×

UPSC Courses

calcium carbide

The recent calcium carbide-related incident in Bhopal, where over 60 people, primarily children, were hospitalized due to injuries from makeshift "calcium carbide guns" during Diwali celebrations, has highlighted the hazardous nature of this substance and its misuse in the community. About Calcium Carbide: Chemical Formula: CaC?. Appearance: It is a grayish-black lump or crystalline powder with a garlic-like odor. Manufacturing: Calcium carbide is produc

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic health condition that is often misunderstood but is a very real medical issue that affects approximately 2 to 3% of the global population. What is Fibromyalgia? Definition: It is a long-term condition that causes pain and tenderness in the muscles and soft tissues of the body. The pain is often widespread and can occur in areas such as the neck, shoulders, back, hips, and legs. Associated Symptoms: In addition to pain, people with fibromyalgia o

JAIMEX 2025

Recently, the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sahyadri participated in the Sea phase of JAIMEX-25, a maritime exercise between India and Japan. This exercise highlights the growing cooperation between the two countries in the maritime domain, specifically within the context of their Special Strategic and Global Partnership established in 2014. About JAIMEX 2025 Objective: The exercise aims to enhance naval cooperation and interoperability between the Indian Navy and Japanese Maritime Sel

Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP)

The Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP) has recently opened its Bengaluru Centre, marking another step in its effort to enhance its outreach and promote the development of the packaging sector in India. About Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP) Establishment: The IIP was established on 14th May 1966 and operates under the administrative control of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. Headquarters: The main headquarters and principal laboratories are

Payment Aggregator (PA) and Payment Gateway

What is a Payment Aggregator (PA)? A Payment Aggregator (PA), also known as a merchant aggregator, is a third-party service provider that enables merchants (businesses) to accept online payments from customers. This service is typically integrated into websites or mobile apps for smooth transaction processing. Functions and Features of Payment Aggregators: Payment Options: PAs provide a variety of payment methods such as debit/credit cards, UPI, bank transfers, e-wallets, and

Ayni Air Base

The Ayni Air Base is a strategic military facility located in Tajikistan, just west of the capital, Dushanbe. India has operated and developed the base since 2002, making it India’s first overseas military facility. Development and Modernization Soviet-Era Facility: The base was originally a neglected Soviet-era airbase before India undertook its modernization. Indian Investment: India invested close to $100 million to upgrade the infrastructure, including the exten

INS Vikrant

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Deepavali aboard INS Vikrant, India's first indigenously designed and manufactured aircraft carrier. During the occasion, he lauded the Indian Armed Forces for their unity and achievements, particularly highlighting their role in Operation Sindoor, a significant defense operation. About INS Vikrant INS Vikrant is a milestone for India’s defense capabilities, as it is the first aircraft carrier to be designed and built entirely

Doctrine of Lis Pendens

Recently, the Delhi High Court has ruled that courts have the authority to exempt a property from the Doctrine of Lis Pendens in certain cases. This exemption is aimed at shielding genuine owners from vexatious lawsuits that could otherwise affect their property rights during the pendency of litigation. The court’s ruling highlights a significant aspect of property law, where it aims to balance legal protection with justice for bona fide owners. About the Doctrine of Lis Pendens

National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMS)

The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMS) has been a significant initiative to support meritorious students from economically weaker sections, helping them continue their education at the secondary and senior secondary levels. About the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMS): Launched: May 2008, as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme. Objective: To award scholarships to meritorious students from economically weaker sections of society, aiming to reduce

Hyunmoo-5 missile

The Hyunmoo-5 missile is a significant development in South Korea’s military capabilities, especially in terms of deterrence against North Korea. The missile is designed to enhance South Korea’s ability to respond to threats without relying on nuclear weapons, as part of its Korean Massive Punishment and Retaliation (KMPR) framework. About the Hyunmoo-5 Missile: Developed By: South Korea, as part of its efforts to strengthen conventional military power. Purpos

Sevilla Forum

The Sevilla Forum on Debt was recently launched at the 16th United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD16) in Geneva as part of global efforts to address the challenges of sovereign debt and ensure debt sustainability for developing countries. This new initiative is expected to foster collaborative dialogue and action on sovereign debt reform. About the Sevilla Forum on Debt: Initiative: The forum is led by Spain and supported by the UNCTAD and the UN Department of

Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2025

  The Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2025 has been awarded to Susumu Kitagawa (Japan), Richard Robson (Australia), and Omar Yaghi (US) for their pioneering work in the creation and development of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs), a groundbreaking class of materials with immense potential across multiple industries. 1. Creation of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs): Richard Robson: Robson was one of the first scientists to design 3D structures by combining metal ions (e.g.,

Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

India and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) recently celebrated 80 years of partnership on World Food Day 2025. About the FAO The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established in October 1945. It is the oldest permanent specialized agency of the UN and plays a crucial role in coordinating international efforts to combat hunger and improve food security worldwide. Mandate: The primary goals of FAO i

Papikonda National Park

A recent study has documented 51 species of herpetofauna (reptiles and amphibians) in Papikonda National Park. About Papikonda National Park Location: Papikonda National Park is located in the East Godavari and West Godavari districts of Andhra Pradesh, India. It is one of the most ecologically rich parks in the state, with a diverse array of flora and fauna. Establishment and Area: The park was established in 2008 and spans an area of 1,012.86 square kilometers. It lies along th

Striped Dolphin

A pod of striped dolphins, which are uncommon in Andhra Pradesh's waters, was recently spotted off the coast of Visakhapatnam. This rare sighting has drawn attention from both local and international marine biologists, as striped dolphins are typically found in more temperate and tropical oceans but are not frequently seen in the coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh. About the Striped Dolphin Scientific Name: Stenella coeruleoalba The striped dolphin is a streamlined oceanic dolphin th

Monoclonal Antibody

A novel monoclonal antibody called MAM01, developed by US researchers, has shown promising results in providing strong protection against malaria in an early clinical trial. About MAM01 Monoclonal Antibody Purpose: MAM01 is specifically designed to prevent malaria infection by targeting a critical protein on the malaria parasite. The antibody targets the Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein (CSP), which is a key protein found on the surface of the malaria parasite&rs

First Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A

India's Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A is set to join the fleet of the Indian Air Force (IAF), marking a significant milestone in India's indigenous fighter jet program. Developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Tejas Mk1A is an upgraded version of the Tejas Mk1, designed to improve its operational capabilities, survivability, and maintainability. About Tejas Mk1A The Tejas Mk1A is an advanced variant of the LCA Tejas, an indigenously developed fighter jet b

Monoclonal Antibody

A novel monoclonal antibody called MAM01, developed by US researchers, has shown promising results in providing strong protection against malaria in an early clinical trial. About MAM01 Monoclonal Antibody Purpose: MAM01 is specifically designed to prevent malaria infection by targeting a critical protein on the malaria parasite. The antibody targets the Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein (CSP), which is a key protein found on the surface of the malaria parasite&rs

Striped Dolphin

A pod of striped dolphins, which are uncommon in Andhra Pradesh's waters, was recently spotted off the coast of Visakhapatnam. This rare sighting has drawn attention from both local and international marine biologists, as striped dolphins are typically found in more temperate and tropical oceans but are not frequently seen in the coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh. About the Striped Dolphin Scientific Name: Stenella coeruleoalba The striped dolphin is a streamlined oceanic dolphin th

Papikonda National Park

A recent study has documented 51 species of herpetofauna (reptiles and amphibians) in Papikonda National Park. About Papikonda National Park Location: Papikonda National Park is located in the East Godavari and West Godavari districts of Andhra Pradesh, India. It is one of the most ecologically rich parks in the state, with a diverse array of flora and fauna. Establishment and Area: The park was established in 2008 and spans an area of 1,012.86 square kilometers. It lies along th

Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2025

The Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2025 has been awarded to Susumu Kitagawa (Japan), Richard Robson (Australia), and Omar Yaghi (US) for their pioneering work in the creation and development of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs), a groundbreaking class of materials with immense potential across multiple industries. 1. Creation of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs): Richard Robson: Robson was one of the first scientists to design 3D structures by combining metal ions (e.g., copper

International Maritime Organisation (IMO)

