# Rashtram Institute


## Posts

- [UPSC 2026 Test Series](https://rashtramias.com/upsc-2026-test-series/): UPSC 2026 Test Series Key Features:1. Expert-Designed Tests:The test series is carefully designed by subject experts, keeping in mind students needs, UPSCtrends and PYQ themes, to ensure effective performance evaluation.2. Detailed Solutions:Each test will be followed by a revision synopsis and detailed explanations in PDF format.3. All-India Rank List:Rank lists will be published after every test to help students assess their relative performance.4. Test Structure:The series includes a total of 47 tests, as follows:• Sectional Static Subject Tests: 14• Month-wise Current Affairs Tests: 6(till February 2026; remaining months will be integrated into full-length tests)• CSAT Tests: 15 (3 Sectional + 12 Full-length)• Full-Length Tests (as per UPSC pattern & schedule): 125. Mode of Availability:Tests will be available in both online and offline modes.6. Flexible Scheduling:The institute reserves the right to modify the test schedule in accordance with examrequirements. Download link  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jMDFxCj9RvWOWAtJWA1Tssx6mNb6Zm15/view?usp=sharing Download link Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [Kailasanatha Temple and Dashavatar Cave architecture of Rashtrakutas](https://rashtramias.com/dadasaheb-phalke-award-2023/): Kailasanatha Temple and Dashavatar Cave architecture of Rashtrakutas The Rashtrakuta dynasty (around 753–982 CE) is remembered as one of the greatest patrons of art in the Deccan. Their biggest contribution is seen in the Ellora caves of Maharashtra, especially the Kailasanatha Temple (Cave 16) and the Dashavatar Cave (Cave 15). These works show how rock-cut caves gradually evolved into temples that look like free-standing structures, even though they were carved out of a single mountain.   Kailasanatha Temple (Cave 16) The Kailasanatha Temple, built by King Krishna I (c. 756–773 CE), is the most stunning creation of the Rashtrakutas. It is the largest monolithic structure in the world—a whole temple carved out of one single rock.   Architectural Features: Carved from a single rock: Unlike earlier caves that were dug into a hillside, this one was created by cutting vertically from the top of the mountain downwards. This method helped in proper alignment and water drainage.                                                                                                              Dravidian style: Its design was inspired by South Indian temples of the Pallavas and Chalukyas, complete with a tower (Vimana), a grand entrance gateway (Gopuram), a Nandi Mandapa, and flag pillars (Dhwajastambhas). Complex Layout: The main shrine is dedicated to Shiva, with a Nandi Mandapa connected by a rock bridge, giving the impression of a free-standing temple.   Sculptural Features: The base (plinth) is decorated with elephant and lion carvings, making it look as though the whole temple rests on their backs. Walls show huge panels from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The most famous carving is Ravana trying to shake Mount Kailasa, a scene full of dramatic energy.     Dashavatar Cave (Cave 15)   The Dashavatar Cave is very different from Kailasanatha. It shows a transitional stage-part cave, part structural temple.       Architectural Features: Originally a Buddhist monastery (Vihara), it was later turned into a Hindu temple, probably during Dantidurga or Krishna I’s reign. It has two levels: the lower one is plain, while the upper one has a large pillared hall (Mandapa) and shrine. The hall has 26 square pillars and deep relief carvings, designed to look like structural panels of real temples.   Sculptural Features: The cave is called Dashavatar because of its panels of Vishnu’s ten incarnations (like Varaha and Narasimha). The Narasimha panel, showing Vishnu tearing Hiranyakashipu, is a masterpiece of movement and power. Shiva panels are equally striking, especially Shiva killing Andhaka and Shiva emerging from the Linga (Lingodbhava). These show the Rashtrakutas’ bold sculptural style.     Conclusion The Dashavatar Cave reflects the transition from Buddhist to Hindu patronage, and the growing importance of Vishnu and Shiva themes. Kailasanatha Temple is the grandest achievement, where an entire mountain was turned into a replica of a Dravidian temple something unmatched anywhere else in ancient India.               Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [DADASAHEB PHALKE AWARD 2023](https://rashtramias.com/swachh-vayu-survekshan-award-2025/): DADASAHEB PHALKE AWARD 2023 Why in News? Recently, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has announced that the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023 will be awarded to the Malayalam actor Mohanlal.   About Dadasaheb Phalke Award: It is the country’s highest film honour introduced in 1969, conferred for “Outstanding contribution for the growth and development of Indian cinema” This award includes a ‘Swarna Kamal,’ a cash prize of INR 10 lakh, a certificate, a silk roll, and a shawl. It is presented by the President of India. It is commemorated in the name of Dhundiraj Govind Phalke About Dhundiraj Govind Phalke:– He was an Indian producer, director, and screenwriter, who directed India’s first feature film Raja Harischandra (1913)– He is known as the “Father of Indian Cinema”   Dadasaheb Phalke Award Winners List from 1969 to 2025: Year (Edition) Awardee Language 2023 (71st NFA) Mohanlal Malayalam 2022 (70th NFA) Mithun Chakraborty Bengali, Hindi 2021 (69th NFA) Waheeda Rehman Hindi 2020 (68th NFA) Asha Parekh Hindi 2019 (67th NFA) Rajinikanth Tamil 2018 (66th NFA) Amitabh Bachchan Hindi 2017 (65th NFA) Vinod Khanna Hindi 2016 (64th NFA) K. Viswanath Telugu 2015 (63rd NFA) Manoj Kumar Hindi 2014 (62nd NFA) Shashi Kapoor Hindi 2013 (61st NFA) Gulzar Hindi 2012 (60th NFA) Pran Hindi 2011 (59th NFA) Soumitra Chatterjee Bengali 2010 (58th NFA) K. Balachander Tamil 2009 (57th NFA) D. Ramanaidu Telugu 2008 (56th NFA) V. K. Murthy Hindi 2007 (55th NFA) Manna Dey Bengali, Hindi 2006 (54th NFA) Tapan Sinha Bengali, Hindi 2005 (53rd NFA) Shyam Benegal Hindi 2004 (52nd NFA) Adoor Gopalakrishnan Malayalam 2003 (51st NFA) Mrinal Sen Bengali, Hindi 2002 (50th NFA) Dev Anand Hindi 2001 (49th NFA) Yash Chopra Hindi 2000 (48th NFA) Asha Bhosle Hindi, Marathi 1999 (47th NFA) Hrishikesh Mukherjee Hindi 1998 (46th NFA) B. R. Chopra Hindi 1997 (45th NFA) Kavi Pradeep Hindi 1996 (44th NFA) Sivaji Ganesan Tamil 1995 (43rd NFA) Rajkumar Kannada 1994 (42nd NFA) Dilip Kumar Hindi 1993 (41st NFA) Majrooh Sultanpuri Hindi 1992 (40th NFA) Bhupen Hazarika Assamese 1991 (39th NFA) Bhalji Pendharkar Marathi 1990 (38th NFA) Akkineni Nageswara Rao Telugu 1989 (37th NFA) Lata Mangeshkar Hindi, Marathi 1988 (36th NFA) Ashok Kumar Hindi 1987 (35th NFA) Raj Kapoor Hindi 1986 (34th NFA) B. Nagi Reddy Telugu 1985 (33rd NFA) V. Shantaram Hindi, Marathi 1984 (32nd NFA) Satyajit Ray Bengali 1983 (31st NFA) Durga Khote Hindi, Marathi 1982 (30th NFA) L. V. Prasad Telugu, Tamil, Hindi 1981 (29th NFA) Naushad Hindi 1980 (28th NFA) Paidi Jairaj Hindi 1979 (27th NFA) Sohrab Modi Hindi 1978 (26th NFA) Raichand Boral Bengali, Hindi 1977 (25th NFA) Nitin Bose Bengali, Hindi 1976 (24th NFA) Kanan Devi Bengali 1975 (23rd NFA) Dhirendra Nath Ganguly Bengali 1974 (22nd NFA) B. N. Reddy Telugu 1973 (21st NFA) Ruby Myers (Sulochana) Hindi 1972 (20th NFA) Pankaj Mullick Bengali, Hindi 1971 (19th NFA) Prithviraj Kapoor Hindi 1970 (18th NFA) Birendranath Sircar Bengali 1969 (17th NFA) Devika Rani Hindi   Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [SWACHH VAYU SURVEKSHAN AWARD 2025](https://rashtramias.com/pradhan-mantri-matsya-sampada-yojana-pmmsy/): SWACHH VAYU SURVEKSHAN AWARD 2025 Why in News? Union Minister Bhupender Yadav confers awards to cities under Swachh Vayu Survekshan Awards 2025.   About Swachh Vayu Survekshan Awards: SVS is an annual survey conducted by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan is structured as a rigorous, multi-tiered evaluation mechanism, founded on comprehensive due diligence under the National Clean Air Programme. Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan is conducted for 130 cities under NCAP annually to promote healthy competition among cities to take expeditious actions to improve air quality. Highlights of the 2025 Awards: Category-1 (population of over 10 lakh population):1st Rank – Indore2nd Rank – Jabalpur3rd Rank – Agra and Surat Category – 2 (population between 3 and 10 lakh):1st Rank – Amaravati1st Rank – Jhansi and Moradabad3rd Rank – Alwar Category- 3 (population under 3 lakh):1st Rank – Dewas2nd Rank – Parwanoo3rd Rank – Angul These awards were received by Mayors, District Collectors and Municipal Commissioners of respective cities. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [PRADHAN MANTRI MATSYA SAMPADA YOJANA (PMMSY)](https://rashtramias.com/katchatheevu-island/): PRADHAN MANTRI MATSYA SAMPADA YOJANA (PMMSY) Why in News? Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) has completed 5 years since its launch   About PMMSY: Launched: on September 10, 2020 by the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Aims and Objectives:Harnessing of fisheries potential2. Enhancing of fish production and productivity3. Modernizing and strengthening of value chain – post – harvest management and quality improvement 4. Doubling fishers and fish farmers incomes and generation of employment5. Enhancing contribution to Agriculture GVA and exports6. Social, physical and economic security for fishers and fish farmers7. Robust fisheries management and regulatory framework The scheme has now been extended up to 2025–26 PMMSY was introduced as part of the ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’ package with an investment of 20,050 crores, the highest-ever investment in this sector. The PMMSY is an umbrella scheme with two separate components as below: (a) Central Sector Scheme (CS): (Fully funded and implemented by the Central Government.) The project cost will be borne by the Central government.(b) Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS): (Partially supported by the federal government and implemented by the states.) All the sub-components/activities will be implemented by the States/UTs, and the cost will be shared between the Centre and State.  The intended beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana are:   Fishers Fish farmers Fish workers and Fish vendors Fisheries Development corporations Self Help Groups (SHGs)/Joint Liability Groups (JLGs) in fisheries sector Fisheries cooperatives Fisheries Federations Entrepreneurs and private firms Fish Farmers Producer Organizations/Companies (FFPOs/Cs) SCs/STs/Women/Differently abled persons State Governments/UTs and their entities State Fisheries Development Boards (SFDB) Central Government and its entities Developments in fisheries sector:– Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF):Scheme has been launched in 2018-19 with a total fund size of Rs. 7522.48 crores. Under this scheme, Government of India provides interest subvention up to 3% per annum for the repayment period of 12 years inclusive of moratorium of 2 years for repayment of principle amount.– Kisan Credit Card: The Government of India with effect from the financial year 2018-19 has extended the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) facility to fishers and fish famers. Challenges in Implementation of the Scheme:– Infrastructural and Technological Gap:The fisheries sector suffers from inadequate infrastructure and outdated technology for production, processing, storage, transportation, and marketing of fish. – Human Resource Development Deficit:A shortage of skilled manpower and limited extension services hinder the adoption of modern practices, innovations, and quality standards among fish farmers and fishermen.– Financial Inclusion and Social Security Challenges:Restricted access to timely credit and insurance leaves fish farmers and fishermen vulnerable to risks such as natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and market volatility.   Regulatory and Legal Compliance Issues:Limited awareness and poor adherence to regulatory frameworks including fishing rights, licenses, quotas, conservation norms, quality control, and traceability undermine both the sustainability and global competitiveness of the fisheries sector.   UPSC CSE Mains 2018:Defining blue revolution, explain the problems and strategies for pisciculture development in India.    Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [KATCHATHEEVU ISLAND](https://rashtramias.com/nirf-india-rankings-2025/): KATCHATHEEVU ISLAND Location: Katchatheevu is a 285-acre uninhabited island located in the Palk Strait, lying between India and Sri LankaKatchatheevu lies 33 km off the Indian coast near Rameswaram and is positioned 62 km to the southwest of Jaffna, close to Sri Lanka’s northern tip.   Strategic Importance:– Serves as a maritime boundary reference point between India and Sri Lanka.– A rich fishing ground, vital to the livelihood of Tamil Nadu’s fishing community.– Home to St. Anthony’s Church, a site of religious and cultural importance for fishermen from both countries. History:– The Island was formed as a result of volcanic eruption in the 14th-century.– In the early medieval period, the region was under the rule of the Jaffna kingdom of Sri Lanka, but by the 17th century, control passed to the Ramnad zamindari under the Nayak dynasty of Madurai. Dispute:– India’s Claim: Katchatheevu, once part of the Madras Presidency under British rule, remained a point of contention until 1974, with India maintaining that the island rightfully belonged to it.– Sri Lanka’s Claim: Sri Lanka asserted sovereignty on the grounds that the Portuguese (1505–1658 CE) had exercised jurisdiction over the islet, strengthening its historical claim.– 1974 Agreement: The Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Agreement formally transferred Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka.– 1976 Agreement: A supplementary pact barred both nations’ fishermen from operating in each other’s Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs). Since Katchatheevu lies on the maritime boundary, the deal created ambiguities over traditional fishing rights.– Post-2009 Tensions: Following the end of Sri Lanka’s civil war, incidents of Indian fishermen entering Sri Lankan waters increased, resulting in arrests, alleged custodial violence, and a renewed demand within India for the retrieval of Katchatheevu. Recent Developments: – Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly has once again unanimously adopted a resolution urging the Union government to retrieve Katchatheevu from Sri Lanka. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [NIRF INDIA RANKINGS 2025](https://rashtramias.com/coconut-development-board/): NIRF INDIA RANKINGS 2025 Why in News? The Ministry of Education released the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) India Rankings 2025.   About NIRF Ranking: The NIRF is a ranking system introduced by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, in 2015. It aims to provide a fair and transparent assessment of higher education institutions across India based on various parameters. Parameters for Ranking: Teaching, Learning and Resources:– Student strength    – Faculty student ratio    – Faculty with Ph. D    – Online Education2. Research and Professional practice:     – Publications      – Citations       – Patents      – Research Projects3. Graduation Outcome:     – Placement & Higher Studies     – University Examinations      – Median Salary      – Ph. D Students4. Outreach and Inclusivity:     – Region Diversity      – Women Diversity     – Economically and Socially Challenged Students      – Physically Challenged Students5. Perception:     – Peer Perception: Academic Peers and Employers   NIRF Ranking 2025: Overall1. Indian Institute of Technology Madras 2. Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 3. Indian Institute of Technology Bombay 4. Indian Institute of Technology Delhi 5. Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur   Universities1. Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 2. Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 3. Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 4. Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 5. University of Delhi, Delhi   Colleges1. Hindu College, Delhi 2. Miranda House, Delhi3. Hans Raj College, Delhi4. Kirori Mal College, Delhi  5. St. Stephens’s College, Delhi   Research Institutions1. Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru2. Indian Institute of Technology Madras3. Indian Institute of Technology Delhi4. Indian Institute of Technology Bombay5. Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur       Management1. Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad2. Indian Institute of Management Bangalore3. Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode4. Indian Institute of Technology Delhi5. Indian Institute of Management Lucknow   Engineering1. Indian Institute of Technology Madras2. Indian Institute of Technology Delhi3. Indian Institute of Technology Bombay4. Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur5. Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [COCONUT DEVELOPMENT BOARD](https://rashtramias.com/25th-shanghai-cooperation-organisation-sco-summit/): COCONUT DEVELOPMENT BOARD Why in News? Coconut Development Board launches revised schemes.   About Coconut Development Board: It is a statutory body established under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. Established: 12th January 1981 Headquarters: Kochi (Kerala) Regional Offices:– Bengaluru (Karnataka)– Chennai (Tamil Nadu)– Guwahati (assam)– Patna (Bihar) Aim: Integrated development of coconut cultivation and industry with focus on productivity increase and product diversifications. Functions: – Measures for the development of the coconut industry.– Imparting technical advice – Providing financial assistance – Encouraging adoption of modern technologies for processing of coconut and its products.– Adopting measures to get incentive prices for coconut and its products.– Recommending measures for improving marketing of coconut and its products. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [25TH SHANGHAI COOPERATION ORGANISATION (SCO) SUMMIT](https://rashtramias.com/pradhan-mantri-jan-dhan-yojana-pmjdy/): 25TH SHANGHAI COOPERATION ORGANISATION (SCO) SUMMIT Why in News? The Prime Minister of India attended the 25th Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of State in Tianjin, China from 31 August to 1 September 2025.   Key Outcomes of 2025 SCO Summit: Membership & Partnerships: Laos was admitted as a partner country, raising SCO’s strength to 27 (10 members, including India, and 17 partners). Counter-Terrorism: The Tianjin Declaration strongly condemned terrorism, including the Pahalgam attack, urged an end to cross-border movement of terrorists, and rejected the use of extremist groups for mercenary purposes. China’s Initiatives to Expand SCO Influence:SCO members can now use China’s BeiDou satellite system (GPS alternative); China pledged $1.4B in loans over three years and proposed creating an SCO development bank. The SCO Summit 2025 showcased cooperation between China, Russia, and India, with their leaders signaling renewed interest in alternative partnership models on global issues. Global Governance: The proposed Global Governance Initiative (GGI) aims to uphold sovereign equality, strengthen multilateralism, and advance a fair global order. It reflects India’s vision of “One Earth, One Family, One Future”. Promotion of Cultural and Social Values: The summit endorsed the UNGA resolution opposing the glorification of Nazism, neo-Nazism, racism, and xenophobia.       About Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO): Established: in 2001, at the Shanghai Summit by Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Charter signed: in 2002 and came into force on 19th September 2003 Members: 10 member countries, 2 observer states and 15 dialogue partners (Laos as latest)Members: – 2001 (Founding Members): China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan– 2017 (Expansion): India, Pakistan– 2023: Iran2024: Belarus Official Language: Russian and Chinese Headquarters: Beijing, China Goals:– Strengthen regional peace, stability, and cooperation– Combat terrorism, separatism, and extremism– Foster economic, political, and cultural collaboration Structure:– The Council of Heads of States: apex decision-making body– Council of Heads of Governments: second-highest council– Two permanent bodies: the Secretariat in Beijing (China) and the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) in Tashkent, Uzbekistan Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [PRADHAN MANTRI JAN DHAN                           YOJANA (PMJDY)](https://rashtramias.com/pmsvanidhi-scheme/): PRADHAN MANTRI JAN DHAN YOJANA (PMJDY) Why in News? Prime Minister marks 11 transformative years of Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana About PMJDY: The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is a financial inclusion initiative in India designed to ensure access to essential financial services for all citizens. It enables people to open Basic Savings Bank Deposit Accounts (BSBDA) with simplified procedures, relaxed KYC requirements, and the option of e-KYC. The PMJDY takes a holistic approach that goes beyond just opening bank accounts. It seeks to ensure universal access to savings accounts along with affordable credit, remittance services, insurance, and pension facilities. Under the scheme, beneficiaries receive RuPay debit cards with accidental insurance cover of ₹2 lakh, overdraft up to ₹10,000 for account holders below 65 years, and access to additional products such as micro-insurance, micro-pension, and micro-credit. The scheme also serves as a key platform for Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT) and subsidies, and through its integration with the JAM trinity (Jan Dhan–Aadhaar–Mobile), it ensures transparent and efficient delivery of welfare schemes. Six Pillars of PMJDY:Universal access to Banking services2. Creation of credit guarantee funds3. Basic saving bank account with overdraft facility of Rs. 10,000 to eligible adult4. Pension scheme for unorganized sector5. Micro-insurance 6. Financial literacy program Achievements:– As of August 2025, the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana has opened over 16 crore bank accounts with total deposits exceeding ₹2.67 lakh crore. The number of accounts have grown from 14.72 crore in March 2015, representing a 3.8-fold increase over the decade.– The scheme has issued 38.68 crore RuPay debit cards, promoting cashless transactions, offering accident insurance, and reducing reliance on foreign payment systems.|– PMJDY built the foundation for India’s UPI ecosystem, creating a user base that helped India emerge as a global leader in digital payments.– Women hold 56% of all PMJDY accounts, representing over 31.31 crore female account holders. Challenges:– The Finance Ministry stated that nearly one-fourth of PM Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) accounts are inoperative, raising concerns about financial inclusion and account usage. –  Out of 56.04 crore PMJDY accounts, 04 crore (23%) are inoperative. Uttar Pradesh has the highest share (2.75 crore), followed by Bihar and Madhya Pradesh.– Rural areas face issues of unreliable power, internet, and networks affecting digital banking.– Financial and technological literacy deficits contribute to limited account usage.– Multiple Accounts: The lure of getting a large insurance cover, accidental death benefit cover and overdraft facility prompt people to open multiple accounts in different banks using different identification documents like Aadhaar card, PAN card etc.– Economic Burden on Banks: Too many accounts with persistent low balance creates  financial problems for banks in managing them. Way Forward: – Centralised Verification System → Biometric/digital checks to prevent duplicate accounts; incentivise single account use.– NSFI 2025–30 → Prioritise PMJDY for deeper penetration of social security schemes and awareness.– Insurance for All → Expand micro-insurance coverage beyond focus on accounts and balances.– Micro-Credit & Investments → Improve access to small credit and products like flexi-recurring deposits.– Overdraft Accounts → Increase penetration of OD facilities to drive growth and financial inclusion.– New Focus Areas → Cover remaining adults and continue onboarding new ones entering adulthood.     UPSC CSE Prelims 2015:‘Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana’ has been launched for (2015) (a) providing housing loan to poor people at cheaper interest rates (b) promoting women’s Self-Help Groups in backward areas (c) promoting financial inclusion in the country (d) providing financial help to the marginalised communities Ans: (c) Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [PMSVANidhi Scheme](https://rashtramias.com/international-big-cat-alliance-ibca/): PMSVANidhi Scheme Why in News: Cabinet approves restructuring & extension of lending period beyond 31.12.2024 of PM Street Vendors AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) Scheme (Extension of lending period: From 31.12.2024 to 31.03.2030)   About PMSVANidhi Scheme: Launched: 1st June 2020, during COVID-19, to support street vendors. Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA). Nature: Central Sector Scheme (fully funded by Government of India). Objective: – Provide affordable collateral-free working capital loans to street vendors – Promote digital transactions– Ensure their socio-economic upliftment Eligibility: The Scheme is available for beneficiaries belonging to only those States/UTs which have notified Rules and Scheme under Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014.– Beneficiaries from Meghalaya, which has its own State Street Vendors Act may, however, participate. The Scheme is available to all street vendors engaged in vending in urban areas (Earlier the Scheme was available to all street vendors engaged in vending on or before March 24, 2020).   Lending Agencies: Microfinance Institutions, Non-Banking Financial Company, Self Help Groups have been allowed due to their ground level presence and proximity to the urban poor including the street vendors.   Enhanced Loan Structure1st tranche loan: Raised to ₹15,000 (earlier ₹10,000).2nd tranche loan: Raised to ₹25,000 (earlier ₹20,000).3rd tranche loan: Unchanged at ₹50,000.   