Author: ForumIAS

Icrisat Researchers Help Raise Groundnut Cro Context Researchers at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) in Hyderabad have developed dual strategies to keep groundnuts almost free of contamination by aflatoxin — a toxin produced by the fungi Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. The dual strategies One strategy prevents groundnuts from being… Continue reading Icrisat Researchers Help Raise Groundnut Cro

For a wider cover  Context: India needs to design its tree-based programmes better to meet climate goals. Introduction: In 2015, India made a Bonn challenge commitment to place into restoration 13 million hectares(Mha) of degraded land by 2020 and an additional 8 Mha by 2030. India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) have also pledged to sequester… Continue reading For a wider cover 

Olive Ridleys keep date with Odisha  Context: Olive Ridley turtles have kept their date with Gahirmatha beach in Odisha’s Kendrapara district, known as world’s largest rookery of this endangered species, arriving just offshore for mating in large numbers. Introduction: Offshore congregation of Olive Ridley pairs has been observed along 8 km of the Habelighati shoreline.… Continue reading Olive Ridleys keep date with Odisha 

The Pecking Order Context: The Law Commission on preventing cruelty to poultry Introduction: Law Commission of India has submitted its 269th Report titled “Transportation and House-keeping of Egg-laying hens (layers) and Broiler Chickens” for the consideration of the Government. The Commission has drafted ‘The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Egg Laying Hens) Rules, 2017 and… Continue reading The Pecking Order

India plans 20GW solar tender, eyes domestic manufacturing boost? Context: India plans to invite bids for setting up 20 gigawatts (GW) of solar power capacity It is an attempt to spur domestic manufacturing of solar power equipment. What is the proposal? The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) introduces the idea of mega bids… Continue reading India plans 20GW solar tender, eyes domestic manufacturing boost?

GST council to tighten norms for composition  Context The twenty-third meeting of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council in Guwahati is all set to tighten the noose on players who have started splitting their business operations into smaller entities to avoid higher tax liabilities. What are the new steps? The Council is also set… Continue reading GST council to tighten norms for composition 

Japan to chair first quadrilateral meeting in Manila next week Context Japan will chair the first quadrilateral meeting between senior officials of India, US, Australia and Japan on the margins of the ASEAN and East Asia summits in Manila on November 13-14 What is ASEAN? The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) comprises of Indonesia,… Continue reading Japan to chair first quadrilateral meeting in Manila next week

Constitutional Bench to hear plea to BID sway  Context: A Constitution Bench, on November 13, will hear a petition regarding a corruption case involving a former Odisha High Court judge. The case involves corruption in the very highest echelons of power, including the justice delivery system. What is the issue? Integrity of judicial institution is… Continue reading Constitutional Bench to hear plea to BID sway 

It takes a village  Context The Sterling Playback Theatre Company brought together audiences, actors and musicians on one platform and enacted basic concerns of the audience, from demonetization to how to save money. The stage of expression The mood of the play turned intense as the people began to open up, discussing serious issues, and… Continue reading It takes a village 

Centre approves creation of a National Testing Agency Context: The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the creation of a National Testing Agency (NTA) as a Society registered under the Indian Society Registration Act, 1860, and as an autonomous and self-sustained premier testing organization to conduct entrance examinations for higher… Continue reading Centre approves creation of a National Testing Agency