India Emerges as 3rd Largest Exporter in Smartphone Market

India’s ascent from the 23rd position in global smartphone exports in 2019 to securing the 3rd spot in 2024 marks a monumental achievement in its manufacturing and export capabilities. With smartphone exports crossing ₹20,000 crore in November 2024, this growth highlights India’s success in leveraging government initiatives and a robust domestic production ecosystem.

Key Highlights

Growth in Smartphone Exports

  • India’s smartphone exports increased by 92% in November 2024 compared to the same month last year.
  • Exports in November 2024 reached ₹20,395 crore, a sharp rise from ₹10,634 crore in November 2023.

Government Initiatives Driving Growth

  • Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: Aimed to boost local manufacturing and reduce import dependency.
  • PLI targets for 2024-25 include exporting 70-75% of the total production value.
  • Support for domestic and international companies to establish manufacturing units in India.

Achievements Under the PLI Scheme

  • Ambitious export targets surpassed, reflecting the scheme’s success.
  • Enhanced competitiveness of Indian-made smartphones in global markets.

Economic Impact

  • Boost to the Indian economy through increased foreign exchange reserves.
  • Creation of jobs in manufacturing, supply chains, and allied sectors.
  • Improved trade balance through higher exports.

Future Outlook

  • Continued investment in technology and manufacturing infrastructure.
  • Focus on innovation and competitive pricing to attract international buyers.
  • Strengthening India’s position as a global hub for smartphone production.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? India Emerges as 3rd Largest Exporter in Smartphone Market
Global Rank 3rd Largest Smartphone Exporter
Previous Rank (2019) 23rd
Export Value (Nov 2024) ₹20,395 crore
Growth Over Nov 2023 92% Increase (₹10,634 crore in Nov 2023)
Government Initiative Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme
PLI Export Target (FY 2024-25) 70-75% of Total Production Value
Economic Impact – Boost to foreign exchange reserves

– Job creation in manufacturing and allied sectors

– Improved trade balance

Factors Driving Growth – Government policies (PLI Scheme)

– Growing domestic manufacturing base

– Increased investment in infrastructure and technology

Future Focus – Strengthen global market position

– Innovation and competitive pricing

– Attract international buyers

Historic Dolphin Tagging Initiative in Assam

India has achieved a significant milestone in wildlife conservation with the first-ever satellite tagging of a Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica). Conducted in Assam, this initiative marks a major advancement under Project Dolphin, led by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). The collaborative effort of the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), the Assam Forest Department, and the organization Aaranyak, funded by the National CAMPA Authority, aims to deepen the understanding of the species’ ecological needs, migratory patterns, and habitat use.

Key Highlights Ganges River Dolphin Tagging Initiative

First-Ever Tagging of the Species

  • This marks the first instance of satellite tagging for Ganges River Dolphins, not just in India but globally.
  • The tagging took place in Assam, where a healthy male dolphin was released back into the river under veterinary supervision.

Collaborative Effort

  • Conducted by MoEFCC in partnership with the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Assam Forest Department, and Aaranyak.
  • Funded by the National CAMPA Authority as part of Project Dolphin.

Objectives of Tagging

  • To gather critical data on habitat needs, seasonal migratory patterns, and range of the species.
  • To address knowledge gaps in conservation strategies for this elusive aquatic mammal.

Advanced Technology in Tagging

  • Lightweight satellite tags compatible with Argos systems were used.
  • Designed to function efficiently despite the dolphin’s limited surfacing time (5-30 seconds).

Ecological Importance of Ganges River Dolphins

  • Declared India’s National Aquatic Animal, these dolphins are apex predators and serve as umbrella species for river ecosystems.
  • Nearly blind, they rely on echolocation for navigation and feeding.

Challenges in Conservation

  • Significant decline in population and distribution due to habitat fragmentation and human activity.
  • Behavioral challenges, as the species surfaces briefly, making tracking and observation difficult.

Statements from Key Leaders

  • Union Minister Bhupender Yadav highlighted the milestone as a “historic achievement” and emphasized its significance for conserving India’s National Aquatic Animal.
  • WII Director Virendra R. Tiwari stressed the importance of evidence-based conservation strategies facilitated by tagging.
  • Project investigator Dr. Vishnupriya Kolipakam underlined the broader ecological impact of protecting river dolphins for aquatic biodiversity and human livelihoods.

