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ONE NATION ONE LANGUAGE  Recently, Union Home Minister urged the use of Hindi as the lingua franca, rather than English, in inter-State communication. About Hindi Language • Hindi belongs to the Indo-Aryan branch of Indo-European family of languages. It is a descendant of Sanskrit, which is an ancient Indian language. • In 1949, Constituent Assembly adopted Hindi, along with English, as Official Language of Union of India. • In 1950, Constitution of India declared Hindi in Devanagari script as Official language of India under Article 343. • In 1963, Official Languages Act was passed, which provided that English ‘may’ still be used along with Hindi for official communication. • At present, Eighth Schedule of Constitution specifies 22 languages including Hindi. Debates on the issue of One Nation One Language • Understanding the Relation Between Language and Identity: Language is intrinsically tied to identity, and this often includes the identity of a nation....

ECONOMICALLY WEAKER SECTIONS (EWS) Recently, Supreme Court Constitutional Bench upheld validity of 103rd Constitutional Amendment which introduced 10% quota for EWS in education and public employment. About EWS quota • EWS reservation was granted based on recommendations of Sinho commission (submitted report in 2010). • 103rd Amendment Act 2019 inserted Articles 15(6) and 16(6) in Constitution to provide reservation to EWS among non-OBC and non- SC/ST sections of the population. * Act enables both central and state governments to provide reservations to EWS. * However, decision to implement reservations for EWS in state government jobs and educational institutions rests with state governments. * Act amended Article 15 to additionally permit government to provide for advancement of EWS. * Further, up to 10% of seats may be reserved for such sections for admission in educational institutions. *  Such reservation will not apply to minority   educational institu...

Reservation is a tool which gives the underprivileged equal representation and participation rights, be it in governance or education. A beneficiary of this Reservation is expected to up lift his / her community.  # Reservation is provided to SCs, STs and OBCs rate of 15% ,7.5%, 27% respectively,in case of direct requirement in all india basis by open competition.  #10%Reservation under the EWS Category applies to those not cover under the existing scheme of Reservations for the SCs, STs and OBCs. Constitutional provisions related to Reservation  1 Reservation in educational institution has been provided in Article 15(4) while Reservation in posts and services has been provided in Article 16 (4), 16 (4A) and 16(4B) of the constitution. 2 Article 46 of the constitution provides that the state shall promote with special care the educational and economic interests of the weaker section  of the society and, of the SCs and STs and shall protect them from socia...

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN EDUCATION (AIED) Recently, UNESCO launched ‘State of the Education Report for India, 2022: Artificial Intelligence in Education’. Key highlights of the report- Key highlights of the report • India’s current status in AI -  India has the highest relative AI skill penetration rate (3.09 times the global average). • AI in Education systems have contributed to reach US$7.8 billion by 2025 at a rate of 20.2% CAGR. Challenges in the adoption of AI in the education sector  • Lack of comprehensive policy for integrating AI in the education sector. • Inadequate States capacity and human resources availability to cope with the speed of innovation in the field of AI. • Low expenditure on Education which is under 3.5% of GDP compared to a global average of 4.2%. • Digital divide like 54% of the population in India does not use the internet. • Ethics and transparency like possibility of algorithmic biases, digital or data colonialism (controlling of ...

Recently, the name of Pakistani Seema Haider is in the headlines, today we will learn about the citizenship of the Indian Constitution. Citizenship in the Indian Constitution is covered under part ll (Articles 5-11).Here are some key points.: 1.   Object:   The object of these provisions is to determine who shall be a citizen of India at commencement of the Constitution and who may become a citizen subsequently.  2. Amendment:   The Indian Constitution has undergone several amendments related to citizenship. The most notable amendment was made in 1986 through the Citizenship Amendment Act, which introduced various provisions for acquisition and determination of Indian citizenship.  3. Rules:   The rules for Indian Citizenship are primarily based on birth, descent, registration, and naturalization.  These rules define the criteria for different categories of Citizenship, such as Citizenship by birth, Citizenship by descent, citizenship by re...

