Current Affairs

Current Affairs — 23 June 2026

23 June 2026

A Trojan horse has breached the IITs: Indian Knowledge System and pseudoscience

This opinion piece criticizes the institutionalization of the 'Indian Knowledge System' (IKS) in IITs, arguing that it promotes pseudoscience rather than genuine Indian intellectual history. It highlights how IKS, formalized by NEP 2020, blurs lines between scholarship and theological revivalism, with IITs hosting sessions on "reincarnation science" using EEG data and astrological charts. The author contends that this approach, lacking verifiability and relying on anecdotes, compromises the academic reputation of IITs and promotes ideological consolidation over scientific leadership, potentially alienating top Indian talent from global standards of rationalism.

  • The 'Indian Knowledge System' (IKS) is being criticized for promoting pseudoscience within IITs, deviating from genuine Indian intellectual history.
  • NEP 2020 is seen as formalizing a more aggressive avatar of IKS, blurring lines between historical scholarship and theological revivalism.
  • IITs are hosting "special sessions" on topics like "reincarnation science" using unscientific methodologies, compromising their academic credentials.
Exam Points
  • The 'Indian Knowledge System' (IKS) is being institutionalized, formalized by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
  • IIT-Mandi and IIT-Kanpur have hosted "special sessions" on "reincarnation science."
  • The University Grants Commission's 2023 guidelines require all higher education students to take IKS courses for credit.
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Balancing environmental protection and property rights in Pallikaranai wetland

This article discusses the challenge of balancing environmental protection with the property rights of lawful landowners, using the Pallikaranai Marshland in Chennai as a case study. While acknowledging the wetland's importance for flood mitigation and biodiversity, it highlights concerns raised by thousands of landowners due to restrictions from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and CMDA's 'Influence Zone'. Many families who legally purchased land years ago now face uncertainty regarding development permissions, impacting their financial and emotional well-being. The author calls for a balanced approach that protects both the wetland and the legitimate expectations of citizens through fair transitional measures.

  • Environmental protection of Pallikaranai Marshland, a Ramsar Site, is crucial for flood mitigation and biodiversity.
  • Restrictions imposed by NGT and CMDA's 'Influence Zone' are causing distress to thousands of lawful landowners.
  • Many landowners who legally purchased property years ago now face uncertainty regarding development permissions, impacting their financial stability.
Exam Points
  • Pallikaranai Marshland in Chennai is a designated Ramsar Site.
  • The Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) had designated 85-90% of the 'Influence Zone' as a "development area" under its Second Master Plan (2008).
  • The OMR Information Technology (IT) Corridor, covering 4,800 acres, has about 60% overlap with the 'Influence Zone'.
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South Korea's population decline: Fertility rates, life expectancy, and migration challenges

South Korea faces a drastic population decline, projected to halve by 2100 to 22 million people from 52 million in 2026, according to UN projections. This article explores the dramatic changes needed in fertility rates, life expectancy, or migration to maintain a constant population. It highlights that fertility rates have plummeted from six children per woman in 1960 to 0.75 today, requiring a reversal to 2.1 by 2050 for stability. Alternatively, life expectancy would need to increase by 50 years to 130 by 2050, or net migration would need to be seven times higher than current rates, making a strong reversal in fertility rates the most realistic yet unprecedented scenario.

  • South Korea's population is projected to halve by 2100, declining from 52 million in 2026 to 22 million.
  • To maintain a constant population, South Korea's fertility rate needs to reverse dramatically to 2.1 children per woman by 2050.
  • Alternatively, average life expectancy would need to increase by 50 years to 130 by 2050, which is an extremely rapid improvement.
Exam Points
  • South Korea's population is projected to be 22 million by 2100, down from 52 million in 2026 (UN projections).
  • South Korea's fertility rate declined from six children per woman in 1960 to 0.75 today.
  • A fertility rate of 2.1 children per woman is generally considered the replacement level for a stable population.
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Unsold Hindi textbooks pose problem for Akademies and Terminology Commission

This archival piece from 1976 highlights a problem faced by Hindi Granth Akademies and the Commission for Scientific and Technical Terminology: a large number of unsold Hindi textbooks. These bodies were tasked with producing Hindi textbooks to facilitate the switch to Hindi as a medium of instruction. Out of 1008 textbooks produced, only 200 have been prescribed or recommended by universities in Hindi States, despite being written by reputed teachers from those very universities. This indicates a disconnect between production and adoption, leading to a significant inventory problem.

