International Relations: Comprehensive and Updated (24-25)

India-Afghanistan Relations Geopolitical Aspects Diplomatic Engagements: In November 2024, India held official talks with the Taliban government in Kabul, focusing on improving bilateral ties and seeking increased humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan. Humanitarian Assistance: India has continued to provide humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, including medical supplies and food assistance, to address the ongoing crises in the…

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

Context: A decade ago, India became the first country to legally mandate Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). According to the National CSR Portal, from 2014 to 2023, ₹1.84 lakh crore of CSR funds were disbursed About CSR: With effect from April 1, 2014, CSR is a mandatory requirement for certain companies under section 135 of the…

Appointment of the Top Judge of the SC

Context: THE CENTRE on October 24 appointed Justice Sanjiv Khanna as the next Chief Justice of India (CJI), formally approving the recommendation made by CJI D Y Chandrachud a week ago What is the process for appointing the CJI? By convention, the senior most judge of the SC (based on years of experience as a…

Tackling Air Pollution in India: Challenges, Initiatives, and Global Perspectives

Introduction Air pollution in India has reached critical levels, becoming one of the country’s most severe environmental and public health challenges. Often perceived as an unfortunate byproduct of economic growth, air pollution has far-reaching consequences, including economic losses and health impacts, making its urgent resolution essential. With India ranked as the third most polluted country…

Presidential Roles in India and the United States: Powers, Elections, and Constitutional Significance

Context The 2024 US Presidential election has cast a renewed spotlight on the contrasts and parallels in the powers, roles, and functions of the Presidents of the United States and India. Both countries, being vibrant democracies, have structured their presidencies uniquely to fit their constitutional frameworks, historical experiences, and governance philosophies. Electoral College System in the United States…