Why in the News ? A 1,500-year-old stepped reservoir has been discovered by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on Elephanta Island near Mumbai. The excavation reveals insights into ancient water management, trade networks, and cultural life, highlighting India’s rich maritime and archaeological heritage. Key Findings from Elephanta Excavation: ● The excavation is being carried…
Why in the News ? The ‘Soil Sakhis’ initiative in drought-prone districts of Maharashtra is gaining attention for improving soil health, crop yields, and women’s empowerment. It highlights the role of community-led climate-resilient agriculture in addressing agrarian distress and sustainability challenges while promoting environmental democracy through grassroots participation. Women-Led Soil Health and Agricultural Transformation: ● …
Why in the News ? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25%, while revising GDP growth downward to 6.9% for FY27. The decision reflects rising risks from global conflicts, oil prices, and inflation uncertainties. Key Monetary Policy Decisions: ● The RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) kept the repo…
Why in the News ? India observed Shaurya Diwas on April 9, honouring the valour and sacrifice of CRPF personnel during the 1965 India-Pakistan conflict at Sardar Post, Kutch. The day highlights India’s security forces’ bravery, border defence legacy, and military history. Shaurya Diwas: Background and Commemoration ● Shaurya Diwas is observed annually on April…
Why in the News ? Fresh violence in Manipur’s Imphal Valley has resulted in deaths, including two children, raising concerns over deteriorating law and order. The incident highlights ongoing ethnic tensions, security challenges, and the need for sustained peace efforts in the region to ensure a pollution free environment for development and governance. Incident Overview…
Why in the News ? The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released the Draft Telecom Consumer Protection (Thirteenth Amendment) Regulation, 2026, proposing reforms in tariff structures. The move seeks to improve affordability, transparency, and consumer choice in Voice and SMS services, following principles similar to those applied in environmental clearance processes where regulatory…
Why in the News ? A nine-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court is hearing the Sabarimala case, questioning whether Article 17 (untouchability) applies to menstrual restrictions. The debate revisits issues of religious freedom, gender equality, and limits of judicial intervention in faith practices, drawing parallels with environmental jurisprudence where courts balance regulatory oversight with…
Why in the News ? The Artemis II mission astronauts are returning to Earth after completing a historic lunar flyby, marking a major milestone in NASA’s Moon programme. The mission, which followed rigorous environmental impact assessment protocols and the precautionary principle for space safety, advances plans for a human Moon landing by 2028 and deep…
Why in the News ? Proposed amendments to the IT Rules, 2021 have faced strong opposition from industry bodies and digital rights groups. Concerns relate to binding government advisories, censorship risks, and impact on safe harbour protections, prompting the government to reconsider provisions and avoid ex post facto compliance burdens. Key Provisions and Government Stand:…
Why in the News ? The government has clarified that social media influencers and content creators will not be treated as publishers under proposed amendments to the IT Rules, 2021. The move follows stakeholder concerns over free speech, regulation, and digital rights, with critics drawing parallels to ex post facto regulatory approaches seen in other…