Achievements till July 30, 2025– 96 lakh loans disbursed = ₹13,797 crore.– 68 lakh beneficiaries, 47 lakh digitally active.– 557 crore digital transactions worth ₹6.09 lakh crore.– Cashback earned: ₹241 crore.– 46 lakh beneficiaries profiled under SVANidhi se Samriddhi in 3,564 ULBs → 1.38 crore scheme sanctions. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [INTERNATIONAL BIG CAT ALLIANCE (IBCA)​](https://rashtramias.com/sundarbans-tiger-reserve-str/): INTERNATIONAL BIG CAT ALLIANCE (IBCA) Why in News? Nepal has officially joined the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)   About International Big Cat Alliance: ·        It is a multi-country, multi-agency coalition of 95 big cat range countries, non-range countries with an interest in big cat conservation.  Seven Big Cats: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar & Puma. ·        Origin: IBCA was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023 on the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger and received formal approval from the Union Cabinet in February 2024 ·        IBCA was established through the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). ·        Main Goal: To foster collaboration and synergy by establishing a platform dedicated to sharing best practices in big cat conservation. ·        Secretariat Headquarter: India ·        Membership is open to all United Nations member states, including range countries where these species naturally occur and non-range countries interested in supporting big cat conservation. ·        Funding: India has committed ₹150 crore (2023–2028) to support IBCA and is also exploring additional funding from bilateral, multilateral, and donor organizations.   Significance of Protecting Big Cats & Their Habitats: ·        Biodiversity Protection: As keystone species, big cats maintain ecological balance and safeguard biodiversity. ·        Climate Change Mitigation: Conserving their habitats protects forests, water sources, and carbon sinks. ·        Economic Support: Promotes ecotourism and provides livelihood opportunities.   Recent Developments: ·        The 1st assembly of the IBCA convened in New Delhi, endorsed the India’s Union Minister of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, as the President of IBCA. ·        On 23rd January 2025, the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) became a treaty-based intergovernmental organization and international legal entity, with its headquarters in India.   KAS Prelims 2024: Which of the following statements are correct with reference to International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)? (a) It was launched in 2023 with the headquarters in New Delhi. (b) It covers only 5 big cats viz, tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, and cheetah. (c) It is a multi-country coalition of big cat range countries where the above-       mentioned big cats are found. (d) Annual budgetary support of 150 crore rupees per year will be given by      Government of India for IBCA. Choose the correct answer from the options given below: 1. (a), (b), and (c) are correct 2. Only (a) is correct 3. (b), (c), and (d) are correct 4. All statements are correct Answer: 2. Only (a) is correct Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [SUNDARBANS TIGER RESERVE (STR)](https://rashtramias.com/rubella/): SUNDARBANS TIGER RESERVE (STR) Why in News: The National Board of Wildlife (NBWL), led by the Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, approved the West Bengal government’s proposal to increase the area of Sundarbans Tiger Reserve (STR), making it India’s second-largest Tiger Reserve after expansion.   About Sundarbans Tiger Reserve: Location: It lies across the coastal belt of West Bengal. It is positioned at the southernmost edge of West Bengal’s Gangetic delta, along the Bay of Bengal coast. It forms part of the famous Sundarbans, the world’s largest delta, created by the confluence of the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers, both draining into the Bay of Bengal. The Sundarbans is not only a Tiger Reserve, but also designated as a National Park and a Biosphere Reserve. It is the only mangrove forest in the world, apart from Bangladesh, that supports a viable tiger population. Borders:East – International boundary with Bangladesh, demarcated by the rivers Harinbhanga, Raimangal and Kalindi.South – The Bay of Bengal.West – The Matla River.North-West – Bounded by the rivers Bidya and Gomdi. Flora:– Dominated by true mangroves (major elements).– Includes minor mangrove elements, mangrove associates, shrubs, halophytic herbs, non-halophytic associates, weeds, epiphytes, and parasitic plants. Fauna:Flagship species – Royal Bengal Tiger (unique mangrove-adapted population).Mammals & aquatic fauna – Fishing cat, Gangetic dolphin, Irrawaddy dolphin.Reptiles – Estuarine crocodile, King cobra, water monitor lizard.Rich diversity of birds, amphibians, and fish species adapted to the estuarine ecosystem. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [RUBELLA](https://rashtramias.com/eurasian-economic-union-eaeu/): RUBELLA Why in News: The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared Nepal rubella-free. About Rubella: Rubella, also known as German measles, is a contagious disease caused by the rubella virus  an enveloped, single-stranded RNA virus. It generally presents with mild fever, rash, and cold-like symptoms. It is milderbut poses a serious risk during pregnancy, potentially leading to Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) with birth defects like deafness and heart abnormalities. (CRS can also cause hearing impairment, cataracts, heart defects, and developmental delays, making rubella a leading cause of preventable congenital disabilities globally).  In 2022, there were 17,865 reported cases across 78 countries.   In 2024, around 14.3 million children did not receive any vaccinations, and only 84% of infants were administered the first dose of the measles vaccine. Vaccination: The Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine, given in two doses, is the most reliable method to prevent rubella and its complications by ensuring long-term immunity. Steps Towards Elimination: The National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign (2025–26), implemented under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP), targets complete elimination of Measles and Rubella in India by 2026 through achieving 100% immunization coverage. Mission Indradhanush and Intensified mission Indradhanush District-Level Achievements: Between January and March 2025, a total of 332 districts were declared measles-free, while 487 districts achieved rubella-free status. International Recognition: In 2024, India was honored with the M-R Champion Award by the Measles-Rubella Partnership for its outstanding efforts towards eliminating the diseases. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [EURASIAN ECONOMIC UNION (EAEU)​](https://rashtramias.com/pradhan-mantri-viksit-bharat-rozgar-yojana/): EURASIAN ECONOMIC UNION (EAEU) Why in News? India and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) have signed the Terms of Reference, marking the formal commencement of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations to establish a long-term framework for trade cooperation.   Potential Gains from an India–EAEU FTA: Economic Upsides: Trade Growth: The agreement could unlock unexplored trade avenues, boost investment flows, and create a long-lasting India–EAEU economic partnership.(Example: India–EAEU bilateral trade touched USD 69 billion in 2024, registering a 7% rise over 2023). Wider Market Reach: Greater access to Eurasian markets would help Indian exporters, especially in the context of rising US tariff barriers, and enable diversification across new regions and sectors. Boosting Competitiveness: The FTA would provide Indian businesses, particularly MSMEs, an edge in countering challenges from non-market economies. Energy Security: With its vast reserves of natural resources, the EAEU particularly Russia can strengthen India’s energy basket.(Note: Russia alone contributes 35–40% of India’s crude imports by volume today).   Strategic value: Deepening engagement with a Russia-led grouping supports India’s strategy of multi-alignment, balancing ties across global power blocs.       About Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU): An international organization for regional economic integration in the post-Soviet region. Origin: – Treaty Signed: 29 May 2014– Came into Force: 1 January 2015 Objectives:– Ensure free movement of goods, services, capital, and labour.– Pursue coordinated, harmonized, and unified policies in select sectors under the Treaty and related agreements. Members: Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Armenia Institutional Structure:1. Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC):– Permanent regulatory body.– Ensures functioning and integration of the EAEU.– Headquarters: Moscow. 2. Presidency: Rotational system; one member-state chairs the Union each year. 3. Court of the EAEU:– Established in 2015, replacing the EurAsEC Court.– Responsible for dispute resolution and interpretation of EAEU laws.– Headquarters: Minsk. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [PRADHAN MANTRI VIKSIT BHARAT ROZGAR YOJANA​](https://rashtramias.com/internationalization-of-rupee/): PRADHAN MANTRI VIKSIT BHARAT ROZGAR YOJANA Why in News? PM Modi Announces Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana to Boost Youth Employment   Key Features of the Scheme: Part A – Support to First-Time Employees: Target group: First-time employees registered with EPFO. Benefit: One-month EPF wage up to ₹15,000, given in two instalments. Eligibility: Employees with salaries up to ₹1 lakh. First instalment: Payable after 6 months of service. Second instalment: Payable after 12 months of service and completion of a financial literacy programme. Savings habit: A portion of the incentive will be kept in a deposit account/savings instrument for a fixed period, withdrawable later. Coverage: Expected to benefit around 92 crore first-time employees.   Part B – Incentives for Employers: Target group: Employers across all sectors, with special focus on manufacturing. Eligibility: Incentives for hiring new employees with salaries up to ₹1 lakh. Incentive amount: Up to ₹3,000 per month per new employee. Duration:– 2 years for all sectors (if the employee stays for at least 6 months).– 4 years for the manufacturing sector (extended to 3rd and 4th years). Objective: To encourage creation of new jobs and boost employment. Expected impact: Around 60 crore new employment opportunities.     Incentive Payment Mechanism:  Part A (Employees):Payments made through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).Uses Aadhar Bridge Payment System (ABPS) for secure transfer. Part B (Employers): Payments made directly into PAN-linked bank accounts of employers.   Objectives of the Scheme: Catalyse job creation in all sectors, especially manufacturing. Incentivize youth to join the workforce for the first time. Promote formalization of work force by bringing crores under social security coverage. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [INTERNATIONALIZATION OF RUPEE](https://rashtramias.com/undp-equator-prize-or-equator-initiative-award-2/): INTERNATIONALIZATION OF RUPEE Meaning: Internationalization of the rupee refers to promoting Indian Rupee’s usage in cross-border trade, investments, and financial transactions without mandatory conversion to a dominant foreign currency like the USD. Benefits of Internationalization of Rupee Reduces Vulnerability: Reducing dependence on foreign currencies (particularly dollar), it will shield the economy from sudden exchange rate fluctuations, currency crises, and inflationary pressures. Relieves Forex Reserve Burden: Lowers dependence on holding large USD/EUR reserves, allowing funds to be used for other priorities. Reduces Exchange Rate Risks: Shields against currency fluctuations, lowering business costs and supporting Indian firms in expanding globally. Enables Deficit Financing: Global acceptance of INR allows the government to raise funds abroad through rupee-denominated bonds. Strengthening India’s Financial Markets: Greater global demand for INR increases foreign participation in Indian financial markets, such as bonds and equity bringing in long-term investments. Challenges in the Internationalization of Rupee: Exchange Rate Volatility:It may result in a potential increase in volatility of its exchange rate in the initial stages. Limited Global Acceptance:INR is not fully convertible on the capital account, which restricts its usage in global financial markets.  Monetary Policy Dilemma or Triffin Dilemma: Creates a monetary policy dilemma, including the Triffin Dilemma, where a country struggles to balance global currency demand with domestic monetary needs. Restricted Convertibility: INR is fully convertible in the current account but partially in the capital account limiting its global appeal. Regulatory and Documentation Complexities: Stringent KYC norms, inconsistent across RBI and SEBI, act as a deterrent for foreign portfolio investors (FPIs). Lack of INR-based Payment Infrastructure Globally: Limited integration of UPI, Real Time Gross Settlement System (RTGS), and RuPay with foreign payment systems restricts cross-border transactions. Steps Taken: Internationalization of Indian Payment Infrastructure:UPI is adopted in Singapore, France, UAE, Sri-Lanka, Bhutan, Mauritius, Nepal etc. Memorandum of Understanding (MoU): RBI has signed MoU with the central banks of the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia and Maldives to encourage cross-border transactions in local currencies, including Indian Rupee. Strategic Action Plan 2024–25 (RBI): Includes allowing persons resident outside India (PROI) to open INR accounts abroad, permitting Indian banks to lend in INR to PROIs, and enabling FDI and portfolio investment through Special Non-Resident Rupee Accounts (SNRR) and SRVAs. Currency Swap Agreements: Singed with more than 20 countries it facilitates liquidity support and trade settlement in local currencies. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [UNDP EQUATOR PRIZE OR EQUATOR INITIATIVE AWARD](https://rashtramias.com/kakori-train-action-2/): UNDP EQUATOR PRIZE OR EQUATOR INITIATIVE AWARD Why in News? Bibi Fatima Women’s self-help group (SHG) from a small village in Dharwad district has bagged the ‘Equator Initiative Award’   What’s the Equator Prize? Organizer: The Equator Prize is awarded by the Equator Initiative within the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Frequency: Awarded biennially (every two years). Purpose: Recognizes outstanding community efforts to:– Reduce poverty            – Conserve biodiversity            – Promote sustainable use of biodiversity Global Context: – Sustainable community initiatives in the tropics are creating a foundation for a global movement.            – These local successes collectively contribute to achieving the    Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Role of Prize: – Highlights efforts of local and indigenous groups that exemplify sustainable development.             – Celebrates and showcases their work on an international stage Selection Criteria: Equator Prize winners are selected by an independent Technical Advisory Committee, which assesses nominations based on the following criteria:– Impact– Innovation– Scalability and/or replicability– Resilience, Adaptability, and Self-Sufficiency– Gender Equality– Social Inclusion Eligibility Criteria:To be eligible for the Equator Prize, the following requirements apply:– The initiative must have been in existence for at least three years, and/or the actions taken must have been in place for at least three years.– The nominee must be either a local community-based group, operating in a rural area, based in a country receiving support from the United Nations Development Programme (for a list of eligible countries, see the list below); or an Indigenous Peoples’ community in any country, operating in a rural area.– The actions taken must be nature-based, and must deliver benefits related to two or more Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Eligible Initiatives:Community-based associations or organizationsCommunity-based enterprises and cooperativesWomen’s associations or organizationsIndigenous or ethnic minority groups or associationsYouth groups or associationsnon-governmental organizations   About Bibi Fatima SHG The group introduced millet-based mixed cropping on rainfed farms, promoted climate-resilient farming systems, practised livestock rearing and horticulture and popularised millets. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [KAKORI TRAIN ACTION](https://rashtramias.com/small-finance-banks-sfbs-2/): KAKORI TRAIN ACTION Why in News?100th anniversary of the Kakori Train Action.   About Kakori Incident: On 9 August 1925, members of the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) boldly executed an armed operation to seize treasury funds from a British government train. This act aimed to finance the revolutionary cause and deliver a strong political statement against colonial oppression. Key Personalities Involved:Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqullah Khan, Chandrashekar Azad, Rajendra Lahiri, Manmathnath Gupta, Roshan Singh Location: Kakori, a village near Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh Incident: The revolutionaries halted the Number 8-Down train and took cash from the guard’s compartment. Reaction of the British Government: – Arrested a large number of revolutionaries and tried them in the Kakori Conspiracy Case (1925)– Hanged Ashfaqulla Khan, Ramprasad Bismil, Roshan Singh and Rajendra Lahiri (hanged on December 19, 1927)– Others received long-term imprisonment.– Chandrashekhar Azad escaped arrest and carried on the fight until 1931. Aftermath of the Incident:– The power of HRA weakened.– Reorganisation of the HRA to Hindustan Socialist Republican Army (HSRA).– Leaders like Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Shiv Verma infused socialist ideology into the movement. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [SMALL FINANCE BANKS (SFBs)](https://rashtramias.com/ramsar-convention-on-wetlands-2/): SMALL FINANCE BANKS (SFBs) Why in News?The Reserve Bank of India has granted ‘in-principle’ approval to AU Small Finance Bank for transitioning from a small finance bank to a universal bank.   About Small Finance Banks: ·       Small Finance Banks (SFBs) in India are a category of banks set up to deliver essential banking services and extend credit facilities to underserved segments of society, such as small business owners, micro and small enterprises, farmers, and those in the unorganized sector (Announced in the Union budget of 2014-15) ·       Regulated by: Reserve Bank of India ·        Examples: Ujjivan Small Finance Bank, Equitas Small Finance Bank, Northeast Small Finance Bank etc. ·        Registered as a public limited company under the Companies Act, 2013. ·        Licensed and Governed under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949. ·        Eligibility:– Resident individuals/professionals (Indian citizens), singly or jointly, each having at least 10 years of experience in banking and finance at a senior level.– Companies and societies owned and controlled by residents.– Resident-controlled entities like microfinance institutions, non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), local area banks, and payment banks are also eligible to be converted into Small Finance Banks.  (Also, Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) desirous of converting to SFB may convert to SFB after ensuring compliance with the guidelines). ·        The minimum paid-up voting equity capital for small finance banks shall be Rs.200 crore, except for such small finance banks which are converted from UCBs. ·        Priority Sector Lending: Small Finance Banks have to allocate 75% of their total net credit to priority sector lending, as per the RBI guidelines. ·        Branch Network: Small Finance Banks must establish branches in unbanked and underbanked regions, with a strong focus on rural and semi-urban areas. In the initial phase, at least 25% of their branches should be located in unbanked rural areas. UPSC CSE Prelims 2017: What is the purpose of setting up of Small Finance Banks (SFBs) in India? 1. To supply credit to small business units 2. To supply credit to small and marginal farmers 3. To encourage young entrepreneurs to set up business particularly in rural areas. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3   Ans: A Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [RAMSAR CONVENTION ON WETLANDS](https://rashtramias.com/nilgiri-tahr/): RAMSAR CONVENTION ON WETLANDS Why in News?India’s resolution to the Ramsar Contracting Parties on ‘Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles for the Wise Use of Wetlands’, adopted at Ramsar CoP15 in Zimbabwe About RAMSAR CoP 15: The 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands concluded in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Declaration: It underscores the need for political commitment, increased resource mobilisation, and investment in wetland management. Adoption of 13 Resolutions: The parties agreed to enhance flyway conservation for migratory birds, launch the Global Waterbird Estimates Partnership, and safeguard species such as river dolphins. 5thRamsar Strategic Plan:  Parties adopted the 5th Strategic Plan with 4 goals and 18 targets. The STRP (Scientific and Technical Review Panel) will monitor progress.  Goal 1: Address and reverse wetland loss and degradation. Goal 2: Achieve the wise use of Wetlands through policy planning and inclusive participation. Goal 3: Conserve and Manage Wetlands of International Importance effectively. Goal 4: Enhance implementation of the Convention through scientific cooperation, capacity building, and raising money   India’s Resolution on the Wise Use of Wetlands India’s resolution on “Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles for the Wise Use of Wetlands” was successfully adopted on receiving support from all 172 countries at Ramsar COP15 This resolution aligns with the ethos of India’s Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) initiative, which was introduced by the Indian Prime Minister at COP26 in Glasgow in 2021. The Resolution builds upon Resolution 6/8 on ‘Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles’ adopted at the Sixth UN Environment Assembly in March 2024.   Ramsar Convention: The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (1971) is the only global environmental treaty dedicated to wetlands. The Convention was adopted in the Iranian city of Ramsar in 1971and came into force in 1975. Almost 90% of UN member states have acceded to become “Contracting Parties”. India became a partyto the Ramsar Convention on February 1, 1982.     RAMSAR Sites in India: At present, India has a total of 91 Ramsar Sites, the highest in Asia (recently added: Khichan and Menar, both in Rajasthan)     State / UT No. of Sites Ramsar Sites Andhra Pradesh 1 Kolleru Lake Assam 1 Deepor Beel Bihar 3 Kanwar Lake, Nagi Bird Sanctuary, Nakti Lake Goa 1 Nanda Lake Gujarat 4 Khijadiya, Nalsarovar, Thol Lake, Wadhvana Wetland Haryana 2 Sultanpur National Park, Bhindawas Wildlife Sanctuary Himachal Pradesh 3 Chandra Taal, Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, Renuka Lake Jammu & Kashmir 5 Hokersar Wetland, Hygam Wetland Conservation Reserve, Shallabugh Wetland, Mansar-Surinsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Wular Lake Jharkhand 1 Udhwa Lake Karnataka 4 Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve, Aghanashini Estuary, Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve Kerala 3 Ashtamudi Wetland, Sasthamkotta Lake, Vembanad-Kol Wetland Ladakh 2 Tso Kar, Tsomoriri Lake Madhya Pradesh 5 Bhoj Wetland, Sakhya Sagar, Sirpur Lake, Yashwant Sagar, Tawa Reservoir Maharashtra 3 Lonar Lake, Nandur Madhameshwar, Thane Creek Manipur 1 Loktak Lake Mizoram 1 Pala Wetland Odisha 6 Ansupa Lake, Bhitarkanika Mangroves, Chilika Lake, Hirakud Reservoir, Satkosia Gorge, Tampara Lake Punjab 6 Beas Conservation Reserve, Harike Wetland, Kanjli Wetland, Keshopur-Miani Community Reserve, Nangal Wildlife Sanctuary, Ropar Wetland Rajasthan 4 Keoladeo National Park, Sambhar Lake, Khichan, Menar Sikkim 1 Khecheopalri Wetland Tamil Nadu 20 Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary, Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve, Kanjirankulam Bird Sanctuary, Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary, Karikili Bird Sanctuary, Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary, Longwood Shola Reserve Forest, Pallikarnai Marsh Reserve Forest, Pichavaram Mangrove, Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary, Suchindram Theroor Wetland Complex, Udhayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary, Vadavur Bird Sanctuary, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, Vellode Bird Sanctuary, Vembannur Wetland Complex, Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary, Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary, Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary, Therthangal Bird Sanctuary Tripura 1 Rudrasagar Lake Uttar Pradesh 10 Bakhira Sanctuary, Haiderpur Wetland, Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary, Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary, Saman Bird Sanctuary, Samaspur Bird Sanctuary, Sandi Bird Sanctuary, Sarsai Nawar Jheel, Sur Sarovar, Upper Ganga River Uttarakhand 1 Asan Barrage West Bengal 2 East Kolkata Wetlands, Sundarban Wetland Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [NILGIRI TAHR](https://rashtramias.com/un-women-2/): NILGIRI TAHR Why in News?A joint census in Kerala and Tamil Nadu reports a population of 2,668 Nilgiri Tahrs.    About Nilgiri Tahrs: Nilgiri Tahr is the only mountain ungulate in southern India amongst the 12 species present in India.  