UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Introduction to Cryptocurrency

Mar 12, 2024

Cryptocurrency represents a groundbreaking development in the financial world, a digital or virtual form of currency that uses cryptography for security, making it difficult to counterfeit. Unlike traditional currencies issued by governments (fiat currencies), cryptocurrencies operate on decentralized platforms based on blockchain technology—a distributed ledger enforced by a disparate network of computers. Key Features of Cryptocurrency: • Decentralization: Most cryptocurrencies operate on technology called blockchain, a distributed ledger that records all transactions ac... Read More...

First Three Global Coral Bleaching Events: Timing and Causes

Mar 11, 2024

1. 1998 Coral Bleaching Event When: The first documented global coral bleaching event occurred in 1998. Why: This event was primarily driven by a strong El Niño event, coupled with global warming. The El Niño phenomenon caused significant increases in sea surface temperatures across the tropics. This event is noteworthy as it coincided with what was then the warmest year on record, illustrating the exacerbating effect of climate change on natural temperature variations. 2. 2010 Coral Bleaching Event When: The second global coral bleaching event took place ... Read More...

Ratnagiri Geoglyphs: India's Cultural Heritage

Mar 11, 2024

What are Geoglyphs? Geoglyphs are giant designs or motifs etched onto the ground. These creations are typically larger than 4 meters (13 feet) and crafted from durable elements found in the landscape itself. This can include: • Stones • Stone fragments • Gravel • Earth There are two main types of geoglyphs: • Positive geoglyphs: These are formed by arranging and aligning materials on the ground. This can be similar to petroforms (stone outlines) • Negative geoglyphs: Formed by removing some of the natural ground sur... Read More...

Fourth Mass Coral Bleaching Event

Mar 11, 2024

What is coral bleaching? Coral bleaching is a stress-induced phenomenon in corals, triggered by elevated sea temperatures. It involves corals expelling the symbiotic algae living in their tissues, leading to a loss of their vibrant colors. This condition weakens the corals, making them susceptible to disease and starvation. Why is the fourth mass coral bleaching event significant? This event is projected to be the most severe on record, with potential widespread destruction across tropical reefs global... Read More...

Day zero and Bengaluru

Mar 11, 2024

Day zero refers to a hypothetical day in a city or region when the public water supply runs out, making it nearly impossible to access clean, treated water through taps. It's a critical juncture that highlights the severity of a water crisis. Cape Town, South Africa, famously faced the threat of Day Zero in 2018 due to years of drought and unsustainable water consumption. The city implemented drastic water restrictions and public awareness campaigns to avert this scenario. The term "Day Zero" is now used as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of water mismanagement and serves as a wake-up call fo... Read More...

Understanding Kural in Tamil Literature

Mar 11, 2024

In Tamil literature, a kural is a form of short, rhythmic couplet or verse. Each kural consists of exactly seven words, known in Tamil as “cirs”, arranged within two lines. The structure is tightly bound, with the first line containing four words and the second line three. This concise form is renowned for its ability to convey profound, ethical, moral, and philosophical ideas within a very limited lexical space. Thiruvalluvar’s Tirukkural, often just referred to as the Kural, is the most celebrated example of this literary form. Comprising 1,330 kurals, the text is divided into three main sections: Aram (virtue), Porul (wealth or... Read More...

UN Security Council Reform and G4 Nations’ Proposal

Mar 11, 2024

1. What is the G4 nations’ proposal for UN Security Council reform? The G4 nations (Brazil, Germany, Japan, and India) have proposed expanding the UN Security Council’s membership from 15 to 25-26 members. This includes adding six new permanent and four or five non-permanent members to better reflect the geopolitical realities of today’s world. The proposal aims to make the Council more representative, legitimate, and effective. 2. Why is the UN Security Council reform necessary? The need for reform arises from the Security Council’s current composition, which reflect... Read More...

Barsu site in Ratnagiri; Geoglyphs

Mar 11, 2024

It stands out for its remarkable collection of geoglyphs, the largest cluster found in the Konkan region. Unlike paintings, these intricate etchings are carved directly onto laterite plateaus, depicting a captivating array of figures. From humans and land animals to possibly even marine creatures, the geoglyphs offer a glimpse into the lives, beliefs, and artistic sensibilities of their prehistoric creators. One particularly enthralling geoglyph showcases a large-scale scene etched onto the laterite canvas. Measuring an impressive 17.5 x 4.5 meters, it portrays a man standing defiantly between two leaping tigers, a scene frozen in time... Read More...

