’s political and economic ambitions. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: About G7: History: Objectives: Meetings and decisions: Criticism:
India Seeks WTO Arbitration Against Australia
Context: India has sought arbitration proceedings under the World Trade Organization (WTO) rules against Australia to resolve an issue concerning the services sector, as it could impact India’s trade in services. Relevance: GS III: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: Concerns Raised by India Against Australia Joint Statement Initiatives (JSIs): Opposition to Joint Statement Initiatives […]
India Reaffirms Support for Two-State Solution in Israel-Palestine Conflict
Context: Recently, India reiterated that it was one of the first countries to recognize Palestine and has long supported the two-state solution to resolve the Israel-Palestine conflict. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: About the Two-State Solution: Origins of the Two-State Solution: The Israel-Palestine Conflict Origins of Conflict: Creation of Palestine: Arab-Israel […]
Indian Peacekeeper to Receive Posthumous Dag Hammarskjold Medal
Context: Indian peacekeeper Naik Dhananjay Kumar Singh, who served with the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), will be posthumously awarded the prestigious Dag Hammarskjold medal for his service and sacrifice. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: Service of Naik Dhananjay Kumar Singh and MONUSCO Service and […]
About International Solar Alliance
Context: Spain has become the 99th member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) following Panama, by handing over the Instrument of Ratification. Relevance: GS II: International Relations About International Solar Alliance (ISA) Signatories: -Source: Times of India
The Question of Palestine’s UN Membership
Context: Israel’s conflict with Gaza has sparked numerous ethical, political, and diplomatic debates. A notable diplomatic issue drawing significant attention is Palestine’s renewed bid for United Nations (UN) membership. Ironically, this bid is stalled at the UN Security Council (UNSC), primarily due to the geopolitical considerations of the United States. The U.S. contends that membership should follow, not precede, […]
About BIMSTEC
Context: Recently, Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) has recently achieved an important milestone with the charter of the grouping coming into force on 20th May 2024. Relevance: GS-II: International Relations (Foreign Policies affecting India’s Interests, Important International groupings), Prelims Dimensions of the Article: About BIMSTEC History of Formation of the BIMSTEC […]