 TRANSGENDERS Recently, Supreme Court issued notice to Centre on petition to grant legal recognition to same sex marriages and alliances between LGBTIQ+ community under Special Marriage Act (SMA), 1954. • Earlier, petitioners had submitted that issue is sequel to Navtej Singh Johar and Puttaswamy judgments. * Under Puttaswamy case, privacy was declared as a fundamental right and Navtej Singh Johar case de- criminalization consensual Homosexuality in 2018. * SC held that LGBTQ+ persons enjoy right to equality, dignity and privacy guaranteed by Constitution on same ground as all other citizens. • However, legal framework governing marriage institution in India does not presently allow members of LGBTQ+ community to marry the person of their choice. * This is violative of fundamental rights including Articles 14, 15, 19(1)(a).   About Transgender community: Constitutional values R ight to equality before law and equal protection under the law is granted in Arti...

As we have talked about UNESCO heritage sites in our previous topic, such as seven temples, five tourist sites, and three natural sites. Today we will learn about the same UNESCO. What is UNESCO? Full form of UNESCO is,  United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It was established in 1945 with the goal of promoting international cooperation in Education, science, Cultural, and communication in order to foster peace and sustainable development.  What is UNESCO'S works? UNESCO works towards preserving Cultural heritage, protecting natural and cultural sites of significance, promoting educational and knowledge sharing and advocating for the importance of these fields. One of the important roles of UNESCO is to designate and protect world Heritage sites, which are outstanding places of cultural or natural importance to humanity.  What do UNESCO? UNESCO also promotes education for all, aiming to ensure equal access to quality education world...

History                                              symbolic pic. India and United States have a complex relationship that have evolved over the years. Historically, India was non-aligned during the cold war, but there were tension between the two countries due to India's close ties with the soviet Union. In the 1990s, bilateral relationship started improving under India's economic liberalization, and diplomatic ties  Economic Relations -: Economically, the India - USA relationship has become significant. The United States is one of the India's largest trading partners, and both countries have been working to enhance their economic cooperation. The  US-based companies have made substantial investments on India,and there is increasing trade in sectors like information technology, healthcare, and defense.  Military Relations-: In terms of the milit...

India is home to numerous natural sites that have been recognized by UNESCO as world Heritage sites. Here are Three notable natural sites in india.: 1. Kaziranga National Park: -  Located in the state of Assam, Kaziranga National Park is known far its significant population of the endangered Indian one-horned rhinoceros. It is also a UNESCO-deginated site due to its biodiversity and conservation efforts.  2. Western Ghats: The Western Ghats is a mountain range that stretches along india's Western coast. It is recognized as a biodiversity Hotspot and is home to numerous endemic and endangered species. The range includes several protected areas and national parks. 3. Sundarbans National Park: Located in the Indian state of West Bangal, Sundarbans National Park is a mangrove forest known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem. It is also the largest tiger reserve in India and is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger.  In conclusion, India...

Top 7 temple in UNESCO in india :-     Here are the top 7 UNESCO World Heritage sites in india that are temples, along with their image: 1. Brihadeeswarar Temple, Tamil Nadu: -Built in the 11th century, it is the world's first      complete granite temple. It represents the chola Dynasty's architecture brilliance. 2. Khajuraho group of Monuments madhya pradesh:    Known for its exquisite sculpture and intricate artwork depicting various aspects of human life, love,and spirituality. It showcases the architectural brilliance of the chandela dynasty.  3. Konark sun Temple, odisa:     Dedicated to the sun God, Surya, it is designed in shape of a colossal chariot carrying the sun God. In intricate stone carvings and architectural grandeur make it a prominent UNESCO site. 4: Group of Monuments at Hampi, Karnataka:    Hampi was the capital of Vijaynagara empire,and the a...

