About Defending Disability Reservations
Context: The recent controversy surrounding a civil servant, who allegedly misrepresented her disability and caste to gain benefits, has sparked a debate about the reservations provided to persons with disabilities (PwDs). The issue gained momentum when a former CEO of NITI Aayog tweeted that reservations for PwDs should be reconsidered. Relevance: GS2- GS4- Aptitude and Foundational Values for […]
India and the Plastic Waste Problem
Context: India, like many large economies, grapples with a significant plastic waste issue. A 2020-21 report from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) indicates that the country generates four million tonnes of plastic waste annually. Unfortunately, only about 25% of this waste is recycled or treated, with the remainder ending up in landfills or being disposed of […]
About E-Upahaar Portal
Context: Rashtrapati Bhavan will auction selected gift items, presented to the President and former Presidents on various occasions, through an online portal called E-Upahaar. Relevance: GS II: Government Policies and Interventions E-Upahaar Portal Overview: Objectives: National Informatics Centre (NIC) Establishment: Key Responsibilities: Network and Linkages: Major Activities:
About The Subvention Scheme
Context: Recently, the Supreme Court has provided relief to homebuyers in the National Capital Region (NCR) under the Subvention scheme. Relevance: GS II: Government policies and Interventions Recent Supreme Court Ruling on the Subvention Scheme Relief to Homebuyers in NCR: Subvention Scheme: Subsidy: -Source: The Hindu
Financial Support for Amravati, Andhra Pradesh
Context: Recently, the Finance Minister announced Rs 15,000 crore in financial support for Andhra Pradesh to build its capital city, Amravati, and boost other development activities in the state. This has brought back focus on Amravati, a site of immense historical and spiritual significance in Andhra Pradesh that remains relatively unrecognized. The financial boost is […]
About NPS Vatsalya Scheme
Context: The finance minister recently made the announcement of a new pension scheme under the National Pension Scheme (NPS), called NPS Vatsalya. Relevance: GS II: Government policies and Interventions Dimensions of the Article: NPS Vatsalya Scheme Overview: Key Features: National Pension Scheme (NPS) Overview: Investment and Returns: Account and Tax Benefits: -Source: Indian Express
About PM SHRI Schools
Context: As per a report published by Indian Express, The Education Ministry has stopped funds under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), to Delhi, Punjab and West Bengal because of their reluctance to participate in the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) scheme. Relevance: GS II: Government policies and Interventions Dimensions of the Article: About PM SHRI Schools: Implementation […]
About U-WIN Portal
Context: The U-WIN portal, a replication of the Covid-19 vaccine management system Co-WIN, is set for a pan-India launch likely by the end of August. Relevance: GS II: Government policies and Interventions U-WIN Portal The U-WIN (Universal Immunization Programme – Web Interface for Data Entry and Maintenance) portal is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing […]
One Scientist-One Product Programme
Context: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) will launch its ‘One Scientist-One Product’ programme on July 16 to improve research in the field of agriculture and animal husbandry. Relevance: GS II: Government policies and Interventions Dimensions of the Article: News Summary About Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Role and Functions -Source: Indian Express
The Union Budget as Litmus Test of a Rethink or Stasis
Context: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is scheduled to present the Union Budget next week, on July 23. The Budget is more than a mere statement of government revenue and expenditure; it reflects the policy and politics of the ruling government. The recent general election focused on ‘bread and butter’ issues, contrasting with the aspirational and […]