UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Labor Productivity in India

Nov 14, 2023

Q1: What is labor productivity and why is it significant for India? A1: Labor productivity measures the output per worker or per hour worked. It is significant for India as higher productivity can lead to economic growth, better wages, and improved living standards. Q2: How does India’s labor productivity compare globally? A2: India’s labor productivity remains below international standards, impacting its competitive edge in the global market. Q3: What factors contribute to low labor productivity in India? Read More...

India’s Solar Manufacturing Base Steps Up

Nov 14, 2023

Q1: What initiatives has India taken to boost its solar manufacturing base? A1: India has implemented several initiatives, including the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which incentivizes manufacturers to increase solar PV (photovoltaic) module production. Additionally, the government has been promoting domestic manufacturing through policies like the Approved List of models and manufacturers (ALMM) order. Q2: How does the PLI scheme contribute to the growth of solar manufacturing? A2: The PLI scheme offers financial incentives to manufacturers for enhancin... Read More...

India-Taiwan Economic Relations: Employment Mobility Agreement

Nov 14, 2023

Overview: India is moving towards strengthening economic ties with Taiwan by sending a significant number of Indian workers to the island, potentially straining relations with China. Key Details: 1. Workforce Exchange Plan: Taiwan plans to hire up to one lakh Indian workers for various sectors including factories, farms, and hospitals. 2. Upcoming Agreement: Both countries are expected to sign an employment mobility agreement as early as December. 3. Taiwan’s Demographic Challenge: Taiwan, becoming a “sup... Read More...

Explainer: Delhi’s Air Pollution Crisis

Nov 14, 2023

Why is Delhi’s Pollution a Topic of Concern? Record Levels: Delhi consistently records high air pollution, breaking its own records. AQI Measurement: The Air Quality Index (AQI) categorizes air quality from good to hazardous (0-500 scale). Delhi’s AQI often falls into the hazardous category. Global Ranking: According to IQ Air, Delhi ranks as the most polluted city globally, with other Indian cities like Kolkata and Mumbai also in the top 10. Is Stubble Burning a Major Cause? Read More...

Overview of India’s Food Security and Nutritional Challenges: Beyond PMGKAY

Nov 14, 2023

Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the extension of the free foodgrain scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) for an additional five years, aiming to provide food security to 80 crore individuals. Key Insights: 1. Economic Context: India’s ambition to become a $5-trillion economy by 2025 contrasts with its continued reliance on subsidized/free food schemes. 2. Budget Allocation: The Department of Food and Public Distribution allocated Rs.2,05,514 crore for FY24, with food subsidy being the largest expenditure. Read More...

Geopolitics of “New World Order”

Nov 14, 2023

1. What is the ‘New World Order’? The term often refers to a significant shift in global power dynamics and international relations, potentially leading to the establishment of new global governance structures or power hierarchies. 2. How do current conflicts impact the global order? Ongoing conflicts, such as those in Ukraine and Gaza, can exacerbate global divisions, influence power balances, and potentially catalyze shifts in international alliances and structures. 3. What role does China play in the changing global o... Read More...

Udham Singh: A Determined Revolutionary in India's Independence Struggle

Nov 14, 2023

Background Udham Singh, an Indian revolutionary, is most famously known for his assassination of Michael O'Dwyer, the former Lieutenant Governor of Punjab in British India. O'Dwyer was believed to be responsible for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amritsar in 1919. Udham Singh's act was driven by his desire to avenge this atrocity. Early Life and Influence Witness to Jallianwala Bagh Massacre: Udham Singh was present at the Jallianwala Bagh on April 13, 1919, when General Dyer ordered troops to fire on a peaceful gathering, resulting in a massacre... Read More...

Does India Need a Population Policy?

Nov 14, 2023

Context The debate on whether India needs a population policy has been ongoing, considering its large population size. Historically, India has experimented with various fertility control programs, even before gaining independence. However, recent developments and expert opinions suggest that India may not require stringent population control measures. Arguments Against a Population Control Policy Achievement of Population Goals: According to experts like K Srinivasan, Emeritus Professor at the International Institute of Population Sciences, the goals set by th... Read More...

