(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. How did the dinosaurs become birds? Maybe the nose knows READ MORE
2. Govt. looks to develop studded diamond jewellery segment READ MORE
3. Why no disaggregated data on tribal populations, asks House panel READ MORE
4. What is Fitch’s downgrade of U.S. about? READ MORE
5. Thousands of U.S. sailors, Marines reach Red Sea after Iran tensions READ MORE
6. PM Modi lays foundation stone for redevelopment of 508 Amrit Bharat Stations READ MORE
7. 5% of birds in India are endemic, says Zoological Survey of India publication READ MORE
8. What is ECOWAS, the West African bloc that could intervene in Niger’s coup? READ MORE
9. How the current lunar missions differ from the last moon rush READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Not all weeds seen in millet farms are villains but uncultivated crops READ MORE
2. Belem Declaration: Amazon countries fail to agree on protection goals READ MORE
3. Ensuring women’s right to the city READ MORE
4. Social peace vital for India’s progress READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Should Constitution be amended to make Article 370 permanent, asks CJI READ MORE
2. Falling short: On the Digital Data Protection Bill, 2023 READ MORE
3. Neither the right to privacy nor the right to information READ MORE
4. What the fight over Delhi tells us: At the heart of the Centre’s national capital law or any other governance dispute is the inability of politicians to get along. History shows victors in such battles often have to rethink READ MORE
5. Data bill must balance business needs with individual protections READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. The grammar of commerce in a new age of geopolitics READ MORE

 GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. The quest for a room-temperature superconductor READ MORE
2. Govt alone can’t handle multidimensional poverty READ MORE
3. Does development of transport infrastructure increase rural land inequality? READ MORE
4. The challenge of making farming profitable READ MORE
5. State and Freebies READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Climate events and an umbrella for urban health READ MORE   

SECURITY

1. Manipur Police register criminal case against Assam Rifles READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. Floods in China and Slovenia: Can extreme flooding be prevented? READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Israel protests show that national identity and liberal values can coexist READ MORE  
2. Viveka, power of discernment and phubbing READ MORE
3. Ramanuja’s eighteen guidelines for a disciple READ MORE
4. Intelligence revolutions READ MORE

CASE STUDY

1. Coal India Ltd versus Competition Commission of India: A defeat long in the making READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. Setting boundaries in e-social behaviour is a necessary safeguard against personal and social turmoil. Comment.
2. Using social media to create public awareness of important social, political and economic issues is beneficial, but in the case of Civil Servants, it increases their accountability. Justify the statement with examples.
3. Human beings blessed with good intellect and common sense need to acquire the right knowledge and choose wisely from the many options before them – including the how, when and why of using new technology. Evaluate the statement.
4. Scholars may argue that national interests and liberal values are contradictory in nature but sometimes these two values go hand-in-hand. Illustrate with at least two examples.
5. A welfare state gives hope to the people, it gives them opportunities for improving their social standing and the assurance that they are not beholden to anyone’s mercies.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• Setting boundaries in e-social behaviour is a necessary safeguard against personal and social turmoil.
• Using social media to create public awareness of important social, political and economic issues is beneficial; it enables exchange of multiple viewpoints, engendering healthy debate, discussion and positive action.
• Human beings blessed with good intellect and common sense need to acquire right knowledge and choose wisely from the many options before them – including the how, when and why of using new technology.
• While it might seem contradictory on the surface, the convergence of national interest and liberal values elements illustrates that a powerful sense of national identity can stand with democratic principles.
• Economics defines public goods as those whose marginal cost of production is zero, meaning that one person’s consumption does not reduce that of the other.
• Reconstruct small-scale farming and ecologically sustainable agriculture to usher in reforms and reduce inequality.
• Science becomes an instrument of the nation-state as it loses plurality and autonomy.
• Unlike universal education, skill development, assured work on community projects, subsidies on food, agricultural inputs, health and transportation which strengthen the economy, freebies do not support any economic activity.
• A welfare state gives hope to the people, it gives them opportunities for improving their social standing and the assurance that they are not beholden to anyone’s mercies.
• A vibrant agriculture is the crying need of the times. There is no other way to wipe the tears of every farmer and wage-earner.
• Considering that agriculture is the largest employer, the best way to reduce the gnawing inequality is to put the resources where the actual need is. Social peace, the absence of fear in any section of society and equal treatment by the state of all, irrespective of their faith, are essential for India’s progress and strategic interests.

