WHERE HAVE THE ELEPHANTS GONE ?

Why in the News? The precarious situation of elephants in and around Guwahati has become a pressing concern, highlighting the challenges in human-wildlife coexistence. The lopsided struggle for survival faced by these majestic creatures is a looming threat to Assam’s rich fauna. Elephant Reserves in India Source: Indian Express  Elephants in India:·  India’s Natural Heritage…

KADALUNDI’S SHRINKING MUDFLAT ECOSYSTEM: A THREAT TO MIGRANT BIRDS

Why in the News? Current Scenario: Alarm Bells: Government Response: Mangrove Expansion and Ecotourism: Carbon Sequestration Debate: Holistic Approach Needed: Mudflats vs. Mangroves: With the mudflats facing degradation, the once-abundant migratory birds are seeking alternatives on the beaches of neighboring coasts, highlighting the urgency of conserving this unique ecosystem in Kadalungi.

DELL, HP, FOXCONN GRANTED APPROVAL FOR IT HARDWARE PLI 2.0

Why in the News ? Dell, HP, Flextronics, and Foxconn have received approval under the new IT hardware Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, signalling a significant move in India’s electronics manufacturing landscape. Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme 2.0·  A government of India scheme to boost manufacturing and make India a global manufacturing hub.·  Offers financial incentives to companies for…

TALLING PROGRESS: UNRAVELING THE CHINA-PAKISTAN ECONOMIC CORRIDOR (CPEC)

Why in the News ? Source: The Sunday Guardian Genesis of CPEC Early Challenges (2016) Economic Burden and Loan Challenges Local Resistance and Anti-China Sentiments Rift Between China and Pakistan Rising Insurgency and Security Concerns The recent visit by Pakistan’s PM to Beijing aims to restart funding for key projects. However, the fate of the…

CHICKENPOX VACCINATION

Why in the News ? Recent U.S. data spanning 25 years highlights the significant decline in chickenpox and shingles cases among children, challenging prior fears of adverse consequences. Source: Medical News Today Chickenpox· Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV).· It primarily affects children, but people of all ages…

INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE-CUM-EXHIBITION ON ‘AEROSPACE & AVIATION IN 2047’

Why in the news? Inaugural Session Highlights Start-up Challenge: Aeronautical Society of India (AeSI)·        Established in 1948, the Aeronautical Society of India was inaugurated by Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, the then Prime Minister of India, on 17 November 1948.·  Year 2023 marks 75th Anniversary of Aeronautical Society of India.Objectives:·  Dedicated to advancing and disseminating knowledge in aeronautical…

VISION INDIA@2047: TRANSFORMATIVE ROADMAP

Prime Minister’s Roadmap: Source: The Hindu Objectives of Vision India@2047 Achieve a USD 30 trillion economy with a per-capita income of USD 18,000-20,000. a) On building world-class infrastructure b) Eliminating unnecessary government interference c) Developing global champions in various sectors a) To be self-reliant in defense and space b) Foster green growth c) Empower the youth,…

CHHATH PUJA

Why in the News ? Chhath Puja in Bihar: Chhath PujaOrigin and Significance·        Chhath Puja, an ancient Hindu festival, originated in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and parts of Uttar Pradesh.·        It is dedicated to the worship of the Sun God, Surya, and Chhathi Maiya, the Goddess believed to be the consort of Surya.Duration and Rituals·  Chhath Puja…

DEEPFAKE 

Why in the News ? Source: Forbes Deep FakeA deepfake refers to a type of synthetic media, typically in the form of videos or images, that is created or altered using artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning techniques.·  In a deepfake, the appearance or voice of a person in existing content is manipulated or replaced with someone else’s,…