In the first visit by a top Indian official to China, the two countries discussed proposals for disengaging in the two remaining friction areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to create conditions to “restore normalcy” in relations.
The disputed location:
The Supreme Court held its decision on “corrupt practice” under the Representation of People’s Act, (RPA) 1951 by any candidate during or after the election process.
About the case:
What are ‘corrupt practices’ under the RPA, 1951?
Under the provisions of the Act, an elected representative can be disqualified if convicted of certain offences; on grounds of corrupt practices; for failing to declare election expenses; and for interests in government contracts or works. |
Related judgements:
In its first-ever Transfer of Technology (ToT) in defence articles, Indian firm ICOMM, a group company of Megha Engineering & Infrastructures Ltd (MEIL), signed an agreement with UAE-based small arms company CARACAL.
The pact was inked at the ongoing IDEX 2023 in Abu Dhabi, UAE, one of the largest tri-service defence exhibitions in the world. |
Key points:
Small arms, often referred to as firearms or guns, are man-portable lethal weapons for individual use that can expel or launch a shot, bullet, or projectile by the action of an explosive. |
ICOMM is one of the largest companies manufacturing missiles and sub-systems, communications and EW systems, radars, electro-optics, composites, loitering munitions, shelters, drone and counter-drone systems. |
Significance of the pact:
India-UAE defence ties:
Plans to revive the dying Adi Ganga — the original channel of River Ganga passing through the city of Kolkata has allotted around Rs.650 crore to revive the ancient river and combat pollution under National Mission for Clean Ganga.
Where Adi Ganga lies?
Historical significance:
Why it needs conservation?
The National Green Tribunal had directed the West Bengal government to complete its rejuvenation positively by September 30, 2025. |
About the mission:
The leaking of the Nord Stream natural gas pipeline under the Baltic Sea is the biggest single event that led to the massive release of climate-damaging methane. But the incident is a “drop in the ocean compared to the amount of methane released globally,” found the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
About methane:
Methane stays in the atmosphere for only ten years, unlike CO2, which persists for hundreds or thousands of years. |
What is Nord stream project?
The leak event:
Concerns:
Thekeeladi site is found near Madurai at banks of River Vaigai, where the excavations from 2015 prove that an urban civilisation existed in Tamil Nadu in the Sangam age.
Link between Sangam Age and Keeladi site:
Significance of the site:
Links with Indus valley civilisation:
Key findings from the site:
In the eight rounds of excavations, including the first three by the ASI, over 18,000 artefacts have been unearthed from the site and the unique artefacts will be on display at the museum. |
Polity and Governance Sansad Ratna Awards
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated fellow Members of Parliament who will be conferred the Sansad Ratna Awards 2023.
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Art and Culture KanakRele
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Classical dance legend KanakRele, the Mohiniyattam exponent, died at the age of 85 in Mumbai. About Mohiniyattam:
Her Achievements:
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History Dickinsonia fossil
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Fossils of an extinct species of animal that scientists reported in a sensational discovery from India’s Bhimbetka Rock Shelters in 2021 have been found to be a false alarm. About the study:
The Bhimbetka caves:
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Context:
Shift in carbon market:
Verifying, please be patient.