Mapping Source: Reuters Context: The United States signed agreements with Micronesia to extend economic assistance to the island state. The U.S. is also negotiating similar agreements with Palau and the Marshall Islands. Aim: The agreements were part of a strategic pact that the U.S. is using to counter China in the Pacific The Compact of …
Facts for Prelims (FFP) Source: The Conservation Context: Genetic mapping of the nearly entire kākāpō population, a critically endangered flightless parrot found only in New Zealand, has revealed valuable insights into specific traits crucial for conservation efforts. About Kākāpō: The kākāpō, also known as the owl parrot, is a large, flightless parrot …
Facts for Prelims (FFP) Source: TH Context: A report by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)-India has highlighted 172 incidents of seizures involving the red sand boa (Eryx johnii) between 2016 and 2021 in India. The report aims to shed light on the illegal trade of red sand boas, particularly online, to raise awareness and …
Facts for Prelims (FFP) Source: The Print Context: An international research team, has identified seven previously unknown species of leaf insects, also known as walking leaves. These insects belong to the stick and leaf insect order, which are known for their remarkable camouflage that makes them appear like parts of plants such as twigs, bark, …
Facts for Prelims (FFP) Source: DTE Context: A report by Greenpeace Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) has found that European Big Oil companies failed to fulfil their Net Zero pledges in 2022. Key Highlights: The 12 largest oil and gas companies in Europe produced only 0.3% of their energy from renewables, with the rest …
Facts for Prelims (FFP) Source: TH Context: The Global Fund, has reached an agreement with generic pharmaceutical manufacturers to significantly reduce the price of an advanced HIV drug named TLD. This deal will allow the drug to be provided for under $45 per person per year, marking a 25% reduction in cost. The TLD pill …
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Facts for Prelims (FFP) Source: PIB Context: The Kolkata Metro Railway, India’s first metro system built by Indian Railways, has decided to replace its steel third rail with a composite aluminium third rail. This move aligns Kolkata Metro with prestigious international metro systems like those in London, Moscow, Berlin, Munich, and Istanbul, which have …
Facts for Prelims (FFP) Source: TH Context: Jaya Verma Sinha has become the first woman to lead the Railway Board (in the Railway Board’s 118-year history), the top decision-making body for India’s Ministry of Railways. About Indian Railways: The Ministry of Railways (founded 1905; HQ: Rail Bhawan, New Delhi) functions as the statutory authority …
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Facts for Prelims (FFP) Source: IE Context: The government has removed the 15 per cent agriculture cess (also called Agriculture infrastructure and development cess (AIDC)) on imports of LPG, liquified propane, and liquified butane starting from September 1. This exemption reverses the previous imposition of the agriculture cess on these goods in July It …
Content for Mains Enrichment Source: TH Context: E. Rajalakshmi, a 52-year-old math teacher at Thangalikuppam Panchayat Union Middle School in Kurunjipadi, Cuddalore district (TN), used her own savings to set up a smart lab for students in grades 6 to 8. The lab is equipped with a projector and computers to facilitate interactive …
GS Paper 3 Syllabus: Disaster Management Source: TH Context: The article discusses the impact of human actions on natural disasters, particularly in the context of increasing incidents during the monsoon season in India. What are natural disasters? A natural disaster is a catastrophic event that is caused by the forces of nature. Examples …
GS Paper 3 Syllabus: Agriculture Source: TH Context: The Indian government has implemented several measures to regulate rice exports and ensure domestic food security, including a 20% export duty on par-boiled rice until October 15 and restrictions on white rice exports. Status of Rice production and export: India is the second-largest producer of ricein …
GS1/GS3 Paper Syllabus: Heritage sites, Environment Conservation Source: DTE Context: UNESCO World Heritage sites, home to a significant portion of global biodiversity, including iconic species like elephants, tigers, and pandas, are under threat from climate change and human activities. The sites make up only 1% of Earth’s surface but play a critical role in …
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