Future Plans

  • Extend the tagging initiative to other states within the dolphin’s range.
  • Develop a comprehensive conservation action plan through range-wide research under Project Dolphin.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Historic Dolphin Tagging Initiative in Assam
Event First-ever satellite tagging of a Ganges River Dolphin
Significance – First instance of tagging for the species globally

– Major milestone under Project Dolphin

Collaborating Organizations – Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)

– Wildlife Institute of India (WII)

– Assam Forest Department

– Aaranyak

Funding Authority National CAMPA Authority
Objective – Study habitat needs, seasonal and migratory patterns, and home-range dynamics

– Fill knowledge gaps for evidence-based conservation

Technology Used Lightweight satellite tags compatible with Argos systems
Species Details – National Aquatic Animal of India

– Apex predator in river ecosystems

– Relies on echolocation due to near blindness

Ecological Importance – Umbrella species for river ecosystems

– Ensures ecological balance and supports aquatic biodiversity

Challenges – Declining population due to habitat fragmentation

– Elusive behavior (brief surfacing time of 5-30 seconds)

Future Plans – Expand tagging to other states within the species’ range

– Develop a comprehensive conservation action plan under Project Dolphin

Statements from Leaders – Bhupender Yadav: “Historic milestone for the species and India.”

– WII Director: “Facilitates evidence-based conservation.”

– Dr. Kolipakam: “Vital for sustaining biodiversity.”

Uttarakhand to Implement Uniform Civil Code from January 2025

Uttarakhand will become the first Indian state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) starting January 2025, fulfilling a key promise made by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami during the 2022 assembly elections. The UCC aims to establish uniform personal laws on marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption, regardless of religion or caste, while excluding tribal communities. With preparations reportedly complete, this move marks a significant legal reform in India post-independence.

Formation of UCC: Past and Present

Genesis in 2022: Following the BJP’s victory in the 2022 Uttarakhand assembly elections, the first cabinet meeting of the new government approved the formation of a five-member expert committee led by retired Supreme Court Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai to draft the UCC.

Legislative Milestone: The Uniform Civil Code, Uttarakhand 2024 Bill, was passed in the state assembly on February 7, 2024, and received presidential assent on March 12, 2024.

Implementation Roadmap

Final Preparations: A nine-member sub-committee, led by former chief secretary Shatrughna Singh, drafted the rules after 43 meetings. The training of officials and infrastructure setup are in the final stages.

Digital Initiatives: A portal and mobile app have been developed to facilitate online registration, appeals, and other UCC-related services for public convenience.

Execution Framework: Three sub-committees framed the implementation rules under Singh’s guidance. Adequate training and resources for personnel have been ensured to streamline the rollout.

Significance of the UCC in Uttarakhand

The Uniform Civil Code seeks to make the state legally just and equitable by eliminating disparities in personal laws. CM Dhami emphasized the transformational nature of this move, stating it as a step toward uniformity in personal laws, except for the state’s tribal communities, who are excluded from the Act.

Summary of the news

Key Point Details
Why in News Uttarakhand will implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) from January 2025, becoming the first Indian state to do so post-independence. The UCC Bill was passed on February 7, 2024, and received presidential assent on March 12, 2024.
UCC Expert Committee Chaired by retired Supreme Court Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai.
Implementation Framework Rules finalized by a nine-member sub-committee led by former Chief Secretary Shatrughna Singh.
Legislative Process Uniform Civil Code, Uttarakhand, 2024 Bill passed in the state assembly.
Exclusion Tribal communities are excluded from the UCC provisions.
Digital Initiatives A portal and mobile app have been developed for registration and appeals related to the UCC.
CM of Uttarakhand Pushkar Singh Dhami.
Capital of Uttarakhand Summer: Gairsain, Winter: Dehradun.
Formation of State Uttarakhand was formed on November 9, 2000.

Which District of Maharashtra is Known as the City of Gates?

Maharashtra, located in western India, is a vibrant state known for its rich history, diverse culture and economic importance. It is home to bustling cities like Mumbai and Pune, iconic monuments and beautiful natural landscapes, making it one of India’s most dynamic and significant regions. In this article, we will know about the district of Maharashtra which is known as the “City of Gates.”

