At the 16th BRICS Summit, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the shifting global dynamics, stating that BRICS represents how profoundly the traditional world order is changing. He highlighted the economic, political, and cultural rebalancing happening globally, which is fostering real multipolarity. Jaishankar also underscored the rapid development and socio-economic progress of nations that have gained independence from colonial rule, showcasing their ability to achieve significant growth in the post-colonial era. The BRICS Plus format further reflects the growing influence of emerging economies on the global stage.

On October 24, 2024, the Indian Rupee closed at 84.07 against the U.S. dollar, barely changing from its opening at 84.06, and remained near its record low due to multiple economic pressures. Analysts attribute this stagnation to foreign investors shifting funds towards China, seeking better returns, along with high U.S. Treasury yields that reduce expectations of imminent rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. Additionally, uncertainty surrounding the U.S. Presidential election has driven investors towards safe-haven assets like the dollar, collectively limiting the Rupee’s potential recovery as it continues to be weighed down by global economic and geopolitical challenges.

The Great Indian Bustard

The Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps) is one of the heaviest flying birds, endemic to the Indian subcontinent. It is critically endangered due to habitat loss, hunting, and human activities. Conservation efforts have been ongoing to save this species from extinction. Read here to learn more about them. The successful birth of a baby great…

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Desert is an area of land that receives less than 25 centimeters of precipitation a year. The amount of evaporation in a desert often greatly exceeds the annual rainfall. The world’s cold and hot deserts are distributed in different regions according to the causes of their dryness and the climatic conditions they experience. Cold deserts are mostly found in high altitudes and polar regions, while hot deserts are widespread in tropical and subtropical regions. Climate change affects desert ecosystems in various ways, such as reducing polar ice caps, melting glaciers, increasing droughts, and desertification.

Section 6A of Citizenship Act, 1955

Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, 1955 was added in 1985 as part of the Assam Accord, which aimed to address issues surrounding illegal immigration into Assam from neighbouring Bangladesh. This section creates specific provisions for granting Indian citizenship to individuals based on their entry date into Assam and defines procedures for detecting and deporting…

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In a significant move aimed at reducing border tensions, India and China have agreed to conduct coordinated patrolling in the Depsang and Demchok areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh. According to Army sources, the disengagement process in these sensitive regions is scheduled to conclude by October 29, with patrols expected to resume by month’s end. The arrangement is designed to prevent face-offs between Indian and Chinese forces and to promote stability along the LAC. As part of the agreement, Chinese patrols will also be permitted in the Yangste area of Arunachal Pradesh without hindrance. This decision is seen as a step toward easing long-standing tensions along the contested border, while allowing for regulated patrolling protocols that respect both countries' positions in sensitive border zones.

Thermal Power Plants: UK closes last coal-fired power plant

Thermal power plants are the largest source of electricity generation in India, relying primarily on coal as fuel. These plants convert thermal energy from coal combustion into electrical energy through turbines and generators. India’s thermal power capacity is significant, driven largely by its abundant domestic coal reserves and high demand for energy to support its…

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Illegal Immigration across the World

Illegal immigration is a complex global issue affecting both developed and developing countries. People migrate illegally for various reasons, including economic hardship, political persecution, violence, and environmental challenges. This migration is a global concern because it raises issues related to national security, economic impact, human rights, and social integration. Read here to learn more. The…

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The Carnatic Wars were a series of three wars fought between the British East India Company and the French East India Company in the Carnatic region of Southern India. The wars reflected European rivalry in India as an extension of ongoing conflict between Britain and France in Europe. Local rulers, including the Nizam of Hyderabad and the Nawab of Carnatic, allied with the two European powers, hoping to strengthen their positions.The Anglo-Mysore Wars were a series of four conflicts fought between the British East India Company and the Kingdom of Mysore, ruled first by Hyder Ali and later by his son, Tipu Sultan. The British aimed to expand their influence, while Mysore, a strong regional power, resisted British incursions and challenged their authority.

Heritable human genome editing (HHGE)

Heritable human genome editing (HHGE) involves altering the DNA in human embryos, gametes (sperm or eggs), or zygotes (fertilized eggs) in a way that makes these changes inheritable by future generations. This technique is distinct because it does not just affect the individual but also any offspring they might have, potentially altering the human gene…

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UNESCO has introduced the designation ‘Biosphere Reserve’ for natural areas to minimize conflict between development and conservation. Biosphere Reserves are nominated by national government which meets a minimal set of criteria under the Man and Biosphere Reserve Program of UNESCO. There are currently 738 biosphere reserves in 134 countries, including 22 transboundary sites.There are total 12 biosphere reserves of India which have been recognized internationally under Man and Biosphere Reserve program: