UPSC Daily Current Affairs

State of Punjab v. Principal Secretary to the Governor of Punjab 2023 : A Landmark Ruling on Governor

Dec 05, 2023

Clarifying the Constitutional Mandate of Governors In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court decisively outlined the constitutional limitations and obligations of state governors, reinforcing the pillars of democratic governance and the essence of federalism. Democracy and Federal Balance: The Court’s Interpretation The ruling addresses the governor’s authority to assent to legislation, ensuring that this power is not wielded to undermine the legislative process or the will of democratically elected bodies. The Supreme C... Read More...

Standing Deposit Facility (SDF

Dec 04, 2023

The Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) is a monetary policy tool used by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to manage liquidity in the banking system. Here’s an overview of how it works and its effects: How does the SDF work? The SDF allows banks to deposit funds at the RBI without the need for providing collateral. It serves as a safety valve for the banking system, where banks can park their excess liquidity. The rate offered on the SDF acts as the lower bound of the Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF) corridor, influencing the rates at which banks lend to each other o... Read More...

The Loss and Damage Fund

Dec 04, 2023

What is The Loss and Damage Fund? The Fund is a financial mechanism established to support developing countries that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change, facilitating rehabilitation and compensation for damages. How was The Loss and Damage Fund established? It was first proposed by the Alliance of Small Island States and officially established at COP27 with further developments in the structure and commitments made at COP28. Why do developing countries need The Loss and Damage Fund? Read More...

Crop Diversification in Punjab

Dec 04, 2023

What is the aim of crop diversification in Punjab? The goal is to shift from the prevalent paddy-wheat crop rotation to more sustainable and profitable alternatives like fruit cultivation, thus improving farmers’ incomes and preserving water resources. Why is fruit cultivation being emphasized in Punjab? Fruit cultivation, especially of kinnow, guava, and pear, is promoted due to its higher income potential, better use of resources, and to meet the rising demand for these fruits. What are the estimated net returns for kinnow, ... Read More...

MILAN 2024: Strategic Implications

Dec 04, 2023

What is MILAN 2024? MILAN 2024 is a strategic multilateral naval exercise hosted by India, aimed at reinforcing cooperation and interoperability among navies of around 50 participating nations in the Indian Ocean Region. Why is MILAN important for regional security? MILAN plays a critical role in enhancing collective maritime security, addressing common challenges like piracy and trafficking, and ensuring a stable and secure maritime environment. How does MILAN 2024 promote international naval collaboration? Read More...

Methane: A Potent Yet Short-Lived Climate Pollutant

Dec 04, 2023

Key Points: 1. Chemical Composition: Methane (CH4) is an organic compound comprising one carbon and four hydrogen atoms. 2. Recent Attention: Gaining focus due to its significant impact on global warming, surpassing carbon dioxide in potency. 3. Global Warming Potential (GWP):** Methane has a GWP100 of 28, far exceeding carbon dioxide's GWP100 of 1. 4. COP-28 Initiative: At the UAE climate talks, philanthropic organizations like Sequoia Climate Foundation and Bezos Earth Fund pledged $450 million to mitigate methane emissions. 5. Lifespan in Atmosphere: Unlike carbon... Read More...

Population-Level Genome Sequencing

Dec 04, 2023

1. What is Population-Level Genome Sequencing? It involves deciphering the complete genetic makeup of large populations to gain insights into human diversity and disease. 2. What was an early significant initiative in this field? The deCODE genomics project in Iceland, which enrolled a large part of the Icelandic population for genetic studies. 3. How has the technology evolved in the last decade? Advances in technology have significantly improved throughput and reduced the cost of whole-genome sequencin... Read More...

Re-criminalizing Adultery in India

Dec 04, 2023

1. What are the grounds for recommending re-criminalization of adultery? Parliamentary Committee's Reasoning: To safeguard the sanctity of marriage on gender-neutral lines. Dissenting Views: Opposition MPs argue against raising marriage to a sacramental level and state intrusion into private lives. 2. What did the panel recommend? Recommendation: Reinstating adultery as a gender-neutral criminal offense. Committee's View: Emphasis on protecting the institution of marriage. 3. Legislative history... Read More...

Enhancing Disability Inclusion in India

Dec 04, 2023

Global Context of Disability: Population with Disabilities: 1.3 billion globally, 80% in developing countries. Rural Prevalence: 70% of disabled persons in rural areas. Economic Impact and Inclusion: Potential GDP Boost: 3% to 7% if persons with disabilities are included (ILO study). Current Employment Scenario: Limited jobs, prevalent stereotypes. Convention Compliance: UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities advocates for changing attitudes and social development inclusion. Read More...

Shadow Banks in India

Dec 04, 2023

Shadow Banks in India: Shadow banks, also known as Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), are financial institutions that provide similar services to traditional commercial banks but operate under different regulatory frameworks. In India, shadow banks play a significant role in the financial system, offering credit and other financial services, particularly to segments of the economy not served by traditional banks. Key Differences Between Shadow Banks and Commercial Banks: Regulatory Framework: Shadow Banks: Regulated by t... Read More...

Panda Diplomacy

Dec 04, 2023

The concept of "Panda Diplomacy" involves the practice of China sending its native giant pandas to zoos around the world as a gesture of goodwill and to foster international relations. This practice has been a part of China's diplomatic history for decades. The Symbolism of Pandas in Diplomacy Pandas are seen as symbols of peace and friendship, and their presence in foreign zoos often signifies strong bilateral ties . The return of these pandas to China may be indicative of shifting diplomatic dynamics, particularly in light of recent U.S.-China tensions. The Impact on Conservatio... Read More...

Panda Diplomacy

Dec 04, 2023

Bullet Trains

Dec 04, 2023

What are bullet trains? Bullet trains are high-speed rail systems capable of running at speeds typically between 250 km/h and 320 km/h, sometimes even faster. They are designed for efficiency and speed over long distances. How do bullet trains work? Bullet trains operate on dedicated tracks that are designed for high-speed travel. They often use advanced technologies such as magnetic levitation or specially designed wheelsets for high-speed traction and stability. What are the pros of bullet trains? S... Read More...

Deepfakes and Legal Provisions in India

Dec 04, 2023

Understanding Deepfakes Deepfakes leverage sophisticated AI to create fake videos or audio recordings that can be misused for various malicious purposes, including misinformation, defamation, and privacy infringement. Indian Legal Provisions Addressing Deepfakes Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act): Section 66C: Pertains to identity theft. Section 66D: Deals with cheating by personation using a computer resource. Section 66E: Penalizes the violation of privacy. Section 67: Punishes the publishing of ... Read More...

Empowerment of the Differently Abled in India Through Technology

Dec 04, 2023

India's commitment to the differently abled, also referred to as persons with disabilities (PwDs), is reflected in the various technological advancements and initiatives aimed at improving their quality of life. Here's an overview of the progress and impact: Assistive Mobility Technologies Motorized Wheelchairs: The integration of motorized attachments to manual wheelchairs, enhancing mobility. Innovative Devices: Clip-on devices that convert wheelchairs into motorized versions, allowing for better navigation on diverse terrains. Communication... Read More...