An Overview of Maharashtra

Maharashtra, located in western India, covers a major part of the Deccan Plateau. It shares borders with the Arabian Sea to the west, Karnataka and Goa to the south, Telangana and Chhattisgarh to the east, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh to the north, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu to the northwest. It is India’s second-most populous state and ranks fourth globally in population among subdivisions.

Number of Districts of Maharashtra

Maharashtra is divided into six revenue divisions, comprising 36 districts. These districts are further divided into 109 sub-divisions and 357 talukas, forming the administrative structure of the state.

City of Gates

Aurangabad district in Maharashtra is famously called the “City of Gates.” This title reflects the numerous gates built during the Mughal era, showcasing its historical importance and architectural charm.

Why is Aurangabad Known as the City of Gates?

Aurangabad is called the “City of Gates” because it was fortified with 52 grand gates during the Mughal era, showcasing its strategic importance. These gates served as entrances to different city areas and hold historical significance.  While only 13 gates remain today, they symbolize the city’s rich architectural and cultural heritage.

Number of Gates

Originally, Aurangabad had 52 gates, each serving as an entrance to different parts of the city. These gates played a key role in fortifying the area and managing its layout.

Principal Gates of Aurangabad

The city is known for four principal gates:

  • Delhi Gate: Located in the north, it led to Delhi.
  • Jalna Gate: Found in the east, it led to Delhi.
  • Paithan Gate: Situated in the south, it linked to Paithan.
  • Mecca Gate: Positioned in the west, it was named for its connection to Mecca.

The Historical Bhadkal Gate

The Bhadkal Gate is the oldest and largest gate in Aurangabad. Built in 1612 by Malik Ambar, it commemorates his victory over the Mughal forces. This gate is a remarkable example of the architectural brilliance of that era.

Net Direct Tax Collection Sees Robust 16.45% Growth to Rs 15.82 Lakh Crore

The net direct tax collections for the fiscal year 2023-24 have surged by 16.45% to Rs 15.82 lakh crore by December 17, driven primarily by a strong 21% rise in advance tax payments. This growth reflects the government’s improved tax collection mechanism and efforts to bridge the fiscal deficit gap. The increase includes various taxes such as corporate tax, personal income tax, and securities transaction tax (STT), along with other levies.

Key Highlights

Corporate and Non-Corporate Tax Growth

Corporate tax collections increased to Rs 9.24 lakh crore, up from Rs 7.90 lakh crore, while net collections stood at Rs 7.42 lakh crore, compared to Rs 6.83 lakh crore last year. Non-corporate tax collections, which include personal income tax, rose to Rs 9.53 lakh crore, with net collections touching Rs 7.97 lakh crore, a sharp rise from Rs 6.50 lakh crore.

Advance Tax & Refunds Surge

The substantial rise in advance tax collections, reaching Rs 7.56 lakh crore, was a major contributor. Refunds issued during the period totaled Rs 3.39 lakh crore, marking a 42.49% increase from the previous fiscal year.

Securities Transaction Tax (STT)

STT collections witnessed a significant jump to Rs 40,114 crore, compared to Rs 21,628 crore last year, reflecting stronger market activities.

Tax Filing Trends

Income tax return filings saw an increase, with over 8.09 crore returns filed for FY24, up from 7.40 crore in FY23. However, only 6.68% of India’s population filed income tax returns, with a notable number of individuals reporting zero taxable income.

Fiscal Deficit and Economic Implications

The surge in direct tax collection is crucial for meeting the government’s fiscal deficit targets, signaling a positive trend in India’s economic recovery and financial management. The rise in both corporate and personal income tax collections indicates a robust economic performance, despite challenges.