  • Hindi Granth Akademies and the Commission for Scientific and Technical Terminology faced a problem of unsold Hindi textbooks.
  • These bodies were established to produce textbooks for the switch to Hindi as a medium of instruction.
  • Despite producing over a thousand textbooks, only a small fraction were prescribed by universities.
Exam Points
  • The article is from June 23, 1976, discussing Hindi Granth Akademies and the Commission for Scientific and Technical Terminology.
  • 1008 textbooks were brought out, but only 200 were prescribed by universities.
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World Migration Conference in London discusses global migration trends

This archival report from 1926 details the opening of the World Migration Conference in London, attended by 150 delegates. A key point highlighted by Mr. Brown of the International Federation of Trade Unions was the significant decline in European migration, from seven million in the five years ending 1913 to under three and a half million in the five years ending 1924. This decline was primarily attributed to immigration restrictions. The conference also noted the "silent penetration" of Asia by the Chinese and the movement of African natives to mining and agricultural centers, indicating broader global migration patterns.

  • The World Migration Conference in London discussed global migration trends in 1926.
  • European migration saw a significant decline between 1913 and 1924, primarily due to immigration restrictions.
  • The conference also noted the "silent penetration" of Asia by the Chinese.
Exam Points
  • The World Migration Conference opened in London on June 22, 1926.
  • European migration declined from seven million (1908-1913) to under three and a half million (1919-1924).
  • Mr. Brown from the International Federation of Trade Unions emphasized the decline.
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Reclaiming Tamil Nadu's fiscal autonomy: Challenges in revenue, spending, and federal transfers

This article analyzes Tamil Nadu's fiscal challenges, arguing that the state's economic growth is not translating into sufficient revenue, leading to a decline in fiscal autonomy. It highlights that TN's own tax revenue as a percentage of GSDP has fallen from 7.4% in 2011-12 to 6.2% in 2020-21, while its share in central taxes has also decreased. The state faces increasing expenditure on welfare schemes and social sectors, but its ability to fund these is constrained by declining revenue and reduced central transfers. The article calls for a comprehensive white paper to address these issues, emphasizing the need for greater fiscal autonomy and a review of central-state financial relations.

  • Tamil Nadu's fiscal autonomy is declining due to insufficient revenue generation despite economic growth.
  • The state's own tax revenue as a percentage of GSDP has significantly decreased over the last decade.
  • Tamil Nadu's share in central taxes has also fallen, impacting its ability to fund welfare and social sector schemes.
Exam Points
  • Tamil Nadu's own tax revenue as a percentage of GSDP declined from 7.4% in 2011-12 to 6.2% in 2020-21.
  • The state's share in central taxes declined from 5.3% (13th Finance Commission) to 4.079% (15th Finance Commission).
  • The article mentions the 13th, 14th, and 15th Finance Commissions.
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Government standards must be publicly accessible to ensure transparency and public safety

This opinion piece argues that all government edicts and standards, especially those related to public safety, must be freely and widely accessible. The author, Carl Malamud, highlights his work in making Indian Roads Congress and Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) documents publicly available, often facing "takedown" notices despite the public interest. He cites the Jan Vishwas law's proposal for central publication of all government edicts and the principle that inaccessible edicts should be null and void. The article emphasizes that such transparency is crucial for democracy, public safety, and informed citizenry, advocating for a "works of government" policy similar to the U.S. and U.K.