50-WORD TALK

• Supreme Court’s order for the inclusion of officers from other states to probe cases of Manipur ethnic violence will ensure impartial and speedy justice. Its decision to set up a panel of three former women HC judges to look into relief efforts and rehabilitation can bring respite for displaced families.
• Former CJI Ranjan Gogoi’s maiden speech in Parliament termed the basic structure doctrine as debatable, inviting flak from several quarters. As head of judiciary, CJI Gogoi had invoked this judicial principle many times in his judgments, including the Ayodhya verdict. To doubt it now means questioning his own judicial decisions.
• It is a good a thing that Indian Parliament is now talking. It doesn’t matter what the outcome of the no-confidence motion would be; what is of importance is that debate and discussions are finally happening. As it is, parliamentary sessions are short and routinely interrupted by adjournments and disruptions.

Things to Remember:

• For prelims-related news try to understand the context of the news and relate with its concepts so that it will be easier for you to answer (or eliminate) from given options.
• Whenever any international place will be in news, you should do map work (marking those areas in maps and exploring other geographical locations nearby including mountains, rivers, etc. same applies to the national places.)
• For economy-related news (banking, agriculture, etc.) you should focus on terms and how these are related to various economic aspects, for example, if inflation has been mentioned, try to relate with prevailing price rises, shortage of essential supplies, banking rates, etc.
• For main exam-related topics, you should focus on the various dimensions of the given topic, the most important topics which occur frequently and are important from the mains point of view will be covered in ED. Try to use the given content in your answer. Regular use of this content will bring more enrichment to your writing.

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Grace requires full commitment of your energy READ MORE
2. A remorseful heart READ MORE
3. Starving for values: UGC’s Mulya Pravah for HEIs is at best a thoughtless attempt at virtue signalling READ MORE

CASE STUDY

1. Coal India Ltd versus Competition Commission of India: A defeat long in the making READ MORE

1. Is Earth Close to “The Great Dying”? READ MORE
2. Rising air pollution shows urgent need for localized climate action in the Northeast READ MORE   
3. India may have highest climate risk globally but its banks are unprepared to support climate action: Report READ MORE

1. How offering incentives can prompt social media users to post more accurate information READ MORE
2. Safeguard children from online harms READ MORE

1. The long saga of the data bill holds crucial lessons READ MORE
2. Parliament is failing the nation READ MORE
3. Perpetuating Illegality in ‘National Interest’: Given the scope of ED’s powers, the Court could have at least ensured that it works within a legal mandate. READ MORE
4. Data Protection Bill: NCPRI Flags Regressive Amendments to RTI Act, Lack of Autonomy for Oversight Body READ MORE

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Pakistan passes Bill to meet FATF demands READ MORE
2. SC dismisses plea challenging Goel’s appointment as EC READ MORE
3. Hindi is not in competition with local languages, says Amit Shah READ MORE
4. DGFT suspends its laptop, PC import curbs till November 1 READ MORE
5. Will a nuclear-powered rocket cut travel time to Mars by half? READ MORE
6. What is a Privilege Motion and how does the Committee of Privileges in Parliament examine it? READ MORE
7. Centre tables Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023: What it says and why it’s being criticised READ MORE
8. Can the Lok Sabha pass bills when a no-confidence motion is pending? READ MORE
9. These new sorghum varieties might help sub-Saharan Africa meet nutritional needs READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Is Earth Close to “The Great Dying”? READ MORE
2. How offering incentives can prompt social media users to post more accurate information READ MORE
3. Safeguard children from online harms READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. The long saga of the data bill holds crucial lessons READ MORE
2. Parliament is failing the nation READ MORE
3. Perpetuating Illegality in ‘National Interest’: Given the scope of ED’s powers, the Court could have at least ensured that it works within a legal mandate. READ MORE
4. Data Protection Bill: NCPRI Flags Regressive Amendments to RTI Act, Lack of Autonomy for Oversight Body READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Universal Basic Income: Cooking Omelette Without Breaking Egg? READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. India’s G20 Health Agenda Undermines Its Credibility Among Traditional Allies READ MORE
2. Should We Expect a Thaw in China-India Relations Soon? READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Menaka Guruswamy writes on GST on online gaming: Taxing luck, not skill READ MORE  
2. Why world sees India’s growth story starting & China’s ending READ MORE
3. Laptop imports: Curbs can boost domestic manufacturing READ MORE
4. Encourage local makes of electronic goods READ MORE
5. Rice, EVs and now laptops — govt intervention in markets is India’s new bureaucratic nightmare READ MORE
6. Global Trends in Foreign Direct Investments: India still has a long way to go to emerge as a major investment destination. READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Rising air pollution shows urgent need for localized climate action in the Northeast READ MORE   
2. India may have highest climate risk globally but its banks are unprepared to support climate action: Report READ MORE