Summary of the news

Key Point Details
Why in News Net direct tax collections grew 16.45% to Rs 15.82 lakh crore till Dec 17, FY24, driven by a 21% rise in advance tax to Rs 7.56 lakh crore. Refunds rose 42.49% to Rs 3.39 lakh crore. Income tax returns filed increased to 8.09 crore in FY24.
Advance Tax Collection Rs 7.56 lakh crore, marking a 21% growth.
Refunds Issued Rs 3.39 lakh crore, up by 42.49% from the previous fiscal.
Corporate Tax Gross: Rs 9.24 lakh crore; Net: Rs 7.42 lakh crore.
Non-Corporate Tax Gross: Rs 9.53 lakh crore; Net: Rs 7.97 lakh crore.
Securities Transaction Tax (STT) Rs 40,114 crore, up from Rs 21,628 crore last year.
ITR Filing Stats FY24: 8.09 crore returns; 6.68% of the population filed returns.
Zero Taxable Income 4.90 crore individuals in AY23-24 reported zero taxable income.

Important Days in December 2024, National and International Days

December, the last month of the year, is a month full of important days that highlight awareness, achievements, and celebrations around the world. These days focus on topics like human rights, environmental protection, and honoring national heroes. From World AIDS Day to Christmas, each date has a special meaning, reminding us of unity, kindness, and responsibility.

Important Days in December 2024

December is a month of joy, celebrations, and meaningful events worldwide. It brings festive cheer, short winter days in the northern hemisphere, and special occasions. Christmas on December 25th, celebrated by over 2.2 billion people, marks the birth of Jesus Christ. Kwanzaa, from December 26th to January 1st, honors African traditions. December ends with New Year’s Eve on the 31st, a global celebration of hope and resolutions. Its name comes from the Latin word “Decem,” meaning ten.

List of Important Days in December 2024, National and International Days

Date Day
01 Dec World AIDS Day
02 Dec International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
03 Dec International Day of Persons with Disabilities
04 Dec International Day of Banks
05 Dec International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development
05 Dec World Soil Day
07 Dec International Civil Aviation Day
09 Dec International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime
09 Dec International Anti-Corruption Day
10 Dec Human Rights Day
11 Dec International Mountain Day
11 Dec UNICEF Foundation Day
12 Dec International Day of Neutrality
12 Dec International Universal Health Coverage Day
18 Dec International Migrants Day
20 Dec International Human Solidarity Day
21 Dec World Basketball Day
27 Dec International Day of Epidemic Preparedness

 

Ace Your Exam 19th December Current Affairs Quiz

In competitive exams like SSC, Defence, State Exams, and Railways, current affairs serve as a cornerstone for success. These exams often include a dedicated section testing candidates on recent events, government policies, international developments, and scientific advancements. Staying updated with daily current affairs ensures aspirants have the edge to tackle this section with confidence, scoring high marks effortlessly.

Q1. Which Women cricketer has scored the fastest test century in Test International?

(a) Smriti Mandhana

(b) Nat Sciver-Brunt

(c) Ellyse Perry

(d) Laura Wolvaardt

Q2.  Which of the following is India’s first indigenous anti-pesticide bodysuit?

(a) Kisan Kavach

(b) Kisan Suraksha

(c) Krishi Kavach

(d) Pesticide Protector

Q3. The Ram temple project in Ayodhya has been awarded which prestigious safety award?

(a) Sword of Honour

(b) Safety Excellence Award

(c) Global Safety Medal

(d) Construction Safety Award

Q4. The Gadhimai Festival is held in which country?

(a) India

(b) Nepal

(c) Bangladesh

(d) Sri Lanka

Q5. Who was awarded the prestigious Jamsetji Tata Award by the Indian Society for Quality (ISQ)?

(a) Ratan Tata

(b) Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw

(c) N. R. Narayana Murthy

(d) Sundar Pichai

Q6.  Which ministry launched a scheme to promote international cooperation for AYUSH systems worldwide?

(a) Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

(b) Ministry of AYUSH

(c) Ministry of External Affairs

(d) Ministry of Science and Technology

Q7. In which city was Uber’s ‘Moto Women’ pilot program launched?

(a) Mumbai

(b) Bengaluru

(c) Hyderabad

(d) Chennai

Q8. What is the theme for International Migrants Day in 2024?

(a) “Empowering Migrants for the Future”

(b) “Strengthening Global Solidarity”

(c) “Honouring the contributions of migrants and respecting their rights”

(d) “Building Inclusive Communities”

Q9. Who won The Best FIFA Men’s Player award in 2024?

(a) Rodri

(b) Jude Bellingham

(c) Vinicius Jr.

