News: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed the country’s first indigenous machine pistol ASMI. Facts: ASMI: It is a 9mm Machine Pistol jointly developed by DRDO and the Indian Army. The weapon is aptly named “Asmi” meaning Pride, Self-Respect and Hard Work. Range: The machine pistol can fire at a range of 100 metres and is… Continue reading India’s first Indigenously Developed 9mm Machine Pistol
Author: ForumIAS
One Planet Summit has commenced virtually
News: One Planet Summit has commenced virtually through video conference. Facts: One Planet Summit: It has been organised by France in cooperation with the United Nations and the World Bank. Objective: The summit focuses on four major topics 1) protecting terrestrial and marine ecosystems; promoting agro ecology 2) more sustainable way to grow food c) increasing funding to protect biodiversity and 4) identifying links… Continue reading One Planet Summit has commenced virtually
USTTAD (Upgrading the Skills & Training in Traditional Arts/Crafts for Development) scheme
Facts: USTTAD Scheme: The scheme was launched in 2015 by the Ministry of Minority Affairs. Aim: To upgrade the capacity building and traditional skills of master craftsmen and artisans. Objectives: Capacity building and upgrading of the traditional skills of master craftsmen and artisans; Documentation of identified traditional arts/crafts of minorities; Set standards of traditional skills; Training of… Continue reading USTTAD (Upgrading the Skills & Training in Traditional Arts/Crafts for Development) scheme
World’s oldest known cave painting (a wild pig image) found in Indonesia
News: Archaeologists have discovered the world’s oldest known animal cave painting in Indonesia – a wild pig – believed to be drawn 45,500 years ago. Facts: Source: Indian Express About Cave Painting: The cave painting uncovered in South Sulawesi in Indonesia consists of a figurative depiction of a warty pig, a wild boar that is endemic to… Continue reading World’s oldest known cave painting (a wild pig image) found in Indonesia
UPSC Mains 2020 Question Papers | Compulsory Language Papers, 2020
Mains 2020 Compulsory Language Question Paper | UPSC Civil Services IAS Mains Question Papers, 2020 Good Afternoon, After a break of 5 days, UPSC has conducted the exam of compulsory Indian Language Paper in Mains 2020. You can download the question paper by clicking on the link given below; Mains 2020 Compulsory Indian Language Question… Continue reading UPSC Mains 2020 Question Papers | Compulsory Language Papers, 2020
[UPDATE] Extra Attempt for Aspirants in UPSC 2021 under Active Consideration
The Supreme Court last Monday, asked about the progress on the extra attempt for UPSC aspirants in 2021. In response, the Center has told SC that A decision to grant another chance for UPSC aspirants, especially candidates whose last attempt at cracking the prelims expired in October 2020, is under “active consideration.” Further, the Additional… Continue reading [UPDATE] Extra Attempt for Aspirants in UPSC 2021 under Active Consideration
Factsheet for administration of COVID-19 Vaccine released
Synopsis: Government has released a Vaccine Fact sheet that contains guidelines for administering both vaccines (Covaxin and Covishield). Background Union Health Ministry has sent a comprehensive fact sheet for both vaccines (Covaxin and Covishield) to all states and immunisation officer. The Centre has also asked the states and immunisation officers to disseminate the fact sheet to all programme managers, cold chain handlers, and vaccinators before the… Continue reading Factsheet for administration of COVID-19 Vaccine released
Need for social media Policies on hate and incitement
Synopsis- Social media platforms need clear policies on which they commit to a consistent refusal to help heads of state incite violence. Introduction- On January 6, when the extremists stormed the United States Capitol building, Trump’s social media accounts were active and communicating. After this incident, social media companies blocked particular communications including videos of… Continue reading Need for social media Policies on hate and incitement
UK Report classified India among ‘difficult four’ countries
Synopsis: The report released by the Royal Institute of International Affairs (UK) recommends an arm’s length relationship with India due to rise of religious intolerance. Back ground Recently, the Royal Institute of International Affairs (UK) have proposed a blueprint titled “Global Britain, Global Broker”, for Britain’s future foreign policy after Brexit. As a matter of concern for India, the report… Continue reading UK Report classified India among ‘difficult four’ countries
New opportunities for India in Afghanistan
Synopsis: Change of power in the US has provided India with an opportunity to re-engage with Afghanistan. Introduction The National Security Advisor(NSA) Ajit Doval paid a 2-day visit to Kabul. It was the first trip to Afghanistan, by a top Indian official, since the start of Doha Talks between Taliban and Afghan republic representatives. Both sides… Continue reading New opportunities for India in Afghanistan
