UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Landmark U.S. Abortion Cases

Jan 23, 2024

Roe v. Wade (1973) 1. Jane Roe’s Identity: In the landmark case Roe v. Wade, “Jane Roe” was the pseudonym used by Norma McCorvey. She brought the case forward challenging the abortion laws. 2. State in Question: Norma McCorvey, under the pseudonym Jane Roe, sought an abortion in the state of Texas. At that time, Texas law prohibited abortions except to save the pregnant woman’s life. 3. Supreme Court Decision: The U.S. Supreme Court, in a historic decision, ruled that the U.S. Constitution generally protects a pregnant woman’s liberty to choose to have an abortion. This decision effectively legaliz... Read More...

India-Bangladesh Relations and Emerging Challenges

Jan 23, 2024

Title: Navigating the Evolving Dynamics: India and Bangladesh The Current Scenario: Sheikh Hasina’s Leadership: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s return to power for a fourth term cements the strong bilateral relationship between India and Bangladesh, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi being among the first to congratulate her. Historical Ties and Progress: Foundation: The bond was established during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, with India supporting Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan. Renewed Relations: After a period of strained ties, Sh... Read More...

Overuse of “Watch” Group Antibiotics in India

Jan 23, 2024

Q1: What are “Watch” group antibiotics? A1: “Watch” group antibiotics, as classified by the World Health Organization (WHO), are a category of medicines recommended to be reserved for severe infections. This is to minimize the risk of antimicrobial resistance. Q2: Why is the overuse of “Watch” group antibiotics a concern in India? A2: Overuse leads to increased antibiotic resistance, making it harder to treat common infections. In India, over 55% of antibiotic prescriptions are from the “Watch” group, indicating a high ... Read More...

Edge Intelligence Simplified

Jan 23, 2024

What is Edge Intelligence? Think of it as your school’s smart project. Instead of always sending information to a big computer far away (like the internet), it figures out a lot of things right where it is. This is what edge intelligence does! Key Concepts: 1. Local Problem-Solving: Devices like smartphones or sensors solve problems using their own ‘brains’ without needing big computers far away. 2. Quick Decisions: They make decisions really fast because they don’t have to wait for help from faraway computers. 3. Saving Data: Less internet data is used be... Read More...

India’s First Census of Waterbodies

Jan 23, 2024

Q1: What is India’s first census of waterbodies? A1: India’s first census of waterbodies is a comprehensive survey undertaken by the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti to account for all types of rural and urban waterbodies across the country, including those used for various purposes such as irrigation, industry, and conservation. Q2: Why is the census of waterbodies significant? A2: The census is significant because it provides data essential for estimating water potential, planning water conservation schemes, and managing resources effectively. Read More...

International Maritime Organization (IMO): An Overview

Jan 22, 2024

Background and Objectives: Established in 1948 as the Inter-Governmental Maritime Consultative Organization and began operations in 1959. Renamed as the International Maritime Organization in 1982. Aims to create a fair, effective, universally adopted, and implemented regulatory framework for shipping. Key Areas of Focus: Maritime safety, environmental protection, legal matters, technical cooperation, and maritime security. Key Conventions and Agreements: Notable conventions include SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea), MARPOL (prevention of pollution from ships... Read More...

Pressures on Thanpattan Pastureland: Biodiversity

Jan 22, 2024

1. Location and Significance of Thanpattan Geography: Located in Lahaul-Spiti district, Himachal Pradesh. Cultural Heritage: Home to the indigenous Gaddi herder community. Biodiversity: Known for diverse wildlife including snow leopards and Himalayan brown bears. 2. Gaddi Community and Transhumant Pastoralism Lifestyle: Gaddi herders practice seasonal migration with livestock. Socio-economic Importance: Livestock grazing crucial for their livelihood. 3. Environmental Pressures Grazing Impact: Excess grazing leading to rangeland degradation. ... Read More...

Droughts in India: Recognizing Ecological Impact

Jan 22, 2024

1. Current Drought Monitoring in India Types of Droughts: India identifies meteorological, hydrological, and agricultural droughts. Meteorological Drought: Defined by precipitation shortfall. Hydrological Drought: Focused on low water supply in surface and sub-surface sources. Agricultural Drought: Related to soil moisture deficits affecting vegetation. 2. Proposal for Ecological Drought Recognition Concept: Acknowledging drought’s impact on ecosystems, not just water, crops, and humans. Benefits: Holistic drought management, addressing human and ecosystem vulnerabilities... Read More...