Nilgiri Tahr is also known as Nilgiri Ibex. These are stocky goats with short, coarse fur and a bristly mane. Both sexes have curved horns, which are larger in the males. The Adult males of Nilgiri Tahr species develop a light grey area or “saddle” on their backs and are hence called “Saddlebacks” It is endemic to the Nilgiri Hills and the southern portion of the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu and Kerala (Eravikulam National Park holds their largest contiguous population) State animal of Tamil Nadu Conservation Status: Listed as Endangered – IUCN Red List Protected under Schedule I – Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 Threats: Habitat loss due to plantations, infrastructure development and land-use change. Poaching Climate change Conservation efforts: Project Nilgiri Tahr (Tamil Nadu,2023) Nilgiri Tahr Day (October 7) Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [UN WOMEN​](https://rashtramias.com/71st-national-film-awards/): Why in News?UN Women recently marked 15 years since its establishment. About UN Women: Key Issues Faced by Women (as per UN Women): UN Women’s Key Solutions: UPSC CSE Mains: Distinguish between ‘care economy’ and ‘monetized economy’. How can the care economy be brought into a monetized economy through women empowerment? (2023)  “Empowering women is the key to control population growth”. Discuss. (2019) UN WOMEN Why in News?UN Women recently marked 15 years since its establishment. About UN Women: UN Women, founded by the UN General Assembly in July 2010, serves as the UN’s principal body for promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. As part of the UN reform agenda, UN Women was created through the merger of four existing entities: Division for the Advancement of Women (DAW) International Research and Training Institute for the Advancement of Women (INSTRAW) Office of the Special Adviser on Gender Issues and Advancement of Women (OSAGI) United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM). Core Mission of UN Women: Governance & Leadership: Promote equal participation of women in decision-making at all levels. Economic Empowerment: Advocate for equal pay, decent work conditions, and financial autonomy for women. Ending Violence Against Women: Work towards the elimination of all forms of gender-based violence. Peace & Humanitarian Action: Strengthen women’s involvement in peace processes, conflict resolution, and humanitarian response. Key Issues Faced by Women (as per UN Women): Political Backlash & Declining Rights:In 2024, about 1 in 4 countries experienced backlash against women’s rights, reflecting a regressive trend in gender equality efforts. Legal Inequality:Globally, women enjoy only 64% of the legal rights that men have, with 51% of countries placing restrictions on women working in the same jobs as men. Underrepresentation in Governance:Women constitute only 25% of lawmakers worldwide, highlighting persistent gender gaps in political decision-making. Negligible Funding for Gender Equality:Just 4% of official development assistance (ODA) during 2021–2022 was allocated specifically to advancing gender equality. Gender-Based Violence:In 2023, 85,000 women and girls were intentionally killed — approximately one every 10 minutes, often by an intimate partner or close relative. Exclusion from Peace Processes:Between 2020 and 2023, 80% of peace talks and 70% of mediation efforts excluded women, underscoring their continued marginalization in conflict resolution and peacebuilding initiatives. Economic Inequality: Gender Pay Gap:Women earn 20% less than men globally for work of equal value. Unpaid Care Work:Women perform 5 times more unpaid care and domestic work than men, limiting their economic opportunities and financial independence. Poor Health Access:Nearly 800 women die daily from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth, reflecting gaps in access to quality maternal healthcare and reproductive services. UN Women’s Key Solutions: Promote Gender-Inclusive Peacebuilding:UN Women advocates increased investment in conflict prevention, enhanced participation of women in peace processes, and better access to reproductive healthcare in conflict-affected areas. Strengthen Leadership & Political Will:UN Women calls for stronger political commitment, gender-responsive governance, removal of discriminatory laws, and greater inclusion of women in leadership especially in areas like climate action. Advance Economic Empowerment:UN Women promotes equal pay, stronger anti-discrimination laws, and investment in care infrastructure to reduce unpaid care work and create up to 300 million jobs by 2035. Enhance Access to Education & Technology:UN Women suggests reducing education costs, providing cash incentives, ensuring safe and inclusive learning spaces, improving digital access and online safety, and boosting public-private funding for gender equality. UPSC CSE Mains: Distinguish between ‘care economy’ and ‘monetized economy’. How can the care economy be brought into a monetized economy through women empowerment? (2023)  “Empowering women is the key to control population growth”. Discuss. (2019) Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [71st NATIONAL FILM AWARDS](https://rashtramias.com/nasa-isro-synthetic-aperture-radar-nisar-satellite-2/): 71st NATIONAL FILM AWARDS Why in News?Recently, the winners of the 71th National Film Awards for 2023 were announced by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.   Feature Films Awards List: S.No Award Category Film (Language) Awardee(s) Medal & Cash Prize 1 Best Feature Film 12th Fail (Hindi) Producer: VC Films LLPDirector: Vidhu Vinod Chopra Swarna Kamal₹3,00,000 (each) 2 Best Debut Film of a Director Aatmapamphlet (Marathi) Director: Ashish Bende Swarna Kamal₹3,00,000 3 Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (Hindi) Producer: Dharma Productions Director: Karan Johar Swarna Kamal₹3,00,000 (each) 4 Best Film Promoting National, Social & Environmental Values Sam Bahadur (Hindi) Producer: Unilazer VenturesDirector: Meghna Gulzar Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 (each) 5 Best Children’s Film Naal 2 (Marathi) Producer: Zee Entertainment, Aatpat ProductionsDirector: Sudhakar Reddy Yakkanti Swarna Kamal₹3,00,000 (each) 6 Best Film in AVGC Hanu-Man (Telugu) Producer: Primeshow EntertainmentDirector: Prasanth Varma Swarna Kamal₹3,00,000 (each) 7 Best Direction The Kerala Story (Hindi) Director: Sudipto Sen Swarna Kamal₹3,00,000 8 Best Actor Jawan (Hindi) Shah Rukh Khan Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 (Shared)     12th Fail (Hindi) Vikrant Massey   9 Best Actress Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway (Hindi) Rani Mukerji Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 10 Best Supporting Actor Pookkaalam (Malayalam) Vijayaraghavan Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 (Shared)   Parking (Tamil) M.S. Bhaskar     11 Best Supporting Actress Ullozhukku (Malayalam) Urvashi Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 (Shared)   Vash (Gujarati) Janki Bodiwala     12 Best Child Artist Gandhi Tatha Chettu (Telugu) Sukriti Veni Bandreddi Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 (Shared)   Gypsy (Marathi) Kabir Khandare       Naal 2 (Marathi) Treesha Thosar, Shrinivas Pokale, Bhargav Jagtap     13 Best Male Playback Singer Baby (Telugu) PVN S Rohit Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 14 Best Female Playback Singer Jawan (Hindi) Shilpa Rao Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 15 Best Cinematography The Kerala Story (Hindi) Prasantanu Mohapatra Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 16 Best Screenplay Baby (Telugu) Sai Rajesh Neelam Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 (Shared)     Parking (Tamil) Ramkumar Balakrishnan       Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai (Hindi) Deepak Kingrani (Dialogue)   17 Best Sound Design Animal (Hindi) Sachin Sudhakaran, Hariharan Muralidharan Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 (Shared) 18 Best Editing Pookkaalam (Malayalam) Midhun Murali Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 19 Best Production Design 2018 – Everyone is a Hero (Malayalam) Mohandas Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 20 Best Costume Designer Sam Bahadur (Hindi) Sachin Lovalekar, Divvya Gambhir, Nidhhi Gambhir Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 (Shared) 21 Best Make-up Sam Bahadur (Hindi) Shrikant Desai Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 22 Best Music Direction Vaathi (Tamil) G.V. Prakash Kumar (Songs) Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000     Animal (Hindi) Harshavardhan Rameshwar (Background Score)   23 Best Lyrics Balagam (Telugu) Kasarla Shyam Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 24 Best Choreography Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (Hindi) Vaibhavi Merchant (Dhindhora Baje Re) Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 25 Best Action Direction Hanu-Man (Telugu) Nandu Prudhvi Rajat Kamal₹2,00,000 (Shared)   About National Film Awards: Established in 1954, it has been administered, along with the International Film Festival of India and the Indian Panorama, by the Indian government’s Directorate of Film Festivals since 1973. The National Film Awards are given in three sections: Feature Films, Non-Feature Films, and Best Writing in Cinema. Winners receive a Medallion, a cash prize, and a certificate of merit. Six categories from Feature Films, and two each from Non-Feature Films and Best Writing on Cinema are eligible for the Swarna Kamal (Golden Lotus Award). The remaining categories are eligible for the Rajat Kamal (Silver Lotus Award) Eligibility criteria: Films must be produced in India,with the director and makers being Indian nationals. Co-productions with foreign entities must meet specific conditions. Films should be certified by the Central Board of Film Certificationbetween 1st January and 31st December each year. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [NASA-ISRO SYNTHETIC APERTURE RADAR (NISAR) SATELLITE​](https://rashtramias.com/group-of-seven-g7-2/): Why in News?NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) Satellite launched from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Srihari Kota on 30th July, 2025 About NISAR Satellite: Jointly developed by NASA and ISRO, the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) is the world’s first Earth observation satellite to carry dual-frequency synthetic aperture radars, L-band by NASA and S-band by ISRO, on a single platform. Why in News?NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) Satellite launched from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Srihari Kota on 30th July, 2025 About NISAR Satellite: Jointly developed by NASA and ISRO, the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) is the world’s first Earth observation satellite to carry dual-frequency synthetic aperture radars, L-band by NASA and S-band by ISRO, on a single platform. NASA-ISRO SYNTHETIC APERTURE RADAR (NISAR) SATELLITE Why in News?NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) Satellite launched from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Srihari Kota on 30th July, 2025 About NISAR Satellite: Jointly developed by NASA and ISRO, the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) is the world’s first Earth observation satellite to carry dual-frequency synthetic aperture radars, L-band by NASA and S-band by ISRO, on a single platform. It will deliver high-resolution, all-weather, day-and-night imagery of Earth’s land and ice surfaces, revisiting each location every 12 days. Launched aboard through GSLV-F16 launch vehicle (this was the first time ISRO’s GSLV vehicle successfully placed a satellite into a Sun-synchronous Polar Orbit) This 18th flight of the GSLV and the 12th using the indigenous cryogenic stage. Weight: 2393 kg Built around ISRO’s I-3K spacecraft bus NASA provided the L-band radar, GPS receiver, high-rate telecom system, Solid-State Recorder, and the 12-meter deployable antenna ISRO contributed the S-band radar, the spacecraft bus, the GSLV-F16 launch vehicle, and associated systems and services. The mission, estimated to cost over $1.5 billion, is jointly funded by both agencies. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [GROUP OF SEVEN (G7)​](https://rashtramias.com/vice-president-of-india-3/): GROUP OF SEVEN (G7) Why in News? The 51st G7 Summit, held in Kananaskis, Canada and hosted by Canadian PM Mark Carney, brought together G7 leaders and guest heads, including the Prime Minister of India, to address global tensions and shifting geopolitical dynamics. Key Outcomes of 51st G7 Summit (2025) Summit: Kananaskis Wildfire Charter: Adopted a “whole of society” approach, including Indigenous knowledge, sustainable forest management, and awareness campaigns (endorsed by India). G7 Critical Minerals Action Plan: Secure sustainable and resilient supply chains for critical minerals. Key Initiatives on Artificial Intelligence (AI): G7 GovAI Grand Challenge and a shared G7 AI Network (GAIN).   About G7: Formed in the year 1975 in response to economic and financial cooperation due to energy crisis. Members: United States, UK, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and Canada(Russia was a member from 1998 to 2014, during which the forum was called the G8. Russia’s annexation of Crimea in March 2014 led to its suspension from the group.) There are no formal criteria for membership,but participants are all highly developed democracies. Purpose and Agenda: Meets annually to deliberate on key global issues such as: Global economic governance, international security. Energy policy, etc. Structure:The G7 lacks a formal institutional structure. It does not have a charter or a permanent secretariat. Presidency:The presidency of the G7 rotates annually among the member countries. Significance: Wealth:Control 60% of global net wealth Growth:Drive 46% of global GDP Population:Represents 10% of the world’s population. Relevance of G7 Innovations in Governance: The introduction of initiatives like the “Hiroshima AI Process” highlights the G7’s role in addressing emerging technological challenges. Ukraine Crisis: The G7 coordinated sanctions against Russia & supported Ukraine with financial packages from frozen Russian assets. Rise of China: China’s rise as a major economic and political power has altered the global balance. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) leading to a “debt trap” raises concerns amongst the G-7 nations. Significance of G7 for India: Strategically Balancing the West and the Global South: India positions itself as a bridge between the industrialized West (G7) and the Global South. Economic & Technological Cooperation:g., India has been a strong proponent of initiatives like the G7’s PGII, which aims to invest in infrastructure in developing countries. Democracy & Strategic Weight: India’s democratic credentials and economic growth (4th largest economy) make its voice influential within G7 dialogues. Platform for Bilateral talks:g., Indian PM met Canadian PM to reset the deteriorating relations. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [GLOBAL GENDER GAP INDEX 2025​](https://rashtramias.com/vice-president-of-india-2/): GLOBAL GENDER GAP INDEX 2025 Why in News:The World Economic Forum (WEF) has released the 19th edition of the Global Gender Gap Index, covering 148 participating countries. Highlights of the 2025 Index: India has slipped to the 131st position out of 148 countries in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Index 2025, a fall of two places compared to its 129th rank in 2024.( Nepal (125), Bhutan (119), and Sri Lanka (130) also ranked above India. Only Maldives (138) and Pakistan (148) scored lower) India’s overall gender parity score of 64.4% is among the lowest in South Asia. Bangladesh emerged as the best performer in South Asian countries jumping 75 ranks to reach the 24th position No economy has yet achieved full gender parity globally. Globally, Iceland retained its top position for the 16th consecutive year, followed by Finland, Norway, the UK, and New Zealand. About Global Gender Gap Report: The Global Gender Gap Index is an annual report that evaluates the state of gender parity across countries, providing insights into progress and areas needing attention. Published by: World Economic Forum (WEF) The index assesses gender gaps in four key areas: economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health and survival, and political empowerment. The 2025 edition marks the 19th release and includes data from 148 countries. As of this edition, the global gender gap has been closed by 68.8%, yet projections indicate that full parity may take another 123 years The report uses a parity score ranging from 0 to 100%, with higher scores indicating greater gender equality. Women comprise 41.2% of the global workforce but hold only 28.8% of leadership positions, underscoring a critical gap in decision-making roles. It highlights both achievements and persistent challenges, aiming to drive targeted action for inclusive growth and equal representation. India’s Performance across key dimensions in 2025: Economic Participation and Opportunity:India witnessed its strongest improvement in this category, with its score rising by 0.9 percentage points to reach 40.7%.Although the female labour force participation rate held steady at 45.9%, there was a slight rise in income parity from 28.6% to 29.9%.These figures point to slow but steady progress in bridging economic gaps, though disparities in actual income levels between men and women remain wide. Educational Attainment:India is approaching full gender parity in education, registering a score of 97.1%.This progress is driven by improvements in female literacy and increased participation in higher education.However, the challenge lies in translating educational gains into equal employment and leadership opportunities for women. Health and Survival:India made modest gains in this dimension, particularly in achieving better parity in sex ratio at birth and healthy life expectancy.However, with overall life expectancy for both men and women witnessing a decline, the improvement in gender parity appears more statistical than substantive. Political Empowerment:This area remains the most concerning. Women’s representation in Parliament declined from 14.7% in 2024 to 13.8% in 2025.Similarly, the proportion of women holding ministerial positions dropped from 6.5% to 5.6%.This marks the second straight year of decline and further distances India from its 2019 peak of 30% female political representation. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [VICE PRESIDENT OF INDIA](https://rashtramias.com/suez-canal-2/): VICE PRESIDENT OF INDIA Why in News?Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigns from office citing health issues. About Vice President post: The Vice President of India is the second-highest constitutional office in the country after the President of India. The Vice-President is accorded a rank next to the President in the official warrant of precedence. This office is modelled on the lines of the American Vice-President. The Vice President’s main role is to act as the President if the President cannot perform his or her duties, such as due to death, resignation, or impeachment. The Vice President also serves as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States), the upper house of the Indian Parliament. Constitutional Provisions: Article 63 – There shall be a Vice President of India Article 64 – The Vice President shall be ex officio chairman of the council of States Article 65 – Vice President to act as President or to discharge his functions during casual vacancies in the office, or during the absence, of President Article 66 – Vice President shall be elected by the members of an electoral college consisting of the members of both Houses of Parliament in accordance with the system of proportional representation Article 67 – Vice President shall hold office for a term of five years Article 68 – Provisions related to the term and vacancy of the Vice President Article 69 – Oath to the office of President Article 70 – Discharge of Presidents functions in any contingencies Article 71 – Matters and disputes relating to, or connected with, the election of a President or Vice President. Election to the post of Vice President: The election to the post held indirectly like the election to the post of President. Ø Under Article 324 of the Constitution of India, the authority to conduct elections to the Office of Vice-President is vested in the Election Commission of India. Ø As per Article 66(1) of the Constitution of India, the election of the Vice President shall be held in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of single transferable vote and the voting at such election shall be by secret ballot. Ø The Vice-President is elected by an Electoral College, which consists of the members of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha (both elected and nominated members) Ø Election to the office of Vice-President of India is governed by the provisions contained in Articles 64 to 68 of the Constitution of India and the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952 and the Rules made thereunder Qualifications: A candidate should satisfy the following requirements to contest the election to the Office of Vice-President: –  1. Must be a citizen of India.  2. Must have completed 35 years of age.  3. Must be eligible to be a member of the Rajya Sabha.  4. Must not hold any office of profit under the Government of India or the                  Government of any State or under any local or other authority subject to         the control of any of the said Governments. {The offices of President and Vice-President, Governor of any State and Ministers of Union or State are not deemed to be office of profit for this purpose}   Oath and Affirmation: Before entering his office, the Vice President has to make and subscribe to an oath or affirmation. In his oath, the Vice President swears. Ø to bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India; and Ø to faithfully discharge the duties of his office. The oath of office to the Vice-President is administered by the President or some person appointed by him. Term of Office: Ø The Vice-President holds office for a term of 5 years from the date he enters upon his office. Ø Even after the expiry of the 5-year term, he continues to hold office until his successor assumes charge. Ø In case of death, removal, or resignation, the Constitution does not provide for automatic succession. Ø A fresh election must be conducted to fill the vacancy. Ø During the interim period, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha can perform the duties of the Chairman.   Resignation and Removal: Voluntary Resignation Under Article 67(a) Vice Presidents can resign by submitting a written letter to the President, which becomes effective immediately upon acceptance. The present Vice President’s resignation invokes Article 67(a), citing medical advice as the primary reason for his decision. Removal Process: Parliamentary Accountability Article 67(b) outlines the removal procedure of the Vice President. It requires an effective majority in the Rajya Sabha and simple majority in the Lok Sabha, with a mandatory 14-day advance notice. This process is notably simpler than the Presidential impeachment which requires two-thirds majority in both houses for ‘constitutional violations.’ This reflects the Vice President’s primary accountability as the Rajya Sabha Chairman.   List of Vice Presidents of India from 1952 to 2025: S.No. Name Term of Office 1 Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan 13 May 1952 – 12 May 1957 13 May 1957 – 12 May 1962 2 Dr. Zakir Hussain 13 May 1962 – 12 May 1967 3 V. V. Giri 13 May 1967 – 3 May 1969 4 Gopal Swarup Pathak 31 August 1969 – 30 August 1974 5 B. D. Jatti 31 August 1974 – 30 August 1979 6 Mohammad Hidayatullah 31 August 1979 – 30 August 1984 7 R. Venkataraman 31 August 1984 – 24 July 1987 8 Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma 3 September 1987 – 24 July 1992 9 K. R. Narayanan 21 August 1992 – 24 July 1997 10 Krishan Kant 21 August 1997 – 27 July 2002 11 Bhairon Singh Shekhawat 19 August 2002 – 21 July 2007 12 Mohammad Hamid Ansari 11 August 2007 – 11 August 2012 11 August 2012 – 10 August 2017 13 M. Venkaiah Naidu 11 August 2017 – 10 August 2022 14 Jagdeep Dhankhar 11 August 2022 – 22 July 2025 (The three Vice Presidents of India who resigned before completing their term are V. V. Giri, R. Venkataraman, and Jagdeep
