UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Coordinated Lunar Time (CLT) by NASA

May 09, 2024

In simple terms, NASA is working to create a uniform time system for the moon, called the Coordinated Lunar Time (CLT). This initiative is similar to how different countries on Earth use the Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) to keep time consistently around the globe. Why is a lunar time standard needed? As humans plan more activities on the moon, including missions by various countries and potentially permanent settlements, having a standard time for everyone... Read More...

India Rises: Solar Power Rankings

May 09, 2024

Current Global Solar Power Rankings: As of March 2024, the global ranking for solar energy production is as follows: 1. China: Continues as the world's largest producer of solar energy. 2. United States: Holds the second spot in global solar production. 3. India: Recently overtook Japan, claiming the third position in the global rankings for solar energy product... Read More...

OLYMPIC FLAME

May 09, 2024

What is the Olympic flame? The Olympic flame is a symbol of the Olympic Games. Its origins trace back to the ancient Greeks, who maintained a fire burning throughout the celebration of the ancient Olympics. The flame represents peace, unity, and the enduring spirit of competition. How is the Olympic flame lit? The lighting of the Olympic flame is performed at the Temple of Hera in Olympia, Greece, through a tradition... Read More...

Kalidasa: Master of Sanskrit Literature

May 09, 2024

1. Who was Kalidasa? Kalidasa was a classical Sanskrit author and is widely regarded as one of the greatest poets and dramatists in the Sanskrit language. His works have had a profound influence on Indian culture and literature. 2. What are some of Kalidasa's most famous works? Kalidasa's most renowned works include "Shakuntala" (Abhij&nt... Read More...

India's Household Financial Savings: Gross vs. Net Trends

May 08, 2024

The concept of "Households' net financial savings drop" involves understanding several key financial terms and trends related to the economic behavior of households. Here's a breakdown of the concept based on the scenario described: 1. Net Financial Savings Net financial savings of a household sector refers to the difference between the total amount of financial assets that households accumulate and the financial liabilities (debts) they incur. Financial assets include things like savings in bank accou... Read More...

Reservations for Muslims

May 08, 2024

Reservations in India: Addressing Socio-Economic Disparities Without Religious Bias The topic of reservations based on religion in India raises significant constitutional and legal debates. The Indian Consti... Read More...

India-Russia Trade and Investment in Rupees

May 08, 2024

1. Why are India and Russia trading in rupees? Traditionally, international trade is often conducted in widely accepted currencies like the US dollar. However, due to Western sanctions on Russia, it has become challenging for Russia to use these currencies. As a solution, India and Russia have agreed to use the Indian rupee for their trade. This helps Russia continue trading despite sanctions and allows India to pay in its own currency. 2. What is a vostro account? Read More...

Indian Diaspora:Girmitiyas

May 08, 2024

1. Who were the Girmitiyas? - Girmitiyas were indentured laborers from India who were contracted to work on plantations overseas, particularly in the British colonies such as Fiji, Mauritius, South Africa, and the Caribbean islands during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The term "Girmitiya" derives from the Hindi word "Girmit," a corruption of the English word "agreement," referring to the contract they signed. 2. Why did the Girmitiyas go to other countries? Read More...

U.K.'S DEPORTATION PLAN TO RWANDA

May 08, 2024

1. What is the U.K.’s deportation plan involving Rwanda? The U.K. government has a new agreement with Rwanda where asylum seekers making unauthorized journeys to the U.K. since January 1, 2022, can be deported to Rwanda. This policy intends for Rwanda to process these asylum claims, and it is part of broader efforts to manage undocumented migration. 2. How does the deportation process work? Read More...

Radcliffe Line and its role in the partition of India in 1947

May 08, 2024

1. What was the Radcliffe Line? The Radcliffe Line was the boundary demarcation line between India and Pakistan upon the partition of India in 1947. It was named after Sir Cyril Radcliffe, who was appointed as the chairman of the Boundary Commi... Read More...

Lalitavistara Sūtra, a significant text in Mahayana Buddhism:

May 08, 2024

1. What is the Lalitavistara Sūtra? - The Lalitavistara Sūtra is a Sanskrit Mahayana Buddhist text that chronicles the life of Gautama Buddha. It details his journey from his descent from Tushita Heaven until his first sermon at Sarnath near Varanasi. The text is revered for both its religious significance and as a historical document illuminating India's early centuries. 2. What does "Lalitavistara" mean? - The term "Lalitavistara" translates to "The Play in Full" o... Read More...

EARTH OBSERVATION (EO) DATA IN INDIA

May 08, 2024

1. What is Earth Observation (EO) Data? Earth Observation (EO) data involves the collection, analysis, and presentation of information about Earth's physical, chemical, and biological systems. It is primarily gathered through remote sensing technologies, which include satellites, aircraft, and drones that monitor various environmental parameters from a distance. 2. How is EO data collected in India? In India, EO data is collected using a variety of p... Read More...

Constitutional Evolution: Art. 31C & 39B - Rights & Principles (1971-2024)

May 08, 2024

The evolution of Article 31C within the Indian Constitution reflects the complex interplay between government initiatives for socio-economic reforms and the judiciary's role in balancing these changes with constitutional guarantees. Below is an expanded discussion on the introduction, judicial interpretations, and current status of Article 31C: Introduction to Article 31C Background: Article 31C was introduced by the 25th Amendment... Read More...

Khudai Khidmatgar Movement:

May 08, 2024

1. What was the Khudai Khidmatgar Movement? - The Khudai Khidmatgar ("Servants of God") was a nonviolent resistance movement led by Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, aimed at opposing British rule in India's Northwest Frontier Province. It mobilized thousands of Pashtuns to adopt nonviolent methods in their struggle for independence. 2. Who founded the Khudai Khidmatgar Movement? - The movement was founded by Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, also known as Badshah K... Read More...

FOREIGN POLICY:INDIA'S REGIONAL CHALLENGES IN SOUTH ASIA

May 08, 2024

1. What is the foundation of India's policy towards its South Asian neighbors? India's policy towards South Asian nations has historically been shaped by the need to maintain influence in the region, influenced by both regional and global political developments. The policy has alternated between realist and idealist approaches, aiming to solidify India's position in South Asia. 2. What significant treaties has India signe... Read More...