Recently, US President Donald Trump expressed his outrage over the International Maritime Organisation's (IMO) plan to vote on imposing a carbon emissions price on global shipping. He criticized the move, calling it a “Global Green New Scam Tax.” This has sparked a debate about the potential impacts of environmental regulations on the international shipping industry. About the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) The IMO is a specialized agency of the United Nation

Tuvalu

The Government of Tuvalu has officially become the 90th State Member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), marking a significant milestone in the country’s environmental efforts. About Tuvalu Tuvalu, formerly known as the Ellice Islands, is a small island nation located in the west-central Pacific Ocean. It holds the distinction of being one of the smallest countries in the world, both in terms of land area and population. Land Area and Location:

New Development Bank (NDB)

Pakistan has approached China, which it regards as an "iron friend," to assist in securing a membership for Pakistan in the New Development Bank (NDB). About New Development Bank (NDB) The New Development Bank (formerly known as the BRICS Development Bank) is a multilateral development bank founded by the BRICS countries—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Establishment and Founding Members: The NDB was established in 2014 after an agreement was

Chronic Wasting Disease

The confirmation of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), also known as Zombie Deer Disease, in Florida has raised significant concerns among wildlife experts and health authorities. What is Zombie Deer Disease (CWD)? Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a progressive neurological disease that primarily affects deer, elk, moose, and reindeer. It impacts the brain and spinal cord, leading to severe neurological dysfunction. What Causes CWD? CWD is caused by prions, which ar

Bathou religion

The Bathou religion, a traditional faith system of the Bodo community in Assam, has recently been recognized with its own separate code in the upcoming census. About Bathou Religion: Origin: The Bathou religion is the traditional faith of the Bodo community, the largest plains tribe in Assam. It has a deep connection to the natural elements and emphasizes philosophical thought. Meaning of Bathou: The word "Bathou" comes from the Bodo language. "Ba" mea

We Rise Initiative

The We Rise Initiative, recently launched by NITI Aayog's Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) in collaboration with DP World, is a significant step in empowering women entrepreneurs in India. About the We Rise Initiative: Objective: The Women Entrepreneurs Reimagining Inclusive and Sustainable Enterprises (We Rise) initiative aims to scale businesses globally by empowering women entrepreneurs through trade facilitation, mentorship, and strategic partnerships. Focus

Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs

The Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH) recently held its 8th session (CCSCH8) successfully in Guwahati, India. This is an important development in the realm of international food standards related to spices and culinary herbs. What is the Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH)? Establishment: The committee was established in July 2013 by the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) during its 36th meeting in Rome. Role: The primary mandate of t

South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA)

The South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA) is a fascinating and critical phenomenon in Earth's magnetic field that continues to attract attention due to its expanding nature and its potential impact on space-based technologies. What is the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA)? The SAA is a region of the Earth's magnetic field where the intensity of the magnetic field is weaker than normal. This anomaly is located southeast of South America and southwest of Africa. Why does the South Atlantic

Kolam Tribe

The Kolam tribe, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), has a rich history and culture that is now being supported through projects like the recent pilot bamboo plantation initiative in Adilabad district, Telangana. This project aims to restore their traditional livelihoods and help them regain economic independence, especially through sustainable agricultural practices tied to their ancestral forest-based activities. About the Kolam Tribe: Geographic Distribution:

Achanakmar Tiger Reserve (ATR)

Recent News: A tigress named Jhumri has played a significant role in reviving the tiger population in Achanakmar Tiger Reserve (ATR), according to recent reports from forest officials. About Achanakmar Tiger Reserve Location: District: Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh It is part of the Achanakmar - Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve, making it an essential ecological zone in central India. History: The Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1975, and later

State Mining Readiness Index (SMRI) 2025

The Ministry of Mines has recently released the State Mining Readiness Index (SMRI), a tool designed to assess and benchmark the performance of Indian states in the mining sector. The index aims to foster healthy competition among states, accelerate the pace of mining reforms, and promote sustainable resource management. The SMRI 2025 evaluates states based on key parameters related to auction performance, early mine operationalization, exploration focus, and sustainable mining practices, pa

Gastroenteritis

A recent study has highlighted the positive effects of the indigenous rotavirus vaccine in India, showing significant reductions in rotavirus-based gastroenteritis across various sites in the country. This is particularly important as gastroenteritis is a leading cause of illness and death among children, and rotavirus is one of the primary viral causes. What is Gastroenteritis? Gastroenteritis refers to the inflammation of the lining of the stomach and intestines. While it is often no

Mount Lewotobi

Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, located on Flores Island in eastern Indonesia, recently erupted, sending volcanic ash approximately 10 kilometers (about 6.21 miles) into the sky. About Mount Lewotobi Mount Lewotobi is a twin-peaked active volcano situated in the Ring of Fire, a major area in the Pacific Ocean where tectonic plates meet and volcanic activity is prevalent. This particular volcano is known for its frequent activity and stands as one of the most notable geological features on F

Gulf of Kutch

A recent report has highlighted the uncertain long-term survival of dugongs in the Gulf of Kutch and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, pointing to significant challenges for their conservation in these areas. The dugong, a marine herbivorous mammal, faces mounting threats to its habitat, primarily due to the degradation of its seagrass beds and other environmental pressures. About Gulf of Kutch The Gulf of Kutch is a biologically rich region located along the west coast of India, in the

Javari Temple

A headless Vishnu idol, measuring seven feet tall, at the Javari Temple in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, has recently gained attention following a remark by the Chief Justice of India during a hearing on a petition seeking its restoration. About Javari Temple The Javari Temple is part of the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Madhya Pradesh, India. The temple is an important representation of India's ancient architectural and religious heritage.

Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently launched the ‘Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar’ (SNSP) Abhiyaan in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh, aimed at strengthening healthcare services for women and children across India. The initiative focuses on improving access to healthcare, ensuring quality care, and raising awareness on health issues related to women and children. About the SNSP Abhiyaan The Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan is a collaborative initiative between two key ministries:

India and MERCOSUR

India and Brazil have recently agreed to expand their existing trade agreement between India and the MERCOSUR bloc, marking a significant step in strengthening economic and trade relations between India and South America. About MERCOSUR Group The Southern Common Market, or MERCOSUR (from its Spanish acronym Mercado Común del Sur), is a regional economic organization in South America. Established: 1991 through the Treaty of Asunción. Objective: The primary

IN-RoKN Exercise

The IN-RoKN Exercise is a significant step in strengthening the naval ties between India and South Korea. IN-RoKN Exercise Overview: Participants: Indian Navy (IN) and Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN). Location: The exercise is taking place in Busan Naval Harbour, South Korea. Date: The Indian Naval Ship (INS Sahyadri) arrived on 13 October 2025, marking the beginning of this inaugural bilateral naval exercise. Purpose: The exercise aims to: Deepe

Blackbuck Reintroduction in Chhattisgarh

The Chhattisgarh government has successfully reintroduced the blackbuck into the state’s forests as part of a five-year reintroduction plan. This initiative is part of broader conservation efforts to restore the natural habitat and population of the species. About Blackbuck: Scientific Name: Antilope cervicapra Native Regions: Blackbucks are native to India and Nepal. They are found in open grasslands, dry scrub areas, and thinly forested regions. They are widel

Henley Passport Index 2025

India's passport has dropped to the 85th rank in the Henley Passport Index 2025, falling five places compared to the previous year.. About the Henley Passport Index: The Henley Passport Index is a globally recognized ranking system that measures the strength of passports based on the visa-free access their holders have to different countries. It is widely regarded as a key indicator of global mobility and diplomatic relationships between nations. Established: In 2006, orig

Gulf of Finland

Recent Incident: Airspace Violation: Recently, three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets violated the airspace of NATO member Estonia over the Gulf of Finland. The jets remained in Estonian airspace for 12 minutes, raising concerns among NATO allies. MiG-31: The MiG-31 is a supersonic interceptor aircraft, primarily used by the Russian Air Force for air defense and long-range intercept missions. These types of incidents involving airspace violations are often seen as a show of m

Taftan Volcano

Recent research has indicated that Taftan Volcano, located in southeastern Iran, might be awakening after being dormant for nearly 700,000 years. About Taftan Volcano: Location: Taftan is a semi-active stratovolcano located in the southeastern part of Iran, near the Pakistan border (approximately 56 km away). It is situated within the Makran continental volcanic arc, an area formed by the subduction of the Arabian ocean crust beneath the Eurasian continent

Akash Missile System

India has recently pitched the Akash Missile System for export to Brazil, highlighting the growing global interest in India's indigenous defense technologies. The discussions took place during a meeting between India's Defence Minister and Brazilian Vice-President Geraldo Alckmin in New Delhi. This move aligns with India's efforts to expand its defense exports and strengthen strategic ties with nations around the world, particularly in areas related to air defense capabilities.

