UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Artificial Intelligence Regulation

Dec 12, 2023

What is the new regulatory framework for AI in the EU? The European Union has implemented a regulatory framework to oversee the ethical use of AI, emphasizing transparency and consumer rights. It includes strict rules against high-risk AI systems and provisions for AI applications that impact public safety. How does the US approach AI regulation? The United States has taken a less centralized stance, with measures to promote innovation and economic competitiveness in AI, while also considering privacy and security concerns. What ste... Read More...

NAMO Drone Didi scheme:

Dec 12, 2023

1. What is the NAMO Drone Didi scheme? The NAMO (New Agriculture Market Order) Drone Didi scheme is a government initiative aimed at empowering women by supplying drones to Self Help Groups (SHGs) for agricultural purposes. This scheme is intended to enhance agricultural productivity through the use of technology and to create new job opportunities for rural women. 2. How does the NAMO Drone Didi scheme empower women? The scheme empowers women by involving them in the emerging field of drone technology, particularly in its application for agriculture. By training and... Read More...

Services-Led Growth in India: Leveraging Human Capital and Innovation

Dec 12, 2023

India’s shift towards a services-led economy represents a strategic pivot from the traditional manufacturing-led growth model. This transition is particularly suited to India’s strengths — a vast pool of human capital and an innovative technology sector. Human Capital as a Cornerstone The foundation of services-led growth rests on nurturing human capital. Educational initiatives, such as the ‘Skill India’ campaign, aim to train millions in various sectors. Institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) have been instrumental in producing a s... Read More...

Wetlands in Urban Environments: A Case Study of Chennai

Dec 11, 2023

Wetlands and Their Uses: Wetlands are vital ecological features that provide numerous benefits. They act as natural sponges, absorbing rainfall and reducing flooding. These areas support a diverse range of flora and fauna, contributing to biodiversity. Wetlands also filter pollutants from water, improve water quality, and recharge groundwater aquifers. In coastal cities like Chennai, they serve as critical buffers against storms and sea-level rise. Causes of Wetland Destruction: Urban sprawl and unregulated development are primary causes of wetland destruction in cit... Read More...

Health Impacts of Climate Change

Dec 11, 2023

Introduction: Climate change has far-reaching impacts on global health, intensifying emergencies like floods and heatwaves, which disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. The ongoing COP28 conference has recognized the overlap of climate and health concerns, emphasizing the need for health-centric climate resilience. Health Risks from Climate Change: Direct Effects: Increased incidences of respiratory diseases from air pollution, heat stress, and the spread of infectious diseases due to changing weather patterns. Strain on Healthcare: Natural disasters stress healthcare... Read More...

75 Years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Dec 11, 2023

Introduction: The 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) offers a moment for global reflection. Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, this landmark document aimed to establish a baseline of fundamental human rights for all humanity, shaped by the aftermath of World War II. Accomplishments of the UDHR: The UDHR has provided a framework for international human rights law, influencing numerous national legislations and international treaties. It catalyzed the decolonization process and bolstered movements fi... Read More...

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL)

Dec 11, 2023

BNPL Growth Factors and RBI’s Influence Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) Growth Reasons: 1. Convenience: Easy to use, often with a simple approval process. 2. Accessibility: Provides credit to underserved communities and those with little credit history. 3. Flexible Repayment: Offers a structured, often interest-free repayment plan. 4. Market Demand: Increasing consumer preference for deferred payment options. Advantages (+): 1. Inclusive Credit Access: BNPL models expand financial access, particularly... Read More...

CoP 28: Adaptation Targets

Dec 11, 2023

What are the adaptation targets set to be achieved by 2030? 1. Enhance Resilience: Improve the ability of communities, especially those in high-vulnerability areas, to adapt to climate change impacts. 2. Reduce Vulnerabilities: Lower risks associated with climate extremes and disasters. 3. Poverty and Livelihoods: Substantially reduce poverty and protect livelihoods in the face of climate risks. 4. Sustainable Infrastructure: Ensure new infrastructures are resilient to climate impacts. 5. Climate-Related Hazards: Develop adaptive strategies to minimize the impacts of climate-related risks. 6. Water Access: Ensure universal access... Read More...