Aligarh Muslim University Case: Key Legal Facets

Jan 22, 2024

Context of the Case The Supreme Court’s seven-judge bench, led by Chief Justice Dr. DY Chandrachud, reviewed an appeal against the Allahabad High Court’s decision in Naresh Agarwal v. Union of India (2005). The High Court struck down the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU)’s 50% seat reservation in postgraduate medical courses for Muslim candidates. The ruling was based on the understanding that AMU is not a minority institution under Article 30 of the Indian Constitution. A minority educational institution has to be set up by the minority and run by them without a legislative act. Historical Background Read More...

National Quantum Mission (NQM) Overview

Jan 22, 2024

Context: India’s National Quantum Mission is set to launch, focusing on advancing quantum technologies. With significant engagement from over 150 researchers and 40 institutions, it’s a major step forward in this high-tech field. Key Objectives: 1. Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs): Establishment of specialized centers in areas like quantum computing, communication, sensing & metrology, and materials & devices. 2. Selection Process: Pre-proposals are being solicited, with a deadline until March 21. Final selections are expected by April-May. 3. Expert Panel: The Mission Technology Research Council will o... Read More...

The Renewed Interest in Lunar Exploration

Jan 22, 2024

The resurgence in moon missions is driven by several factors, marking a significant shift in space exploration goals: 1. Learning to Live in Space: The moon serves as an essential training ground for human space exploration. Establishing a presence there is crucial for learning how to utilize space resources effectively and sustain human life in extraterrestrial environments. 2. Mining for Rare Resources: The moon is a potential source of rare materials like rare-earth metals and helium-3. Helium-3, scarce on Earth, is abundant on the moon and could revolutionize energy generation through nuclear fusion, potentially providing an imme... Read More...

Cicadas: Nature's Buzzing Symphony

Jan 22, 2024

Cicadas are fascinating insects known for their unique life cycles and loud calls. They belong to the family Cicadidae and are mostly found in temperate to tropical climates. Key Characteristics 1. Life Cycle: Cicadas are famous for their distinctive life cycles, particularly the periodical cicadas, which emerge every 13 or 17 years. Most of their life is spent underground as nymphs, feeding on plant roots. 2. Sound Production: Male cicadas produce loud, distinctive noises using special organs called tymbals to attract females. 3. Species Variety: There are over 3,000 species of cicadas worldwide, varying in size... Read More...

Dhordo's UNWTO Recognition: Enhancing Sustainable Tourism

Jan 22, 2024

Multiple Choice Question: Which village was recognized as a United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Best Tourism Village for its sustainable tourism practices and rich cultural heritage? A) Village in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan B) Dhordo, Gujarat C) Village in Munnar, Kerala D) Village in Puducherry, Tamil Nadu Answer: B) Dhordo, Gujarat Explanation: Dhordo's Highlights: Situated in Kutch, Gujarat, Dhordo is renowned for its annual Rann Utsav festival, celebrating the unique culture of the region. Its striking feat... Read More...

Great Indian Bustard Conservation and Energy Development

Jan 22, 2024

Balancing Act: The Supreme Court of India emphasizes the need to balance the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard (GIB) with the country’s energy requirements, particularly solar power development. Conservation Challenges: The GIB, once a candidate for the national bird, faces threats due to its poor vision, leading to frequent collisions with power lines. Efforts to save the GIB include installing bird diverters and considering the undergrounding of power lines. Legal and Policy Measures: The Supreme Court has given a three-week deadline to the Centre to address issues rel... Read More...

Operation Surya Shakti: A Strategic Move Against Maoists in Chhattisgarh

Jan 22, 2024

In a significant stride towards combating Maoist insurgency, Chhattisgarh’s security forces executed Operation Surya Shakti. This pivotal operation, conducted from January 12 to 16, targeted Maoist strongholds in the southern region of the state, particularly in the dense forests of Abujhmad. Key Highlights of Operation Surya Shakti: Objective: To penetrate the ‘administrative and security vacuum area’ in Abujhmad, wresting control from the Maoists. Forces Involved: The operation was a collaborative effort involving central paramilitary forces and state police formations, including the District Reserve... Read More...