Why in the News ? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to close the FCNR(B) deposit scheme earlier than originally planned.The facility, which was scheduled to remain open until 30 September, will now accept fresh deposits only until 31 August.The decision surprised banks and market participants because RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra had said…
Why in the News ? The Government has approved an incentive scheme to accelerate domestic PNG connections from September 1, 2026. It will encourage CGD companies to activate unbilled connections and expand networks, while offering additional domestic gas allocation to support cleaner household cooking fuel access. Government Initiative for PNG Expansion: ● The…
Why in the News ? Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid tribute to Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur on his birth anniversary, recalling his visionary and pro-people governance and contributions to education, infrastructure and administration that earned him the title “Architect of Modern Tripura.” Tribute to Maharaja Bir Bikram: ● Union Home…
Why in the News ? Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla paid tribute to former President Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma on his birth anniversary, recalling his contributions as an educationist, jurist and politician to education, culture and India’s democratic institutions. Tribute on Birth Anniversary : ● Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla paid tribute to…
Why in the News ? A 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck off Indonesia’s Nias Island in North Sumatra, highlighting the country’s vulnerability to seismic activity. The quake occurred at a depth of 29 km, while authorities reported no casualties or property damage. Earthquake Strikes Off Nias Island: ● A 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck off Nias Island…
Why in the News ? A recent Nature Communications study by U.K. scientists revealed a molecular “safety catch” that regulates the timing of DNA replication. The finding improves understanding of how cells prevent premature DNA copying and maintain genomic stability during cell division. Role of Helicase in DNA Replication: ● Helicase is an…
Why in the News ? Bihar has joined the Centre’s pulse procurement network for the first time.Under a new model, central agencies such as NCCF and NAFED can directly purchase masoor (lentils) from farmers at MSP, bypassing state-level procurement agencies.The initiative aims to strengthen MSP-based procurement, improve farmer incomes and encourage pulse cultivation and crop…
Why in the News ? European countries are battling widespread wildfires amid one of the hottest and driest summers on record.Extreme heat, prolonged dryness and changing climate conditions are increasing fire risks, threatening lives, ecosystems and infrastructure across the continent. Wildfires Across European Countries ● Belgium: A major wildfire continued to burn in…
Why in the News ? Adivasi communities in Madhya Pradesh are protesting against displacement caused by the Ken-Betwa river-linking project. Villagers argue that monetary compensation cannot replace their forests, land, livelihoods, cultural identity and community life, raising concerns about rehabilitation, tribal rights and environmental costs. Ken-Betwa Project and Its Intended Objectives: ● The…
Why in the News ? The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 has reignited tensions between the Centre and States over taxation of mineral rights. States fear significant revenue losses, while the Centre argues that excessive levies increase mineral costs, fuel inflation and create uncertainty for mining investments. Key Provisions and Centre’s…