- [SUEZ CANAL](https://rashtramias.com/atal-pension-yojana-apy-2/): SUEZ CANAL The Suez Canal is an artificial sea-level waterway running north–south across Egypt’s Isthmus of Suez. It is a vital international shipping route, connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Indian Ocean via the city of Suez on the Red Sea.  The canal connects Port Said on the Mediterranean Sea to the Indian Ocean via the Egyptian city of Suez on the Red Sea. It serves as a crucial international shipping route, allowing vessels to navigate between Europe and Asia without having to circumnavigate the African continent. It is one of the world’s most heavily used shipping lanes, carrying over 12% of world trade by volume. It provides a crucial link for oil, natural gas and cargo being shipped from East to West. History: The idea of constructing a canal across the Isthmus of Suez dates back to ancient times. It was during the nineteenth century that significant efforts were made. Constructed by the Suez Canal Company, led by French diplomat Ferdinand de Lesseps. Opened in 1869. Originally under joint British-French control; nationalized by Egypt in 1956 under President Gamal Abdel Nasser—leading to the Suez Crisis. Importance: Strategic Trade Route: Allows ships to avoid the long route around the Cape of Good Hope. For International trade: The canal carries – 12% of world trade, 7% of world’s oil, 30% container – ship daily. Reduces travel time between Europe and South Asia/East Asia by about 7,000 km. Source of revenue to Egypt: It is a major source of revenue for Egypt. The revenue from the canal in 2022 reached $8 billion. Energy Security: The canal’s location makes it a key link for shipping crude oil and other hydrocarbons from countries such as Saudi Arabia to Europe and North America.   Importance for India: Indian trade worth $200 billion to/from North America, South America and Europe is carried out using this route. It enables the Indian Navy to project its presence in the region and participate in global naval operations. This highlights its strategic importance for India. Challenges: Navigational Bottlenecks and Blockages: The canal is narrow in certain stretches, especially the older sections. Geopolitical Tensions: for example, Israel-Palestine war, Arab-Israeli wars. Security Threats: region is vulnerable to terrorist attacks, sabotage, military blockades (Houthi attacks) Climate Change and Rising Sea Levels: Rising temperatures and water salinity can affect canal operations and nearby ecosystems. Potential sea-level rise could lead to coastal erosion or impact canal infrastructure over time. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [ATAL PENSION YOJANA (APY)](https://rashtramias.com/axiom-4-ax-4-2/): ATAL PENSION YOJANA (APY) Why in News?Atal Pension Yojana completed 10 years. Features: ·        Ministry: Ministry of Finance ·        Launched in: 2015 ·        Implementing agency: Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) under the National Pension System (NPS). ·        Type: Central Sector Scheme ·        Eligibility:       APY is open to all bank account holders in the age group of 18 to 40       years who are not income tax payers.       All eligible family members can join scheme. Benefits: ·        Guaranteed Monthly Pension: Lifelong pension between ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 from age 60 until death. ·        Family Pension Provision: In case of death of subscriber, spouse receives the pension; nominee gets corpus. ·        Premature death of the subscriber (before 60 years of age): Spouse can continue contribution to APY account. Payment: Subscribers can make contributions to APY on monthly/ quarterly / half-yearly basis. Depending upon the intended/desired monthly pension and the age of subscriber at entry. Exit and Withdrawal Options: ·        Exit at age 60: Full pension begins. ·        Exit before age 60: Permitted only in cases of death or terminal illness. ·        Voluntary Exit: Allowed, but the subscriber only receives the contribution made (with interest) and government co contribution (if any) is forfeited. Government Co-contribution (for Early Joiners): ·        For eligible subscribers who joined between 1 June 2015 and 31 March 2016 (The scheme is continued but without Government Co-contribution). ·        The government co-contributed 50% of the total contribution or ₹1,000 per annum (whichever is lower) for 5 years. ·        This applied only to subscribers not covered under any statutory social security scheme and not income taxpayers at the time. Achievements in ten years: ·        Females constitute around 47% of total subscribers enrolled under Scheme ·        As on April 2025, more than 7.66 crore individuals have subscribed to the scheme. Objectives:         ·        To encourage voluntary savings for retirement by offering defined pension benefits, linked to the age of joining and amount of contribution. ·        To create a universal social security system for all, especially the poor, under-privileged and workers in the unorganized sector.   ·        To provide financial security in old age Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [INDIA-NAMIBIA RELATION](https://rashtramias.com/axiom-4-ax-4-3/): INDIA-NAMIBIA RELATION   Why in News? India’s Prime Minister undertook a State Visit to Namibia (the first by an Indian PM in 27 years) addressed the Namibian Parliament, and reaffirmed India’s commitment to a partnership with Africa founded on dialogue, not dominance. Highlights of the visit: ·        Prime Minister became the first Indian leader to receive Namibia’s highest civilian award, the Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis. ·        Namibia submitted its letter of acceptance to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). ·        It also accepted membership in the Global Biofuels Alliance. ·        Namibia became one of the first African countries to adopt India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) platform, enhancing digital financial inclusion. ·        Namibia was invited to join India’s Jan Aushadhi programme, which reduces medicine costs by 50–80% India-Namibia Relation: ·        Historical and Political Ties: India was among the first countries to raise Namibia’s independence at the United Nations in 1946, extended material and diplomatic support to South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO led Namibia’s liberation struggle).  ·        Cheetah Translocation Project: In 2022, India received eight cheetahs from Namibia, achieving the world’s first intercontinental relocation of a major carnivore species. ·        Development Assistance: India provided 30,000 Covishield doses to Namibia, and established the India-Namibia Centre of Excellence in IT (INCEIT) and an India Wing at the University of Namibia.  ·        Economic Relations: Bilateral trade stood at USD 568.40 million in 2024–25, with key sectors including mining, energy, agriculture, education, infrastructure, health, and trade. Location: ·        Namibia is a Southern African nation with its western boundary formed by the Atlantic Ocean.    ·        Namibia shares its northern borders with Angola and Zambia, while Botswana lies to the east, and South Africa borders its eastern and southern regions.    Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [PRADHAN MANTRI SURAKSHA BIMA YOJANA (PMSBY)](https://rashtramias.com/axiom-4-ax-4/): PRADHAN MANTRI SURAKSHA BIMA YOJANA (PMSBY) Why in News? Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana completed 10 years.   Objectives: An Accident Insurance Scheme offering accidental death and disability cover for death or disability on account of an accident.   Features: Ministry: Ministry of Finance Type: Central Sector Scheme Eligibility: Citizen (including NRIs) in the age group 18 to 70 years Premium rate: ₹ 20 per annum per member Enrolment period: The cover shall be for one-year period stretching from 1st June to 31st May Implementing agency: The scheme is offered / administered through the Public Sector General Insurance Companies (PSGICs) and other general insurance companies willing to offer the product with necessary approvals on similar terms, in collaboration with participating Banks.– Participating banks are free to engage any such general insurance company for implementing the scheme for their account holders/subscribers.  Conditions: – A bank or post office account, and– Consent to enable auto debit of premium. Coverage: – ₹ 2 lakh for accidental death or total permanent disability. – ₹ 2 lakh for total and irrecoverable loss of both eyes or loss of use of both hands or feet or loss of sight of one eye and loss of use of hand or foot. – ₹1 lakh for partial permanent disability. – ₹1 lakh for total and irrecoverable loss of sight of one eye or loss of use of one hand or foot. Other key features:– Natural calamities are also covered under PMSBY.– Individuals who exit the scheme at any point may re-join the scheme in future years by paying the annual premium. Impact: – 44+ crore enrolled since launch. – Major beneficiaries: 50.16% women and 72.24% from rural areas. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [PRIVATE MEMBER BILL](https://rashtramias.com/private-member-bill/): PRIVATE MEMBER BILL   What is a Private Member’s Bill?A Member of Parliament, other than a Minister (both elected and nominated) is known as a Private Member. A bill initiated by any such Member is called a Private Member’s Bill (PMB). Drafting of such a bill is responsibility of the Member introducing it. Mechanism: A one-month notice is given before the introduction of the bill with the permission of Speaker (Lok Sabha) or Chairman (Rajya Sabha). If the bill is selected then:– Lok Sabha allots last two-and-a-half hours of business every Friday for consideration and discussion on the Bill.– Rajya Sabha allots two and a half hours (from 2.30 p.m. to 5.00 p.m.) on every a alternate Friday.– The first private member bill passed was the Muslim wakfs bill,1952 which was introduced by Syed Mohammed Ahmad Kasmi.   What is the significance of PMBs? Policy Innovation: They allow MPs to propose novel ideas or address issues overlooked by the government.g., Right to Disconnect Bill 2019 introduced by a private member, granting employees the legal right to disengage from work-related communication beyond official working hours. Reform Potential: They can spark debate on outdated laws or emerging issues.g., The Rights of Transgender Persons Bill, 2014, was first introduced by a Private Member which then inspired the government to introduce its own Bill on transgender rights. Expression Beyond Party Line: They enable MPs to voice independent views, free from party whip constraints under 10th Schedule, fostering democratic participation. Checks and Balances: These act as a tool for MPs to hold the government accountable by proposing alternative policies. Why are PMBs in Decline? Disruptions: Frequent adjournments and chaotic sessions reduce time for PMB discussions. g., in the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-24), 729 PMBs were introduced in the Lok Sabha and 705 in the Rajya Sabha. However, only 2 in the Lok Sabha and 14 in the Rajya Sabha were ever discussed. Procedural Issues: It takes years for legislation moved by private members to come up for discussion due to limited time (only 2–3 hours weekly).The Speaker/Chairman’s discretionary power to admit or reject bills can be influenced by political considerations. Resource Constraints: Private members lack research support, drafting expertise, or institutional backing, unlike government bills. Low Success Perception: The historically low passage rate discourages MPs from investing effort in PMBs.g., only 14 private member bills have become law till date and the last such bill was passed in 1970. Lack of Political Will: Many private MPs have pointed out that governments prioritize their own legislative agenda, sidelining PMBs.   Way Forward Streamlining Procedures: Allocate fixed, uninterrupted time for PMB discussions, digital tracking of such bills, etc. to ensure at least a few bills are debated each session.        Amendments to the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business can explicitly protect the allotted time from being overridden by other agendas. Research Support: Establish a dedicated research unit (like the UK’s Public Bill Committee) to assist MPs in drafting robust bills. Institutionalised Mechanism: Parliament can introduce a dedicated review committee for screening Bills for quality, relevance, and constitutionality and recommend a priority list for discussion based on public importance and encouraging cross-party support.UK’s 10-Minute Rule Model can also be adopted where MPs can introduce short bills with brief speeches to make their case for a new Bill.   Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [ATAL PENSION YOJANA (APY)](https://rashtramias.com/atal-pension-yojana-apy/): ATAL PENSION YOJANA (APY)   Why in News?Atal Pension Yojana completed 10 years. Features: Ministry: Ministry of Finance Launched in: 2015 Implementing agency: Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) under the National Pension System (NPS). Type: Central Sector Scheme Eligibility: APY is open to all bank account holders in the age group of 18 to 40       years who are not income tax payers.       All eligible family members can join scheme. Benefits: Guaranteed Monthly Pension: Lifelong pension between ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 from age 60 until death. Family Pension Provision: In case of death of subscriber, spouse receives the pension; nominee gets corpus. Premature death of the subscriber (before 60 years of age): Spouse can continue contribution to APY account. Payment: Subscribers can make contributions to APY on monthly/ quarterly / half-yearly basis. Depending upon the intended/desired monthly pension and the age of subscriber at entry. Exit and Withdrawal Options: Exit at age 60: Full pension begins. Exit before age 60: Permitted only in cases of death or terminal illness. Voluntary Exit: Allowed, but the subscriber only receives the contribution made (with interest) and government co contribution (if any) is forfeited. Government Co-contribution (for Early Joiners): For eligible subscribers who joined between 1 June 2015 and 31 March 2016 (The scheme is continued but without Government Co-contribution). The government co-contributed 50% of the total contribution or ₹1,000 per annum (whichever is lower) for 5 years. This applied only to subscribers not covered under any statutory social security scheme and not income taxpayers at the time. Achievements in ten years: Females constitute around 47% of total subscribers enrolled under Scheme As on April 2025, more than 7.66 crore individuals have subscribed to the scheme. Objectives:        To encourage voluntary savings for retirement by offering defined pension benefits, linked to the age of joining and amount of contribution. To create a universal social security system for all, especially the poor, under-privileged and workers in the unorganized sector. To provide financial security in old age       Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [INDIA-NAMIBIA RELATION](https://rashtramias.com/india-namibia-relation/): INDIA-NAMIBIA RELATION   Why in News? India’s Prime Minister undertook a State Visit to Namibia (the first by an Indian PM in 27 years) addressed the Namibian Parliament, and reaffirmed India’s commitment to a partnership with Africa founded on dialogue, not dominance. Highlights of the visit: Prime Minister became the first Indian leader to receive Namibia’s highest civilian award, the Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis. Namibia submitted its letter of acceptance to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). It also accepted membership in the Global Biofuels Alliance. Namibia became one of the first African countries to adopt India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI)platform, enhancing digital financial inclusion. Namibia was invited to join India’s Jan Aushadhi programme, which reduces medicine costs by 50–80% India-Namibia Relation: Historical and Political Ties:India was among the first countries to raise Namibia’s independence at the United Nations in 1946, extended material and diplomatic support to South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO led Namibia’s liberation struggle).  Cheetah Translocation Project: In 2022, India received eight cheetahs from Namibia, achieving the world’s first intercontinental relocation of a major carnivore species. Development Assistance:India provided 30,000 Covishield doses to Namibia, and established the India-Namibia Centre of Excellence in IT (INCEIT) and an India Wing at the University of Namibia.  Economic Relations:Bilateral trade stood at USD 568.40 million in 2024–25, with key sectors including mining, energy, agriculture, education, infrastructure, health, and trade. Location: Namibiais a Southern African nation with its western boundary formed by the Atlantic Ocean.  Namibia shares its northern borders with Angola and Zambia, while Botswana lies to the east, and South Africa borders its eastern and southern regions.    Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [SUEZ CANAL](https://rashtramias.com/suez-canal/): SUEZ CANAL   The Suez Canal is an artificial sea-level waterway running north–south across Egypt’s Isthmus of Suez. It is a vital international shipping route, connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Indian Ocean via the city of Suez on the Red Sea.  The canal connects Port Said on the Mediterranean Sea to the Indian Ocean via the Egyptian city of Suez on the Red Sea. It serves as a crucial international shipping route, allowing vessels to navigate between Europe and Asia without having to circumnavigate the African continent. It is one of the world’s most heavily used shipping lanes, carrying over 12% of world trade by volume. It provides a crucial link for oil, natural gas and cargo being shipped from East to West.   History: The idea of constructing a canal across the Isthmus of Suez dates back to ancient times. It was during the nineteenth century that significant efforts were made. Constructed by the Suez Canal Company, led by French diplomat Ferdinand de Lesseps. Opened in 1869. Originally under joint British-French control; nationalized by Egypt in 1956 under President Gamal Abdel Nasser—leading to the Suez Crisis.   Importance: Strategic Trade Route: Allows ships to avoid the long route around the Cape of Good Hope. For International trade: The canal carries – 12% of world trade, 7% of world’s oil, 30% container – ship daily. Reduces travel time between Europe and South Asia/East Asia by about 7,000 km. Source of revenue to Egypt: It is a major source of revenue for Egypt. The revenue from the canal in 2022 reached $8 billion. Energy Security: The canal’s location makes it a key link for shipping crude oil and other hydrocarbons from countries such as Saudi Arabia to Europe and North America.   Importance for India: Indian trade worth $200 billion to/from North America, South America and Europe is carried out using this route. It enables the Indian Navy to project its presence in the region and participate in global naval operations. This highlights its strategic importance for India.   Challenges: Navigational Bottlenecks and Blockages: The canal is narrow in certain stretches, especially the older sections. Geopolitical Tensions: for example, Israel-Palestine war, Arab-Israeli wars. Security Threats: region is vulnerable to terrorist attacks, sabotage, military blockades (Houthi attacks) Climate Change and Rising Sea Levels: Rising temperatures and water salinity can affect canal operations and nearby ecosystems. Potential sea-level rise could lead to coastal erosion or impact canal infrastructure over time.       Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [VICE PRESIDENT OF INDIA](https://rashtramias.com/vice-president-of-india/): VICE PRESIDENT OF INDIA Why in News?Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigns from office citing health issues. About Vice President post: The Vice President of India is the second-highest constitutional office in the country after the President of India. The Vice-President is accorded a rank next to the President in the official warrant of precedence. This office is modelled on the lines of the American Vice-President. The Vice President’s main role is to act as the President if the President cannot perform his or her duties, such as due to death, resignation, or impeachment. The Vice President also serves as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States), the upper house of the Indian Parliament.   Constitutional Provisions: Article 63 – There shall be a Vice President of India Article 64 – The Vice President shall be ex officio chairman of the council of States Article 65 – Vice President to act as President or to discharge his functions during casual vacancies in the office, or during the absence, of President Article 66 – Vice President shall be elected by the members of an electoral college consisting of the members of both Houses of Parliament in accordance with the system of proportional representation Article 67 – Vice President shall hold office for a term of five years Article 68 – Provisions related to the term and vacancy of the Vice President Article 69 – Oath to the office of President Article 70 – Discharge of Presidents functions in any contingencies Article 71 – Matters and disputes relating to, or connected with, the election of a President or Vice President. Election to the post of Vice President: The election to the post held indirectly like the election to the post of President. Under Article 324 of the Constitution of India, the authority to conduct elections to the Office of Vice-President is vested in the Election Commission of India. As per Article 66(1) of the Constitution of India, the election of the Vice President shall be held in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of single transferable vote and the voting at such election shall be by secret ballot. The Vice-President is elected by an Electoral College, which consists of the members of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha (both elected and nominated members) Election to the office of Vice-President of India is governed by the provisions contained in Articles 64 to 68 of the Constitution of India and the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952 and the Rules made thereunder   Qualifications: A candidate should satisfy the following requirements to contest the election to the Office of Vice-President: – Must be a citizen of India. Must have completed 35 years of age. Must be eligible to be a member of the Rajya Sabha.   Must not hold any office of profit under the Government of India or the         Government of any State or under any local or other authority subject to         the control of any of the said Governments.   {The offices of President and Vice-President, Governor of any State and Ministers of Union or State are not deemed to be office of profit for this purpose}   Oath and Affirmation: Before entering his office, the Vice President has to make and subscribe to an oath or affirmation. In his oath, the Vice President swears. to bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India; and to faithfully discharge the duties of his office. The oath of office to the Vice-President is administered by the President or some person appointed by him. Term of Office: The Vice-President holds office for a term of 5 years from the date he enters upon his office. Even after the expiry of the 5-year term, he continues to hold office until his successor assumes charge. In case of death, removal, or resignation, the Constitution does not provide for automatic succession. A fresh election must be conducted to fill the vacancy. During the interim period, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha can perform the duties of the Chairman.       Resignation and Removal: Voluntary Resignation Under Article 67(a) Vice Presidents can resign by submitting a written letter to the President, which becomes effective immediately upon acceptance. The present Vice President’s resignation invokes Article 67(a), citing medical advice as the primary reason for his decision. Removal Process: Parliamentary Accountability Article 67(b) outlines the removal procedure of the Vice President. It requires an effective majority in the Rajya Sabha and simple majority in the Lok Sabha, with a mandatory 14-day advance notice. This process is notably simpler than the Presidential impeachment which requires two-thirds majority in both houses for ‘constitutional violations.’ This reflects the Vice President’s primary accountability as the Rajya Sabha Chairman.   List of Vice Presidents of India from 1952 to 2025: S.No. Name Term of Office 1 Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan 13 May 1952 – 12 May 1957 13 May 1957 – 12 May 1962 2 Dr. Zakir Hussain 13 May 1962 – 12 May 1967 3 V. V. Giri 13 May 1967 – 3 May 1969 4 Gopal Swarup Pathak 31 August 1969 – 30 August 1974 5 B. D. Jatti 31 August 1974 – 30 August 1979 6 Mohammad Hidayatullah 31 August 1979 – 30 August 1984 7 R. Venkataraman 31 August 1984 – 24 July 1987 8 Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma 3 September 1987 – 24 July 1992 9 K. R. Narayanan 21 August 1992 – 24 July 1997 10 Krishan Kant 21 August 1997 – 27 July 2002 11 Bhairon Singh Shekhawat 19 August 2002 – 21 July 2007 12 Mohammad Hamid Ansari 11 August 2007 – 11 August 2012 11 August 2012 – 10 August 2017 13 M. Venkaiah Naidu 11 August 2017 – 10 August 2022 14 Jagdeep Dhankhar 11 August 2022 – 22 July 2025   (The three Vice Presidents of India who resigned before completing their term are V. V. Giri, R. Venkataraman, and Jagdeep Dhankhar) Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is
