UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Biosequestration: Nature's Carbon Capture Mechanism Agroforestry in India

Sep 01, 2023

Biosequestration refers to the process through which living organisms, primarily plants, capture and store atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2). This is mainly achieved through photosynthesis, where plants absorb CO2 and sunlight to produce glucose and oxygen. The carbon from the CO2 is then incorporated into plant tissues such as stems, roots, and leaves. Over time, this results in significant carbon storage, thereby acting as a buffer against the rise in atmospheric CO2 levels, which are responsible for global warming and climate change. Forests, grasslands, wetlands, and other natural ecosystems have historically... Read More...

The Abraham Accords and India's Middle East Strategy

Sep 01, 2023

The Abraham Accords, inked in 2020, are landmark agreements that have normalized diplomatic relations between Israel and several Arab nations, including the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco. Backed by the United States, these agreements signal a tectonic shift in Middle East geopolitics. The accords, while primarily focusing on the countries directly involved, have wider implications, including for countries like India that have significant stakes in the region. India's Response to the Abraham Accords India, with its diplomatic finesse, welcomed the agreements. New Delhi... Read More...

Digital Competition Law

Sep 01, 2023

Q: What is Digital Competition Law? A: Digital Competition Law refers to the legal framework that addresses competition-related issues in digital markets. It aims to ensure fair competition and prevent anti-competitive practices in online platforms and spaces where goods, services, or data are exchanged electronically. Q: Why is Digital Competition Law important? A: Digital markets have unique characteristics that can lead to rapid market dominance by a few players, potentially harming competition and consumers. Digital Competition Law is esse... Read More...

Data Embassy

Sep 01, 2023

A data embassy is a unique and innovative approach to data storage and protection where a country creates a backup of its critical digital assets in another country. This is done in a manner similar to how countries have physical embassies in foreign lands. The primary purpose of a data embassy is to provide additional resilience against digital threats and ensure continuity of a nation's digital operations in case of major disruptions or cyber-attacks.India is allowing it from 2023-24. Several reasons drive countries to adopt the data embassy model: Read More...

One Health in India: A Holistic Approach to Well-being

Sep 01, 2023

In an era where boundaries between human habitats and wildlife are blurring, and where environmental changes affect both, the health of humans and animals is intrinsically linked. India, with its vast biodiversity, dense human population, and varying environmental conditions, is particularly at risk for health challenges that span these interconnected realms. The One Health approach offers a comprehensive strategy to these complex problems. Interconnectedness of Life Human, animal, and environmental health are not isolated; they are part of a complex ecosystem. A diseased anima... Read More...

Tackling Climate Change in Cities

Sep 01, 2023

Q1: What is climate change? A1: Climate change refers to long-term alterations in weather patterns, including fluctuations in global temperatures and the frequency of extreme weather events. Q2: Why should cities be concerned about climate change? A2: Due to their dense populations and infrastructure, cities are particularly susceptible to climate change effects, such as rising temperatures, flooding, and heatwaves. It's vital to address these concerns to protect inhabitants, ecosystems, and city infrastructure. Read More...

Finance Commission Disaster Risk Index (FCDRI)

Sep 01, 2023

Q1: What is the Finance Commission Disaster Risk Index (FCDRI)? A1: The FCDRI is a tool developed by the Indian government to gauge the vulnerability of its states and union territories to natural disasters. Q2: Why was the FCDRI created? A2: The FCDRI was instituted to facilitate the Finance Commission in fund allocation for disaster management to various states and union territories. It is also utilized by agencies like the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) for strategizing and executing disaster management plans. ... Read More...

Link Between Rupee Exchange Rate and Interest Rates

Aug 31, 2023

Q1: What is the recent trend in the Indian rupee's value against the US dollar? A: After a period of appreciation, the Indian rupee has recently experienced depreciation, falling below the psychological level of 83 against the US dollar. Q2: What are the factors contributing to the rupee's depreciation? A: Several factors, including a strong dollar, foreign capital outflows, rising global crude oil prices, and inflation, have contributed to the rupee's decline. Q3: How does the upcoming J... Read More...