Yellow-Crested Cockatoos

The Yellow-crested cockatoos (Cacatua sulphurea) in Hong Kong are facing a growing challenge in terms of their natural nesting sites. Due to the combined threats of typhoons, tree trimming, and urban development, these birds are losing access to the natural habitats that they rely on for nesting. In response to this, conservationists in Hong Kong have stepped in by installing artificial nest boxes. About Yellow-Crested Cockatoos: Scientific Name: Cacatua sulphurea Appear

Madagascar

Recently, an elite military unit in Madagascar has taken control of the country after a national assembly vote led to the impeachment of President Andry Rajoelina. The military backing of youth-led anti-government street protests marked a dramatic shift in the nation's political landscape. This development follows a period of intense political turmoil and unrest within Madagascar. About Madagascar Madagascar is an island nation in East Africa, situated in the Indian Ocean about 400

National Environmental Engineering Research Institute

The National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) is a prominent research institution in India, focusing on environmental science and engineering. It conducts research and develops innovative solutions for environmental management and pollution control. Key Details about NEERI: Establishment: NEERI was founded in 1958 in Nagpur as the Central Public Health Engineering Research Institute (CPHERI). Initially, its focus was on human health issues, particularly in the

National Energy Conservation Awards (NECA) 2025

The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has recently announced the 35th National Energy Conservation Awards (NECA) 2025, inviting applications to recognize and honor outstanding contributions in energy efficiency and conservation across various sectors in India. About the National Energy Conservation Awards The National Energy Conservation Awards (NECA) is one of the most prestigious national platforms aimed at recognizing excellence, innovation, and leadership in energy efficiency and c

First Cooperative Multi-Feed Compressed Biogas (CBG)

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation recently inaugurated India’s first cooperative multi-feed CBG plant in Kopargaon, Maharashtra Key Highlights of the CBG Plant Daily Production: The plant is set to produce 12 tons of Compressed Biogas (CBG) daily, along with 75 tons of potash derived from jaggery/molasses. This will contribute to reducing India's import of potash and energy dependence. Location: Kopargaon, Maharashtra – a significant site for

Silent Valley National Park

In a recent odonate survey (focused on dragonflies and damselflies) conducted in Silent Valley National Park, six new species of these fascinating insects were discovered. About Silent Valley National Park Silent Valley National Park is a pristine stretch of wet evergreen forest located in the Nilgiri Hills of Kerala, South India. It is one of the last undisturbed tropical rainforests in the country and serves as a critical part of India's biodiversity conservation efforts. Ke

Parkinson's Disease

Recent studies suggest that certain movements, such as compulsively moving one’s legs, may be indicative of an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease (PD). What is Parkinson's Disease? Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement. It leads to the gradual breakdown of nerve cells (neurons) in specific parts of the brain, resulting in various movement-related symptoms. Key Characteristics of Parkinson's Dis

Crew Escape System (CES)

ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) has successfully developed a cost-effective, single-stage test vehicle powered by the Vikas engine. This vehicle will be used to validate the Crew Escape System (CES), a critical safety feature for astronaut missions. About the Crew Escape System (CES) The Crew Escape System is a vital emergency safety mechanism designed to protect astronauts in the event of a launch abort. In such an emergency, the system quickly pulls the crew module (which h

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) remains one of the leading causes of infant mortality globally, and October is marked as SIDS Awareness Month to raise awareness about this tragic condition. What is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)? SIDS is defined as the unexpected death of an infant under one year of age, for which no clear cause can be determined even after an investigation. It is sometimes referred to as ‘cot death’ or ‘crib death’, although t