(d) Erling Haaland

Q10. Which organization primarily uses the SARAT tool?

(a) National Institute of Oceanography

(b) Indian Coast Guard

(c) Ministry of Shipping

(d) Indian Navy

S1. Ans. (b)

Sol. England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt became the first and only woman cricketer to score a Test century in less than 100 balls, reaching her hundred off just 96 balls.

Correct Answer: Nat Sciver Brunt

Key Points: 

  • Earlier Record: The previous record held by Chamani Seneviratna, who scored a century in 106 balls against Pakistan in 1998.

S2. Ans. (a)

Sol. Kisan Kavach is India’s first indigenous anti-pesticide bodysuit, developed by BRIC-inStem, Bangalore, in collaboration with Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd. The launch aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of leveraging science and technology to empower India’s agricultural community.

Correct Answer: Kisan Kavach

Key Points: 

  • Objective: Designed to protect farmers from harmful pesticide exposure.
  • Addresses severe health issues such as breathing disorders, vision loss, and fatalities.
  • Minister of Agriculture: Shivraj Singh Chauhan
  • Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology: Dr. Jitendra Singh

S3. Ans. (a)

Sol. The Ram temple project in Ayodhya was awarded the ‘Sword of Honour’ from the British Safety Council for its exceptional safety measures during construction..

Correct Answer: Sword of Honour

Key Points:

  • What is the Sword of Honour?: The ‘Sword of Honour’ is one of the most prestigious awards in safety management.
  • It is conferred by the British Safety Council after an exhaustive audit of processes and practices.
  • Eligibility requires achieving a five-star assessment, followed by a rigorous on-site activity assessment.

S4. Ans. (b)

Sol. The Gadhimai Festival is held every five years in southeastern Nepal. The Gadhimai Festival, held every five years in southeastern Nepal, is one of the world’s most controversial religious observances, known for the mass slaughter of animals. This quinquennial event, rooted in centuries of tradition. 

Correct Answer: Nepal

Key Points: 

  • Founder: Bhagwan Chowdhary, founder of the Gadhimai temple in Bariyarpur, Bara District, Nepal.
  • Mythology: According to the legend, Gadhimai, the goddess of power, promised prosperity to Chowdhary in exchange for a blood sacrifice.
  • Animal Sacrifice: Initially, human blood was desired, but animal blood was substituted, which became the foundation of the tradition.

S5. Ans. (b)

Sol. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Chairperson of Biocon Group, was awarded the Jamsetji Tata Award by the Indian Society for Quality (ISQ) for her contributions to the biosciences sector. The award recognises her role in leading Biocon to a global position while maintaining an unwavering focus on quality. 

Correct Answer: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw

Key Points:

  • Award Background: The Jamsetji Tata Award, instituted by ISQ in 2004, is named after Jamsetji Tata, the founder of the Tata Group, and celebrates business leaders who have demonstrated exceptional quality, innovation, and commitment to society. 
  • Award Details: The award was presented during the ISQ Annual Conference 2024, held in Bengaluru.

S6. Ans. (b)

Sol. The Ministry of AYUSH launched the scheme to promote international cooperation and enhance awareness of AYUSH systems globally.

Correct Answer: Ministry of AYUSH

Key Points: 

  • Objective: The scheme’s objectives are to promote international awareness of AYUSH, facilitate its development and recognition abroad, foster interaction among stakeholders, and support the market development of AYUSH products, services, education, and research globally. 
  • Scholarships: Offers scholarships for foreign nationals to study AYUSH courses in India.

S7. Ans. (b)

Sol. The pilot program ‘Moto Women’ was launched in Bengaluru. This service is exclusively designed for female riders and drivers, offering an on-demand bike taxi option with an emphasis on safety and empowerment. 

Correct Answer: Bengaluru

Key Points:

  • Significance: Provides a safer transport option for women.
  • Empowerment of female drivers, offering flexible earning opportunities.
  • Part of the growing demand for bike taxis in Bengaluru, with over 1 million monthly rides.
  • Development: Uber, in collaboration with female drivers, launched the service in Bengaluru as a pilot program.

S8. Ans. (c)

Sol. International Migrants Day, observed annually on December 18, serves as an important reminder to honor the contributions of migrants around the world and the role they play in shaping societies. The 2024 theme is “Honouring the contributions of migrants and respecting their rights.” 

Correct Answer: “Honouring the contributions of migrants and respecting their rights”

Key Points:

  • Purpose: Celebrate the invaluable contributions of migrants to host societies and their home countries.
  • Raise awareness about the challenges migrants face, including exploitation, rights violations, and integration difficulties.

S9. Ans. (c)

Sol. Vinicius Jr won The Best FIFA Men’s Player award with 48 points. Vinicius Jr claimed his first Best Men’s Player award, topping the voting with strong support from fans, coaches, and players.

Correct Answer: Vinicius Jr.

Key Points:

  • The Best FIFA Men’s Player
  • Winner: Vinicius Jr (48 points)
  • Second: Rodri (43 points)
  • Third: Jude Bellingham (37 points)
  • Date 2016: 8 years ago
  • Presented by: FIFA
  • Formerly called: FIFA World Player of the Year (1991–2009)
  • FIFA Ballon d’Or:  (2010–2015)
  • First awarded : 2016

S10. Ans. (b)

Sol. The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has recently upgraded its Search and Rescue Aid Tool (SARAT) to improve the effectiveness of sea rescue operations. 

Correct Answer: Indian Coast Guard

Key Points:

  • Objective of SARAT: Aimed at enhancing sea rescue operations conducted by Indian agencies, including the Coast Guard.
  • SARAT Version 2 Features: Includes improved visuals with colour-coded search regions.
  • Background of SARAT: First introduced in 2016, initially designed to assist the Indian Coast Guard.

What is the Old Name of Karnataka?

Karnataka, a state in southern India, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes. Over the centuries, it has undergone several changes in its name and identity. These transformations reflect the region’s historical evolution, cultural shifts and political changes.

Old Name of Karnataka

The state of Karnataka was earlier known as Mysore state. The name was officially changed to Karnataka in 1973 under the Mysore State (Alteration of Name) Act. This marked an important moment in the state’s history, reflecting its rich cultural and linguistic identity.

Historical Connection to the Kingdom of Mysore

The region was once a part of the Kingdom of Mysore, ruled by the Wadiyar Dynasty. The Mysore Palace, a symbol of the Kingdom’s legacy, was the royal residence of the Wadiyars. In 1799, the Kingdom of Mysore signed a Protectorate treaty with the British Empire, which significantly influenced its history.

Formation of Karnataka

Karnataka was formed on November 01, 1956, after the States Reorganization Act was passed. This act reorganized India’s states based on linguistic and cultural similarities. Kannada-speaking regions were united to create a single state, originally called Mysore State.

Meaning of the Name Karnataka

The name Karnataka comes from the word Karunadu, which means “lofty land” or “high plateau.” In the Kannada language, it can also mean “land of black soil,” which highlights the state’s geography and agricultural importance.

The Karnataka Ekikarana Movement

The creation of Karnataka was the result of the Karnataka Ekikarana Movement. This movement fought for decades to unify Kannada-speaking regions that were scattered across different provinces and princely states. These efforts helped in forming a unified Kannada-speaking state.

Who is Known as the Father of Sociology?

Sociology is the study of society, human behavior and the way people interact with each other. It looks at how individuals and groups shape and are shaped by social structures, cultures and institutions. Sociologists explore topics like family, education, religion and government to better understand how societies function and change over time. In this article, we will know about the persons who is known as the “Father of Sociology.”

What is Sociology?

Sociology is the study of how people live together in society, how societies change, and how social factors influence human behavior. It look at many different topics, such as :

  • Crime and Law
  • Poverty and wealth
  • Prejudice and discrimination
  • Education
  • Business
  • Urban communities
  • Social movements
  • Population changes and migration
  • Economic development

The main purpose of sociology is to understand how people’s actions and thoughts are influenced by the culture and social systems around them.

Father of Sociology

The “Father of Sociology” is Auguste Comte, a French philosopher who developed the field of sociology and introduced the idea of positivism. He believed society could be studied scientifically, just like nature. Comte also created the Law of Three Stages, explaining how human societies evolve from religious beliefs to scientific understanding.