Dumping, Anti-Dumping, and India-China Trade Relations

Aug 31, 2023

1. What is dumping in international trade? Dumping refers to the practice of exporting goods to another country at a price lower than their cost of production or the price in the domestic market. It can lead to unfair competition and harm domestic industries in the importing country. 2. How does dumping affect domestic industries? Dumping can lead to a disruption of the domestic market by flooding it with low-priced imports. This can result in decreased demand for domestically produced goods, lower prices for local producers, and potential job... Read More...

The Quit India Movement:Causes,Legacy and British Response

Aug 31, 2023

Causes The Quit India Movement was ignited by various factors and triggers that led to its emergence. It stemmed from the growing discontent with British colonial rule and was prompted by the circumstances of World War II. The Cripps Mission's failure to address India's demands and its inability to provide a clear roadmap for independence fueled public support for the Quit India Movement. The Indian National Congress, under Mahatma Gandhi's leadership, withdrew its support and cooperation with the British government during the war. This decision was influenced by the failure of the Cripps Mission ... Read More...

Introduction to Sri Aurobindo and His Ideas:

Aug 31, 2023

Sri Aurobindo Ghose, born on August 15, 1872, was a multifaceted visionary who significantly contributed to Indian philosophy, spirituality, and the struggle for independence. His ideas encompassed a wide range of topics, from Integral Yoga to spiritual evolution, education, and the synthesis of Eastern and Western thoughts. Let's delve into some key concepts associated with Sri Aurobindo: Integral Yoga: Integral Yoga, also known as Purna Yoga, is a holistic approach to spiritual growth that aims to harmonize and transcend all aspects of human nature. Unlike traditional yog... Read More...

Kath-Kuni technique: A traditional architectural method of Himachal Pradesh

Aug 31, 2023

The kath-kuni technique is a traditional architectural method that originates from the western Himalayan region, particularly in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is known for its unique construction style that combines alternating layers of wood and stone without the use of mortar or cement. This technique is primarily used in building larger structures like palaces, temples, and other important buildings. The term "kath-kuni" itself indicates the two main components of this technique: Kath: Refers ... Read More...

Non-Cooperation Movement in India's Freedom Struggle:Basics

Aug 31, 2023

1. Introduction The Non-Cooperation Movement was a significant phase in India's struggle for independence against British colonial rule. Launched in 1920 under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, it aimed to achieve self-governance through non-violent resistance. 2. Key Personalities Mahatma Gandhi: Leader and driving force behind the movement, advocating non-violence and civil disobedience. Jawaharlal Nehru: Mobilized youth a... Read More...

The Legend of Taa’Poi: Reviving an Age-old Odia Tradition

Aug 31, 2023

The legend of Taa’Poi is a primordial Odia folk narrative sung during the ‘Khudurukuni Osha' festival, also known as “Bhalukuni Osha”. This festival and its rituals reflect Odisha's rich maritime history, trading culture, and the expertise of medieval Kalingans in sea voyages and trade links with Southeast Asian islands. The Legend of Taa’Poi: A Tale of Resilience Taa’Poi, the central character, was the only daughter of a wealthy merchant mariner. Her seven brot... Read More...

Moon as a Gateway in Space Exploration: Chandrayaan-3

Aug 31, 2023

1. What is the concept of the Moon as a gateway in space exploration? The Moon as a gateway refers to the strategic use of the Moon's unique characteristics to enhance various aspects of space exploration, including launching missions, conducting research, and preparing for future deep-space endeavors. 2. How does the Moon's lower gravity benefit space missions? The Moon's lower gravity makes it an advantageous launch platform for sending heavy payloads, large instruments, and complex structures deeper into space. This could reduce... Read More...