UPSC Daily Current Affairs

COP28: Cities That Are ClimateResilient

Dec 21, 2023

COP28 Overview: Context: Held in Dubai, COP28 saw discussions on the Global Stock Taking of the Paris climate deals and the Loss and Damage Fund. Urban Focus: This COP highlighted urban issues in climate action, considering cities' significant contributions to GHG emissions. Urbanization and Climate Change: Global Trend: More than half of the world's population now lives in cities, consuming a major share of energy and contributing to CO2 emissions. COP28 Discussions on Cities: A special day was dedicated to urbanization and climate change, involving vario... Read More...

Governor's Role in Lawmaking: Analysis of a Landmark Judgment

Dec 21, 2023

Context: The Supreme Court of India's recent judgment in "State of Punjab vs Principal Secretary to the Governor of Punjab and Another 2023 " offers a critical analysis of Article 200 of the Indian Constitution. The ruling, delivered by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, reinterprets the Governor's role in the legislative process. Key Aspects of the Judgment: 1. Article 200 Interpretation: The judgment creatively interprets the first proviso of Article 200, which involves the Governor's options when a state legislature bill is presented for assent. 2. Governor's Power to Withhold A... Read More...

Customized mRNA in Personalized Medicine:Explainer

Dec 21, 2023

What is mRNA and How Does It Work? mRNA Basics: mRNA (messenger RNA) acts as a set of instructions within your cells, guiding the production of proteins necessary for bodily functions. DNA and mRNA Relationship: DNA is like a recipe book; when a protein is needed, a recipe (gene) from this book is copied into mRNA, which then directs the protein's creation. Why Are mRNAs Great for Medicine? Flexibility: Scientists can easily modify mRNA sequences to create specific proteins. Scalability: Producing mRNA treatments is efficient as the ... Read More...

India's First Winter Arctic Expedition: A Leap in Astronomical Research

Dec 21, 2023

Expedition Overview: The Raman Research Institute (RRI) in Bengaluru is participating in India's first winter expedition to the Arctic region, a significant milestone in India's scientific endeavors. Technical Aspects and Objectives: 1. Radio Frequency Environment Study: The core focus is on characterizing the radio frequency environment in the Svalbard region, Norway. This study is crucial for assessing the suitability of the region for precision astronomy measurements. 2. Astronomical Research at Himadri Station: India's research station, Himadri, operational since 2008 in Svalbard, will be... Read More...

Telecommunications Bill 2023: Major Telecom Reform in India

Dec 21, 2023

Overview: The Telecommunications Bill, 2023, introduced in the Lok Sabha, is a landmark legislation aimed at overhauling India's telecom regulations. This Bill is set to replace the Telegraph Act of 1885, marking a comprehensive update in 138 years. Key Aspects of the Bill: 1. Consolidation of Regulations: It integrates various aspects such as spectrum rules, right of way, and dispute resolution into a single statute. 2. Authorisations Over Licensing: The Bill shifts from traditional licensing to "authorisations" for telecom operators, covering a broad range of se... Read More...

Historical Significance of Sengol in Parliament

Dec 21, 2023

The term “Sengol” can be associated with a historical or cultural symbol of authority and governance. In the context of a parliament, such a symbol might represent the legislative power and the democratic process. Here are potential historical details and significance of establishing a Sengol in the new Parliament House: Cultural Integration: The Sengol could be an artifact that reflects the integration of traditional symbols of authority into modern governance structures, indicating respect for cultural heritage. Symbolic Representation: It may symbolize the transition from traditional forms of leadership to a co... Read More...

HAL Tumakuru: Asia’s Largest Helicopter Factory - An Overview

Dec 21, 2023

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 1. What is the significance of the HAL Helicopter Factory in Tumakuru? It’s Asia’s largest helicopter factory, crucial for India’s self-reliance in helicopter design, development, and manufacturing. 2. When was the factory officially inaugurated? The factory was dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 6, 2023. 3. What is the size of the factory and its initial focus? Spread over 615 acres, the factory initially focus... Read More...

Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) blending with Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)

Dec 20, 2023

The Government of India has initiated a policy to blend Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) with Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Piped Natural Gas (PNG) in City Gas Distribution (CGD) areas. This policy was announced by the Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Housing and Urban Affairs, Hardeep Singh Puri. Here’s a simplified overview of the plan: 1. Voluntary Blending in 2024-25: Initially, in the financial year 2024-25, the blending of CBG with CNG and PNG will be voluntary. This means that gas distributors can choose to blend CBG with CNG and PNG, but it’s not a requirement. 2. Mandatory Blending... Read More...