  • Government edicts and public safety standards, like those from the Indian Roads Congress and BIS, must be freely accessible.
  • The author has faced legal challenges for making these documents publicly available, despite their public interest.
  • The Jan Vishwas law proposes central publication of all government edicts, with inaccessible ones deemed null and void.
Exam Points
  • The Jan Vishwas law proposes central publication of all government edicts.
  • The author, Carl Malamud, is the founder of Public Resource, a U.S.-based NGO.
  • The article mentions the Indian Roads Congress and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
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Daily Quiz: The Antarctic Treaty System and its history

This section presents a daily quiz focused on the Antarctic Treaty System, which came into force on June 23, 1961. The questions cover key historical and geographical facts related to Antarctica, including the first permanent research station, the latitude to which the treaty applies, the scientific event that spurred its negotiation, countries with territorial claims, and the number of Consultative Parties. It also includes a visual question about an active volcano in Antarctica.

  • The Antarctic Treaty System came into force on June 23, 1961.
  • The quiz tests knowledge about the history, geography, and international agreements concerning Antarctica.
  • It covers details such as research stations, territorial claims, and the scope of the treaty.
Exam Points
  • The Antarctic Treaty System came into force on June 23, 1961.
  • Orcadas Base was the first permanent research station in Antarctica, operating since 1904.
  • The Antarctic Treaty applies to all territory south of 60 degrees South latitude.
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Know your English: Common grammatical errors and usage

This "Know your English" segment, an archival piece from 2001, addresses common grammatical errors and nuances in English usage through a dialogue. It clarifies the pronunciation of "heir" as 'air', not 'hair'. The discussion also corrects the incorrect phrasing "inform him your idea" to "inform him of your idea" or "inform him about your idea." Furthermore, it explains that "to downstairs" or "to upstairs" are incorrect, and one should simply say "go downstairs" or "come upstairs," similar to "go there" or "come here." Lastly, it corrects "prevented us to play" to "prevented us from playing."

  • The word "heir" is pronounced like "air."
  • The correct usage for "inform" is "inform someone of something" or "inform someone about something."
  • Phrases like "to downstairs" or "to upstairs" are grammatically incorrect; use "go downstairs" or "come upstairs."
Exam Points
  • This article is from The Hindu, January 16, 2001.
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Word of the day: Cavalcade

This section defines the word "cavalcade" as a procession of people traveling on horseback. It provides synonyms like "parade" and "march," and an example sentence: "The royal cavalcade moved slowly down the avenue, waving to the cheering crowds." It also includes the pronunciation guide.

  • "Cavalcade" means a procession of people traveling on horseback.
  • Synonyms include parade and march.
  • The word is useful for vocabulary building.
Exam Points
  • Word: Cavalcade.
  • Meaning: A procession of people traveling on horseback.
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India should move away from paying publishers for academic research

This article argues that India should transition away from paying publishers for academic research, following a global trend towards open access. It highlights that India, despite being the third-largest producer of academic publications, spends significantly on journal subscriptions. The article points out that the current system, where researchers publish in journals and institutions then pay for access, is inefficient. It references the "Rights Retention Strategy" adopted by Plan S countries and the EU, which mandates immediate open access. The author suggests that India, with its large research output and public funding, should adopt similar policies to ensure publicly funded research is freely available, enhancing its global influence and research ecosystem.

  • India, as the third-largest producer of academic publications, spends heavily on journal subscriptions despite public funding for research.
  • The current system of paying publishers for publicly funded research is inefficient and restricts access.
  • There is a global movement towards open access, with initiatives like Plan S mandating immediate public availability of research.
Exam Points
  • India is the third-largest producer of academic publications globally.
  • The article mentions Plan S, a global initiative for open access.
  • The EU, through its constitutional bench, has ruled that mandatory safety standards must have public access.
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Laser drums for better computers: Manipulating materials with light

This article discusses the use of laser drums to manipulate materials at the atomic level, a breakthrough that could lead to better computers. Researchers are using ultrafast lasers to create mechanical pressure and strain in materials, altering their properties. By applying laser pulses, they can induce vibrations and create "phonons" (quanta of sound energy) that interact with electrons, potentially enabling new ways to control material properties. This technique has been used to create "laser drums" in thin films of metals like platinum and copper, demonstrating how light can manipulate matter to achieve desired functionalities, paving the way for advancements in computing and data storage.