What is NATO ? NATO, or the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, is an intergovernment military alliance formed in 1949. Its primary purpose is promot collective defense, security,and cooperation among Its member countries.  NATO's purpose -: The main objectives of NATO are:- 1. Collective Defense:-   member countries one committed to the principle of collective defense meaning that an attack on one member is considered an attack on all.this serves as a deterrent and promotes stability in the alliance region.  2. Crisis Management:-  NATO plays a role in Crisis management and conflict resolution by providing political support, cooperation and military capabilities when necessary.  3. Cooperative security:- NATO aims to faster dialogue, cooperation and partnerships with other countries and international organizations to address common challenges such as terrorism, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and cyber threats. How many country in NATO...

Why in news? A horrifying video has gone viral on social media in which two women from the kuki-zomi community being paraded naked and sexualy assaulted by a mob in manipur.who this incident is a shameful act for any civilised society. The fire in manipur was lit in early May, when violence between miteis and kukis flared. Since then, over a hundred people have died and property, including a large number of churches, destroyed.  Thousands have had to flee their homes and many continue to live in releaf camps.        The main issue In manipur: The issue in manipur pertains to the long-standing demand for greater autonomy and protection of the right of several ethnic communities in the state. Manipur has a complex socio-political landscape with various ethnic groups, including the meiteis, Nagas, kukis and others, each with their own aspirations and demands.  Some of the major issues in manipur include:  1.Inner line permit (ILP):...

What is Tuberculosis (TB)caused by? Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria usually attack the lungs, but TB bacteria can attack any part of the body such as the kidney, spine, and brain. Not everyone infected with TB bacteria becomes sick. Recently, World Health Organization (WHO) released new guidance to support National Strategic Planning (NSP) for the tuberculosis (TB). In news  • NSP for TB is a key document that guides national authorities and stakeholders on how to comprehensively address the TB epidemic through goal(s), strategies, priority interventions within health and across other sectors. 1.Each goal must be defined in line with SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-bound) criteria. 2. Current document is an update to 2015 Toolkit to develop a NSP for TB prevention, care and control. Steps taken to eliminate Tuberculosis • India’s efforts: 1. National Strategic Plan (NSP), 2017- 2...

What is Surrogacy? Surrogacy is an arrangement in which a woman (the surrogate) agrees to carry and give birth to a child on behalf of another person or couple (the intended parent/s). A surrogate, sometimes also called a gestational carrier, is a woman who conceives, carries and gives birth to a child for another person or couple (intended parent/s). Altruistic surrogacy:  It involves no monetary compensation to the surrogate mother other than the medical expenses and insurance coverage during the pregnancy. Commercial surrogacy:  It includes surrogacy or its related procedures undertaken for a monetary benefit or reward (in cash or kind) exceeding the basic medical expenses and insurance coverage. Currently, Karnataka High Court has evolved “triple tests” to help a couple facing legal hurdles to have a surrogate child under provisions of Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021. More on news # The triple test entails: = Genetic test for husband to ensure chil...

ANGANWADI SYSTEM The Ministry of Women & Child Development  MoWCD) has recently informed the Parliament that it has spent over Rs.18,000 crores in the last financial year to strengthen the Anganwadi system. About Anganwadisystem • The Anganwadi system, launched under the Anganwadi Services Scheme (now renamed as Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0), is an integral part of the Integrated Child Development Service (ICDS) scheme (refer to the infographics).  The Anganwadi Services Scheme is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme under MoWCD.  It represents one of the world’s largest and unique programmes for early childhood care and development.  The scheme aims to- = improve the nutritional and health status of children (0-6 years), pregnant women and lactating mothers,   and =reduce the incidences of mortality, morbidity and malnutrition. • The system serves to 906.17 lakh beneficiaries through Anganwadi Centres (AWCs): There are around 13.89 lakh AWCs ...

