Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
Telangana Civil Supplies Department is actively procuring paddy during the Rabi season, paying farmers Minimum Support Price (MSP).
Key points
- Procured 12.38 lakh tonnes of paddy so far.
- ₹1,129.43 crore paid to over 1.54 lakh farmers.
- 8,575 Paddy Purchase Centers (PPCs) are operational.
- Targeting procurement of approximately 90 lakh tonnes.
Background & context
MSP is a price support mechanism by the Government of India to protect agricultural producers against price volatility. The government announces MSP for various crops at the beginning of sowing seasons.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Telangana is procuring paddy at MSP through a network of 8,575 Paddy Purchase Centers.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 3: Agriculture, Economy
Why in news?
Ernakulam district has witnessed a significant increase in the seizure of synthetic drugs, particularly MDMA, in April.
Key points
- Nearly 1 kg of MDMA seized in April.
- Over 500 grams seized by rural police in a major haul.
- Follows a crackdown in March that led to multiple arrests.
- Alleged kingpin of a city-based racket arrested.
Background & context
Synthetic drugs, such as MDMA (ecstasy), are psychoactive substances produced artificially. Their trafficking and consumption pose significant challenges to law enforcement and public health.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Over 1 kg of MDMA was seized in Ernakulam district in April.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 3: Internal Security, Social Issues
Why in news?
A stretch of National Highway in Tamil Nadu has been painted red in patches for the first time to improve vehicle visibility and reduce speed.
Key points
- Thoppur Ghat Road (NH 44) is the first NH stretch in Tamil Nadu with red markings.
- Two 300-meter stretches have been painted with thermoplastic paint.
- Aims to reduce speeds and improve vehicle stability.
- Designed to enhance driver alertness, especially on accident-prone areas.
Background & context
Road safety is a major concern. Enhancing visibility and driver awareness are crucial for preventing accidents. Various measures, including road markings, signage, and engineering improvements, are employed.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Thoppur Ghat Road in Tamil Nadu is the first National Highway stretch to use red markings to enhance visibility.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 3: Infrastructure, Internal Security (road safety aspects)