UPSC Daily Current Affairs

FAQ: India’s Ambitious Semiconductor Manufacturing

Oct 26, 2023

Why is India venturing into semiconductor manufacturing? India aims to reduce its heavy reliance on semiconductor imports and boost its technological self-reliance. The government has introduced a $10 billion incentive package for this purpose. What exposed India’s vulnerabilities in the semiconductor supply chain? The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent global disruptions exposed the country’s dependency on imports, making it clear that domestic production capabilities are essential. How is the Indian government supporting... Read More...

Focus on R&D: The Roadmap to India Becoming an Innovation Powerhouse

Oct 26, 2023

The Director of the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore, emphasized the critical need for India to invest more in Research and Development (R&D) during the 82nd Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Foundation Day. This call to action was backed by data from the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2022 report, which highlighted that India’s R&D expenditure was only 0.7% of its GDP in 2018. In contrast, innovation leaders like China are spending as much as 2.4% of their GDP on R&D. Key Challenges: Lack of R&D in Key Industries: In India, R&D inve... Read More...

Meri Maati, Mera Desh” Campaign

Oct 26, 2023

The “Meri Maati, Mera Desh” (My Country, My Soil) campaign is a national initiative that aims to celebrate the unity and diversity of India. Launched on August 9, the campaign serves as a tribute to the brave individuals who have sacrificed their lives for the country. Basics Start Date: August 9 Objective:To honor the sacrifices of individuals who gave their lives for the nation and to celebrate India’s unity in diversity. Key Element: Collection of soil from across India, symbolizing the essence of the nation. Read More...

The Interplay Between Microbial Communities and Soil Properties: A Comprehensive Overview

Oct 26, 2023

The Symbiotic Relationship The relationship between microbial communities and soil properties is intricate and bidirectional, impacting everything from agricultural productivity to ecosystem health. Factors Influencing Microbial Communities 1. Soil pH: Affects the types of microorganisms that can thrive. Implications: Alters nutrient availability and soil structure. 2. Soil Moisture: Dictates microbial metabolic rates. Implications: Influences decompos... Read More...

Addressing Climate Risks in Coastal Areas: Identifying Challenges and Recommendations

Oct 26, 2023

Issue Identification Climate change poses a set of unique and multi-faceted challenges to coastal communities. These have been highlighted by the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI). Challenges Increased frequency of cyclones leading to social and economic hardships. Coastal flooding exacerbating vulnerability of communities. Outbreaks of water-borne diseases. Fluctuations in fish harvests due to changing climate conditions. Safety concerns for fishers and loss of livelihoods. ... Read More...

Farmer Producers’ Organizations (FPOs) in Indian Agriculture: A Revolution

Oct 26, 2023

What is an FPO? FPO stands for Farmer Producers’ Organization. It is a collective of farmers working in a specific geographical area and can be registered under the Companies Act or as a cooperative under the Societies Registration Act. What Challenges do FPOs Address? FPOs tackle the issue of fragmented agricultural holdings, thereby bringing economies of scale in farming operations. They facilitate agri-extension, technology adoption, and market linkage. How are FPOs Being Promoted? The Centra... Read More...

National Mission on Edible Oils (Palm Oil) - FAQ

Oct 26, 2023

What is the NMEO-OP? NMEO-OP aims to boost edible oil production in India through expanding the area for oil palm cultivation and increasing crude palm oil (CPO) production. This will help in reducing India’s dependence on imported edible oils. Where is it Implemented? This mission is active in 15 states, including six northeastern states such as Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura. Why is Meghalaya not Participating? Meghalaya has chosen to abstain from participating ... Read More...

Bharatiya Antariksha Station 2035

Oct 26, 2023

India aims to establish its own space station, the Bharatiya Antariksha Station, by 2035. There are many benefits to India setting up its own space station. Here are a few: Scientific research: A space station can serve as a platform for a variety of scientific research and experiments, including studies in biology, physics, astronomy, and materials science. For example, scientists can use a space station to study the effects of microgravity on the human body and to develop new materials that can be used in space and on Earth. Technology development: A s... Read More...

Namo Bharat RapidX Train

Oct 26, 2023

What is Namo Bharat RapidX train? The Namo Bharat RapidX train is a new type of high-speed train being developed in India. It is expected to have a top speed of 160 km/h and will be equipped with modern amenities. When will it be launched? The Namo Bharat RapidX train is expected to be launched in 2024. What are the benefits? The Namo Bharat RapidX train will offer a number of benefits to passengers, including reduced travel time, improved comfort, and increased safety. Read More...

Why Do Humans Have Neanderthal DNA?

Oct 26, 2023

Approximately 40,000 years ago, Neanderthals, long-time inhabitants of the western part of the Eurasian continent, met the incoming Homo sapiens from Africa. The two species shared the region for several millennia, leading to the infusion of Neanderthal DNA into the Homo sapiens genome. This process of interbreeding is known as admixture. Neanderthal and Homo sapiens interbreeding Admixture between Neanderthals and Homo sa... Read More...

Hanle Dark Sky Reserve in Ladakh

Oct 25, 2023

The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve in Ladakh is India's first dark sky reserve. It was designated as a dark sky reserve in 2022 by the Union Territory of Ladakh to control man-made light pollution and preserve the area's dark skies. The reserve spans an area of approximately 1,073 square kilometers and includes the six hamlets of Bhok, Shado, Punguk, Khuldo, Naga, and Tibetan Refugee habitations. Hanle Dark Sky Reserve Ladakh The Hanl... Read More...

MBBS Seat Allocation and Regional Disparities: A Closer Look

Oct 25, 2023

Background: The National Medical Commission (NMC) has issued a notification that restricts the number of MBBS seats in any state/UT to 100 per one million population. The intention behind this move is to “reduce regional disparities” and prevent overcrowding in medical colleges. Impact on Southern States: Seat Saturation: All southern states have already surpassed this newly established limit. This means they cannot inaugurate new medical colleges or introduce more MBBS seats in existing institutions. Perceived Penalty: The se... Read More...

Money Bills in India: An Overview

Oct 25, 2023

Definition: As per Article 110 of the Constitution, a bill is considered a money bill if it pertains “only” to matters outlined in Article 110(1)(a) to (g). These matters include topics like taxation, government borrowings, and appropriation of funds from the Consolidated Fund of India. Introduction: To become law, a bill typically requires the endorsement of both houses of Parliament. However, a money bill is an exception. Key Characteristics of a Money Bill: 1. Lok Sabha Introduction: Read More...

Drones and Narcoterrorism at the India-Pakistan Border: A Comprehensive Overview.

Oct 25, 2023

Introduction: The nexus between drug trafficking, weapons smuggling, and terrorism has grown more intertwined and complex, particularly at the India-Pakistan border. This has been exacerbated by the use of drones for cross-border delivery of narcotics and arms. Key Highlights: 1. Arrests and Connections: On October 11, the Punjab Police detained individuals planning targeted killings in the state who had ties to Pakistan-based terrorist organizations. 2. Financial Trail: The Punjab Police discovered the flow of substantial amounts of drug... Read More...

Life and Reforms of Narayana Guru

Oct 25, 2023

Introduction: Narayana Guru (1856-1928) was a renowned spiritual leader, social reformer, and philosopher from Kerala, India. His contributions spanned the realms of spirituality, socio-political reform, and education, aiming to eradicate caste-based discrimination and promote universal brotherhood. Early Life: Born in the Ezhava community in Chempazhanthy, a village near Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. He was well-versed in Malayalam, Sanskrit, and Tamil, which he learned from traditional gurukulas and scholars of his time. Read More...