The British Education Policy in India and Its Impact on Independence

Nov 14, 2023

Introduction In 1935, the British government introduced English education in India with the intent to create a class of Indians who would assist in colonial administration. Ironically, this policy catalyzed the Indian independence movement. Pre-Colonial and Mughal Education System Gurukul System: Pre-colonial education was segmented along religious and caste lines, with the Gurukul system emphasizing traditional knowledge. Mughal Influence: The Mughals attempted to spread education through mosques, but village schools (pathshalas) remaine... Read More...

The Cholas as Empire Builders

Nov 13, 2023

Introduction The Chola dynasty, one of the longest-recorded dynasties in world history, was renowned for its grand commercial and territorial ambitions. The recent focus on Chola history, especially in Tamil Nadu, has highlighted their importance in South Indian memory. Expansion and Conquests Territorial Expansion: At their peak, the Cholas unified the area south of the Tungabhadra River and ventured north, conquering Eastern India, including Pataliputra. Maritime Prowess: Their naval expeditions and conquests extended to Sri Lanka, the ... Read More...

The Transformation of Delhi Post-1857 Revolt

Nov 13, 2023

Overview The Revolt of 1857, also known as the First War of Indian Independence, marked a turning point in the history of Delhi. The aftermath of the revolt saw the city undergo drastic changes, both culturally and structurally. The Siege and Fall of Delhi British Assault: In September 1857, British troops captured Delhi, ending nearly five months of rebellion by Indian sepoys. The final assault on the Kashmiri Gate was a significant moment, leading to the city's fall. End of the Mughal Era: This event signaled the end of the Mughal e... Read More...

Ram Setu: The Intersection of Myth, History, and Politics

Nov 13, 2023

Overview The Ram Setu, also known as Adam's Bridge, is a chain of limestone shoals between Pamban Island near Tamil Nadu, India, and Mannar Island, off the northern coast of Sri Lanka. This natural formation has been at the center of mythological, religious, and political debates. Mythological Significance Connection to Ramayana: In Hindu mythology, the Ram Setu is believed to be constructed by an army of monkeys (Vanar Sena) led by Lord Hanuman, as part of Lord Ram's quest to rescue his wife Sita from Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. Read More...

The Nehru-Ambedkar Relationship

Nov 13, 2023

Background Jawaharlal Nehru: India's first Prime Minister, a leading figure in the Indian independence movement, and a central member of the Indian National Congress. B.R. Ambedkar: A prominent social reformer, jurist, economist, and the principal architect of the Indian Constitution. He was also a leader in the fight against social discrimination against Dalits. Professional Relationship Cabinet Colleagues: Despite differences, Nehru invited Ambedkar to join his cabinet as the Law Minister, acknowledging Ambedkar's experti... Read More...

Sophia Duleep Singh: The Sikh Princess Championing Women's Rights

Nov 13, 2023

Introduction Sophia Duleep Singh, a Sikh princess with roots in Britain and India, played a pivotal role in advocating for women's voting rights. Her influence extended from the British suffrage movement to inspiring figures in India's struggle for women's rights. Early Life and Background Royal Lineage: Sophia was the daughter of Duleep Singh and the granddaughter of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Despite her royal heritage, she developed a keen awareness of the injustices faced by women. First Visit to India: Her first visit to Indi... Read More...

Akbar's Doctrine of Sulh-i Kull: Peace for All

Nov 13, 2023

Introduction Emperor Akbar, one of the most enlightened rulers of the Mughal dynasty, introduced the concept of Sulh-i Kull, or 'Peace for All,' a revolutionary idea promoting religious tolerance and harmony in his empire. This policy was a cornerstone of his rule and had a profound impact on the social and religious fabric of India. Historical Context Era of Diverse Beliefs: Akbar's reign (1556–1605) was marked by a diverse population with varied religious beliefs, including Islam, Hinduism, Jainism, Christianity, and Zoroastrianism. ... Read More...