General Studies Paper-3 Context: The Tamil Nadu government introduced the Tamil Nadu Repowering, Refurbishment, and Life Extension Policy for Wind Power Projects – 2024, aiming to enhance wind energy output by repowering or refurbishing small wind turbines. However stakeholders have raised objections to the policy, citing concerns about its effectiveness. Wind Energy Potential in India India has wind power potential for 1,163.86 GW at 150 metres above ground level, and is ranked fourth in the world for installed wind energy capacity. Only about 6.5% of this wind potential is used at the national level. Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan,....Read More

Current Context : The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) announced the launch of the Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas -Electric Vehicle (MAHA- EV) Mission. ABOUT MAHA-EV MISSION: Aim : to enhance the development of electric vehicle (EV) technologies to reduce import dependency and foster domestic innovation, thereby establishing India as a global leader in the EV sector. Part of ANRF: It is an initiative under the broader program for Advancement in High-Impact Areas (MAHA), promoting collaboration among various institutions and disciplines to address significant scientific challenges. Focus Areas: Concentrates on three critical technology sectors: Tropical EV Batteries and Battery....Read More

Current Context : Recently, a severe landslide in Sikkim has destroyed the Teesta-V hydropower station of the state-owned National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) Limited. The project was under restoration following the glacial outburst in October 2023, which had caused significant damage. ABOUT TEESTA-V HYDROPOWER STATION Location: Mangan district, Sikkim, India, River : built on the Teesta River. Type: Run-of-river hydroelectric power plant. Capacity: 510 megawatts (MW). Developed and owned by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC). ABOUT TEESTA RIVER Origin: Originates from the Teesta Kangse Glacier in the eastern Himalayas, specifically from the Kangchenjunga range in Sikkim, India. Course: The....Read More

Current Context : Madhya Pradesh has commissioned the largest floating solar project in central and north India, generating 90 MW at Omkareshwar. ABOUT PROJECT : It is developed on the backwaters of Omkareshwar dam. The project, costing Rs 646 crore, aims to produce 5 million units in the first year. Developed by SJVN Green Energy Limited, It supports India's goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2070. Electricity generation :5 million units in the first year and 4,629.3 million units in the 25 years. It will reduce carbon emissions by 2.3 lakh tonn. ABOUT FLOATING SOLAR PROJECT : It involves....Read More

Current Context : Government will allow 35% bio-bitumen mixing in petroleum-based bitumen, a large part of which is imported from other countries to save ₹10,000 crore of foreign exchange outflows.  ABOUT BITUMEN : Bitumen is a black substance produced through the distillation of crude oil and is widely used for making roads and roofs. It is commonly known as asphalt when used in road construction. Obtained through mining or surface mining techniques. It is known for its adhesive properties. Applications: Paving roads, water proofing etc. ABOUT BIO-BITUMEN : It is a form of bitumen produced from renewable biological materials such....Read More

Current Context : Recently, Uttar Pradesh government approved a 1,200 MW pumped storage power project in Sonabhadra district. ABOUT PUMPED STORAGE HYDROPOWER It is a type of hydroelectric power generation used to store and manage electrical energy. Pumped storage plants use the principle of gravity to generate electricity. It is a configuration of two water reservoirs at different elevations that can generate power as water moves down from one to the other (discharge), passing through a turbine. The system also requires power as it pumps water back into the upper reservoir (recharge). Central Electricity Authority estimates on-river pumped storage hydro....Read More

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India, organized a 'Run for Sun' Marathon at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi, on the occasion of International Sun Day. The 'Run for Sun' Marathon, featuring 3 km and 5 km races, was designed to raise awareness about the pivotal role of solar power in mitigating climate change and promoting a cleaner and healthier future for all. SOLAR STOPS: Another highlight of the International Sun Day celebrations was Solar Stops — kiosks boasting a diverse array of elements that bring out the significance of solar energy. The 12 captivating installations....Read More