PM SHRI Schools

Dec 20, 2023

It stands for Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India, is a recently launched centrally sponsored scheme in India. This initiative, approved by the Cabinet on September 7, 2022, is aimed at setting up more than 14,500 PM SHRI Schools by enhancing existing schools. These schools will be spread across the country and managed by various entities, including the Central government, State/UT Government, and local bodies. Under this scheme, a maximum of two schools (one Elementary and one Secondary/Senior Secondary) will be selected per block/Urban Local Body (ULB), with an upper limit on the total number of schools across India. The duration of the schem... Read More...

Empowering Rural India: The Natural Farming Initiative and the Role of Krishi Sakhis

Dec 20, 2023

It is an exemplary strategy that integrates sustainable agriculture with socio-economic empowerment in India’s rural landscape. This initiative embodies a multifaceted approach: 1. Empowerment through Role Assignment: Engaging women from DAY-NRLM as Krishi Sakhis positions them as agents of change in the agricultural sector. Their involvement in promoting natural farming practices is key to this grassroots movement. 2. Collaborative Training Efforts: The joint effort by the Ministry of Rural Development and the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare exemplifies inter-minis... Read More...

UNLF Peace Agreement: Transforming Manipur’s Future

Dec 20, 2023

FAQs on the UNLF Peace Agreement 1. What is the UNLF? The United National Liberation Front (UNLF) is an insurgent group in Manipur, India, established in 1964. It has been involved in armed conflict and political activism, seeking independence for Manipur. 2. What does the peace agreement entail? The peace agreement involves the UNLF renouncing violence and agreeing to join mainstream democratic processes. It signifies an end to hostilities and the beginning of a new era of peace and development in Manipur. 3. Who signed the... Read More...

Battle of Gangasagar: India’s Victory

Dec 20, 2023

The Battle of Gangasagar, a significant event during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, showcased the valor of Indian soldiers, particularly highlighting the heroism of Martyr Albert Ekka. His bravery played a pivotal role in India’s victory in this battle. 1. Role of Martyr Albert Ekka in the Battle of Gangasagar: Lance Naik Albert Ekka, from the Brigade of the Guards regiment of the Indian Army, demonstrated extraordinary courage during the Battle of Gangasagar. He was instrumental in neutralizing enemy bunkers and saving his fellow soldiers, despite being severely wounded. His actions not only boosted the m... Read More...

Climate Change and National Security Concerns in India

Dec 20, 2023

Agricultural Vulnerability: For example, the Indian state of Maharashtra has experienced severe droughts affecting the Vidarbha region, leading to farmer suicides and social unrest. Climate-induced agrarian distress could escalate to widespread migrations, potentially leading to conflicts over resources in more stable regions. Water Scarcity and Conflicts: Inter-state water disputes, such as those over the Cauvery river between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, could intensify with changing rainfall patterns, potentially becoming flashpoints for civil unrest or inter-state tensions. Health Emergencies: Read More...

The Bhitargaon Temple

Dec 20, 2023

It is located in Uttar Pradesh, India, is a significant historical site as it is the oldest known surviving brick temple in the country. Here are some factual highlights: 1. Age and Origin: The temple dates back to the 5th century, around 1500 years ago, placing it in the Gupta period, renowned for a renaissance in art, architecture, and culture. 2. Architectural Significance: It represents the zenith of Gupta-era temple architecture, known for its innovation, intricate brickwork, and terracotta plaques. 3. Discovery: The temple was rediscovered in 1877-78 by A. Cunningham, who recognized its historical importance. Read More...

Potential Impact of Generative AI on India’s Economy by FY30

Dec 20, 2023

Generative AI (Gen AI) promises to be a transformative force across multiple sectors in India, potentially adding $1.2-1.5 trillion to India’s GDP by the fiscal year 2030. Here are detailed examples of how Gen AI could impact various fields: Manufacturing Sector: In industries like automotive manufacturing, Gen AI can optimize production lines, predict maintenance needs using predictive analytics, and enhance quality control, leading to less waste and higher efficiency. Financial Services: Banks and financial institutions can leverage AI for real-time fraud detection, offer personalized financial ser... Read More...