SECURITY

1. Cybersecurity threats from online gaming READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Grace requires full commitment of your energy READ MORE
2. A remorseful heart READ MORE
3. Starving for values: UGC’s Mulya Pravah for HEIs is at best a thoughtless attempt at virtue signalling READ MORE

CASE STUDY

1. Coal India Ltd versus Competition Commission of India: A defeat long in the making READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. The body with wide legal powers should works within a legal mandate rather than being beholden to the union government. Comment on the issue in light of recent controversies related to central investigating bodies.
2. The online gaming world has provided cybercriminals with a new avenue to conduct nefarious activities. In light of this statement, do you agree with this view that government should think about completely ban of online gaming rather regulate?
3. Without addressing the issue of media literacy, India’s efforts to counter misinformation or disinformation won’t be succeeded. Comment.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• The order of the Supreme Court is also, in that way, a failure of the Court to uphold the independence of the enforcement directorate as an investigative body.
• For a body with wide legal powers to investigate, arrest, jail, and deny bail to anyone for simply being in possession of money that may have been involved in a potential crime, the Court could have at least ensured that such a body works within a legal mandate rather than being beholden to the union government.
• India still has a long way to go to emerge as a major investment destination.
• Irrespective of the formats of bilateral talks between India and China, which have included direct talks between the foreign ministers of the two countries, there has been no meaningful progress in the advancement of peace and stability on the border or in the overall relationship.
• There is an urgent need for governments and policymakers around the world to start paying more attention to the gaming industry as cybersecurity threats continue to rise.
• The online gaming world has provided cybercriminals with a new avenue to conduct nefarious activities.
• If rules are the same for all similarly placed institutions, then a high standard is set for the State-owned enterprises, fashioned as an incompetent waste of public money.
• The idea of a universal basic income, though well-meaning and laudable, is thus quite meaningless as it stands. If it is interpreted merely as a set of cash transfers, whether uniform or graded across individuals, then it does not necessarily achieve a real UBI, which is the objective behind instituting it.
• The Ambedkar-led Constitution has been a historic and comprehensive document which covered every aspect of the nation’s long-term interests.
• Without addressing the issue of media literacy, India’s efforts to countering misinformation or disinformation won’t be succeeded.

ESSAY TOPIC

• The wise win before the fight while the ignorant fight to win.
• The measure of our success will be the condition on which we leave the world for the next generation.
• Transparency is the bedrock of democracy.

50-WORD TALK

• The Supreme Court stay on Rahul Gandhi’s conviction in the defamation case is belated course-correction. It was overblown by politics anyway. It’s now evident that for any case involving political free speech or substantive issue with a political angle, Indians have to ultimately knock on Supreme Court’s doors for justice.

Things to Remember:

• For prelims-related news try to understand the context of the news and relate with its concepts so that it will be easier for you to answer (or eliminate) from given options.
• Whenever any international place will be in news, you should do map work (marking those areas in maps and exploring other geographical locations nearby including mountains, rivers, etc. same applies to the national places.)
• For economy-related news (banking, agriculture, etc.) you should focus on terms and how these are related to various economic aspects, for example, if inflation has been mentioned, try to relate with prevailing price rises, shortage of essential supplies, banking rates, etc.
• For main exam-related topics, you should focus on the various dimensions of the given topic, the most important topics which occur frequently and are important from the mains point of view will be covered in ED. Try to use the given content in your answer. Regular use of this content will bring more enrichment to your writing.