Urban floods in North India and Delhi have become a recurring and concerning problem. These floods are caused by a combination of natural and human factors.  One of the primary causes of urban floods in North Indian is heavy rainfall during the mansoon season.  The region experiences intense downpours, overwhelming the drainage infrastructure in cities and leading to waterloggin and flooding. Additionally the rapid urbanization and improper planning aggravated the situation Encroachment of natural water bodies, blocking of drains with wast and the debris and adequate sewage system contribute to the flooding. The Challenges posed by urban flooding are numerous. Firstly, it causes intensive damage to infrastructure, including roads, buildings and electrical systems. This leads to disruption in daily life and economic activities. Secondly, floods result in the lives and damage to personal property, affecting the livelihoods of the people further more, contaminated flo...

AYUSHMAN BHARAT : :  Current news...... Nearly 22 crore beneficiaries have been verified under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri – Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) Scheme till 4th January 2023 highlights the Economic Survey 2022-23. About Ayushman Bharat scheme • It was launched in 2018 as recommended by the National Health Policy (NHP) 2017, to achieve the vision of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). • It is an attempt to move from a sectoral and segmented approach of health service delivery to a comprehensive need-based health care service. • Comprises two interrelated components:  Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) to provide  Comprehensive Primary Health Care. . Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) • Achievements :  1,54,070 AB-HWCs have been operationalized across the country by upgrading the SHCs and PHCs in rural and urban area . About PM JAY • World’s largest Health Insurance scheme:  It aims at providing a health cover of Rs. 5 lakhs p...

India is know for its rich culture heritage, history and diverse landscapes. Here are five UNESCO World heritage sites in india that are popular tourist destinations. 1.Taj mahal, Agara, Utter pradesh; -The taj mahal is an iconic monument and one of the seven wonders of the world. -built by emperor Shah jahan in the 17th century, it is a symbol of love and an architectural marvel. -the white marble mausoleum is renowned for its intricate carvings, Inlay work, and stunning symmetrical design. 2. Jaipur city , Rajasthan: - Jaipur, also known as the pink city, is the capital of Rajasthan  and a UNESCO world Heritage site. - it is renowned for its beautifully planned and well-preserved architecture, including palaces,forts, and temples. -The city palace, Amer fort,  janter manter, and Hawa mahal are some of the popular attractions.  3. Qutub minar, Delhi:  - Qutub minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. - ...

Recently, the Union Cabinet cleared a proposal to bring uniformity in the marriageable age of men and women. By amending the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA), 2006 and other personal law, the legal age of marriage of women will be raised rom 18 to 21 years.The decision is based on the recommendation of a four-member task force led by former Samata Party chief Jaya Jaitly. Note: The task force was set up to re-examine the age of marriage and its correlation to health and social indices such as infant mortality, maternal mortality, and nutrition levels among mothers and children. Key Points About Legal Framework of Minimum Age for Marriage: In India, the minimum age of marriage was prescribed for the first time by the law known as the Sarda Act, 1929.  It was later renamed as the Child Marriage Restraint Act (CMRA), 1929.In 1978, the law was amended to raise the minimum age of marriage to 18 years for girls and 21 years for boys....

. SEXUAL HARASSMENT Why in news? Recently, the Supreme Court took the cognizance of “serious lapses” and “uncertainty” in the implementation of the Protection of Women from Sexual Harassment (PoSH) Act, 2013. More on the news • The cognizance came in the backdrop of a newspaper survey revealing only 16 out of 30 national sports federations in the country had constituted Internal Complaints Committees (ICC) mandated under the 2013 Act. About Sexual harassment at workplace • Cost of Sexual harassment at workplace  Individuals: Psychological suffering; behavioral change like isolation; Stress-related physical and mental illness; and Professional losses like foregoing career opportunities.  Employers/Enterprises: Low productivity, Hindered progress and innovation, Poor image of company, etc.  Society: Women’s undermined access to high-status; Legal and criminal justice expenses; Long term rehabilitation costs; etc. • Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (...