In view of the recent invasion of Ukraine, how has Russia’s position in Asia changed? How are its actions altering Asian geopolitics?

  The “season of summits” in Asia is being skipped by the Russian President. The fallout from his aggressiveness toward Ukraine will undoubtedly alter Asian geopolitics. Consequences for Asia: The relationship between Russia, China, and the US will be significantly impacted by it.  The collaboration between Russia and China will be further deepened by it. ..

Topics: GS-II: India's Foreign Policy Neighbourhood International Relations

In light of the upcoming Global Mining Summit in Kolkata, comment on the state of mining sector regulation in India. Is deregulation the way ahead?

The Global Mining Summit, which is India’s premier gathering for the mining sector, was held in Kolkata in November 2022. For the first occasion since 2018, delegates from India and the rest of the globe physically assembled to debate ambitious ideas and ambitious goals for India’s natural resources industry. This time, unlike other recent occasions, ..

Topics: GS-III: Economic Growth Development • GS-III: Mobilization of Resources

What are the pros and cons of launching polymer banknotes? Which countries are issuing such currencies?

  Various forms of currency have been tried out throughout the globe. One such initiative has focused on polymer banknotes produced from biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) sheets, which enable the insertion of significantly more secure features such as metameric ink. Pros: In order to use cutting-edge security measures like the “Complex Clear Window” for Singaporean ..

Topics: GS-III: Indian Economy Issues Relating to Planning

Comment on the recent criticism of the Enforcement Directorate in India. What can be done to remove its shortcomings?

  The Enforcement Directorate’s callous style of operating was criticized harshly by a Mumbai special court recently, which is the most recent instance of how the political class abuses investigative institutions. The most recent critique of the ED demonstrates how government entities have been utilized to intimidate people. Criticism: In line with other agencies like ..

Topics: GS-II: Constitutional Statutory Regulatory and Quasi Judicial Bodies • GS-II: Important Aspects of Governance Transparency and Accountability Citizen Charters • GS-II: Major Issues Pertaining to Federal Structure

What are lead-acid batteries? How could these batteries help India in achieving the SDGs?

A lead acid battery is a type of rechargeable battery that runs on lead and sulfuric acid. To facilitate a managed chemical reaction, the lead is immersed in the sulfuric acid. The battery generates power as a result of this chemical process. After that, the process is reversed to replenish the battery. Significance: Lead-acid batteries ..

Topics: GS-III: Achievements of Indians in Science Technology • GS-III: Infrastructure Energy Sector

In light of the government launching increasingly faster trains, discuss the challenges impeding faster railway transportation. Suggest some solutions.

  On February 15, 2019, the inaugural Vande Bharat Express train on the New Delhi–Varanasi line was flagged off. On November 11 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially flagged off the first indigenous , semi-high-speed Vande Bharat Express train in south India, sparking enthusiasm among the general public and mobility professionals. Even if the general ..

Topics: GS-III: Infrastructure Ports Roads Airports Railways