  • Researchers are using ultrafast lasers to manipulate materials at the atomic level to create better computers.
  • Laser pulses induce mechanical pressure and strain, altering material properties by generating "phonons."
  • "Laser drums" have been created in thin films of metals like platinum and copper, demonstrating light-matter interaction.
Exam Points
  • Researchers are using ultrafast lasers, which can deliver pulses in femtoseconds (quadrillionths of a second).
  • The technique involves creating "phonons," which are quanta of sound energy.
  • Experiments have been conducted on thin films of platinum and copper.
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Right to walk on footpaths: SC order follows surge in pedestrian deaths

This article discusses the Supreme Court's order affirming the right to walk on footpaths, prompted by a significant surge in pedestrian deaths in India. Data reveals that pedestrian fatalities increased by 2.6 times between 2015 and 2022, with a disproportionate number of deaths occurring on national highways. The article highlights that inadequate infrastructure, encroachment on footpaths, and lack of enforcement contribute to this crisis. The SC's ruling emphasizes that footpaths are an integral part of road infrastructure and essential for public safety, urging states to ensure their availability and maintenance. It also touches upon the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which defines "footpath" but lacks specific provisions for pedestrian safety.

  • The Supreme Court has affirmed the right to walk on footpaths, responding to a significant increase in pedestrian deaths.
  • Pedestrian fatalities in India increased 2.6 times between 2015 and 2022, with national highways being particularly dangerous.
  • Inadequate infrastructure, encroachment, and poor enforcement are key factors contributing to pedestrian deaths.
Exam Points
  • Pedestrian fatalities increased 2.6 times between 2015 and 2022.
  • The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, defines "footpath."
  • In 2022, pedestrians accounted for 19.9% of total road accident deaths.
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Why conservation is key for Western Ghats as an Ecologically Sensitive Area

This article emphasizes the critical need for conservation in the Western Ghats, designated as an Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA). It highlights the region's rich biodiversity, including 89 species of mammals, 179 species of amphibians, and 325 species of birds, many of which are endemic. The article discusses the Kasturirangan Committee report, which recommended declaring 37% of the Western Ghats as ESA, restricting polluting industries and mining. Despite the economic benefits of resource extraction, the long-term ecological and social costs, including impacts on tribal communities, necessitate robust conservation efforts. The article underscores the importance of protecting this UNESCO World Heritage Site for its ecological services and the well-being of its diverse communities.

  • The Western Ghats, an Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA), is a biodiversity hotspot crucial for ecological services.
  • The region is home to numerous endemic species of flora and fauna, making its conservation vital.
  • The Kasturirangan Committee report recommended declaring 37% of the Western Ghats as ESA, with restrictions on polluting industries and mining.
Exam Points
  • The Western Ghats span 1,500 km across six states (Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu).
  • The Kasturirangan Committee report recommended declaring 37% of the Western Ghats as ESA.
  • The Western Ghats is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Kolkata street name row: Two Suhrawardys and historical context

This article delves into the controversy surrounding the renaming of a Kolkata street, focusing on two prominent figures named Suhrawardy: Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy and Sir Abdullah al-Mamun Suhrawardy. The Kolkata Municipal Corporation's decision to rename a road after Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy, a former Chief Minister of Bengal, sparked protests due to his controversial role during the 1946 Direct Action Day riots. The article clarifies that Sir Abdullah al-Mamun Suhrawardy, a distinguished scholar and politician, was a different individual. It highlights the importance of historical accuracy and public memory in urban naming, especially when figures have complex legacies. The debate underscores the challenges of reconciling historical narratives with contemporary social and political sensitivities.

  • A controversy arose in Kolkata over renaming a street after Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy, a former Chief Minister of Bengal.
  • Protests were sparked due to Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy's controversial role during the 1946 Direct Action Day riots.
  • The article clarifies the distinction between Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy and Sir Abdullah al-Mamun Suhrawardy, a respected scholar.
Exam Points
  • Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy was the Chief Minister of Bengal during the 1946 Direct Action Day riots.
  • Sir Abdullah al-Mamun Suhrawardy was a distinguished scholar and politician, born in 1883.
  • The Kolkata Municipal Corporation was involved in the renaming decision.
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Keir Starmer steps down as British PM and Labour Leader

This article analyzes the reasons behind Keir Starmer's resignation as British Prime Minister and Labour Party leader, following a significant defeat in the general election. Despite inheriting a party at a low point, Starmer initially improved Labour's standing by focusing on economic stability and public services. However, his government faced challenges including high inflation, rising interest rates, and a cost-of-living crisis. The article suggests that while he managed to stabilize the economy, public dissatisfaction with the Conservatives and the desire for change ultimately led to Labour's downfall. The article also touches upon the impact of Brexit and the Northern Ireland Protocol on the political landscape.