1. Happiness is God READ MORE
2. Parallel reality READ MORE
3. Hate crime on train: And Nuh’s riots expose majoritarian violence READ MORE
4. Migrant-local harmony a must for lasting peace READ MORE

1. Cause and effect l Winter is here, but it’s not enough READ MORE
2. Big concerns over big cats: An increase in the tiger population could escalate the man-animal conflict READ MORE   
3. Do phrases like ‘global boiling’ help or hinder climate action? READ MORE

1. Why the caste survey matters READ MORE
2. Safeguard children from online harms READ MORE

1. Linear regression: On the government’s response to data on its policies READ MORE   
2. The dangers in the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill: With the executive vastly empowered to draft rules and notifications on a range of issues, India might end up with a law that takes away the right to seek personal information READ MORE
3. Road ahead for more secure AI READ MORE
4. Christophe Jaffrelot, Kalaiyarasan A write: Why delimitation could deepen India’s North-South Faultline READ MORE
5. How Modi government is using data privacy as an excuse to cripple the Right to Information READ MORE

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Why room temperature superconductivity remains science’s elusive Holy Grail READ MORE  
2. Fitch downgrades US rating: How will this impact India and other markets? READ MORE
3. What is Akira, a ransomware CERT-In has flagged READ MORE  
4. GST Council sticks to its plan to collect 28% tax on online gaming READ MORE
5. Govt. kicks off contractual dispute settlement scheme READ MORE
6. India passes law allowing private firms to bid for and mine lithium READ MORE
7. Oil drilling threatens the Okavango River Basin, putting water in Namibia and Botswana at risk READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Cause and effect l Winter is here, but it’s not enough READ MORE
2. Why the caste survey matters READ MORE
3. Safeguard children from online harms READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Linear regression: On the government’s response to data on its policies READ MORE   
2. The dangers in the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill: With the executive vastly empowered to draft rules and notifications on a range of issues, India might end up with a law that takes away the right to seek personal information READ MORE
3. Road ahead for more secure AI READ MORE
4. Christophe Jaffrelot, Kalaiyarasan A write: Why delimitation could deepen India’s North-South Faultline READ MORE
5. How Modi government is using data privacy as an excuse to cripple the Right to Information READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. How does a ban on sex-selective abortions affect child health? READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. Exercise caution on plans to expand Brics READ MORE
2. C Raja Mohan writes: South Asia, now open to business READ MORE
3. The Russia-China congruence at the UNSC READ MORE
4. India-Sri Lanka Vision Document: Old Wine, New Bottle? READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Core comfort: on the policy environment- Government effort to boost infrastructure is yielding results READ MORE  
2. Efforts to create chips ecosystem must persist READ MORE
3. China finds India’s semiconductor goals unrealistic. It is waiting for New Delhi to fail READ MORE
4. Up the economic game with ASEAN READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Big concerns over big cats: An increase in the tiger population could escalate the man-animal conflict READ MORE   
2. Do phrases like ‘global boiling’ help or hinder climate action? READ MORE

