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‘Strange’ particle possesses mass when moving in one direction, not another

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7) Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology Context ● Physicists are discovering new and unusual subatomic particles, like semi-Dirac fermions, which help expand our understanding of matter and the laws of nature.    Understanding Subatomic Particles ●Subatomic particles are the basic building blocks of everything…

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2024: The Warmest Year on Record – India’s Climate Challenges and the Need for Stronger Meteorological Infrastructure

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained- Page No. – 15) Topic: GS3 – Environment Context The year 2024 marked the warmest year globally, with temperatures exceeding the pre-industrial average by over 1.5°C. India also experienced its warmest year, with temperatures rising 0.65°C above the 1991-2020 baseline. However, due to differences in baselines and the…

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India-Bangladesh Border Fencing Dispute: Balancing Security, Agreements, and Diplomacy

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained – Page No. – 15) Topic: GS2 – International Relations Context The India-Bangladesh border dispute over fencing remains a contentious issue, with Bangladesh raising objections to India’s ongoing construction activities, citing bilateral agreements and potential disruptions to residents. Analysis of the news: The Recent Dispute in Malda and…

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UGC’s 2025 Draft Regulations Spark Federalism Debate Over VC Appointments

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained – Page No. – 16) Topic: GS2 – Governance Context The article highlights the controversy surrounding the UGC’s 2025 draft regulations. Analysis of the news: VC Appointment Process: Current and Proposed Framework State-Centre Disputes Over VC Appointments Several states, especially those with non-BJP governments, oppose the enhanced role…

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Kerala’s maternal mortality ratio climbs as fertility levels fall to a new low

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 1) Topic: GS2 – Social Justice – Health Context Kerala faces rising maternal mortality rates due to declining birth rates, impacting social fabric and demographic shifts in the state. Kerala’s Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) Decline in Fertility Rate Impact of Migration and Social Changes Challenges…

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Should voter IDs be linked with Aadhaar?

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 10) Topic: GS2 – Indian Polity Context The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have accused each other of manipulating electoral rolls ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, reigniting the debate on linking voter IDs with Aadhaar numbers. Background of the Proposal…

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NATO members reluctant to endorse Trump’s defence spending proposal

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 13) Topic: GS2 – International Relations Context ● Donald Trump proposes a significant increase in NATO members’ defence spending to 5% of GDP, sparking debates about feasibility amid security concerns, particularly over Russia’s actions. Proposal for NATO Defence Spending Increase: Trump’s Proposal: S. President-elect Donald…

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Unprecedented Winter Wildfires Ravage Los Angeles

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained – Page No. – 14) Topic: GS1 – Geography Context The article highlights the unprecedented winter wildfires in Los Angeles. Analysis of the news: What Are Wildfires? ● Wildfires are uncontrolled fires that spread rapidly across forests, grasslands, or urban areas, fueled by dry vegetation and wind. ●…

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2024 was the first year to breach global warming limit, show data

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 5) Topic: GS3 – Environment Context ● In 2024, global temperatures surpassed 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, signaling a climate crisis, with urgent calls for emissions reductions and financial support for vulnerable nations.  Humanity’s Shift Towards Climate Crisis 2024 marked the first year when the global…