Uniform Charging Standards: India’s Initiative

Dec 11, 2023

Overview: India is on track to implement uniform Type-C charging for devices by March 2025, following the European Union’s lead to standardize charging ports by 2024. The Rule: Mandate: All electronic devices such as mobile phones and tablets must be equipped with Type-C charging ports. Impact: Simplifies charging across a wide range of devices, potentially eliminating the need for multiple chargers. E-Waste Challenge: Statistics: India generated 1.6 million tonnes of e-waste in a recent fiscal year. EU Chargers: 11,000 tonnes of unu... Read More...

Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation

Dec 11, 2023

The United Nations is spearheading a new initiative to create a global framework for international tax cooperation. This initiative is a response to the inadequacies of the current tax system, which often fails to prevent tax evasion and does not adequately serve the interests of developing nations. Key Issues Addressed: The global tax system has been criticized for enabling tax avoidance and not capturing the full tax obligations of multinational corporations. Developing countries often lack the resources to implement measures that curb tax evasion, leading to significant revenue loss... Read More...

Kala Azar Elimination in India

Dec 11, 2023

What is Kala azar? Kala azar, also known as visceral leishmaniasis, is a parasitic disease transmitted by sandflies, characterized by fever, weight loss, and an enlarged spleen and liver. How is India combating Kala azar? India has implemented strategies like effective indoor residual spraying, construction improvements to prevent breeding of sandflies, and the use of the antimicrobial drug amphotericin B for treatment. What was India’s target year for Kala azar elimination? The initial target was ... Read More...

Government’s Bharat Atta Initiative

Dec 11, 2023

The Modi government’s Bharat Atta initiative, launched to combat inflation, has seen a significant uptake among consumers. The scheme, which makes wheat flour available at a subsidized rate of Rs.27.50 per kg, is a part of a broader strategy to offer essential commodities at affordable prices. The initiative has been well-received, prompting public interest in extending similar subsidies to other products like tea, vegetable oils, and more pulses. Key Highlights Scheme Execution: Approximately 2.5 lakh metric tonnes of wheat were allocated to NAFED, NCCF, and Kendriya Bhandars by the government... Read More...

K-Shaped Recovery: Economic Disparities Unveiled

Dec 11, 2023

What is a K-shaped recovery? A K-shaped recovery occurs when different parts of the economy recover at different rates or magnitudes post a downturn. In such a scenario, certain industries or sectors bounce back quickly and grow while others continue to decline or recover at a much slower pace. Can you give an example of a K-shaped recovery? An example is visible in consumer behavior post-Covid. Demand for luxury goods and premium products has soared, especially in urban areas, indicating economic recovery and growth for high-end industries. Conversely, sales of entr... Read More...

Energizing India’s Green Future with Advanced Battery Technology

Dec 11, 2023

Q: How are batteries shaping India’s energy landscape? A: Batteries are at the forefront of India’s energy transition, serving as essential storage solutions that enable the integration of renewable energy sources into the national grid. By storing energy from renewables, batteries help stabilize the supply, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and support India’s ambitious goals to achieve significant emissions reductions by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2070. Q: What advancements are propelling the battery industry forward in India? A: The battery i... Read More...

India’s Push for Self-reliance in Advanced Chemistry Cells (ACCs)

Dec 11, 2023

Advanced Chemistry Cells (ACCs) are the fundamental components of lithium-ion batteries, which are widely used in electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage solutions. In the context of India’s green initiatives, ACCs play a vital role in transitioning towards a low-carbon economy by enabling the storage of renewable energy and powering electric vehicles, which are essential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Currently, India’s ACC manufacturing capabilities are minimal, leading to heavy reliance on imports to meet the domestic demand for these cells. Recognizing the strategic importance of developing domestic production capabilities f... Read More...