SECURITY

1. As UN report warns of rising terrorism in Afghanistan, narcotics activity is picking up in Pakistan READ MORE

DISASTER

1. Floods bring spotlight back on dam safety READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Happiness is God READ MORE
2. Parallel reality READ MORE
3. Hate crime on train: And Nuh’s riots expose majoritarian violence READ MORE
4. Migrant-local harmony a must for lasting peace READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. Experience of the use of the RTI Act in India has shown that if people, especially the poor and marginalized, are to have any hope of obtaining the benefits of government schemes and welfare programmes, they must have access to relevant, granular information. How would you justify this statement?
2. Greater strategic engagements with Southeast Asian countries are concomitant with India’s ASEAN-centric vision of the Indo-Pacific Region. Comment.
3. India’s ASEAN-centrism can be successful only if the acceleration in defence outreach is backed by strong economic engagements. Analyse the statement in the light of recent developments.
4. The Rajasthan Gig law is a steppingstone to deal with dynamic income insecurity of gig workers and secure their welfarism. Examine.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• Medicine heals doubts as well as diseases.
• Constructing a land bridge between Sri Lanka and India is technically feasible, as the sea dividing the two countries is shallow. However, it entails exorbitant costs.
• Experience of the use of the RTI Act in India has shown that if people, especially the poor and marginalized, are to have any hope of obtaining the benefits of government schemes and welfare programmes, they must have access to relevant, granular information.
• The proposed amendment through the DPDP Bill would not only legalize and normalize the trend of government departments and officials refusing to disclose information but also give the government greater control.
• Russia-China’s voting congruence at the UNSC on issues relating to Syria and North Korea sets a vexing precedent for cooperative multilateralism.
• With the declining global power image of the US, Russia and China are seen as being more inclined to veto resolutions in the Security Council.
• Greater strategic engagements with Southeast Asian countries are concomitant with India’s ASEAN-centric vision of the Indo-Pacific Region.
• India must continue its negotiations with ASEAN for a better trade and investment deal. India’s ASEAN-centrism can be successful only if the acceleration in defence outreach is backed by strong economic engagements.
• Caste scholars belonging to historically deprived communities and so-called ‘upper-caste’ intellectuals both hold contrary beliefs concerning what counts as merit. While it may appear that they support reservation, they maintain the dominant narrative that says ‘reservation compromises merit’.
• Developed and developing countries alike soon recognised that the heavy dependence on just a few countries for producing chips endangered economic growth.
• Indian policymakers are trying to follow a similar pattern in terms of providing incentives and subsidies to both foreign and domestic companies in this sector.

ESSAY TOPIC

• The wise win before the fight while the ignorant fight to win.
• The measure of our success will be the condition on which we leave the world for the next generation.
• Transparency is the bedrock of democracy.

50-WORD TALK

• A parliamentary review of reservation policy shows there’s a problem at the top. Of the 928 posts of director and above level, just 120 are SC/STs, as against the mandated 208. It’s not enough to fix entry barriers. Reservation isn’t just about jobs, but about distribution of power among communities.
• The Supreme Court’s strong remarks in the Manipur sexual assault case expose the failure of the state’s security apparatus in dealing with the ethnic strife and its ripple effects. They rekindle hope among the distressed. A decisive step will go a long way in restoring people’s faith in the Constitution.
• Myanmar junta pardoning ex-leader Suu Kyi is a good step. The nation’s leadership should focus on stabilising its internal affairs, the spillover effect of which is affecting India’s politics, especially over issues related to the Rohingya and Kukis. Myanmar owes it to its neighbours to set its house in order.

Things to Remember:

• For prelims-related news try to understand the context of the news and relate with its concepts so that it will be easier for you to answer (or eliminate) from given options.
• Whenever any international place will be in news, you should do map work (marking those areas in maps and exploring other geographical locations nearby including mountains, rivers, etc. same applies to the national places.)
• For economy-related news (banking, agriculture, etc.) you should focus on terms and how these are related to various economic aspects, for example, if inflation has been mentioned, try to relate with prevailing price rises, shortage of essential supplies, banking rates, etc.
• For main exam-related topics, you should focus on the various dimensions of the given topic, the most important topics which occur frequently and are important from the mains point of view will be covered in ED. Try to use the given content in your answer. Regular use of this content will bring more enrichment to your writing.

1. Tiny divine messengers READ MORE
2. What you sow, so you reap READ MORE

1. Water bodies are fast vanishing READ MORE
2. Learning from nature READ MORE

1. Understanding the ideological divide online READ MORE
2. Student suicides: Counselling a must for handling pressure READ MORE

1. Needless accommodation: On the judiciary and the term of the Enforcement Directorate head: By allowing ED chief’s continuance, Supreme Court has undermined its own authority READ MORE   
2. Manipur internet shutdowns: Forgetting the lessons from Kashmir READ MORE
3. Manipur’s crisis needs a proactive government READ MORE
4. Rain fury & roads: Sustainable building solutions need of the hour READ MORE
5. Debate critical issues to keep parliamentary democracy healthy READ MORE

