Must ReadBIS sets norms to protect indigenous seeds
The [Bureau of Indian Standards] has introduced comprehensive norms for the collection, storage, and processing of indigenous seed varieties. This standardization aims to protect traditional seeds known for traits like drought tolerance and disease resistance, providing a formal framework for farmers and local institutions.
Must ReadConsumer inflation rises to 3.93% in May, higher costs from West Asia war get passed on to households
Retail inflation in India, measured by the [Consumer Price Index], rose to 3.93% in May, up from 3.48% in April. This increase is attributed to rising input costs, particularly due to higher commercial LPG prices stemming from the West Asia conflict, which are being passed on to consumers.
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Must ReadFCRA Bill — expanding state control over civil society
The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, has been introduced in the Lok Sabha, proposing sweeping changes to the [Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010]. Critics argue the bill shifts the focus from regulating foreign funding for NGOs to enabling extensive state control over civil society organizations, allowing for the automatic cessation of registration and the confiscation of assets without prior judicial review.
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Must Read‘Super El Niño’ forms in Pacific: Why 2027 is likely to be the hottest year on record
The [United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration] (NOAA) has confirmed the formation of El Niño conditions in the tropical Pacific Ocean, predicting it could intensify into a 'Super El Niño.' This phenomenon, characterized by abnormal warming of surface waters, is expected to make 2027 the hottest year on record and significantly disrupt global weather patterns, including the Indian monsoon.
Must ReadWhat's ailing India's fertiliser subsidy and ethanol policy? Ashok Gulati explains
Agricultural economist Ashok Gulati critically analyzes India's current fertilizer subsidy model and the use of rice for ethanol production, terming them fiscally unsustainable and environmentally damaging. He advocates for structural reforms, including a shift to direct per-acre income support for farmers and utilizing maize instead of rice for ethanol blending, to address the ballooning subsidy bill and mitigate pressure on water resources.
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Must ReadAssam, Nagaland agree to oil and gas exploration along contested border. Could this boost India’s energy security?
The Union government, Assam, and Nagaland have signed a tripartite [Memorandum of Understanding] to resume oil and gas exploration along their disputed border after three decades. This agreement, targeting the [Disputed Area Belt], aims to boost domestic hydrocarbon production and reduce India's heavy reliance on energy imports, particularly amid global supply constraints.
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Must ReadImplementation complete, but workers still vulnerable
The central government recently completed the notification of rules for the four [Labour Codes] enacted in 2019 and 2020. However, labor experts and unions argue these rules fail to address critical gaps in the parent legislation, potentially leaving workers, particularly gig workers and those in fixed-term employment, vulnerable to exploitation.
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