- [GROUP OF SEVEN (G7)](https://rashtramias.com/group-of-seven-g7/): GROUP OF SEVEN (G7)   Why in News? The 51st G7 Summit, held in Kananaskis, Canada and hosted by Canadian PM Mark Carney, brought together G7 leaders and guest heads, including the Prime Minister of India, to address global tensions and shifting geopolitical dynamics. Key Outcomes of 51st G7 Summit (2025) Summit: Kananaskis Wildfire Charter: Adopted a “whole of society” approach, including Indigenous knowledge, sustainable forest management, and awareness campaigns (endorsed by India). G7 Critical Minerals Action Plan: Secure sustainable and resilient supply chains for critical minerals. Key Initiatives on Artificial Intelligence (AI): G7 GovAI Grand Challenge and a shared G7 AI Network (GAIN).   About G7: Formed in the year 1975 in response to economic and financial cooperation due to energy crisis. Members: United States, UK, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and Canada(Russia was a member from 1998 to 2014, during which the forum was called the G8. Russia’s annexation of Crimea in March 2014 led to its suspension from the group.) There are no formal criteria for membership,but participants are all highly developed democracies. Purpose and Agenda: Meets annually to deliberate on key global issues such as: Global economic governance, international security. Energy policy, etc. Structure:The G7 lacks a formal institutional structure. It does not have a charter or a permanent secretariat. Presidency:The presidency of the G7 rotates annually among the member countries. Significance: Wealth:Control 60% of global net wealth Growth:Drive 46% of global GDP Population:Represents 10% of the world’s population.   Relevance of G7 Innovations in Governance: The introduction of initiatives like the “Hiroshima AI Process” highlights the G7’s role in addressing emerging technological challenges. Ukraine Crisis: The G7 coordinated sanctions against Russia & supported Ukraine with financial packages from frozen Russian assets. Rise of China: China’s rise as a major economic and political power has altered the global balance. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) leading to a “debt trap” raises concerns amongst the G-7 nations.   Significance of G7 for India: Strategically Balancing the West and the Global South: India positions itself as a bridge between the industrialized West (G7) and the Global South. Economic & Technological Cooperation:g., India has been a strong proponent of initiatives like the G7’s PGII, which aims to invest in infrastructure in developing countries. Democracy & Strategic Weight: India’s democratic credentials and economic growth (4th largest economy) make its voice influential within G7 dialogues. Platform for Bilateral talks:g., Indian PM met Canadian PM to reset the deteriorating relations. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [NASA-ISRO SYNTHETIC APERTURE RADAR (NISAR) SATELLITE](https://rashtramias.com/nasa-isro-synthetic-aperture-radar-nisar-satellite/): NASA-ISRO SYNTHETIC APERTURE RADAR (NISAR) SATELLITE   Why in News?NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) Satellite launched from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Srihari Kota on 30th July, 2025   About NISAR Satellite: Jointly developed by NASA and ISRO, the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) is the world’s first Earth observation satellite to carry dual-frequency synthetic aperture radars, L-band by NASA and S-band by ISRO, on a single platform. It will deliver high-resolution, all-weather, day-and-night imagery of Earth’s land and ice surfaces, revisiting each location every 12 days. Launched aboard through GSLV-F16 launch vehicle (this was the first time ISRO’s GSLV vehicle successfully placed a satellite into a Sun-synchronous Polar Orbit) This 18th flight of the GSLV and the 12th using the indigenous cryogenic stage. Weight: 2393 kg Built around ISRO’s I-3K spacecraft bus NASA provided the L-band radar, GPS receiver, high-rate telecom system, Solid-State Recorder, and the 12-meter deployable antenna ISRO contributed the S-band radar, the spacecraft bus, the GSLV-F16 launch vehicle, and associated systems and services. The mission, estimated to cost over $1.5 billion, is jointly funded by both agencies. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [UN WOMEN](https://rashtramias.com/un-women/): UN WOMEN     Why in News?UN Women recently marked 15 years since its establishment.   About UN Women: UN Women, founded by the UN General Assembly in July 2010, serves as the UN’s principal body for promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. As part of the UN reform agenda, UN Women was created through the merger of four existing entities: Division for the Advancement of Women (DAW) International Research and Training Institute for the Advancement of Women (INSTRAW) Office of the Special Adviser on Gender Issues and Advancement of Women (OSAGI) United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM).   Core Mission of UN Women: Governance & Leadership: Promote equal participation of women in decision-making at all levels. Economic Empowerment: Advocate for equal pay, decent work conditions, and financial autonomy for women. Ending Violence Against Women: Work towards the elimination of all forms of gender-based violence. Peace & Humanitarian Action: Strengthen women’s involvement in peace processes, conflict resolution, and humanitarian response.   Key Issues Faced by Women (as per UN Women): Political Backlash & Declining Rights:In 2024, about 1 in 4 countries experienced backlash against women’s rights, reflecting a regressive trend in gender equality efforts.   Legal Inequality:Globally, women enjoy only 64% of the legal rights that men have, with 51% of countries placing restrictions on women working in the same jobs as men. Underrepresentation in Governance:Women constitute only 25% of lawmakers worldwide, highlighting persistent gender gaps in political decision-making. Negligible Funding for Gender Equality:Just 4% of official development assistance (ODA) during 2021–2022 was allocated specifically to advancing gender equality. Gender-Based Violence:In 2023, 85,000 women and girls were intentionally killed — approximately one every 10 minutes, often by an intimate partner or close relative. Exclusion from Peace Processes:Between 2020 and 2023, 80% of peace talks and 70% of mediation efforts excluded women, underscoring their continued marginalization in conflict resolution and peacebuilding initiatives. Economic Inequality: Gender Pay Gap:Women earn 20% less than men globally for work of equal value. Unpaid Care Work:Women perform 5 times more unpaid care and domestic work than men, limiting their economic opportunities and financial independence. Poor Health Access:Nearly 800 women die daily from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth, reflecting gaps in access to quality maternal healthcare and reproductive services. UN Women’s Key Solutions: Promote Gender-Inclusive Peacebuilding:UN Women advocates increased investment in conflict prevention, enhanced participation of women in peace processes, and better access to reproductive healthcare in conflict-affected areas. Strengthen Leadership & Political Will:UN Women calls for stronger political commitment, gender-responsive governance, removal of discriminatory laws, and greater inclusion of women in leadership especially in areas like climate action. Advance Economic Empowerment:UN Women promotes equal pay, stronger anti-discrimination laws, and investment in care infrastructure to reduce unpaid care work and create up to 300 million jobs by 2035. Enhance Access to Education & Technology:UN Women suggests reducing education costs, providing cash incentives, ensuring safe and inclusive learning spaces, improving digital access and online safety, and boosting public-private funding for gender equality.     UPSC CSE Mains:Distinguish between ‘care economy’ and ‘monetized economy’. How can the care economy be brought into a monetized economy through women empowerment? (2023)  “Empowering women is the key to control population growth”. Discuss. (2019)       Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [RAMSAR CONVENTION ON WETLANDS](https://rashtramias.com/ramsar-convention-on-wetlands/): RAMSAR CONVENTION ON WETLANDS     Why in News?India’s resolution to the Ramsar Contracting Parties on ‘Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles for the Wise Use of Wetlands’, adopted at Ramsar CoP15 in Zimbabwe About RAMSAR CoP 15: The 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands concluded in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Declaration: It underscores the need for political commitment, increased resource mobilisation, and investment in wetland management. Adoption of 13 Resolutions: The parties agreed to enhance flyway conservation for migratory birds, launch the Global Waterbird Estimates Partnership, and safeguard species such as river dolphins. 5thRamsar Strategic Plan:  Parties adopted the 5th Strategic Plan with 4 goals and 18 targets. The STRP (Scientific and Technical Review Panel) will monitor progress.  Goal 1: Address and reverse wetland loss and degradation. Goal 2: Achieve the wise use of Wetlands through policy planning and inclusive participation. Goal 3: Conserve and Manage Wetlands of International Importance effectively. Goal 4: Enhance implementation of the Convention through scientific cooperation, capacity building, and raising money   India’s Resolution on the Wise Use of Wetlands India’s resolution on “Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles for the Wise Use of Wetlands” was successfully adopted on receiving support from all 172 countries at Ramsar COP15 This resolution aligns with the ethos of India’s Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) initiative, which was introduced by the Indian Prime Minister at COP26 in Glasgow in 2021. The Resolution builds upon Resolution 6/8 on ‘Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles’ adopted at the Sixth UN Environment Assembly in March 2024.   Ramsar Convention: The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (1971) is the only global environmental treaty dedicated to wetlands. The Convention was adopted in the Iranian city of Ramsar in 1971and came into force in 1975. Almost 90% of UN member states have acceded to become “Contracting Parties”. India became a partyto the Ramsar Convention on February 1, 1982.     RAMSAR Sites in India: At present, India has a total of 91 Ramsar Sites, the highest in Asia (recently added: Khichan and Menar, both in Rajasthan)     State / UT No. of Sites Ramsar Sites Andhra Pradesh 1 Kolleru Lake Assam 1 Deepor Beel Bihar 3 Kanwar Lake, Nagi Bird Sanctuary, Nakti Lake Goa 1 Nanda Lake Gujarat 4 Khijadiya, Nalsarovar, Thol Lake, Wadhvana Wetland Haryana 2 Sultanpur National Park, Bhindawas Wildlife Sanctuary Himachal Pradesh 3 Chandra Taal, Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, Renuka Lake Jammu & Kashmir 5 Hokersar Wetland, Hygam Wetland Conservation Reserve, Shallabugh Wetland, Mansar-Surinsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Wular Lake Jharkhand 1 Udhwa Lake Karnataka 4 Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve, Aghanashini Estuary, Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve Kerala 3 Ashtamudi Wetland, Sasthamkotta Lake, Vembanad-Kol Wetland Ladakh 2 Tso Kar, Tsomoriri Lake Madhya Pradesh 5 Bhoj Wetland, Sakhya Sagar, Sirpur Lake, Yashwant Sagar, Tawa Reservoir Maharashtra 3 Lonar Lake, Nandur Madhameshwar, Thane Creek Manipur 1 Loktak Lake Mizoram 1 Pala Wetland Odisha 6 Ansupa Lake, Bhitarkanika Mangroves, Chilika Lake, Hirakud Reservoir, Satkosia Gorge, Tampara Lake Punjab 6 Beas Conservation Reserve, Harike Wetland, Kanjli Wetland, Keshopur-Miani Community Reserve, Nangal Wildlife Sanctuary, Ropar Wetland Rajasthan 4 Keoladeo National Park, Sambhar Lake, Khichan, Menar Sikkim 1 Khecheopalri Wetland Tamil Nadu 20 Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary, Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve, Kanjirankulam Bird Sanctuary, Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary, Karikili Bird Sanctuary, Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary, Longwood Shola Reserve Forest, Pallikarnai Marsh Reserve Forest, Pichavaram Mangrove, Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary, Suchindram Theroor Wetland Complex, Udhayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary, Vadavur Bird Sanctuary, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, Vellode Bird Sanctuary, Vembannur Wetland Complex, Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary, Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary, Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary, Therthangal Bird Sanctuary Tripura 1 Rudrasagar Lake Uttar Pradesh 10 Bakhira Sanctuary, Haiderpur Wetland, Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary, Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary, Saman Bird Sanctuary, Samaspur Bird Sanctuary, Sandi Bird Sanctuary, Sarsai Nawar Jheel, Sur Sarovar, Upper Ganga River Uttarakhand 1 Asan Barrage West Bengal 2 East Kolkata Wetlands, Sundarban Wetland     Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. 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- [SMALL FINANCE BANKS (SFBs)](https://rashtramias.com/small-finance-banks-sfbs/): SMALL FINANCE BANKS (SFBs)   Why in News?The Reserve Bank of India has granted ‘in-principle’ approval to AU Small Finance Bank for transitioning from a small finance bank to a universal bank.   About Small Finance Banks: Small Finance Banks (SFBs) in India are a category of banks set up to deliver essential banking services and extend credit facilities to underserved segments of society, such as small business owners, micro and small enterprises, farmers, and those in the unorganized sector (Announced in the Union budget of 2014-15) Regulated by: Reserve Bank of India Examples: Ujjivan Small Finance Bank, Equitas Small Finance Bank, Northeast Small Finance Bank etc. Registered as a public limited company under the Companies Act, 2013. Licensed and Governed under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949. Eligibility:– Resident individuals/professionals (Indian citizens), singly or jointly, each having at least 10 years of experience in banking and finance at a senior level.– Companies and societies owned and controlled by residents.– Resident-controlled entities like microfinance institutions, non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), local area banks, and payment banks are also eligible to be converted into Small Finance Banks. (Also, Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) desirous of converting to SFB may convert to SFB after ensuring compliance with the guidelines). The minimum paid-up voting equity capital for small finance banks shall be200 crore, except for such small finance banks which are converted from UCBs. Priority Sector Lending: Small Finance Banks have to allocate 75% of their total net credit to priority sector lending, as per the RBI guidelines. Branch Network: Small Finance Banks must establish branches in unbanked and underbanked regions, with a strong focus on rural and semi-urban areas. In the initial phase, at least 25% of their branches should be located in unbanked rural areas. UPSC CSE Prelims 2017: What is the purpose of setting up of Small Finance Banks (SFBs) in India? To supply credit to small business units 2. To supply credit to small and marginal farmers 3. To encourage young entrepreneurs to set up business particularly in rural areas. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Ans: A   Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [KAKORI TRAIN ACTION](https://rashtramias.com/kakori-train-action/): KAKORI TRAIN ACTION KAKORI TRAIN ACTION Why in News?100th anniversary of the Kakori Train Action.   About Kakori Incident: On 9 August 1925, members of the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) boldly executed an armed operation to seize treasury funds from a British government train. This act aimed to finance the revolutionary cause and deliver a strong political statement against colonial oppression. Key Personalities Involved:Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqullah Khan, Chandrashekar Azad, Rajendra Lahiri, Manmathnath Gupta, Roshan Singh Location: Kakori, a village near Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh Incident: The revolutionaries halted the Number 8-Down train and took cash from the guard’s compartment. Reaction of the British Government: – Arrested a large number of revolutionaries and tried them in the Kakori Conspiracy Case (1925)– Hanged Ashfaqulla Khan, Ramprasad Bismil, Roshan Singh and Rajendra Lahiri (hanged on December 19, 1927)– Others received long-term imprisonment.– Chandrashekhar Azad escaped arrest and carried on the fight until 1931. Aftermath of the Incident:– The power of HRA weakened.– Reorganisation of the HRA to Hindustan Socialist Republican Army (HSRA).– Leaders like Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Shiv Vermainfused socialist ideology into the movement. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [UNDP EQUATOR PRIZE OR EQUATOR INITIATIVE AWARD](https://rashtramias.com/undp-equator-prize-or-equator-initiative-award/): UNDP EQUATOR PRIZE OR EQUATOR INITIATIVE AWARD Why in News? Bibi Fatima Women’s self-help group (SHG) from a small village in Dharwad district has bagged the ‘Equator Initiative Award’   What’s the Equator Prize? Organizer: The Equator Prize is awarded by the Equator Initiative within the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Frequency: Awarded biennially (every two years). Purpose: Recognizes outstanding community efforts to:– Reduce poverty            – Conserve biodiversity            – Promote sustainable use of biodiversity Global Context: – Sustainable community initiatives in the tropics are creating a foundation for a global movement.            – These local successes collectively contribute to achieving the    Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Role of Prize: – Highlights efforts of local and indigenous groups that exemplify sustainable development.             – Celebrates and showcases their work on an international stage Selection Criteria: Equator Prize winners are selected by an independent Technical Advisory Committee, which assesses nominations based on the following criteria:– Impact– Innovation– Scalability and/or replicability– Resilience, Adaptability, and Self-Sufficiency– Gender Equality– Social Inclusion Eligibility Criteria:To be eligible for the Equator Prize, the following requirements apply:– The initiative must have been in existence for at least three years, and/or the actions taken must have been in place for at least three years.– The nominee must be either a local community-based group, operating in a rural area, based in a country receiving support from the United Nations Development Programme (for a list of eligible countries, see the list below); or an Indigenous Peoples’ community in any country, operating in a rural area.– The actions taken must be nature-based, and must deliver benefits related to two or more Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Eligible Initiatives:Community-based associations or organizationsCommunity-based enterprises and cooperativesWomen’s associations or organizationsIndigenous or ethnic minority groups or associationsYouth groups or associationsnon-governmental organizations   About Bibi Fatima SHG The group introduced millet-based mixed cropping on rainfed farms, promoted climate-resilient farming systems, practised livestock rearing and horticulture and popularised millets. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [What is Precision Farming?](https://rashtramias.com/what-is-precision-farming-2/): AXIOM-4 (Ax-4)   Why in News?Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) is a historic private spaceflight to the International Space Station, featuring India’s return to human spaceflight after 41 years. About Axiom Mission 4Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) is the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS), organized by Axiom Space in collaboration with NASA, SpaceX, and ISRO. The Ax-4 crew includes members from India, Poland, and Hungary, marking each nation’s first mission to the space station in history and second government-sponsored human spaceflight mission in over 40 years.   Shubhanshu Shuklabecame India’s second national astronaut to go to space since 1984. Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, European Space Agency (ESA) project astronaut, is the second Polish astronaut since 1978. Tibor Kapu is the second national Hungarian astronaut since 1980. Peggy Whitson is commanding her second commercial human spaceflight mission, adding to her standing record for the longest cumulative time in space by an American astronaut. Ax-4 is the second commercial spaceflight mission made up of government and ESA-sponsored national astronauts. The Ax-4 mission stands as a beacon of opportunity for India, Poland, and Hungary, each poised to leverage this mission to advance their national space programs. Objectives: Enable commercial activities in low Earth orbit, including space tourism and private research. Demonstrate the feasibility of commercial space stations as platforms for business and science. Strengthen international collaboration in space exploration. Conduct scientific experiments in microgravity, focusing on materials science, biology, Earth observation, and life sciences. Mission Timeline: Launch: Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) launched from Launch Complex 39A at the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida, USA on June 25. Return: The Axiom Mission 4 crew safely splashed down off the coast of California aboard SpaceX Dragon “Grace” on July 15.       Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [What is Precision Farming?](https://rashtramias.com/what-is-precision-farming/): PRECISION FARMING PRECISION FARMING What is Precision Farming? Precision agriculture (PA) is a modern farming approach that focuses on using smart technologies like Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), drones, and data analytics. The goal is to optimize inputs (like water, fertilizers, and pesticides) based on site-specific conditions to maximize yield, minimize waste, and reduce environmental impact. Why Precision Farming is Crucial for India: Fragmented Land Holdings: With an average landholding size of 1-hectare, Indian farmers need targeted solutions to maximize output. Water Scarcity: Agriculture uses 80% of India’s freshwater. Precision irrigation (like drip systems) can drastically cut usage. Climate Change: Data-driven decisions help farmers adapt to erratic weather patterns. Low Productivity: India’s yield per hectare is lower than global averages. Technology can bridge this gap. Advantages: Resource Optimization: Precision farming ensures judicious use of water, fertilizers, and pesticides, reducing waste and lowering production costs. Environmental Benefits: Reducing the use of chemicals minimizes soil and water contamination, promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Increased Productivity: By monitoring field variability, farmers can tailor inputs to meet the specific needs of crops, leading to improved yield and efficiency. Risk Management: Through real-time data collection and analysis, farmers can make informed decisions, reducing risks related to unpredictable weather and crop diseases. Challenges: Data Management: Processing and interpreting large amounts of data requires specialized software and skills, which are not always available to small-scale farmers. High Initial Cost: The upfront cost of equipment like drones, soil sensors, and automated irrigation systems remains high. For small and marginal farmers with limited capital, such investments often seem unaffordable without external financial assistance or government subsidies. This cost barrier discourages many from experimenting with precision technologies, especially in states where credit access is poor.   Technical Expertise: Farmers often lack training to operate precision tools or interpret data, limiting effective usage. Digital Divide: Poor internet connectivity in rural areas restricts access to digital platforms and real-time farm advisory. Steps taken by India: National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY): focus on water-use efficiency and soil health monitoring. Promoted the use of drones, soil health cards, and satellite-based monitoring. Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): will provide farmers with access to technology and information. Way Forward: Subsidies & Credit Support: Provide targeted subsidies and easy credit for purchasing precision tools, especially for small and marginal farmers. Training & Capacity Building: Set up village-level training centers and integrate Agri-tech modules into Krishi Vigyan Kendra’s (KVKs) to build farmer skills. Strengthen Digital Infrastructure: Expand rural internet access under Bharat Net and promote offline-capable apps for real-time agricultural support. Promote FPOs & CHCs: Encourage Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Custom Hiring Centers (CHCs) to share expensive technologies collectively. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Foster collaboration between startups, Agri-tech firms, and government bodies for innovation and affordable service delivery.   KAS Mains 2025: Discuss on how precision farming helps in improving the yield and quality of pulses and oilseeds in India.        (10 marks) – GS-3       Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [Maratha Military Landscapes of India](https://rashtramias.com/maratha-military-landscapes-of-india/): Maratha Military Landscapes of India   Why in news? ‘Maratha Military Landscapes of India’ got inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, becoming India’s 44th property to receive this recognition. remarkable decision taken at the 47th Session of the World Heritage Committee, held in Paris, France. What are the Maratha Military Landscapes? The ‘Maratha Military Landscapes’ is a network of 12 forts and fortifications that represent the extraordinary military system and strategy of the Maratha rulers in the 17th-19th centuries. Spread across the states of Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, the selected sites, include Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, and Sindhudurg in Maharashtra, along with Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu. While Shivneri fort, Lohgad, Raigad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala fort, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg and Gingee fort are protected under the Archaeological Survey of India whereas Salher fort, Rajgad, Khanderi fort and Pratapgarh are protected by the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Government of Maharashtra. Located across a range of diverse terrains—from coastal outposts to hilltop strongholds – these forts reflect a sophisticated understanding of geography and strategic defense planning. Together, they form a cohesive military landscape that highlights the innovation and regional adaptation of fortification traditions in India. Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Rajgad, and Gingee are situated in hilly terrains and are therefore known as hill forts. Pratapgad, nestled within dense woods, is classified as a hill-forest fort. Panhala, located on a plateaued hill, is a hill-plateau fort. Vijaydurg, positioned along the shoreline, is a notable coastal fort, while Khanderi, Suvarnadurg, and Sindhudurg, surrounded by the sea, are recognized as island forts. UNESCO World Heritage Sites of India: Cultural sites  Agra Fort(1983) Ajanta Caves(1983) Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara at Nalanda, Bihar(2016) Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi(1989) Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park(2004) Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus)(2004) Churches and Convents of Goa(1986) Dholavira: A Harappan City(2021) Elephanta Caves(1987) Ellora Caves(1983) Fatehpur Sikri(1986) Great Living Chola Temples(1987, 2004) Group of Monuments at Hampi(1986) Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram(1984) Group of Monuments at Pattadakal(1987) Hill Forts of Rajasthan(2013) Historic City of Ahmadabad(2017) Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi(1993) Jaipur City, Rajasthan(2019) Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple, Telangana(2021) Khajuraho Group of Monuments(1986) Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya(2002) Maratha Military Landscapes of India(2025) Moidams – the Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty(2024) Mountain Railways of India(1999, 2005, 2008) Qutb Minar and its Monuments, Delhi(1993) Rani-ki-Vav (the Queen’s Stepwell) at Patan, Gujarat(2014) Red Fort Complex(2007) Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka(2003) Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas(2023) Santiniketan(2023) Sun Temple, Konârak(1984) Taj Mahal(1983) The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement(2016) The Jantar Mantar, Jaipur(2010) Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai(2018) Natural sites Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area(2014) Kaziranga National Park(1985) Keoladeo National Park(1985) Manas Wildlife Sanctuary(1985) Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks(1988, 2005) Sundarbans National Park(1987) Western Ghats(2012) Mixed site  Khangchendzonga National Park(2016)   UPSC CSE Prelims 2024: Consider the following properties included in the World Heritage List released by UNESCO: Shantiniketan Rani-ki-Vav Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas  Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodhgaya  How many of the above properties were included in 2023? Only one Only two Only three All four Answer: B             Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [BRICS  Why in news?](https://rashtramias.com/brics-why-in-news/): BRICS , Why in news?   17th BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, under the theme “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance”. Key Outcomes of 17th Summit: Indonesiaofficially joined BRICS, while Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Nigeria, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Uganda, and Uzbekistan were welcomed as BRICS partner countries. India will assume the BRICS Chairmanship the 18th BRICS summit in 2026 Global Governance Reform:BRICS backed expansion of the UN Security Council to include more permanent members from Asia, Africa, and Latin America for greater Global South representation, urged IMF and World Bank reforms to reflect Emerging Markets and Developing Countries’ (EMDCs)role, and supported a rules-based WTO.   l  Rio de Janeiro Declaration: Strengthening Global South Cooperation for a More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance. Peace and Security:BRICS reaffirmed “African Solutions to African Problems”, called for a Gaza ceasefire and two-state solution. BRICS leaders condemned the Pahalgam attack, and India stressed that terrorism must be rejected on principle, not treated as a matter of  Financial Cooperation: BRICS advanced talks on a Cross-Border PaymentsInitiative to reduce US dollar reliance, supported the New Development Bank’s expansion, and the BRICS Multilateral Guarantees (BMG) pilot to de-risk investments. Health and Social Development:BRICS launched the Partnership for the Elimination of Socially  Determined Diseases(Tuberculosis) to tackle health disparities.  