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Govt. allows Indian companies to list on foreign exchanges through IFSC READ MORE  
2. Land-use changes putting rocky addresses of animals under stress in Sahyadri plateau READ MORE
3. Modi says India can become hub of chip-making industry READ MORE
4. New WMO report says climate change impacts have increased in Asia: What are the key takeaways READ MORE
5. Constitutional or just statutory? Your right to vote & why its status is contested READ MORE
6. Who lived in Peru’s Machu Picchu? Ancient DNA shows incredible genetic diversity at Inca palace READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Ignore extreme climate at your own peril READ MORE
2. El Nino and erratic monsoon: Are farmers prepared? READ MORE
3. Understanding the ideological divide online READ MORE
4. Student suicides: Counselling a must for handling pressure READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Needless accommodation: On the judiciary and the term of the Enforcement Directorate head: By allowing ED chief’s continuance, Supreme Court has undermined its own authority READ MORE   
2. Manipur internet shutdowns: Forgetting the lessons from Kashmir READ MORE
3. Manipur’s crisis needs a proactive government READ MORE
4. Rain fury & roads: Sustainable building solutions need of the hour READ MORE
5. Debate critical issues to keep parliamentary democracy healthy READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Ayushman Bharat expose: How to nudge India’s public health infrastructure READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. Why the USA is cosying up to India: If the US and NATO want to check China’s rise, they will need an ally which is likely to grow fast. READ MORE
2. Indo-French bromance is mythical READ MORE
3. Germany’s China document a sign of Europe’s changing perception. It’s shifting to New Delhi READ MORE
4. Germany in Central Asia READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Charting the path for the Sixteenth Finance Commission READ MORE
2. A new national foundation and the ease of doing research READ MORE
3. India needs job-rich economic growth READ MORE
4. Diversifying definition of middle-class beyond income brackets can provide more comprehensive understanding of economic well-being READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Water bodies are fast vanishing READ MORE
2. Learning from nature READ MORE

SECURITY

1. Ravi Chellam writes: Why protecting India’s forests should be a part of national security READ MORE

DISASTER

1. Explained | Himachal floods: a man-made disaster? READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Tiny divine messengers READ MORE
2. What you sow, so you reap READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. How far do you agree with this view that diversifying the definition of middle class beyond income brackets can provide a more comprehensive understanding of economic well-being?
2. Recent developments in international politics show that NATO has lost its teeth, and the USA needs to rethink its geopolitical strategies completely. What should be India’s role in the coming world to secure its interests?
3. Sustainability start-ups are key to any climate action strategy. Green financing must look beyond renewable energy and embrace other businesses and technologies. How would you justify this statement?
4. India needs to adopt a whole-of-nation approach involving industry, academia, and think tanks to build a comprehensive institutional base on Arctic issues. Comment.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• The Ukraine crisis has solidified the Sino-Russian geopolitical alliance. Growing relations between the two will only cement their grip on the Central Asian Republics, pushing Western political and economic engagement with the region to the margins.
• In the larger tussle between geopolitics and geoeconomics, Germany’s China strategy is a necessary but not a sufficient condition to de-risk from China in line with the broader European approach to economic security.
• For an entrepreneur, it is important to understand and transcend ego. This will serve as a constant reminder of the importance of humility and self-awareness in business.
• Regenerative leadership across all our organizations can be a valuable tool in reconnecting our inner and outer ecosystem, with the potential to rebuild a life-affirming economy that is in balance with our natural resources.
• Diversifying the definition of the middle class beyond income brackets can provide a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of economic well-being.
• Including factors such as access to quality education, healthcare, housing, and social security can offer a more holistic perspective on the middle class.
• A constructive discussion in Parliament, without further inflaming passions, may help the government solve the vexed issue.
• Parliament is a forum for debates and discussions which help a parliamentary democracy thrive. The opposition and the government must work out ways to facilitate smooth and frequent sittings and functioning of the Houses.
• If the USA and NATO want to check China’s rise, they will need an ally which is likely to grow fast. India is in the best position to play that role.
• India flanks China to its south-west and could be an invaluable ally in any future armed conflict between China and the West.
• India is stuck between a rock and a hard place. We have a future superpower China in our backyard, while the world’s biggest bully is knocking on our front door.
• The demand for water has been increasing due to the intensification of agriculture and increased economic activities. But the un-utilised water potential available for the future use has been declining at a faster pace across States.

ESSAY TOPIC

• A secure and reliable cyber space is the key to national security.

