Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The Chief Minister of Karnataka is expected to attend the GST Council meeting to present the state's case, particularly in light of severe drought conditions and the state's request for drought relief funds.
Key points
- Karnataka CM to attend GST Council meeting.
- State seeks drought relief funds, estimating losses at ₹46,000 crore and requesting ₹7,500 crore.
- GST Council meeting agenda likely includes state financial matters.
- Inter-Ministerial Central Teams are assessing drought impact in Karnataka.
Background & context
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is an indirect tax levied on the supply of goods and services. The GST Council is the apex decision-making body for GST. Drought relief is provided by the central government to states facing severe water scarcity and agricultural losses.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Karnataka has requested approximately ₹7,500 crore in drought relief under Central guidelines.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper III: Indian Economy, Disaster Management. GS Paper II: Federalism, Centre-State relations.
Why in news?
The Northeast monsoon has arrived five days earlier than usual in Tamil Nadu, bringing with it an orange alert for several districts and forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall.
Key points
- Northeast monsoon declared early in Tamil Nadu.
- Forecast of heavy to very heavy rainfall in several districts, with an orange alert issued.
- Southwest monsoon ended with a 20% rainfall deficit in Tamil Nadu.
- El Niño's impact on rainfall is considered alongside other climatic factors.
Background & context
The Northeast monsoon season (October to December) is crucial for Tamil Nadu, bringing the majority of its annual rainfall. The Southwest monsoon (June to September) primarily affects the southern and western parts of India.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Northeast monsoon arrived five days earlier than its normal date of October.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper I: Geography. GS Paper III: Environment and Ecology, Disaster Management.
Why in news?
Fisherfolk in Chennai are protesting against the proposed construction of a new Secretariat at Foreshore Estate, demanding the return of lands and the construction of new houses.
Key points
- Fisherfolk protesting the construction of a new Secretariat at Foreshore Estate.
- Demand for the return of lands originally belonging to the community.
- Request for the construction of new houses for fishermen families.
- Fishermen express feeling unheard and unconsulted on the decision.
Background & context
Foreshore Estate in Chennai is a coastal area. Construction in coastal zones can raise environmental concerns and impact local communities, especially those dependent on marine resources. Land acquisition and displacement are often sensitive issues.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The fishermen community is demanding the return of lands belonging to Srinivasapuram.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper I: Society, Urbanisation. GS Paper II: Governance, Rights Issues. GS Paper III: Environment.