About BRICS: The acronym ‘BRIC’was coined by British economist Jim O’Neill in 2001 to represent the emerging economies of Brazil, Russia, India, and China. BRICbegan functioning as a formal group during the G-8 Outreach Summit in 2006, held its first summit in Russia in 2009, and became BRICS with the inclusion of South Africa in   Members: Initial five Members- Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. Joined in 2024 – Iran, UAE, Ethiopia, Egypt Joined in 2025 – Indonesia (Saudi Arabia has not yet formalized its BRICS membership, while Argentina, initially expected to join in 2024, later opted out) Significance:  BRICS accounts for 45% of the world’s population and 37.3% of global GDP, surpassing the EU’s 14.5% and the G7’s 29.3%.  Initiatives of BRICS:  New Development Bank (2014),  Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA), BRICS Grain Exchange, BRICS Rapid Information Security Channel,  STI Framework Programme (2015) etc.           Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [RED SEA](https://rashtramias.com/red-sea/): RED SEA   The Red Sea is a semi-enclosed, inlet (or extension) of the Indian Ocean between the continents of Africa and Asia. It is connected to the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean to the south through the Gulf of Aden and the narrow strait of Bab el Mandeb. The northern portion of the Red Sea is bifurcated by the Sinai Peninsula into the Gulf of Aqaba and the Gulf of Suez, where it is connected to the Mediterranean Seavia the famous Suez Canal. Formation of Red Sea: The Red Sea formed when Arabia split from Africa due to plate tectonics. This split started in the Eocene and accelerated during the Oligocene. The sea is still widening and it is considered that the sea will become an ocean in time. Salinity of the Red Sea: The Red Sea is one of the most saline water bodies in the world, due to the effects of the water circulation pattern, resulting from evaporation and wind stress. Salinity ranges between 3.6 and 3.8 percent.  The Red Sea water mass exchanges its water with the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean via the Gulf of Aden. These physical factors reduce the effect of high salinity caused by evaporation and cold water in the north and relatively hot water in the south. Countries bordering the Red Sea: Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Sudan, Eritrea and Djibouti. Why Red Sea called as Red Sea? Its name is derived from the colour changes observed in its waters. Normally, the Red Sea is an intense blue-green; however, it is populated by extensive blooms of the algae Trichodesmium erythraeum, which, upon dying off, turn the sea a reddish brown colour. UPSC CSE Prelims 2024: Consider the following statements: The Red Sea receives very little precipitation in any form. No water enters the Red Sea from rivers. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2   Answer: C           Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [UNIFIED PAYMENT INTERFACE (UPI)](https://rashtramias.com/unified-payment-interface-upi/): UNIFIED PAYMENT INTERFACE (UPI) What is UPI? Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is a real-time digital payment system developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) that facilitates instant money transfers between bank accounts via mobile devices. Introduced in 2016, UPI transformed the digital payments landscape by enabling 24×7 fund transfers using mobile apps. Users can send or receive money seamlessly through a Virtual Payment Address (VPA), eliminating the need to share confidential bank details. Features of UPI: Anytime, Anywhere Transfers: UPI allows users to send money to any bank account 24/7, even on holidays and weekends. This ensures instant and smooth payments any time of the day, with no delays. One App, Many Banks: With UPI, there’s no need to juggle multiple banking apps. A single UPI-enabled app gives users access to all their bank accounts, making money management far more convenient. Versatile Ways to Pay: Whether it’s a mobile number, Virtual Payment Address (VPA), or account and IFSC code, UPI supports multiple methods to transfer money—offering flexibility to suit user preferences. Scan & Pay in Seconds: UPI supports seamless payments through QR code scanning, which has become the go-to method for paying at shops, markets, and even roadside vendors fast, secure, and touchless. Automate the Routine: With AutoPay on UPI, users can automate recurring transactions like electricity bills, OTT subscriptions, and EMIs—ensuring you never miss a payment again. Smart Peer-to-Peer Payments: UPI also enables users to request money or respond to collect requests from friends or service providers, making person-to-person transactions simple and effortless. New Features of UPI: Credit Line on UPI: It enables pre-sanctioned credit lines from banks via UPI. Earlier, only the deposited amount could be transacted through the UPI System. UPI Lite X: Users can both send and receive money offline through any compatible device that supports Near Field Communication (NFC). UPI Tap & Pay: It allows NFC-enabled QR codes at merchants to complete payments, with a single tap without entering the PIN. Conversational Payments: Hello! UPI: Users can simply give voice commands to transfer funds and input a UPI PIN to complete the transaction. List of countries where international merchant payments are accepted at select merchant outlets: Bhutan 2. France                      3. UAE Mauritius 5. Singapore 6. Nepal Sri Lanka Challenges Associated with UPI: Regulation: Expanding UPI to accommodate a global user base will require adhering to data protection, financial laws and regulations of different countries posing regulatory and compliance challenges. Dominance of Foreign owned UPI apps: Parliamentary panel’s report, ‘Digital Payment and Online Security Measures for Data Protection’ recently highlights that foreign entities like PhonePe and Google Pay dominate Indian fintech sector. Market share of PhonePe is 46.91% and Google Pay is 36.39% in terms of the transaction volume in October- November 2023, whereas for BHIM UPI it is 0.22%. Security and Fraud: Cybercriminals may exploit vulnerabilities in the system or use social engineering techniques to gain access to sensitive information leading to financial losses. Exchange Rates: Managing currency conversion and exchange rates while facilitating payments and loading money to the wallet poses a significant challenge for cross-border transactions. Lack of awareness: UPI remains a barrier to its widespread adoption especially among individuals with a lack of familiarity with digital payments, leading to financial fraud. NPCI: National Payments Corporation of India National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), an umbrella organization for operating retail payments and settlement systems in India, is an initiative of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) under the provisions of the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007, for creating a robust Payment & Settlement Infrastructure in India. Considering the utility nature of the objects of NPCI, it has been incorporated as a “Not for Profit” Company under the provisions of Section 25 of the Companies Act 1956 (now Section 8 of the Companies Act 2013), with an intention to provide infrastructure to the entire Banking system in India for physical as well as electronic payment and settlement systems. The company is focused on bringing innovations to retail payment systems through the use of technology to achieve greater efficiency in operations and widen the reach of payment systems.   UPSC Prelims 2025: Consider the following countries: United Arab Emirates France III. Germany Singapore Bangladesh How many countries amongst the above are there other than India where international merchant payments are accepted under UPI? Only two Only Three Only Four All Five Answer: B Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [Judicial Transfers & In-House Inquiry](https://rashtramias.com/judicial-transfers-in-house-inquiry-2/): Judicial Transfers & In-House Inquiry     Why in News? The Supreme Court Coallegium has recommended the transfer of Justice Yashwant Varma from the Delhi High Court to the Allahabad High Court. This came after reports of sacks of burnt currency found at his home. ⁠The Chief Justice of India (CJI) has also started an in-house inquiry into the matter.   What is a Judicial Transfer? Article 222 of the Indian Constitution allows the President to transfer judges from one High Court to another. This is done based on the advice of the Chief Justice of India. Consent of the judge is not needed.   Judicial Transfer Process in India: The Chief Justice of India (CJI) starts the process by proposing the transfer of a judge. His decision carries final authority. If a High Court Judge (not a Chief Justice) is being transferred, the CJI consults: The Chief Justice of the judge’s current High Court, and The Chief Justice of the High Court where the judge is to be posted. The CJI may also seek input from one or more Supreme Court judges familiar with the judge’s performance. If a Chief Justice of a High Court is being transferred, the matter is considered by the Collegium – the CJI and the four senior-most judges of the Supreme Court. Personal Factors Considered: The Collegium also reviews non-legal aspects, such as the judge’s health condition, family needs, location preference. Forwarding to the Executive: The Law Minister sends the Collegium’s recommendation to the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister advises the President, who formally approves the transfer. Once approved, the Department of Justice issues an official transfer order in the Gazette of India. The Chief Justices and Chief Ministers of the concerned states are informed about the transfer.   Removal of Judges: Under Articles 124 and 218, judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts can be removed by the President on grounds of “proven misbehaviour” or “incapacity”.   What is an In-House Inquiry? It is an internal process to check complaints against judges when the issue is not serious enough for impeachment.   When Did It Start? After a 1995 Supreme Court case: C. Ravichandran Iyer vs Justice A.M. Bhattacharjee The system was formally adopted in 1999   Steps in In-House Inquiry: Complaint is received by the CJI or a Chief Justice. If valid, a three-judge committee is formed (two CJs + one judge). The judge is given a chance to explain. Based on findings: Minor issue: Judge is warned. Serious issue: Judge may be asked to resign or retire. If refused, duties may be taken away or impeachment may be recommended. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [Supreme Court’s Landmark Verdict on Governor’s Assent to Bills: Reasserting Constitutional Morality and Federal Balance](https://rashtramias.com/supreme-courts-landmark-verdict-on-governors-assent-to-bills-reasserting-constitutional-morality-and-federal-balance/): Supreme Court’s Landmark Verdict on Governor’s Assent to Bills: Reasserting Constitutional Morality and Federal Balance     In a historic verdict that could reshape the relationship between the executive and legislative arms in India’s federal framework, the Supreme Court has ruled decisively on the constitutional duties of the Governor and President in matters concerning assent to state legislation. The judgment stems from a petition filed by the Tamil Nadu government, which highlighted prolonged inaction by the Governor on several Bills passed by the State Assembly. This ruling is not merely a response to one state’s grievances but a vital reaffirmation of the principles of democratic governance, legislative supremacy, and responsible government enshrined in the Constitution.   Background of the Case Between November 2020 and April 2023, the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly passed a total of 13 Bills. Surprisingly, 10 of these Bills either received no communication from the Governor or were returned without clear constitutional justification. Subsequently, the State Assembly re-passed these Bills without making any substantial changes. Instead of granting assent as required under Article 200 of the Constitution, the Governor reserved the re-enacted Bills for the consideration of the President. This prolonged delay and refusal to act prompted the Tamil Nadu government to approach the Supreme Court, seeking judicial remedy against what it described as a violation of constitutional duty.   Key Takeaways from the Supreme Court Verdict Inaction by the Governor or President is Unconstitutional The Court categorically ruled that the Constitution does not provide for either a “pocket veto” (indefinite withholding of assent) or an “absolute veto” in the hands of the Governor or the President. Articles 200 and 201 prescribe a clear framework for how Bills should be dealt with by the Governor and the President, and prolonged inaction amounts to a breach of constitutional responsibility. Importantly, the Court noted that even though the Constitution does not prescribe a specific time frame for assent, an undue delay undermines the principles of parliamentary democracy and responsible government. In such cases, the aggrieved State may seek a writ of mandamus to compel action.   Re-enacted Bills Cannot Be Reserved Again The Court laid down an important principle regarding the re-passage of Bills. If the Governor withholds assent and returns a Bill to the State Assembly, and the Assembly passes it again without making material changes, the Governor must grant assent. The power to reserve such a Bill for the President’s consideration does not survive once the legislature reiterates its intent. However, an exception was noted: if the Bill is substantially altered during the second passage, the Governor may then reserve it for the President under Article 200.   Reasonable Timelines Mandated for Assent and Reservation While the Constitution remains silent on exact timelines, the Court took a pragmatic and judicially innovative step by prescribing reasonable time limits to ensure legislative efficiency:   Within One Month: Governor must decide whether to assent, withhold assent, or reserve the Bill. If a Bill is re-enacted by the legislature, the Governor must act within a month. Reservation based on the advice of the Council of Ministers should also occur within this time frame.   Within Three Months: If the Governor intends to reserve a Bill against the advice of the Council of Ministers, this must be done within three months. The President is also expected to act on reserved Bills within three months, and any delay must be communicated with justification to the State. These timelines are not constitutionally codified but serve as judicial benchmarks to ensure good governance and prevent executive arbitrariness.   Presidential Assent Subject to Judicial Review The Court went a step further in ensuring accountability at the highest level of the executive by holding that even the President’s decision to withhold assent to a State Bill is not immune from judicial scrutiny. If such a decision is found to be arbitrary, mala fide, or unconstitutional, it can be reviewed and potentially invalidated by the judiciary. This reinforces the supremacy of constitutional norms over executive discretion and ensures that legislative will is not obstructed without justification.   President Should Consult the Supreme Court Under Article 143 Another significant aspect of the ruling is the emphasis on consultative federalism. When the President reserves a Bill due to constitutional concerns, the Court held that the matter should be referred to the Supreme Court under Article 143, which empowers the President to seek the Court’s advisory opinion.   This provision serves two purposes: It brings constitutional clarity through judicial interpretation. It restricts the scope of executive discretion by ensuring judicial oversight. Although the President is not strictly bound by the advisory opinion, any deviation must be backed by clearly articulated and constitutionally sound policy reasons.   Constitutional Provisions Revisited Article 200: Governs the Governor’s powers to assent, withhold, return, or reserve State Bills. Article 201: Covers the President’s powers regarding reserved Bills. Article 142: Grants the Supreme Court authority to pass orders to secure complete justice. Article 143: Allows the President to seek the Supreme Court’s opinion on constitutional questions.   Implications for Indian Federalism and Democracy This verdict holds profound significance for Indian democracy. It reaffirms that: Elected legislatures are supreme in law-making within their domain. The role of the Governor is largely ceremonial, and not that of a parallel executive authority. Arbitrary delays or executive discretion in granting assent are antithetical to the principles of responsible government. Judicially prescribed timelines ensure prompt and predictable governance. Above all, the judgment is a powerful reminder that the Constitution is not merely a legal document but a living framework, demanding fidelity to democratic values and institutional responsibility.   To conclude, the Supreme Court’s ruling is a decisive intervention to prevent misuse of constitutional offices for political or bureaucratic obstruction. By curbing discretionary powers, reinforcing timelines, and reasserting judicial oversight, the Court has upheld the spirit of cooperative federalism and safeguarded the functional autonomy of State legislatures. This landmark verdict is not just a legal precedent – it is a vital corrective
- [“Restoring Constitutional Morality” captures the ethical and constitutional stakes.](https://rashtramias.com/restoring-constitutional-morality-captures-the-ethical-and-constitutional-stakes/): Supreme Court’s Landmark Verdict on Governor’s Assent to Bills: Reasserting Constitutional Morality and Federal Balance In a historic verdict that could reshape the relationship between the executive and legislative arms in India’s federal framework, the Supreme Court has ruled decisively on the constitutional duties of the Governor and President in matters concerning assent to state legislation. The judgment stems from a petition filed by the Tamil Nadu government, which highlighted prolonged inaction by the Governor on several Bills passed by the State Assembly. This ruling is not merely a response to one state’s grievances but a vital reaffirmation of the principles of democratic governance, legislative supremacy, and responsible government enshrined in the Constitution. Background of the Case Between November 2020 and April 2023, the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly passed a total of 13 Bills. Surprisingly, 10 of these Bills either received no communication from the Governor or were returned without clear constitutional justification. Subsequently, the State Assembly re-passed these Bills without making any substantial changes. Instead of granting assent as required under Article 200 of the Constitution, the Governor reserved the re-enacted Bills for the consideration of the President. This prolonged delay and refusal to act prompted the Tamil Nadu government to approach the Supreme Court, seeking judicial remedy against what it described as a violation of constitutional duty. Key Takeaways from the Supreme Court Verdict Inaction by the Governor or President is Unconstitutional The Court categorically ruled that the Constitution does not provide for either a “pocket veto” (indefinite withholding of assent) or an “absolute veto” in the hands of the Governor or the President. Articles 200 and 201 prescribe a clear framework for how Bills should be dealt with by the Governor and the President, and prolonged inaction amounts to a breach of constitutional responsibility. Importantly, the Court noted that even though the Constitution does not prescribe a specific time frame for assent, an undue delay undermines the principles of parliamentary democracy and responsible government. In such cases, the aggrieved State may seek a writ of mandamus to compel action. Re-enacted Bills Cannot Be Reserved Again The Court laid down an important principle regarding the re-passage of Bills. If the Governor withholds assent and returns a Bill to the State Assembly, and the Assembly passes it again without making material changes, the Governor must grant assent. The power to reserve such a Bill for the President’s consideration does not survive once the legislature reiterates its intent. However, an exception was noted: if the Bill is substantially altered during the second passage, the Governor may then reserve it for the President under Article 200. Reasonable Timelines Mandated for Assent and Reservation While the Constitution remains silent on exact timelines, the Court took a pragmatic and judicially innovative step by prescribing reasonable time limits to ensure legislative efficiency: Within One Month: Governor must decide whether to assent, withhold assent, or reserve the Bill. If a Bill is re-enacted by the legislature, the Governor must act within a month. Reservation based on the advice of the Council of Ministers should also occur within this time frame. Within Three Months: If the Governor intends to reserve a Bill against the advice of the Council of Ministers, this must be done within three months. The President is also expected to act on reserved Bills within three months, and any delay must be communicated with justification to the State. These timelines are not constitutionally codified but serve as judicial benchmarks to ensure good governance and prevent executive arbitrariness. Presidential Assent Subject to Judicial Review The Court went a step further in ensuring accountability at the highest level of the executive by holding that even the President’s decision to withhold assent to a State Bill is not immune from judicial scrutiny. If such a decision is found to be arbitrary, mala fide, or unconstitutional, it can be reviewed and potentially invalidated by the judiciary. This reinforces the supremacy of constitutional norms over executive discretion and ensures that legislative will is not obstructed without justification. President Should Consult the Supreme Court Under Article 143 Another significant aspect of the ruling is the emphasis on consultative federalism. When the President reserves a Bill due to constitutional concerns, the Court held that the matter should be referred to the Supreme Court under Article 143, which empowers the President to seek the Court’s advisory opinion.   This provision serves two purposes: It brings constitutional clarity through judicial interpretation. It restricts the scope of executive discretion by ensuring judicial oversight. Although the President is not strictly bound by the advisory opinion, any deviation must be backed by clearly articulated and constitutionally sound policy reasons. Constitutional Provisions Revisited Article 200: Governs the Governor’s powers to assent, withhold, return, or reserve State Bills. Article 201: Covers the President’s powers regarding reserved Bills. Article 142: Grants the Supreme Court authority to pass orders to secure complete justice. Article 143: Allows the President to seek the Supreme Court’s opinion on constitutional questions. Implications for Indian Federalism and Democracy This verdict holds profound significance for Indian democracy. It reaffirms that: Elected legislatures are supreme in law-making within their domain. The role of the Governor is largely ceremonial, and not that of a parallel executive authority. Arbitrary delays or executive discretion in granting assent are antithetical to the principles of responsible government. Judicially prescribed timelines ensure prompt and predictable governance. Above all, the judgment is a powerful reminder that the Constitution is not merely a legal document but a living framework, demanding fidelity to democratic values and institutional responsibility. To conclude, the Supreme Court’s ruling is a decisive intervention to prevent misuse of constitutional offices for political or bureaucratic obstruction. By curbing discretionary powers, reinforcing timelines, and reasserting judicial oversight, the Court has upheld the spirit of cooperative federalism and safeguarded the functional autonomy of State legislatures. This landmark verdict is not just a legal precedent – it is a vital corrective to ensure that India’s constitutional machinery works in harmony with its democratic ethos.
