Line of Actual Control (LAC) Tensions

Why in News?

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit to discuss border tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Key Aspects:

• Border Disputes: The LAC, separating Indian and Chinese territories, remains undemarcated, leading to frequent tensions.
• Recent Talks: The meeting focused on resolving ongoing issues and maintaining peace along the LAC.
• Historical Context: The LAC differs from the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan, lacking formal agreement and clear demarcation.

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Climate-Resilient Farming Initiative

Why in News?

The Union government is set to launch a framework to promote climate-resilient agriculture in 50,000 villages in climate-vulnerable districts.

Key Aspects:

• Adaptation Strategies: Includes crop diversification, drought-tolerant crops, and improved irrigation.
• Mitigation Practices: Focus on carbon sequestration and reducing emissions.
• Risk Management: Early warning systems and insurance schemes to protect farmers against climate impacts.

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Angel Tax Reforms

Why in News?

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) supports the industry’s demand to remove the angel tax ahead of the Union Budget presentation.

Key Aspects:

• Purpose: Introduced to prevent money laundering through inflated share prices.
• Issues: Valuation challenges, fundraising impact, and administrative burdens for startups.
• Advocacy: DPIIT and industry bodies are pushing for its removal to boost the startup ecosystem.

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Radiation Biodosimetry Advances

Why in News?

Advancements in radiation biodosimetry highlight the importance of preparedness for radiological events.

Key Aspects:

• Definition: Measurement of biological response to estimate radiation dose absorbed.
• Applications: Useful in accidental and deliberate radiological events.
• Techniques: Includes dicentric chromosome assay and electron paramagnetic resonance for dose assessment.

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Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR)

Why in News?

The Indian gaur, previously locally extinct, has been spotted in the Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR) in Andhra Pradesh.

Key Aspects:

• Location: Situated in the Nallamala hill ranges of the Eastern Ghats.
• Significance: Largest tiger reserve in India, covering 5937 sq. km.
• Biodiversity: Hosts endemic flora and diverse fauna, including top predators and prey species.