Geoglyphs: Earth's Ancient Artistry and Cultural Tapestry

Mar 11, 2024

1. What are geoglyphs? Geoglyphs are large designs or motifs, often abstract or representational, created on the earth’s surface through the accumulation or removal of materials like stones, earth, and gravel. They range from simple geometric shapes to complex depictions of animals, humans, and other figures. 2. How old are geoglyphs? Geoglyphs span a vast chronological range, with the oldest dating back to the Late Upper Paleolithic era. Others, like the Marree Man in Australia, were created in contemporary times. The age of geoglyphs can vary widely from thousands to even tens of tho... Read More...

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs with Digital Readiness

Mar 11, 2024

In the vibrant landscape of Indian entrepreneurship, women have emerged as formidable forces, particularly in the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) sector. Their participation symbolizes not only a quest for financial independence but also a commitment to contributing significantly to the nation’s economy. Despite their enthusiasm, rural women entrepreneurs face substantial barriers, especially in adopting digital tools crucial for business success in today’s technology-driven market. Challenges Faced by Women Entrepreneurs: 1. Access to Capital: A primary challenge is the difficulty in securing loans due to the lack o... Read More...

Indian Women’s Right to Maiden Name: A Legal Challenge: Jigya Yadav vs. CBSE

Mar 11, 2024

In an era marked by significant advancements for women in various fields, the requirement for a married woman to obtain her husband’s consent to revert to her maiden surname has sparked a legal challenge in India. A government notification mandates that a woman seeking to revert to her maiden name must present either a divorce decree or a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from her husband, a stipulation that has led to a petition in the Delhi High Court by 40-year-old Divya Modi Tongya, amidst her ongoing divorce proceedings. Key Points of the Issue: 1. Mandatory Husband’s NOC: According to the notification from the Department of P... Read More...

The Dual Influence of AI on Elections: Navigating the Positives and Negatives

Mar 11, 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed numerous aspects of modern life, including the electoral process. While AI offers the potential to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of elections, it also presents new challenges that could undermine the integrity of democratic processes. Understanding both the positive and negative impacts of AI on elections is crucial for developing strategies to minimize harm while maximizing benefits. Positive Influences of AI Improved Voter Engagement: AI can personalize voter education campaigns, making it easier for citizens to understand the issues and candidates. By analyzing user preferences and ... Read More...

Scientists Incorporate Local Flair into Species Names

Mar 11, 2024

In a move that blends scientific discovery with cultural heritage, Indian scientists are breaking traditional naming conventions by naming new species after local cultures, communities, and characteristics. This approach not only honors indigenous knowledge but also aims to strengthen the connection between local populations and conservation efforts. By incorporating regional and cultural references into the scientific names of species, researchers hope to enhance public involvement and awareness in preserving biodiversity. Kumbara Night Frog (Nyctibatrachus kumbara): Named for its unique breeding habit resembling pottery work, discovered in Kathalekan, Karnatak... Read More...

1.5°C Target and Climate Change

Mar 11, 2024

What is the 1.5°C target? The 1.5°C target is a global goal set under the Paris Agreement to limit the average global temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. It aims to significantly reduce the risks and impacts associated with climate change. Why was the 1.5°C target set? The target was established to minimize the severe effects of climate change, including extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and biodiversity loss. Limiting warming to this threshold is considered crucial for protecting ecosystems, human health, and livelihoods. Is the 1.5&d... Read More...

Golden Langur Population Survey in India

Mar 11, 2024

1. What is the golden langur? The golden langur (Trachypithecus geei) is an endangered primate species known for its distinctive golden fur. It primarily inhabits the Manas Biosphere Reserve and various fragmented forests in the western part of Assam, India. 2. How many golden langurs are there in India? The latest survey reveals an estimated population of 7,396 golden langurs in India. 3. Who conducted the golden langur population survey? The survey was carried out by the Primate Research Centre NE India (PRCNE), Assam Forest Department, Bodoland Territorial ... Read More...