  • Keir Starmer resigned as British Prime Minister and Labour Party leader after a significant general election defeat.
  • His government faced challenges including high inflation, rising interest rates, and a cost-of-living crisis.
  • Despite initial improvements in Labour's standing, public dissatisfaction with the ruling party contributed to his downfall.
Exam Points
  • Keir Starmer was the British Prime Minister and Leader of the Labour Party.
  • The article mentions Brexit and the Northern Ireland Protocol.
  • Labour's vote share dropped from 41% to 27% in the election.
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India-UK trade pact opens new opportunities across sectors

This article discusses the potential benefits of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), highlighting new opportunities across various sectors in India. It emphasizes that the FTA will boost exports of Indian agricultural products like fruits, vegetables, and spices, benefiting farmers. It also foresees increased opportunities for Indian professionals in the UK and growth in manufacturing, textiles, and automotive sectors. The agreement is expected to enhance bilateral trade, reduce tariffs, and improve market access, contributing to India's goal of becoming a global manufacturing hub and a $10 trillion economy by 2035. The article also notes the importance of addressing non-tariff barriers and ensuring fair competition.

  • The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is expected to create new opportunities across various Indian sectors.
  • It will boost exports of Indian agricultural products, benefiting farmers and the agriculture sector.
  • The FTA is anticipated to increase opportunities for Indian professionals in the UK and growth in manufacturing and textiles.
Exam Points
  • The article discusses the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
  • India aims to become a $10 trillion economy by 2035.
  • The UK is India's 6th largest trading partner.
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India's economic growth not translating into improved wellbeing for all

This article argues that despite India's economic growth, the benefits are not translating effectively into improved wellbeing for all citizens, particularly the poor. It highlights that while GDP has grown, consumption expenditure for the bottom 50% has declined, and the share of food in total consumption has increased, indicating a struggle with basic necessities. The article points out that real wages have not kept pace with inflation, and unemployment remains a concern, especially among the youth. It suggests that the current economic model needs reforms to ensure that growth is more inclusive, focusing on improving living standards, reducing inequality, and addressing issues like food prices and employment.

  • Despite India's economic growth, the wellbeing of the poor has not significantly improved.
  • Consumption expenditure for the bottom 50% of the population has declined, and food's share in total consumption has increased.
  • Real wages have not kept pace with inflation, impacting the purchasing power of the working class.
Exam Points
  • Consumption expenditure for the bottom 50% of the population declined by 30% over the last half-century.
  • The share of food in total consumption for the bottom 50% increased from 50% to 60%.
  • The article mentions the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data.
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Book Review: 'Obsession' explores female identity and male desire

This article reviews the book 'Obsession' by Nikiya Singh, which explores the horror of women being recast for male desire, drawing parallels with historical and mythological narratives. The reviewer highlights how the book delves into themes of female identity, agency, and the male gaze, referencing figures like Draupadi and Sita. It critiques how women's narratives are often shaped by patriarchal perspectives, leading to a loss of their original identities. The review praises the book for its exploration of how women navigate a world where their worth is often defined by male approval, making it a relevant commentary on contemporary gender dynamics and historical injustices.

  • Nikiya Singh's book 'Obsession' explores the theme of women being recast for male desire.
  • The book draws parallels between contemporary gender dynamics and mythological narratives like Draupadi and Sita.
  • It critiques patriarchal perspectives that often define women's identity and agency.
Exam Points
  • The book reviewed is 'Obsession' by Nikiya Singh.
  • The review mentions mythological figures like Draupadi and Sita.
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A tough inheritance awaits Britain's next PM after Keir Starmer

This article discusses the challenging political and economic landscape awaiting Britain's next Prime Minister, following Keir Starmer's resignation. The author suggests that the new leader will inherit a deeply divided country grappling with economic instability, high inflation, and the ongoing repercussions of Brexit. The article highlights the need for a leader who can unite the Labour Party, address the cost-of-living crisis, and navigate complex international relations. It emphasizes that the next PM faces the daunting task of rebuilding trust, fostering economic growth, and defining Britain's role on the global stage, requiring strong leadership and a clear vision.

