UPSC Daily Current Affairs

India's Digital Diplomacy: Simplifier

Jun 08, 2024

1. What is digital diplomacy? Digital diplomacy is the use of online tools and platforms for diplomatic communication and engagement. This can include social media, websites, apps, and other digital technologies. 2. How is India using digital diplomacy? Promoting India's image: Showcasing culture, heritage, and economic achievements. Engaging with global audiences: Connecting with people worldwide through social media... Read More...

MILKY WAY SIMPLIFIER

Jun 08, 2024

1. WHAT IS THE MILKY WAY? The Milky Way is a vast spiral galaxy that contains our Solar System. It is named for its appearance as a dim, milky band of light stretching across the night sky, composed of stars that cannot be individually distinguished by the naked eye. Read More...

SIMPLIFIER: REDEFINING ADMINISTRATIVE GEOGRAPHIES

Jun 08, 2024

ADMINISTRATIVE REFORMS WHAT IS THE NEED FOR REDEFINING ADMINISTRATIVE GEOGRAPHIES? India’s current administrative structures are outdated, being remnants of the British Raj. Updating them is necessary to align with modern technology, societal needs, and efficient governance. WHAT LAWS ARE BEING UPDATED? The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023 w... Read More...

UNDERSTANDING THE FLOW STATE IN CREATIVITY

Jun 08, 2024

What is Flow State? Flow state, often referred to as being “in the zone,” is a mental state in which individuals are fully immersed in an activity, feeling energized, focused, and enjoying the process. This state is characterized by a seamless flow of creative ideas and heightened productivity. Key Characteristics of Flow State 1. Intense Focus: Complete concentration on the task at hand. 2. Clarity of Goals: Read More...

SHADOW BANKS IN INDIA

Jun 08, 2024

WHAT ARE SHADOW BANKS? Shadow banks, also known as Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), are financial institutions that provide services similar to traditional banks, such as lending and investment, but operate outside the regul... Read More...

SIMPLIFIER: MONO-SODIUM GLUTAMATE (MSG)

Jun 08, 2024

WHAT IS MSG? MSG is a flavor enhancer made from the sodium salt of glutamic acid, an amino acid found in many foods and the human body. WHERE IS MSG USED? MSG is used in various cuisines, especially Asian cooking, and is added to processed foods, soups, sauces, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals. WHAT DOES MSG TASTE LIKE? MSG provides an umami flavor, which is savory or meaty, considered ... Read More...

SIMPLIFIER: PROJECT VARSHA

Jun 08, 2024

WHAT IS PROJECT VARSHA? Project Varsha is an ambitious Indian naval project aimed at constructing a strategic submarine base in the Bay of Bengal. This base is designed to provide a secure location for India’s sea-based nuclear deterrent. WHERE IS PROJECT VARSHA LOCATED? Project Varsha is located on the Eastern Coast of India at Rambilli, in the state of Andhra Pradesh. WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF PROJECT VAR... Read More...

Why the Weather Feels Different Than the Thermometer Reads

Jun 08, 2024

The "feels like" temperature isn't always the same as the actual temperature shown on a thermometer. This is because several factors influence how we perceive temperature, creating a discrepancy between the measured value and our sensory experience. Humidity: High humidity levels play a significant role in how hot we feel. When the air is saturated with moisture, it becomes harder for our sweat to evaporate. Since sweat evaporation is a key cooling mechanism for our bodies, this hindrance leads to a sensation of increased warmth, even if the actual temperature remains ... Read More...

Variations in temperature perception by location.

Jun 08, 2024

Humidity and Air Moisture Humidity plays a crucial role in how we perceive temperature. High humidity levels can make hot temperatures feel even hotter because sweat does not evaporate as efficiently, making it harder for the body to cool down. Conversely, low humidity in cold places can make the air feel even colder because of the increased rate of evaporation, leading to more heat loss from the body. Wind Chill and Air Movement Wind speed and air movement can significantly affect our perception of temperature. Wind can carry heat away from the bo... Read More...

TOP 10 COUNTRIES WITH THE MOST GOLD RESERVES IN JUNE 2024

Jun 08, 2024

Rank Country Gold Reserves (tonnes) Gold Reserve Value ($ million) 1 ... Read More...

INVASIVE SPECIES IN INDIA: DANGERS AND REMEDIES

Jun 08, 2024

WHAT ARE INVASIVE SPECIES? Invasive species are non-native plants, animals, or microorganisms that, when introduced to a new environment, cause harm to the ecosystem, economy, or human health. They often outcompete native species for resources and can lead to significant ecological imbalances. Examples include: 1. Lantana camara: A shrub that invades forests and agricultural areas. 2. Eichhornia crassipes (Water Hyacinth): An aquatic plant that clogs water bodies. 3. Prosopis j... Read More...

AI and the Future of Work

Jun 08, 2024

Understanding the Apprehension: The apprehension about AI’s impact on the job market stems from several factors: Job Displacement: AI’s ability to automate tasks could lead to the obsolescence of certain jobs, particularly those involving routine tasks. Income Inequality: The shift towards AI could widen the gap between high-wage and low-wage workers, with the latter facing more significant challenges in transitioning to new roles. Skills Mismatch: The rapid advancement of technology nec... Read More...

CONSERVING SARUS CRANES IN INDIA

Jun 07, 2024

Sarus Cranes (Grus Antigone) in India have benefited from long-standing cultural and traditional values of farmers. There are 15 crane species in the world, out of which the Sarus crane is the only resident species found in India. The major population of Sarus cranes is found in Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. They are classified as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List. CONSERVATION CHALLENGES Local Threats • Egg Mortality: High mortality rates of eg... Read More...

WIPO TREATY TO COMBAT BIOPIRACY : INDIA’S VIEW

Jun 07, 2024

Last week, at a conference in Geneva, the member states of the World Intellectual Property Organisation agreed on a new treaty aimed at preventing the for-profit piracy of traditional knowledge. Biopiracy, where companies lift ideas from traditional knowledge and patent them, is a significant problem. For instance, a US company patented derivatives of the neem tree as pesticides, despite the plant’s properties being well-known to local communities in India. Similarly, attempts have been made to patent traditionally cultivated plant varieties, such as basmati rice and jasmine rice. Read More...

DECODING AI ‘BLACK BOXES’ FOR SAFETY

Jun 07, 2024

Why are AI algorithms called ‘black boxes’? AI algorithms, especially complex machine learning models, are difficult to interpret due to their opaque internal processes. They function similarly to the human brain, making it challenging to trace their decision-making steps, hence termed ‘black boxes’. How is this issue being addressed currently? Efforts to improve AI transparency include model auditing, introducing explainability measures, and ongoing researc... Read More...