50-WORD TALK

• Supreme Court’s bail for activists Vernon Gonsalves and Arun Ferreira, accused in the Bhima Koregaon case, comes five years too late. Bail denial is fast becoming the norm in India. Inconsistent judgments and trial delays have led many facing UAPA charges to languish in jail. This is punishment without trial.
• Rajasthan’s social security law for gig workers is welcome. But it’s worth noting that many such provisions already exist in labour codes passed by Parliament and pending with most states. States are loath to accept Centre’s actions. Rajasthan governor’s decision on the law will show whether the Centre reciprocates this.

Things to Remember:

• For prelims-related news try to understand the context of the news and relate with its concepts so that it will be easier for you to answer (or eliminate) from given options.
• Whenever any international place will be in news, you should do map work (marking those areas in maps and exploring other geographical locations nearby including mountains, rivers, etc. same applies to the national places.)
• For economy-related news (banking, agriculture, etc.) you should focus on terms and how these are related to various economic aspects, for example, if inflation has been mentioned, try to relate with prevailing price rises, shortage of essential supplies, banking rates, etc.
• For main exam-related topics, you should focus on the various dimensions of the given topic, the most important topics which occur frequently and are important from the mains point of view will be covered in ED. Try to use the given content in your answer. Regular use of this content will bring more enrichment to your writing.

1. Muharram: An annual workshop on self-reflection READ MORE
2. Multiple faith traditions READ MORE
3. AI tools pose threat to research ethics READ MORE

1. Ignore extreme climate at your own peril READ MORE
2. El Nino and erratic monsoon: Are farmers prepared? READ MORE

1. Impact of Bihar’s alcohol ban on intimate partner violence READ MORE
2. Student suicides: Counselling a must for handling pressure READ MORE
3. Ayushman Bharat expose: How to nudge India’s public health infrastructure READ MORE

1. India’s high public borrowing is not unsustainable. But it leaves little room for policy missteps READ MORE   
2. Uniform Civil Code, as conceived by Dr B R Ambedkar READ MORE
3. ECI, parties must stop candidates from filing false poll affidavits READ MORE
4. ED Director Extension: The Supreme Court Against the Rule of Law READ MORE

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Who killed Beethoven? Hepatitis B, says forensic DNA analysis READ MORE  
2. Govt. may extend PLI scheme to chemicals, petrochemicals sectors READ MORE
3. Putin promises African summit that Russia will make maximum efforts to avert a food crisis READ MORE
4. No accurate count of population of Persons with Disabilities, says parliamentary panel READ MORE
5. Rajya Sabha passes Cinematograph Amendment Bill, 2023 aimed at curbing film piracy READ MORE
6. What is a stapled visa, and why does China issue these to Indians from Arunachal and J&K? READ MORE
7. 39 MNCs come together for circular economy coalition READ MORE
8. Supreme Court to appoint DERC chairperson: What is the Delhi govt, L-G tussle over the post READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Ignore extreme climate at your own peril READ MORE
2. El Nino and erratic monsoon: Are farmers prepared? READ MORE
3. Impact of Bihar’s alcohol ban on intimate partner violence READ MORE
4. Student suicides: Counselling a must for handling pressure READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. India’s high public borrowing is not unsustainable. But it leaves little room for policy missteps READ MORE   
2. Uniform Civil Code, as conceived by Dr B R Ambedkar READ MORE
3. ECI, parties must stop candidates from filing false poll affidavits READ MORE
4. ED Director Extension: The Supreme Court Against the Rule of Law READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Ayushman Bharat expose: How to nudge India’s public health infrastructure READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. Elusive consensus: On transparency and the state of India-China ties READ MORE
2. Indo-French bromance is mythical READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Agriculture Revisited READ MORE
2. 28% GST on online skill-based gaming: A losing gamble READ MORE
3. Empowering the power sector: Increased private participation can deliver multiple benefits READ MORE
4. The right climate for green start-ups READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. The hornets’ nests in the Forest Amendment Bill READ MORE
2. Strike a balance on forest laws READ MORE
3. Forest conservation: Need to review new Bill’s contentious provisions READ MORE