Early Life Auguste Comte

Auguste Comte, whose full name was Isidore Auguste-Marie-Francois-Xavier Comte, was born in France in the early 19th century. His father worked as an income tax officer and his mother was a strong supporter of the royal family. Raised in a Roman Catholic family, Comte was introduced to education at an early age and attended public school.

During his youth, Comte began earning money by tutoring students in mathematics, showing an early interest in teaching and learning. In 1820, he started giving lectures on what he later called the “System of Positive Philosophy.”

The Concept of Positivism

Auguste Comte is best known for creating the concept of positivism, which became the foundation of his sociology work. Positivism is the belief that knowledge should be based on scientific evidence and facts than speculation or religious beliefs. Comte believed that society could be understood and improved by studying it scientifically.

In the 19th century, society was going through many changes due to the French Revolution, modern science and the Industrial Revolution. People were experiencing a lot of confusion and hardship, and many turned to new ideas for answers. Comte’s positivism offered a scientific approach to understanding these changes.

The Law of Three Stages

One of Comte’s important contributions to sociology was his Law of Three Stages. This theory explained that human society develops in three stages:

  • Theological Stage: In this stage, people believed that everything in society was controlled by gods or religious beliefs.
  • Metaphysical Stage: During this time, people started to think about abstract ideas like nature and the universe, but without using scientific methods.
  • Positive Stage: This final stage is when people began to use scientific methods to understand society and the world around them.

Comte believed that society was moving from the theological stage to the metaphysical stage and then into the positive stage, where science and reason would guide social progress.

Personal Struggles and Contributions

Auguste Comte faced many challenges in his personal life. He suffered from a serious nervous breakdown in the late 1820s and went through a difficult period of recovery. Despite his personal struggles, he continued his work and made significant contributions to the field of sociology.

In 1845, Comte experienced a deep personal loss when his close companion, Chitilde de Vaux, died of tuberculosis. This event had a profound effect on him and influenced his work even further.

Which District of Gujarat is Known as the Oil City?

Gujarat is a state located in the western part of India. Known for its rich culture, history and diverse landscapes, it is also a hub for industries like petrochemicals, textiles and diamond processing. Gujarat plays a key role in India’s economic growth and development. In this article, we will know about the district of Gujarat which is known as the “Oil City.”

An Overview of Gujarat

Gujarat is a state located on the western coast of India, with the longest coastline of about 1,600 km. It is the fifth-largest state in terms of area and has a population of around 60 million. Gujarat is bordered by Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and the Arabian Sea. Gandhinagar is the capital and Ahmedabad is the largest city. The official language is Gujarati.

Number of Districts of Gujarat

Gujarat has 33 districts, which were formed in 1960 with just 17 districts. Over time, the state has been divided into more districts, which are further split into 252 talukas. Notable districts include Kutch, the largest, Dang, the smallest one and Ahmedabad is the most populated district.

Oil City in Gujarat

Jamnagar, located in the state of Gujarat, is famously known as the Oil City. It holds a significant place in the country’s industrial landscape, particularly due to its role in the oil refining sector.

Why is Jamnagar Known as the Oil City of Gujarat?

Jamnagar is called the Oil City of Gujarat because it is home to the world’s largest oil refinery, the Jamnagar Refinery. Owned by Reliance Industries, this refinery has a capacity of 1.4 million barrels per day. The city plays a key role in India’s oil processing industry, making it a major center for refining and energy production.

World’s Largest Oil Refinery

Jamnagar is home to the world’s largest oil refinery, the Jamnagar Refinery. Owned by Reliance Industries Limited, this refinery has an impressive capacity of 1.4 million barrels per day. It is one of the largest refining units globally, making Jamnagar a major hub for oil production and processing.

A Center of Culture and Craftsmanship

Apart from being an oil hub, Jamnagar is also known for its traditional craftsmanship. The city is famous for bandhani (tie-dyeing), a technique used to create colorful fabrics. The gold embroidery and metalware from Jamnagar are also highly regarded, adding to its cultural richess.

The Seat of Gujarat Ayurved University

Jamnagar is also an important center for Ayurveda education. The Gujarat Ayurved University, located in the city, is one of the leading institutions in the study and research of traditional Indian medicine.