The Supreme Court ruled that while an elected government can shape the scope of the National Song, it cannot violate individual and collective religious freedoms or subject conscientious objectors to penal consequences. The Court emphasized that constitutional morality limits majoritarianism and protects the rights of minorities and dissenters. Compulsory singing of the entire National Song may infringe upon freedom of conscience and speech under Articles 25 and 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.
The National Song is a symbol of unity, but it cannot be used to suppress individual freedoms.
The State must respect both collective sentiment and the constitutional rights of citizens.
Article 19(1)(a) guarantees freedom of speech and expression while Article 25 protects freedom of conscience and religion.
Exam Points
Vande Mataram was written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee and first published in 1882.
Article 19(1)(a) provides the freedom of speech and expression.
Article 25 guarantees the freedom of conscience and free profession, practice, and propagation of religion.
A new study suggests that India's extensive canal network can be used to set up floating solar projects, providing clean energy without competing for land, while also reducing water evaporation and improving water management. Floating solar panels mounted on canals can generate electricity fed into the grid or used for local irrigation. The study estimates that 20 MW of canal-top systems could be installed across just 1,000 km of canals, saving nearly 100 acres of land, with key canals identified in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.
Solar panels mounted on floating structures reduce water evaporation and higher water efficiency.
Canal-top solar projects provide land-free energy generation without agricultural land displacement.
The initiative supports India's renewable energy targets, energy security, and reduced carbon footprint.
Exam Points
The study estimates 20 MW of canal-top systems can be installed across 1,000 km of canals, saving nearly 100 acres of land.
Key states identified as suitable include Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.
The Battle of Haifa on September 23, 1918, remains a defining moment in India's military history, shaping the country's memory, national identity, and connection with the freedom struggle. Fought during the final phase of the First World War, Indian troops mainly from the 3rd (Lahore) Division of the Indian Expeditionary Force helped capture Haifa from the Ottoman Empire. Commemoration of such events highlights India's historical global military contribution and diplomatic presence in the Middle East.
The Battle of Haifa on September 23, 1918, was a crucial military operation in the First World War.
It symbolizes India's global military contribution and diplomatic presence in the Middle East.
Indian soldiers fought far from home for the empire with little recognition at the time, reflecting historical contributions.
Exam Points
The Battle of Haifa took place on September 23, 1918.
Indian troops involved were primarily from the 3rd (Lahore) Division of the Indian Expeditionary Force.
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