SECURITY

1. Ravi Chellam writes: Why protecting India’s forests should be a part of national security READ MORE

DISASTER

1. Explained | Himachal floods: a man-made disaster? READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Muharram: An annual workshop on self-reflection READ MORE
2. Multiple faith traditions READ MORE
3. AI tools pose threat to research ethics READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. The police must obey the law while enforcing the law. In light of the statement, discuss the need for police reform in India.
2. Artificial intelligence is presenting a potential threat to the sanctity, originality and integrity of research, especially research in social sciences. Comment.
3. The farmer is the only man in our economy who buys everything at retail, sells everything at wholesale, and pays the freight both ways. Examine how a fair and transparent market for agricultural commodities can be a solution for this issue?
4. Sustainability start-ups are key to any climate action strategy. Green financing must look beyond renewable energy and embrace other businesses and technologies. How would you justify this statement?
5. India needs to adopt a whole-of-nation approach involving industry, academia, and think tanks to build a comprehensive institutional base on Arctic issues. Comment.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• Strategy is not the consequence of planning, but the opposite: its starting point.
• Even though food is a basic necessity, everywhere farmers are in distress, and most capitalist economies have to subsidise agriculture so that agricultural activity does not cease altogether and there is some locally grown food on the table.
• The farmer is the only man in our economy who buys everything at retail, sells everything at wholesale, and pays the freight both ways.
• A fair and transparent market for agricultural commodities has to be developed, farmers have to be made aware of the latest agricultural techniques and village economies have to be developed, so that the burden on agriculture is reduced.
• Artificial intelligence is presenting a potential threat to the sanctity, originality and integrity of research, especially research in social sciences.
• Creating and sustaining healthy, long relationships is a mutual responsibility and if not, it is a warning sign to examine whether there exists any relationship worth saving at all.
• Both China and India are delusional in lauding France’s independent foreign policies and strategic autonomy.
• Sustainability start-ups are key to any climate action strategy. Green financing must look beyond renewable energy and embrace other businesses and technologies.
• The decision to impose 28% GST on online skill-based gaming —on the pooled revenue—will cripple a promising sector that furthers the Digital India vision.
• The suggestions being offered to rein in the advancements in AI need to move into the domain of regulation, to ensure that the unwarranted effects of these technologies do not spill over onto the modern battlefield.
• India needs to adopt a whole-of-nation approach, involving industry, academia, and think tanks, to build a comprehensive institutional base on Arctic issues.

ESSAY TOPIC

• A secure and reliable cyber space is the key to national security.

50-WORD TALK

• The alarming dropout of 25,000 SC, ST and OBC students from IITs and central universities shows Indian institutions are still not inclusive. Accessibility isn’t just about how many disadvantaged students are admitted, but how many stay, graduate and flourish. This should be tackled with the same gusto as school dropouts.
• After 34 years, marred by clashes and curfews, one of four Shia Muharram processions has peacefully passed along its traditional route through Srinagar. Together with recent gatherings at the Jama Masjid, this shows the secessionist grip on the streets has broken. Remaining restrictions on congregational worship must now be eased.
• Niti Aayog’s multidimensional poverty index showing West Bengal and Gujarat with same poverty levels highlights the policy challenges India’s economic diversity poses. Gujarat’s high per capita income only goes so far when poverty is measured multidimensionally. West Bengal shows focussing solely on social metrics doesn’t work for poverty alleviation either.

Things to Remember:

• For prelims-related news try to understand the context of the news and relate with its concepts so that it will be easier for you to answer (or eliminate) from given options.
• Whenever any international place will be in news, you should do map work (marking those areas in maps and exploring other geographical locations nearby including mountains, rivers, etc. same applies to the national places.)
• For economy-related news (banking, agriculture, etc.) you should focus on terms and how these are related to various economic aspects, for example, if inflation has been mentioned, try to relate with prevailing price rises, shortage of essential supplies, banking rates, etc.
• For main exam-related topics, you should focus on the various dimensions of the given topic, the most important topics which occur frequently and are important from the mains point of view will be covered in ED. Try to use the given content in your answer. Regular use of this content will bring more enrichment to your writing.

1. Let your work speak for your personality READ MORE
2. The death penalty: a breach of human rights and ethics of care READ MORE

1. Egypt and Ethiopia are finally working on a water deal — what that means for other Nile River states READ MORE
2. Combating climate change & its horrific impact READ MORE
3. The eco collapse we were warned about has begun READ MORE