- [Judicial Transfers & In-House Inquiry](https://rashtramias.com/judicial-transfers-in-house-inquiry/): Judicial Transfers & In-House Inquiry   Why in News? The Supreme Court Collegium has recommended the transfer of Justice Yashwant Varma from the Delhi High Court to the Allahabad High Court. This came after reports of sacks of burnt currency found at his home. ⁠The Chief Justice of India (CJI) has also started an in-house inquiry into the matter.   What is a Judicial Transfer? Article 222 of the Indian Constitution allows the President to transfer judges from one High Court to another. This is done based on the advice of the Chief Justice of India. Consent of the judge is not needed.   Judicial Transfer Process in India: The Chief Justice of India (CJI) starts the process by proposing the transfer of a judge. His decision carries final authority. If a High Court Judge (not a Chief Justice) is being transferred, the CJI consults: The Chief Justice of the judge’s current High Court, and The Chief Justice of the High Court where the judge is to be posted. The CJI may also seek input from one or more Supreme Court judges familiar with the judge’s performance. If a Chief Justice of a High Court is being transferred, the matter is considered by the Collegium – the CJI and the four senior-most judges of the Supreme Court. Personal Factors Considered: The Collegium also reviews non-legal aspects, such as the judge’s health condition, family needs, location preference. Forwarding to the Executive: The Law Minister sends the Collegium’s recommendation to the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister advises the President, who formally approves the transfer. Once approved, the Department of Justice issues an official transfer order in the Gazette of India. The Chief Justices and Chief Ministers of the concerned states are informed about the transfer.   Removal of Judges: Under Articles 124 and 218 , judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts can be removed by the President on grounds of “proven misbehaviour” or “incapacity”.   What is an In-House Inquiry? It is an internal process to check complaints against judges when the issue is not serious enough for impeachment.   When Did It Start? After a 1995 Supreme Court case: C. Ravichandran Iyer vs Justice A.M. Bhattacharjee The system was formally adopted in 1999   Steps in In-House Inquiry: Complaint is received by the CJI or a Chief Justice. If valid, a three-judge committee is formed (two CJs + one judge). The judge is given a chance to explain. Based on findings: Minor issue: Judge is warned. Serious issue: Judge may be asked to resign or retire. If refused, duties may be taken away or impeachment may be recommended. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [“India’s Gaganyaan Mission: A Leap in Space Exploration”](https://rashtramias.com/indias-gaganyaan-mission-a-leap-in-space-exploration/): India’s Gaganyaan Mission: Launching New Horizons in Space Exploration   India stands on the brink of a historic leap in space exploration as it prepares for the Gaganyaan Mission — the country’s first crewed space mission. Under the leadership of ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation), this mission marks a turning point in India’s scientific and strategic ambitions. What is the Gaganyaan Mission? Gaganyaan aims to send a crew of three Indian astronauts into low Earth orbit (LEO) for a 3-day mission, with a safe return to Earth. Crew Module: Human-rated spacecraft capable of sustaining life and re-entry. Launch Vehicle: GSLV Mk III, renamed as LVM-3, specially modified for crew safety. Altitude: Approximately 400 km above Earth. India will become the 4th country in the world to send humans to space after the USA, Russia, and China. Timeline and Key Milestones 2018: Gaganyaan mission announced by PM Narendra Modi during Independence Day speech. 2022–24: Multiple test missions including uncrewed flights, abort tests, and safety validations. 2025: Target year for India’s first crewed orbital mission. Mission Objectives Technological Demonstration of human spaceflight capability. Strengthen national aerospace infrastructure and R&D. Boost to STEM fields and generate high-skilled jobs. Expand India’s footprint in global space partnerships. Strategic & Scientific Importance Enhances India’s soft power and self-reliance in critical technologies. Strengthens military space capabilities (satellite surveillance, secure communication). Provides a foundation for future deep-space missions — including to the Moon and Mars. Collaborations and Innovations DRDO is supplying space-grade food, life support systems, and bio-medical monitoring. French space agency CNES is partnering in astronaut training. Private Sector involvement is growing under the IN-SPACe initiative. Human Rating standards have improved ISRO’s safety and quality benchmarks. Gaganyaan and the Future of Indian Space Science Gaganyaan is not just about reaching orbit — it’s about inspiring a new generation of Indians. It links to future missions: Bharatiya Antariksha Station (Indian Space Station) by 2035. Manned Moon Mission by 2040. Deep space exploration — Mars, Asteroids, and beyond. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [Sikkim @50: Celebrating Half a Century of Unity with India](https://rashtramias.com/sikkim-50-celebrating-half-a-century-of-unity-with-india/): On May 16, 2025, Sikkim celebrates 50 years of becoming a part of India. Though small in size, this Himalayan state has immense strategic, From Kingdom to Statehood Sikkim was established as a kingdom in 1642, with the Namgyal dynasty ruling as the Chogyal (priest-king) for 333 years. The Namgyal dynasty was influenced by Tibetan lamaist ideology and administrative practices. British Period: Protectorate Status: In 1861, the British established a protectorate over Sikkim through the Treaty of Tumlong. Treaties and Boundaries: Several treaties, , including the Treaty of Titaliya (1817) and the Calcutta Convention (1890), further defined the relationship between Sikkim and the British Indian Empire. Strategic Buffer: The British viewed Sikkim as a buffer state against China and Nepal. 4. Continued Protectorate: After Indian independence, Sikkim remained a protectorate under the Indian Union, initially in a Indian protectorate (semi-formal relationship). Between the 1950s and 1970s, there was growing dissatisfaction with the monarchy and the feudal system. In 1973, anti-royalist protests erupted, culminating in the Indian Army taking control of Gangtok in 1975. Due to growing demand for democracy and integration, a referendum was held in 1975, where over 97% voted to join India. On May 16, 1975, Sikkim officially became India’s 22nd state. Governance Sikkim has its own Legislative Assembly, and Gangtok is the capital. It has made remarkable progress in education, healthcare, rural development, and clean energy, especially through hydroelectric projects. Geography & Natural Beauty Sikkim lies in northeast India, surrounded by Bhutan, Tibet (China), Nepal, and West Bengal. The Kanchenjunga, India’s highest peak and the world’s third highest is located here. Strategic Importance It borders three countries Nepal to the west, Bhutan to the southeast, and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China to the north and northeast. It serves as a key area for India’s defense and diplomacy in the eastern Himalayas. People & Culture Sikkim’s people include Nepalese, Bhutias, Lepchas, and Limbus. It is a blend of Hindu and Buddhist cultures. Festivals like Phanglhapsol and traditional dances show the state’s deep spiritual and cultural roots. Biodiversity & Climate Forests cover over 40% of the land. Home to animals like the red panda, Himalayan black bear, and blue sheep. Rich in plant life, from orchids and rhododendrons to alpine meadows. Climate varies from tropical in the south to cold alpine in the north. Economy Agriculture is the backbone, with crops like rice, maize, cardamom, and vegetables. Sikkim is known as the world’s first fully organic state. Tourism, especially eco- and adventure tourism, is growing fast. Sikkim’s journey from a monarchy to a progressive Indian state showshow democracy, geography, and culture blend in India’s federal structure. Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [India’s Fisheries Sector: A Beacon of Blue Growth and Sustainable Innovation](https://rashtramias.com/indias-fisheries-sector-a-beacon-of-blue-growth-and-sustainable-innovation/): India’s fisheries sector has emerged as a cornerstone of the Blue Economy, contributing significantly to food security, employment, export earnings, and socio-economic development, especially in coastal and rural areas. With the second-largest aquaculture production and third-largest fish production globally, India is embracing innovation, sustainability, and modernization to unlock the full potential of its aquatic wealth. Transformative Growth in Fisheries (2004–2024) The last two decades have seen an unprecedented transformation in India’s fisheries sector. From traditional fishing methods to cutting-edge tech-enabled systems, the sector has witnessed a strategic shift powered by substantial government investment, innovative policies, and private sector participation. Fish production in 2024–25 stood at 195 lakh tonnes, with an impressive 9%+ annual sectoral growth. Total investment in fisheries since 2015 has reached Rs. 38,572 crore through flagship schemes like: Blue Revolution Scheme Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) PM Matsya Samridhi Sah Yojana (PM-MKSSY) Kisan Credit Card (KCC) for Fishers India’s Vision for a Modern Fisheries Ecosystem In a recent high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, several forward-looking strategies were highlighted: . Smart Harbours and Fish Markets: Infrastructure upgrade for modern, efficient, and hygienic fish handling. Use of Drones: For transporting fresh catch from production centres to urban markets. Satellite Technology: To provide safety alerts, map Potential Fishing Zones (PFZs), and optimize catch. Fish Tech Adoption: Emphasizing tech-driven production, processing, and marketing, akin to AgriTech. Ornamental Fisheries: Promoted as a high-potential avenue for rural and urban entrepreneurs. Sustainable Practices at the Core Sustainability is central to India’s fisheries policy and actions. The National Policy on Marine Fisheries (NPMF 2017) underscores the conservation and scientific management of marine resources. Key measures include: Uniform 61-Day Fishing Ban during monsoons for stock replenishment. . Prohibition of Destructive Gear: Bans on bull trawling, LED light fishing, and pair trawling. Artificial Reefs: 937 reefs approved (as of Sep 2024) across 11 states/UTs to enhance biodiversity and fish habitats. Seaweed Cultivation: Being developed for fuel, nutrition, pharmaceuticals, and industry. Mariculture & Sea Ranching: Promoted to reduce pressure on coastal resources and boost inland production. Infrastructure Development & Innovation Integrated Aquaparks: 11 aquaparks approved under PMMSY with a cost of Rs. 682.6 crore, designed to enhance the aquaculture value chain-from hatchery to market. Nucleus Breeding Centres (NBCs): Focus on genetic improvement of species like shrimp for high productivity. GIS & Satellite Tools: For real-time data on marine resources and landing centres. CIFE as a Knowledge Hub: ICAR’s Central Institute of Fisheries Education has trained over 4,000 professionals, driving sustainable practices across India. Inclusive Development & Empowerment The sector supports over 2.8 crore fishers and fish farmers, many of whom belong to marginalized communities. Special focus is now being laid on: Capacity Building: Training in modern fishing techniques, safety, and hygiene Private Investment & FDI: Encouraged to scale processing, cold chains, and exports. Landlocked Regions: Strategic plans being created to meet fish demand inland via improved transport and production systems. Amrit Sarovars: Fisheries in these rejuvenated water bodies are improving both ecological health and livelihoods. India’s fisheries sector is no longer just a traditional livelihood it’s a dynamic, tech-integrated, and future-ready industry. With a focus on sustainability, innovation and inclusivity, the Blue Economy is becoming a vital driver of India’s growth story. As the country dives deeper into modern marine governance and aquaculture development, it is poised to become a global leader in responsible and resilient fisheries.   Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute for Civil Services is destined to provide you the best curated content for civil services examination on both mains and prelims perspective. Follow us for more such content…. To register, call: 9964152111Seats are filling fast — register today and step into the exam hall with full confidence! Address: Jaynagar last, Bus Stop, Saptapur, Dharwad, Karnataka 580001
- [Why Rashtram Institute Dharwad ?](https://rashtramias.com/blog-1/): Empowering Rural Aspirants: Rashtram Institute’s Commitment to Civil Services Preparation   The journey to becoming an IAS, IPS, or IFS officer is challenging, especially for students from rural Karnataka who often face a lack of resources and guidance. Rashtram Institute, Dharwad, is on a mission to bridge this gap by providing quality education, expert mentorship, and a conducive learning environment. Why Rashtram Institute? Founded with the vision of making UPSC and KAS preparation accessible and effective, Rashtram Institute stands as a beacon of hope for aspirants, particularly those from Kannada-medium backgrounds. Our institution is dedicated to nurturing talent and empowering students with the right knowledge, strategies, and motivation to achieve their civil service dreams. Unique Features of Rashtram Institute Experienced Faculty: Our team comprises subject matter experts with 20+ years of experience in guiding aspirants through UPSC and KAS exams. Comprehensive Study Material: We offer well-structured study resources tailored to the latest exam patterns and syllabus. Personalized Mentorship: One-on-one mentorship ensures students receive individualized attention and strategic guidance. Regular Mock Tests & Group Discussions: We conduct frequent assessments and interactive sessions to enhance analytical and answer-writing skills. Mains Answer Writing Practice: Focused training on structuring high-quality answers for the written examination. Holistic Personality Development: Beyond academics, we emphasize leadership skills, interview preparation, and overall personality growth. Creating a Positive Learning Environment At Rashtram Institute, we understand the significance of a supportive and encouraging atmosphere. Our infrastructure, faculty, and learning methodologies are designed to instill confidence and equip students with the necessary tools to excel in the highly competitive civil services examination. Join Us and Make Your Dream a Reality For aspiring civil servants looking for a dedicated and result-oriented coaching center in North Karnataka, Rashtram Institute is the right choice. We are proud to be part of your journey and committed to guiding you towards success. Start your journey with us today and take a step closer to achieving your dream of serving the nation!
- [How to Boost Your Productivity While Taking Online Courses at Rashtram Institute](https://rashtramias.com/how-to-boost-your-productivity-while-taking-online-courses/):   Online learning has transformed the way students prepare for competitive exams like UPSC and KAS. At Rashtram Institute, we offer structured online courses that provide flexibility and quality education. However, staying productive during online learning requires discipline and smart strategies. Here are some practical tips to help you maximize your productivity while taking online courses at Rashtram Institute. 1. Create a Dedicated Study Space Having a quiet and organized study space helps improve focus and reduces distractions. Choose a comfortable spot with good lighting, a stable internet connection, and all necessary study materials. 2. Set Clear Goals and Schedules Plan your study schedule in advance. Set daily, weekly, and monthly goals to keep track of your progress. Rashtram Institute provides structured course timelines, so align your personal schedule accordingly. 3. Minimize Distractions Turn off social media notifications, keep your phone away, and inform family members about your study hours. Using apps like Focus Booster or Forest can help you stay on track. 4. Engage Actively in Live Sessions Participate in live webinars, ask questions, and engage with instructors and fellow students. Active participation enhances understanding and retention of concepts. 5. Take Notes Effectively Use digital or handwritten notes to summarize key points. Organizing notes systematically helps in quick revision before exams. 6. Practice Regularly with Mock Tests At Rashtram Institute, we offer mock tests and quizzes to evaluate your progress. Attempting these regularly enhances your problem-solving skills and time management. 7. Utilize Study Resources Make full use of the resources provided, including recorded lectures, study materials, and discussion forums. Reviewing previous sessions can reinforce learning. 8. Stay Consistent and Motivated Self-discipline is key to online learning success. Set small rewards for achieving milestones, and remind yourself of your goal – cracking the UPSC/KAS exam! 9. Maintain a Healthy Routine Take short breaks, exercise, eat nutritious food, and get enough sleep. A healthy body supports a sharp mind and better focus. 10. Seek Support When Needed Don’t hesitate to reach out to mentors or join discussion groups for clarifications and guidance. Rashtram Institute provides one-on-one mentorship to help students stay on track.     Conclusion Success in online courses depends on how effectively you manage your time, stay disciplined, and utilize available resources. By following these strategies, you can enhance your productivity and make the most of your online learning experience at Rashtram Institute. Stay focused, stay determined, and move closer to your goal of becoming a civil servant!
- [Explore the Latest Current Affairs with Rashtram Institute](https://rashtramias.com/exploring-new-hobbies-online-courses-for-every-interest/): Explore the Latest Current Affairs with Rashtram Institute Staying updated with current affairs is crucial for UPSC and KAS aspirants, as these exams heavily emphasize awareness of national and international events. At Rashtram Institute, we ensure that our students remain well-informed and prepared by providing comprehensive current affairs coverage. Here’s how you can effectively explore and integrate current affairs into your exam preparation.     Why Current Affairs Matter? Current affairs are an integral part of the UPSC and KAS examinations, influencing multiple subjects, including General Studies, Essay Writing, and Interview rounds. Knowledge of contemporary events helps aspirants develop a strong analytical approach and a broader understanding of governance, economics, science, and international relations. Ways to Stay Updated with Rashtram Institute 1. Daily News Analysis We provide structured daily news analysis to help students break down complex topics into easy-to-understand summaries. Our faculty ensures that important government policies, international affairs, and socio-economic developments are covered in detail. 2. Weekly and Monthly Current Affairs Compilations Our team curates essential news and topics from newspapers like The Hindu, Indian Express, PIB, and government reports. These compilations help students revise and retain critical information effortlessly. 3. Expert Discussions and Analysis We conduct live webinars and discussion sessions where subject experts analyze significant events and policies. These interactive sessions enable students to ask questions and develop a well-rounded understanding. 4. Current Affairs Quizzes Regular quizzes based on current events test your knowledge and reinforce learning. These quizzes are designed to simulate exam patterns and improve retention through practice. 5. Editorial and Opinion-Based Learning Understanding editorials from reputed newspapers helps in enhancing answer-writing skills. We provide editorial breakdowns, helping students grasp different perspectives and develop a critical viewpoint. 6. Monthly Magazines and Reports Our dedicated team compiles monthly magazines summarizing essential news events, government policies, and economic trends, making revision easier for students. How to Integrate Current Affairs into Your Preparation? Link with Static Subjects: Relate current affairs to subjects like history, polity, geography, and economics for a comprehensive understanding. Make Notes: Summarize important news events in short bullet points for quick revision before exams. Regular Revisions: Use our weekly and monthly compilations to stay consistent in your preparation. Participate in Discussions: Engage in group discussions to enhance retention and analytical skills. Conclusion Keeping up with current affairs is essential for UPSC and KAS success. Rashtram Institute ensures that our students stay ahead with expert analysis, structured resources, and interactive learning sessions. Stay informed, stay prepared, and take a step closer to your dream of becoming a civil servant!
- [Learn Language Aptitude and Reasoning at Rashtram Institute](https://rashtramias.com/language-learning-tips-for-beginners-start-speaking-fluently/): Learn Language Aptitude and Reasoning at Rashtram Institute Language aptitude and reasoning are critical skills for aspirants preparing for competitive exams like UPSC and KAS. Strong language proficiency enhances comprehension and communication, while reasoning skills improve problem-solving and analytical thinking. At Rashtram Institute, we provide structured training to help students master these essential abilities effectively. Why Language Aptitude Matters? A good command of language is necessary for effective communication, reading comprehension, and essay writing in exams. It helps students understand complex texts, articulate their thoughts clearly, and perform well in both the written and interview stages of civil service examinations. How Rashtram Institute Enhances Language Skills? 1. Vocabulary Building and Reading Comprehension We provide curated word lists, daily reading exercises, and comprehension practice to strengthen vocabulary and reading speed. Students learn how to analyze passages efficiently and extract key information quickly. 2. Grammar and Writing Skills Development Our expert faculty teaches essential grammar rules, sentence structuring, and writing techniques to enhance answer-writing skills. These sessions help students write precise and impactful responses in exams. 3. Editorial Analysis and Essay Writing Understanding editorial opinions and writing structured essays are vital skills for UPSC and KAS exams. We provide topic-wise essay guidance and analysis of important articles to improve critical thinking and articulation. Importance of Reasoning in Competitive Exams Logical reasoning is a key component of prelims and aptitude tests. Strong reasoning skills help candidates solve complex problems, interpret data, and make rational decisions efficiently. How Rashtram Institute Strengthens Reasoning Skills? 1. Logical and Analytical Reasoning Sessions We conduct interactive classes covering key reasoning topics such as syllogisms, puzzles, coding-decoding, and logical deductions. These sessions help students develop a structured approach to solving problems. 2. Practice-Based Learning Approach Regular practice is essential for mastering reasoning skills. We provide topic-wise practice sets, previous years’ question papers, and real-time mock tests to ensure students gain hands-on experience. 3. Time Management and Strategy Building Competitive exams require candidates to solve reasoning questions quickly and accurately. Our faculty trains students on time-saving techniques and shortcut methods to boost efficiency during exams. Tips to Improve Language and Reasoning Skills Read daily: Newspapers, editorials, and books enhance comprehension and vocabulary. Practice regularly: Solve reasoning problems daily to build confidence and accuracy. Engage in discussions: Debates and discussions improve language fluency and critical thinking. Use online tools: Flashcards, quizzes, and language apps aid in learning and retention. Conclusion At Rashtram Institute, we believe that strong language aptitude and reasoning skills are fundamental for success in UPSC and KAS exams. Our structured approach, expert guidance, and interactive learning sessions help students excel in these crucial areas. Join us to refine your skills and enhance your chances of achieving your dream career in civil services!  

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- [Test Series](https://rashtramias.com/course-details/test-series/): Test Series Details Home – Test Series KAS Prelims & Mains Test Series 2026 KAS Prelims & Mains Test Series 2026 Download KAS Prelims & Mains Test Series 2026 KAS Prelims & Mains Test Series 2026 A structured, comprehensive and syllabus-oriented test series designed to help aspirants complete the syllabus, revise systematically, practise extensively and assess their preparation under exam-like conditions. The test series follows a progressive approach—beginning with subject-wise tests, followed by revision tests, current affairs integration and full-length examinations. Key Features1. Complete Subject-Wise CoverageThe test series covers the major areas of the KAS syllabus:Indian PolityGeographyEconomicsIndian HistoryKarnataka HistoryEnvironment and EcologyBasic ScienceScience & TechnologyCurrent AffairsMental AbilityBudget and Economic Survey 2. Progressive Testing ApproachThe series follows the pattern:Subject-wise Tests → Revision Tests → Integrated Tests → Full-Length TestsThis ensures that aspirants do not merely complete the syllabus but also repeatedly revise and apply their knowledge. 3. KAS Prelims Test SeriesThe Prelims programme includes:23 Subject-wise Tests13 Revision & Integrated Tests6 GS-I Full-Length TestsMental Ability included throughout the programmeRegular coverage of National, International and Karnataka Current AffairsThe subject-wise tests cover the entire syllabus of Polity, Geography, Economics, History, Environment, Basic Science and Science & Technology. 4. Systematic RevisionRevision tests are conducted after the completion of major subjects to ensure:Retention of conceptsIdentification of weak areasRepeated revision of the syllabusIntegration of static subjects with current affairsThe revision tests progressively combine subjects such as Polity, Geography, Economics, History, Environment and Science & Technology with relevant current affairs and Mental Ability. 5. Full-Length Examination PracticeThe series includes six GS-I Full-Length Tests covering:PolityGeographyHistoryEconomicsNational and International Current AffairsThese tests help aspirants develop:Time managementQuestion selection skillsAccuracyExam temperamentFull-paper solving ability 6. KAS Mains Test SeriesThe Mains component is designed to provide systematic answer-writing practice across:PolityGeographyEconomicsHistoryEnvironment and EcologyThe tests are aligned with the corresponding syllabus covered in the Prelims programme, with additional focus on analytical understanding and written expression. Why Join This Test Series? Complete syllabus coverage Regular testing and revision Integrated Current Affairs preparation Dedicated Karnataka-specific content Mental Ability practice throughout Multiple full-length examination simulations Progressive difficulty and syllabus integration Prelims and Mains-oriented preparation in one structured programme Ideal For* KAS aspirants preparing for the upcoming examination* Beginners seeking a structured preparation plan* Repeaters looking for systematic revision and testing* Aspirants aiming to improve speed, accuracy and exam performance Download KAS Prelims & Mains Test Series 2026 Can I crack UPSC in 30 days?   UPSC recruits students to top-level government positions either in Centre and States and it is considered to be one of the toughest exam in the world. This exam has got 3 stages:1. Preliminary (Objective Type)2. Mains (Descriptive)3. Personality Test (Interview) It needs a holistic and comprehensive plan to prepare for atleast 9 months to 12 months to holistically cover the syllabus and be exam ready. For more guidance and assistance you can call at Rashtram Institute, Dharwad (9964152111) Mon-Wed 06:00 AM – 08:00 PM Thu-Sat 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM Sunday Closed Course Details: Instructor S. V Patil Lesson Duration 12 Weeks Lessons 100 Places for Students 120 Language: Kannada, English, Hindi Certifications Digital, Physical Enroll Now
- [Foundation Course](https://rashtramias.com/course-details/foundation-course-details/): Course Details Home – KAS Course Details New Foundation Batch Karnataka SSLC Examination 3 months 100Studenst Description New Foundation Batch for Karnataka SSLC Examination at Rashtram Institute Rashtram Institute is excited to announce the launch of a new Foundation Batch for students preparing for the Karnataka SSLC Examination. This course is designed to provide comprehensive guidance and ensure that students are fully prepared to excel in their 10th grade board exams. Course Highlights: 🔹 Expert Faculty:Our team of highly experienced and qualified teachers will guide students through every subject of the Karnataka SSLC syllabus, helping them build a solid foundation in key concepts. 🔹 Complete Syllabus Coverage:The Foundation Batch covers all core subjects, including: Mathematics (Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry) Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) Social Science (History, Civics, Geography, Economics) Languages (Kannada, English, and other optional subjects) 🔹 Interactive Learning:Classes are conducted in both English and Kannada to ensure clarity and comfort for all students. Engage in interactive learning, discussions, and regular doubt-clearing sessions. 🔹 Study Materials & Resources:Students receive well-structured study materials, sample papers, and revision notes, designed to simplify complex topics and improve exam readiness. 🔹 Regular Assessments & Mock Tests:Mock exams and periodic tests help students track their progress and identify areas for improvement. Timed practice sessions simulate real exam conditions to boost confidence and exam readiness. 🔹 Personalized Doubt Clearing:Dedicated doubt-solving sessions for students to get individual attention and resolve subject-specific queries. 🔹 Flexible Learning Mode:Choose between online and offline classes depending on your convenience. Our online platform provides video lessons, downloadable materials, and real-time virtual doubt sessions. 🔹 Parental Involvement:Regular updates for parents, including progress reports and feedback sessions, to ensure the holistic development of each student. Why Choose Rashtram Institute? Proven track record of high success rates in SSLC exams. Expert faculty with years of teaching experience. A student-centric approach focused on conceptual clarity and exam strategies. Personalized support and mentoring to guide each student through the preparation journey. Join the Foundation Batch Now! Ensure your success in the Karnataka SSLC Examination with the Foundation Batch at Rashtram Institute. Enroll today and set a strong foundation for your academic future! Benefits of UPSC CSE Coaching at Rashtram Institute   Expert guidance from experienced faculty Comprehensive and structured study material Personalized mentorship and support Regular mock tests and quizzes Flexible online and offline learning options Focus on personality development and interview skills Proven track record of successful candidates Access to exclusive learning resources Dedicated academic and motivational support services Affordable and accessible for all candidates Mon-Wed 06:00 AM – 08:00 PM Thu-Sat 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM Sunday Closed Course Details: Instructor S. V Patil Lesson Duration 12 Weeks Lessons 100 Places for Students 120 Language: Kannada, English, Hindi Certifications Digital, Physical Enroll Now
- [Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)](https://rashtramias.com/frequently-asked-questions-faq/): Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. What courses does Rashtram Institute offer?We provide coaching for UPSC, KAS, and other competitive exams with both online and offline study options. 2. How do I enroll in a course?You can enroll by visiting our website, selecting a course, and completing the registration process with payment. 3. Are there any free resources available?Yes, we offer free study materials, sample questions, and demo classes to help students get started. 4. Can I access course materials after completion?Yes, enrolled students can access recorded lectures and study materials for a limited period after course completion. 5. What is the refund policy?Fees once paid are generally non-refundable. However, in special cases, refunds may be considered as per our policy. 6. Do you offer personal mentorship?Yes, we provide one-on-one mentorship to guide students in their preparation and career planning. 7. What is the duration of the courses?Course durations vary, ranging from a few months for crash courses to a year-long comprehensive coaching program. 8. Do you provide test series and mock exams?Yes, we offer regular test series, mock exams, and performance analysis to help students track their progress. 9. Is there any scholarship or financial aid available?Yes, we offer scholarships and financial assistance to deserving students based on merit and need. 10. Can I get career guidance after completing the course?Yes, we provide career guidance and support even after course completion to help students achieve their goals.