  • Britain's next Prime Minister faces a challenging inheritance of economic instability and a divided country.
  • The country is grappling with high inflation, a cost-of-living crisis, and the ongoing repercussions of Brexit.
  • The new leader will need to unite the Labour Party and address internal divisions.
Exam Points
  • The article discusses the political situation in Britain after Keir Starmer's resignation.
  • It mentions the impact of Brexit.
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Millennials in the middle: Navigating economic and social challenges

This article examines the economic and social challenges faced by millennials, who are often caught between the expectations of older generations and the realities of a changing world. It highlights that millennials are grappling with stagnant wages, rising costs of living, and a competitive job market, making it difficult to achieve traditional markers of success like homeownership. The article also touches upon the psychological impact of these pressures, including increased stress and mental health concerns. It suggests that policymakers need to understand and address the unique challenges faced by this demographic to ensure their economic stability and social well-being, rather than applying outdated frameworks.

  • Millennials face significant economic and social challenges, including stagnant wages and rising living costs.
  • They struggle to achieve traditional markers of success like homeownership due to economic pressures.
  • The competitive job market and economic instability contribute to increased stress and mental health concerns among millennials.
Exam Points
  • The article discusses the challenges faced by millennials.
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Maharashtra building collapse: 24 killed, 3 injured in Bhiwandi

This news report details a building collapse in Bhiwandi, Maharashtra, where 24 people were killed and 3 injured. The incident occurred when a three-storey building, constructed in 1994, collapsed. The Thane Municipal Corporation stated that the building was dilapidated and had been issued a notice for repairs. Rescue operations were carried out by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local authorities. The incident highlights concerns about illegal constructions and the safety of old buildings in the region.

  • A three-storey building collapsed in Bhiwandi, Maharashtra, resulting in 24 deaths and 3 injuries.
  • The building, constructed in 1994, was dilapidated and had received a repair notice from the Thane Municipal Corporation.
  • Rescue operations were conducted by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).
Exam Points
  • The incident occurred in Bhiwandi, Maharashtra.
  • 24 people were killed and 3 injured.
  • The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) conducted rescue operations.
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Punjab rejects Nigeria's request for extradition of Jagtar Singh Johal

This news report states that the Punjab government has rejected Nigeria's request for the extradition of Jagtar Singh Johal, a British national. Johal is accused of involvement in targeted killings in Punjab. The decision comes after the Punjab government's examination of the request. This case highlights the complexities of international extradition requests and the legal processes involved when a foreign national is accused of crimes in India.

  • The Punjab government rejected Nigeria's request for the extradition of British national Jagtar Singh Johal.
  • Jagtar Singh Johal is accused of involvement in targeted killings in Punjab.
  • The decision underscores the complexities of international extradition requests.
Exam Points
  • The Punjab government rejected Nigeria's extradition request for Jagtar Singh Johal.
  • Jagtar Singh Johal is a British national.
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Punjab: 3 suspected terrorists killed in encounter

This news report states that three suspected terrorists were killed in an encounter in Punjab. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning. This event highlights ongoing security concerns and counter-terrorism operations in the region. Further details regarding the encounter, including the identity of the terrorists and any recovered arms, are likely to follow.

  • Three suspected terrorists were killed in an encounter in Punjab.
  • The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning.
  • This highlights ongoing counter-terrorism operations and security concerns in Punjab.
Exam Points
  • Three suspected terrorists were killed in Punjab.
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Opposition's shift from power-seeking to reclaiming the Republic

This opinion piece argues that the Indian opposition's focus has shifted from merely seeking to regain power to a broader mission of "reclaiming the Republic." It suggests that the opposition now views the current government as undermining democratic institutions and constitutional values, making the struggle existential rather than merely electoral. The article highlights the need for the opposition to move beyond electoral arithmetic and build a narrative that resonates with citizens, emphasizing constitutionalism, pluralism, and federalism. It calls for a unified strategy that addresses the erosion of democratic norms and protects the foundational principles of the Republic, rather than just focusing on winning elections.