Naying Hydroelectric Project

The Naying Hydroelectric Project in Arunachal Pradesh is a proposed 1,000 MW hydropower initiative on the Siyom (Yomgo) River, which has recently been in the news due to the upcoming environmental public hearing scheduled for November 12. About the Naying Hydroelectric Project: Location: The Naying Hydroelectric Project is planned on the Siyom River (also called Yomgo River) in Arunachal Pradesh, a state known for its significant hydropower potential due to its abundant river s

Blue Flag Certification

Five beaches in Maharashtra recently earned the prestigious Blue Flag certification, which is an internationally recognized eco-label for beaches, marinas, and sustainable tourism boats. About the Blue Flag Certification: What is Blue Flag? The Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) in Denmark. It is a globally recognized eco-label that signifies high environmental standards. It is given to beaches, marinas, and sustainable tou

Steadfast Noon 2025

Steadfast Noon is NATO's annual nuclear deterrence exercise, and for 2025, it will be hosted by the Netherlands. Key Details of Steadfast Noon 2025: Location and Hosts: The main site for the exercise will be Volkel Air Base in the Netherlands. Additional bases will be involved in the exercise, including those in Kleine Brogel (Belgium), Lakenheath (UK), and Skrydstrup (Denmark). Participants: Around 70 aircraft from 14 NATO me

Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2025

An Indian Army contingent of 120 personnel has recently departed for Irwin Barracks, Perth, Australia to participate in the fourth edition of Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2025. This annual exercise between India and Australia plays a crucial role in strengthening military ties and improving operational capabilities. Key Highlights of Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2025: Joint Military Exercise: Exercise AUSTRAHIND is an annual joint military exercise between the Indian Army and the Austr

INS Rajali

The Indian Navy's Eastern Naval Command recently hosted a two-day seminar on long-range maritime reconnaissance (LRMR) at INS Rajali, Arakkonam, in Tamil Nadu. This seminar highlighted India's growing maritime responsibilities and its advanced surveillance capabilities in the Indian Ocean region. About INS Rajali INS Rajali is a premier Naval Air Station located in Arakkonam, Tamil Nadu, and plays a vital role in India's naval operations and training activities. Co

Aflatoxin

There has been a dispute regarding Indonesia's delayed notification of aflatoxins found in groundnut shipments from India. Exporters are raising concerns about the timing of this notification, which has led to trade tensions between the two countries. About Aflatoxins Aflatoxins are toxic chemicals (mycotoxins) produced by certain fungi, specifically from the Aspergillus species. These toxins pose serious health risks and are a major concern in food safety. Key Facts about Aflat

Indian Wolf

The Indian wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) has been evaluated separately by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) for the first time, marking an important step towards understanding and conserving this unique subspecies. About the Indian Wolf Species: The Indian wolf is a subspecies of the Grey Wolf (Canis lupus) and is found primarily across the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southwest Asia. Habitat: Indian wolves prefer scrublands, semi-arid g

Armenia

Recently, Armenia became the newest State Member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), joining a global community committed to conserving nature and promoting sustainable development. About Armenia Geography and Location: Landlocked Country: Armenia is nestled in the southern part of the Caucasus Mountain Range. Bordering Countries: It shares borders with Georgia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east, Iran to the southeast, and Turkey to the west

Births and Deaths in India

According to the Vital Statistics of India based on the Civil Registration System (CRS) report for 2023, the country recorded 2.52 crore births and 86.6 lakh deaths. Key Highlights of the Report: Number of Births: 2.52 crore births were registered in 2023, which is around 2.32 lakh fewer than in 2022. Number of Deaths: 86.6 lakh deaths were recorded in 2023, marking a marginal increase from 86.5 lakh in 2022. Despite the high numb

Integrated Alert System (SACHET)

At the ongoing G20 Ministerial Meeting in Durban, India highlighted its disaster risk reduction (DRR) efforts, with a key focus on SACHET, India's Integrated Alert System. The Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister emphasized India’s multi-agency approach integrating various meteorological, hydrological, seismic, and oceanographic institutions through a Common Alert Protocol (CAP)-compliant system. About Integrated Alert System (SACHET) Overview: SACHET i

Newsletter Subscription
SMS Alerts

Important Links

UPSC GS Mains Crash Course - RAW Prelims Answer Key 2024