April 13, 1919 — a day etched in the collective memory of India as a symbol of colonial cruelty and the unbreakable spirit of its people. On this day, April 13, in the year 1919, one of the darkest chapters in India’s colonial history was written in blood. The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, which unfolded in…
GS Paper III – Science & Technology | Prelims + Mains Oriented Californium, a synthetic radioactive element, has been in the news repeatedly due to its strategic, industrial and scientific importance, especially in nuclear safety, mining, space exploration and defence-related applications. Known as one of the most expensive substances on Earth, californium often attracts attention…
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) marks 50 years of its adoption in 2023 (signed in March 1973) and 50 years of its entry into force in 2025 (effective from July 1, 1975). Over five decades, CITES has evolved into one of the most influential legally binding…
Why in News? The Jammu & Kashmir Police has launched Project Hawk Eye, a technology-driven surveillance and security initiative, to strengthen security arrangements for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026. The project aims to provide seamless, round-the-clock monitoring of the pilgrimage route by integrating aerial surveillance, artificial intelligence (AI), facial recognition systems, CCTV networks, and…
The Prime Minister of India attended the 25th edition of the Jahan-e-Khusrau Sufi music festival, which honors the renowned poet and musician Amir Khusrau. This event highlights Khusrau’s significant contributions to India’s pluralistic Sufi tradition. The festival, held annually, celebrates his role in shaping a unique cultural blend of Persian, Turkish, Arabic, and Indian music….
Why in News? The Government has introduced a new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework for UPI, effective October 15, 2026, under which charges will apply to certain merchant transactions exceeding ₹2,000. About the UPI Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) Framework, 2026 The Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) is a fee charged within the merchant payment ecosystem for processing digital…