  • The Indian opposition's objective has broadened from regaining power to "reclaiming the Republic," viewing the current government as undermining democratic institutions.
  • The struggle is now seen as existential, focusing on protecting constitutional values and democratic norms.
  • The opposition needs to build a narrative centered on constitutionalism, pluralism, and federalism.
Exam Points
  • The article discusses the role of the opposition in India's democratic framework.
  • It references constitutional values, pluralism, and federalism.
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Supreme Court prioritizes pedestrians; cities must follow suit

This article discusses the Supreme Court's emphasis on pedestrian rights and the need for Indian cities to prioritize safe and accessible footpaths. It highlights that walking is the primary mode of transport for a significant portion of the population, especially the poor, yet cities often neglect pedestrian infrastructure. The article points out that inadequate footpaths, encroachments, and unsafe crossings contribute to high pedestrian fatalities. It argues that cities must move beyond car-centric planning and integrate pedestrian needs into urban design, ensuring continuous, obstruction-free footpaths and safe public spaces. The article calls for a paradigm shift in urban planning to make cities truly inclusive and safe for pedestrians.

  • The Supreme Court has prioritized pedestrian rights, urging cities to provide safe and accessible footpaths.
  • Walking is the primary mode of transport for many, especially the poor, yet pedestrian infrastructure is often neglected.
  • Inadequate footpaths, encroachments, and unsafe crossings contribute to high pedestrian fatalities.
Exam Points
  • The article references a Supreme Court order on pedestrian rights.
  • It mentions the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and the need for its review.
  • The National Urban Transport Policy (2006) advocates for prioritizing non-motorized transport.
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Reimagining the anti-defection law for stronger democracy

This opinion piece advocates for reimagining India's anti-defection law to strengthen democracy and prevent political instability. It argues that the current law, while intended to curb defections, has often led to political horse-trading and undermined internal party democracy. The article suggests that the law should focus on punishing individual defections that are clearly driven by personal gain, rather than penalizing collective decisions or mergers. It proposes reforms such as allowing legislators to vote according to their conscience on certain issues, clarifying the definition of defection, and ensuring timely decisions by presiding officers. The goal is to balance party discipline with legislative freedom and prevent misuse of the law for political manipulation.

  • India's anti-defection law needs reimagining to prevent political instability and strengthen democracy.
  • The current law often leads to horse-trading and undermines internal party democracy.
  • Reforms should focus on punishing individual defections driven by personal gain, not collective decisions or mergers.
Exam Points
  • The article discusses the anti-defection law (10th Schedule of the Constitution).
  • It mentions the 52nd Amendment Act, 1985, which introduced the law.
  • The 91st Amendment Act, 2003, removed the protection for splits.
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Pricey oil boosts Chinese exports and global shift to EVs

This article argues that high oil prices are inadvertently benefiting Chinese exports and accelerating the global shift towards electric vehicles (EVs). It explains that as oil remains expensive, countries are increasingly turning to China for cheaper manufactured goods, including EVs, batteries, and solar panels, which China produces efficiently due to its scale and subsidies. This trend is strengthening China's position as a global manufacturing hub and a leader in green technologies. The article suggests that while India also aims to boost manufacturing, it needs to address its reliance on imported components and focus on competitive pricing to truly benefit from this global shift.

  • High oil prices are inadvertently boosting Chinese exports, particularly in manufactured goods and green technologies.
  • Countries are increasingly sourcing EVs, batteries, and solar panels from China due to its cost-effectiveness and scale.
  • This trend is strengthening China's position as a global manufacturing hub and a leader in green technologies.
Exam Points
  • The article discusses the impact of high oil prices on global trade and the EV market.
  • It mentions China's role as a major exporter of EVs, batteries, and solar panels.
  • India's manufacturing sector aims to grow to $1 trillion by 2025-26.
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