- [Terms and Conditions](https://rashtramias.com/privacy-policy-2/): Terms and Conditions 1. IntroductionWelcome to Rashtram Institute. By accessing our website and enrolling in our courses, you agree to abide by these terms and conditions. Please read them carefully before proceeding. 2. Course Enrollment Students must provide accurate personal and academic details during the enrollment process. Course fees must be paid as per the specified schedule to access study materials and live sessions. Enrollment is non-transferable, and sharing login credentials is strictly prohibited. 3. Payment & Refund Policy Fees once paid are non-refundable except under special circumstances approved by the management. Rashtram Institute reserves the right to modify course fees at any time. Any fraudulent transactions will result in immediate cancellation of enrollment. 4. Use of Study Material All course content, including videos, notes, and quizzes, is for personal use only. Reproduction, distribution, or sharing of study materials without permission is prohibited. Violation of this policy may lead to legal action. 5. Code of Conduct Students must maintain discipline and respect faculty members and peers. Any misconduct, including harassment or cheating, will result in immediate suspension. Rashtram Institute reserves the right to take necessary actions against violators. 6. Technical Requirements Students are responsible for ensuring they have a stable internet connection and compatible devices. Rashtram Institute is not liable for disruptions due to technical issues beyond our control. 7. Privacy Policy Personal information collected during enrollment is used solely for academic and administrative purposes. We do not share student data with third parties without consent. 8. Amendments Rashtram Institute reserves the right to modify these terms at any time. Any updates will be communicated through official channels.
- [KAS Course](https://rashtramias.com/course-details/kas-course-details/): Course Details Home – KAS Course Details Course Description – KAS (Karnataka Administrative Service) 3 months 100Studenst Description   The Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) conducts the Karnataka Administrative Service (KAS) examination to select candidates for various administrative services in the state of Karnataka. KAS Age Limits General Category: Candidates must be at least 21 years old and not more than 35 years old as of the specified application date. SC/ST Category: The upper age limit is relaxed by 5 years. OBC Category: The upper age limit is relaxed by 3 years. Physically Handicapped or Widow Candidates: The upper age limit is relaxed by 10 years. Ex-servicemen: The upper age limit is relaxed by the number of years of service rendered in the Armed Forces. Group A – Services Karnataka Administrative Service (Assistant Commissioner) Karnataka State Accounts Service Karnataka Commercial Tax Service (AC-CTO) Karnataka Treasury Service Karnataka Labour Service Karnataka General Service (Development Branch & Local Government Branch) Karnataka Police Service Karnataka General Service (Directorate of Youth Services) Karnataka Reserve Police Service Karnataka General Service (Social Welfare Branch) Karnataka Food & Civil Supplies Service Karnataka Backward Classes & Minorities DP Service Group B – Services Karnataka Administrative Service (Tahsildars) Karnataka Commercial Tax Service (CTO) Karnataka Service for Labour Administration Karnataka Weights & Measures Service Karnataka Service for Jails Administration Karnataka Co-operative Service Karnataka Excise Service Karnataka Employment and Training Service Karnataka General Service (Directorate of Youth Services) Karnataka General Service (Survey Settlement & Land Records Branch) Karnataka Municipal Administrative Service Karnataka Treasury Service Karnataka Marketing Service Karnataka Food and Civil Supplies Service (Food Wing) Karnataka Co-operative Audit Service Karnataka General Service (Development Branch & Local Government Branch) Karnataka Government Secretariat This course prepares candidates for the KAS exam by covering all aspects of the syllabus and providing structured guidance to help them succeed in the examination process. Benefits of UPSC CSE Coaching at Rashtram Institute   Expert guidance from experienced faculty Comprehensive and structured study material Personalized mentorship and support Regular mock tests and quizzes Flexible online and offline learning options Focus on personality development and interview skills Proven track record of successful candidates Access to exclusive learning resources Dedicated academic and motivational support services Affordable and accessible for all candidates Mon-Wed 06:00 AM – 08:00 PM Thu-Sat 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM Sunday Closed Course Details: Instructor S. V Patil Lesson Duration 12 Weeks Lessons 100 Places for Students 120 Language: Kannada, English, Hindi Certifications Digital, Physical Enroll Now
- [privacy Policy](https://rashtramias.com/privacy-policy/): At Rashtram Institute, we are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring a safe online experience. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, and protect your personal information when you visit our website or interact with our services. 1. Information Collection We collect personal information that you voluntarily provide to us when you register for our courses, subscribe to our newsletters, or contact us for inquiries. This may include your name, email address, phone number, and other relevant details. 2. Use of Information The information we collect is used to: Provide you with information about our courses, events, and updates. Process your enrollment and assist you with course-related inquiries. Improve our website and services to enhance your experience. Send promotional emails or offers related to our coaching programs, which you can opt-out of at any time. 3. Data Protection We take the security of your personal data seriously and implement measures to safeguard your information from unauthorized access, alteration, or disclosure. 4. Sharing of Information We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third parties. However, we may share your information with trusted third-party service providers who assist us in operating our website or delivering our services, subject to confidentiality agreements. 5. Cookies Our website may use cookies to enhance your browsing experience. Cookies help us analyze website traffic, personalize content, and improve functionality. You can control cookies through your browser settings. 6. Third-Party Links Our website may contain links to external websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of these third-party sites. We encourage you to read their privacy policies. 7. Your Rights You have the right to access, correct, or delete your personal data. If you wish to modify or delete your information, please contact us at the provided contact details. 8. Changes to This Privacy Policy We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. Any updates will be posted on this page with an updated date. 9. Contact Us If you have any questions or concerns regarding this Privacy Policy or the handling of your personal information, please contact us at: Rashtram Institute +91 9964152111 Jayanagar last Bus Stop Saptapur, Dharwad. By using our website or services, you consent to the terms outlined in this Privacy Policy.
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- [IAS Course](https://rashtramias.com/course-details/): Course Details Home – Course Details Course Description – UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 3 months 100Studenst Description Course Description – UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Civil Services Examination (CSE) to select candidates for various prestigious roles in the Indian Administrative Services (IAS), Indian Police Services (IPS), and other Group A & B services. IAS Exam Age Limits General Category: Candidates must be at least 21 years old. The maximum age is 32, with 6 attempts allowed. OBC Category: Candidates are allowed up to 9 attempts with a maximum age limit of 35 years. SC/ST Category: Candidates can attempt the exam an unlimited number of times until they reach the age of 37. Educational Qualification Candidates must have completed their graduation degree. Candidates who have appeared for their qualifying degree exams but have not received the results are also eligible. Number of Attempts General Category: 6 attempts OBC Category: 7 attempts SC/ST Category: Unlimited attempts until the age of 37 Attempting any paper in the preliminary examination counts as one attempt, including disqualification or cancellation of candidature. However, applying without attending the exam is not considered an attempt. Group A – Services Indian Administrative Service (IAS) Indian Audit and Accounts Service Indian Civil Accounts Service Indian Corporate Law Service Indian Defence Accounts Service Indian Defence Estates Service Indian Foreign Service (IFS) Indian Information Service Indian Ordnance Factories Service Indian Police Service (IPS) Indian Post & Telecommunication Accounts and Finance Service Indian Postal Service Indian Railway Accounts Service Indian Railway Personnel Service Indian Railway Traffic Service Indian Revenue Service (Income Tax) Indian Revenue Service (CBEC) Indian Trade Service Railway Protection Force Group B – Services Armed Forces Headquarters Civil Service Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands Civil Service Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands Police Service Pondicherry Civil Service Pondicherry Police Service This course prepares you for all these services under the UPSC exam structure, offering comprehensive guidance for success. Benefits of UPSC CSE Coaching at Rashtram Institute   Expert guidance from experienced faculty Comprehensive and structured study material Personalized mentorship and support Regular mock tests and quizzes Flexible online and offline learning options Focus on personality development and interview skills Proven track record of successful candidates Access to exclusive learning resources Dedicated academic and motivational support services Affordable and accessible for all candidates Mon-Sat 06:00 AM – 06:00 PM Sunday Closed Course Details: Instructor S. V Patil Lesson Duration 12 Weeks Lessons 100 Places for Students 120 Language: Kannada, English, Hindi Certifications Digital, Physical Enroll Now
- [Courses](https://rashtramias.com/courses/): Course Catalog Home – Courses Unlock Your Potential: View Our Courses  where affordability meets excellence! Get expert guidance, flexible learning, and holistic development to become a future officer. Join us today! Expert 3 Months 100 Studenst Indian Administrative Service IAS is a prestigious career in governance. Crack UPSC with Rashtram Institute’s expert, affordable coaching!    Enroll Now Intermediate 3 Months 100 Studenst Karnataka Administrative Service KAS is Karnataka’s top civil service. Crack KPSC with Rashtram Institute’s expert, affordable coaching!    Enroll Now Intermediate 3 Months 100 Studenst Civil Services Civil Services offer prestigious careers in governance. Clear UPSC with expert coaching at Rashtram Institute!   Enroll Now Beginner 3 Months 100 Studenst Foundation Ace Karnataka State Exams with Foundation Batch! Expert coaching for FDA, SDA, PSI & more. Enroll now!    Enroll Now Most Popular Course: 3 months 100 Studenst Karnataka Administrative Service Our KAS Exam Preparation Course is the most popular among aspirants aiming for a career in the Karnataka Administrative Services. This comprehensive course covers all stages of the KAS exam, including Prelims, Mains, and the Interview, with expert guidance, personalized mentorship, and structured study material to ensure success. Enroll Now
- [About](https://rashtramias.com/about/): About Us Home – About About Us Our Vision Education for All Rashtram Institute, Dharwad has been started in 2022 in the region of North Karnataka with a mission of making UPSC preparation affordable and effective for the rural talented candidates especially from Kannada Medium. We have the senior must and well experienced subject expert to guide the student offline/online about CSE prelims and mains. Our Institute has been the pioneer in providing qualitative and standard coaching for the CSE exam for the student coming from humble background. W also gave priority for personalities of the student to make them good Officers of Tomorrow. IAS (Indian Administrative Service) 0 % KAS (Karnataka Administrative Service) 0 % Civil Services 0 % Aptitude and Reasoning 0 % Features Comprehensive Course Content “Our comprehensive course content covers all key subjects and exam patterns for UPSC and KAS. Designed by experts, it ensures thorough preparation with detailed study materials, practice papers, and expert insights.” 5k+ Students “Over 5,000 students have trusted Rashtram Institute for their UPSC and KAS preparation. Our proven coaching methods and dedicated support have helped countless aspirants achieve success and reach their career goals.” Interactive Quizzes “Engage with our interactive quizzes designed to enhance your knowledge and test your preparation for UPSC and KAS exams. They offer real-time feedback, helping you improve and track your progress efficiently.” Live Webinars “Join our live webinars hosted by expert faculty, covering key topics and strategies for UPSC and KAS exams. Get real-time insights, ask questions, and gain valuable tips to boost your exam preparation.” Self-Paced Learning “With self-paced learning at Rashtram Institute, study at your own convenience. Access expert-led lectures, study materials, and resources anytime, anywhere, ensuring flexible preparation for UPSC and KAS exams.” Progress Tracking “Stay on top of your preparation with our progress tracking system. Monitor your performance, identify strengths and weaknesses, and get personalized recommendations to ensure consistent improvement in your UPSC and KAS journey.” Support Services “Rashtram Institute offers dedicated support services to guide you throughout your UPSC and KAS preparation. From academic assistance to personalized counseling, our team is here to ensure you stay motivated and on track.” “Education is the Manifestation of Perfection Already Existing in Man” – Swami Vivekananda Message From Director I warmly greet the aspirants/parents and candidates who are already part of the Rashtram Institute. As CSE aspirants in Kannada Medium, I found difficulty in preparation due to language barrier and lack of access of valuable study materials in Northern Karnataka. Candidates from affluent background found it easy way through CSE by going to Delhi / Hyderabad / Bangalore but candidates from humble background found it difficult and left chasing their dreams of becoming IAS and moved towards other state competitive exams. It was the moment after the Covid-19, it was felt by me the right time to start coaching centre in Dharwad with an aim to provide affordable and quality coaching to the aspirants from different parks of the state especially from the North-Karnataka.   Abhishek Hiremath~Director   Career Advancement Results “Rashtram Institute’s coaching has consistently helped students achieve their career goals. With expert guidance and personalized support, our students are excelling in UPSC, KAS, and other competitive exams, securing top positions in their desired fields.”   Course Students 0 k+ Online video’s 0 + Instructors 0 + Satisfaction 0 % Testimonial Feedback from Our Community “Our teachers at Rashtram Institute bring years of experience and dedication to guide students effectively. With personalized attention and a focus on holistic development, they ensure that each student excels academically and beyond.” Guru Shankar Faculty Member ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ “As a teacher at Rashtram Institute, I’ve seen firsthand the dedication and passion the team puts into guiding each student. It’s not just about academics but shaping them into confident future leaders.”   S. V Patil Governance and Ethics ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ “Rashtram Institute is a place where both students and teachers thrive. The institute’s commitment to quality education, coupled with a strong focus on holistic development, creates an ideal environment for learning and growth.” VRS Sir Basic Science ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ “Working with Rashtram Institute has been a rewarding experience. The collaborative teaching approach and focus on personalized student development make it a unique and effective coaching center.” Course Mentors Instructional Advisors Our Instructional Advisors play a vital role in guiding students through their UPSC and KAS preparation. These experienced professionals bring in-depth knowledge and years of teaching experience to provide strategic insights, subject expertise, and personalized mentorship. S. V Patil 25+ years of experience Nanjunda Gowda 24+ years of experience Mohan Krishna 20+ years of experience VRS Sir 20+ years of experience Guru Shankar 15+ years of experience Sukruth Simha 15+ years of experience
- [Home](https://rashtramias.com/): Rashtram Institute, Dharwad . Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders, Today! Our Institute has been the pioneer in providing qualitative and standard coaching for the CSE exam for the student coming from humble background. Courses Details 15000+ Classes 20+ Instructors 98% Certification 9k+ Memberhsip Course Categories At Rashtram Institute, we offer a range of specialized courses to help you excel in your UPSC and KAS preparation. Each course is designed to provide in-depth knowledge, strategic guidance, and personalized attention to ensure your success in the competitive exams. UPSC (IAS/IPS) Civil Services Foundation Batch (Karnataka State Exams) KPSC KAS (Karnataka Civil Service) SSC and Other Central Government  Jobs About Us Rashtram Institute, Dharwad . Rashtram Institute, Dharwad has been started in 2022 in the region of North Karnataka with a mission of making UPSC preparation affordable and effective for the rural talented candidates especially from Kannada Medium. Affordable UPSC Coaching – Quality education for rural and Kannada-medium students. Expert Faculty – Senior subject experts for CSE guidance. Flexible Learning – Online & offline classes for prelims and mains. Holistic Development – Personality growth for future officers. Start Your Journey with Rashtram Institute, Dharwad!  where affordability meets excellence! Get expert guidance, flexible learning, and holistic development to become a future officer. Join us today! 3 months 100 Seat UPSC IAS is a prestigious career in governance. Crack UPSC with Rashtram Institute’s expert, affordable coaching! Enroll Now 3 months 100 Seat KAS KAS is Karnataka’s top civil service. Crack KPSC with Rashtram Institute’s expert, affordable coaching! Enroll Now 3 months 100 Seat Civil Services Civil Services offer prestigious careers in governance. Clear UPSC with expert coaching at Rashtram Institute! Enroll Now 3 months 100 Seat Foundation Ace Karnataka State Exams with Foundation Batch! Expert coaching for FDA, SDA, PSI & more. Enroll now!   Enroll Now More Courses Students Enrolled 0 k+ Online video 0 + Faculty 0 + Satisfaction 0 % Testimonial Testimonials Satisfied Clients At Rashtram Institute, Dharwad, our students’ success speaks for itself. We take pride in providing affordable, high-quality coaching for UPSC and KAS aspirants, especially from rural and Kannada-medium backgrounds. Our experienced faculty, flexible learning options, and focus on holistic development make us a trusted choice for those pursuing their civil services dreams. Here’s what our students have to say Quality Coaching: Students appreciate the unmatched coaching quality and personalized guidance. Affordable & Effective: Affordable yet impactful coaching with dedicated faculty support. Flexible Learning Options: Online and offline modes for flexible study schedules. Holistic Development: Emphasis on academic excellence and personality development. Ranjita Biradar Present Rashtram Student ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ The only institute in North Karnataka capable of producing civil servants, providing extensive faculty support and mentorship for both Prelims and Mains. It features a well-organized course structure and a dedicated staff.   Supriya patil Rashtram Student ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Rashtram IAS is one of the best institutes for Civil Services in North Karnataka. With 20+ years of experienced faculty, Group discussions, Mains answer writing, and One-on-One mentorship, it’s the right place to make your dreams come true. S.V Patil Leading Faculty of Rashtram IAS ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Many rural Karnataka students dream of becoming IAS/IPS/IFS officers but lack resources. Rashtram Institute in Dharwad provides experienced faculty, excellent infrastructure, and a positive study environment to support them. Best wishes to all!   Course Mentors Instructional Advisors Our Instructional Advisors are highly experienced professionals dedicated to guiding and mentoring students through their UPSC and KAS preparation journey. With a wealth of knowledge in various subjects, they provide expert insights and strategic direction to help students excel. S. V Patil Subject: Governance and Ethics Sukruth Simha Subject: Governance and Ethics Nanjunda Gowda Subject: Histroy M. Jadhav sir Subject: Mental Ability Mohan Krishna Subject: Geography VRS Sir Subject: Basic Science Guru Shankar Subject: Polity Guru Shankar Subject: Polity Receive Your Excellence Accreditation at Rashtram Institute Start your journey with Rashtram Institute, and earn your Excellence Accreditation as a testament to your hard work! Get Started Blog Course News & Blogs All Posts About Rastram Institute Aptitude and Reasoning Competitive Exam Coaching Current Affairs UPSC 2026 Test Series January 7, 2026/No Comments UPSC 2026 Test Series Key Features:1. Expert-Designed Tests:The test series is carefully designed by subject experts, keeping in mind students… Read More Kailasanatha Temple and Dashavatar Cave architecture of Rashtrakutas November 29, 2025/No Comments Kailasanatha Temple and Dashavatar Cave architecture of Rashtrakutas The Rashtrakuta dynasty (around 753–982 CE) is remembered as one of the… Read More DADASAHEB PHALKE AWARD 2023 November 29, 2025/No Comments DADASAHEB PHALKE AWARD 2023 Why in News? Recently, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has announced that the Dadasaheb Phalke… Read More Load More End of Content. “Our Students Share Their Success Stories! Join Rashtram Institute, Dharwad Today!” https://www.youtube.com/shorts/iASvkpoZBlchttps://www.youtube.com/shorts/Z9HtAuph_Ochttps://www.youtube.com/shorts/lUj5JiORh7chttps://www.youtube.com/shorts/eXLh79zTAqM Subscribe for Newsletter Subscribe You have been successfully Subscribed! Ops! Something went wrong, please try again.
- [Contact](https://rashtramias.com/contact/): Contact Us Home – Contact Get In Touch with Us! Brother set had private his letters observe outward resolve. Shutters ye marriage to throwing we as. Name Email Message Send Office Email Onlinecourse@mail.com OnlinecourseOffice@mail.com Office Phone +91 9964152111 Office Address Jayanagar last Bus Stop Saptapur, Dharwad. Frequently Asked Questions “Get answers to common queries about our UPSC and KAS coaching, including course duration, online options, support services, and enrollment process. We’re here to guide you every step of the way!” Is Rashtram Institute suitable for students from rural backgrounds? Yes, Rashtram Institute is dedicated to making UPSC and KAS coaching affordable and accessible to students from rural areas, especially Kannada-medium backgrounds. Do you provide online classes? Yes, we offer both online and offline coaching to suit the needs of all our students, ensuring flexibility in learning. What support services are available for students? We provide academic support, personality development training, progress tracking, and one-on-one mentorship to help students achieve their goals.
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