UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Behavioral/Nudge Economics and its Uses and Limits

Aug 31, 2023

Q1: What is Behavioral Economics? A1: Behavioral economics is a field that combines principles from psychology and economics to understand how individuals make decisions. It explores how cognitive biases, emotions, and social influences affect economic choices. Q2: What is “Nudging” in Behavioral Economics? A2: “Nudging” refers to using subtle interventions to influence people’s decisions towards desired outcomes without restricting their choices. It’s a concept from behavioral economics that encourages bett... Read More...

Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF)

Aug 31, 2023

1. What is the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF)? The Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) is a financial mechanism established to support the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) formulated by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). It aims to mobilize resources to achieve biodiversity conservation and restoration goals by 2030. 2. When was the GBFF ratified and launched? The GBFF was ratified and launched at the Seventh Assembly of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) held in Vancouve... Read More...

Public Interest Litigations (PILs)

Aug 31, 2023

1. What is a Public Interest Litigation (PIL)? A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) is a legal action initiated in a court of law for the protection of public interest, often addressing issues that affect a large section of society or vulnerable groups. Unlike traditional legal cases that involve disputes between parties, PILs aim to uphold the welfare of the public at large. 2. What is the primary objective of PILs? The primary objective of PILs is to ensure justice, equality, and the protection of fundamental ... Read More...

Moon as a Gateway in Space Exploration: Chandrayaan-3

Aug 31, 2023

1. What is the concept of the Moon as a gateway in space exploration? The Moon as a gateway refers to the strategic use of the Moon's unique characteristics to enhance various aspects of space exploration, including launching missions, conducting research, and preparing for future deep-space endeavors. 2. How does the Moon's lower gravity benefit space missions? The Moon's lower gravity makes it an advantageous launch platform for sending heavy payloads, large instruments, and complex structures deeper into space. This could reduce... Read More...

The Legend of Taa’Poi: Reviving an Age-old Odia Tradition

Aug 31, 2023

The legend of Taa’Poi is a primordial Odia folk narrative sung during the ‘Khudurukuni Osha' festival, also known as “Bhalukuni Osha”. This festival and its rituals reflect Odisha's rich maritime history, trading culture, and the expertise of medieval Kalingans in sea voyages and trade links with Southeast Asian islands. The Legend of Taa’Poi: A Tale of Resilience Taa’Poi, the central character, was the only daughter of a wealthy merchant mariner. Her seven brot... Read More...

Non-Cooperation Movement in India's Freedom Struggle:Basics

Aug 31, 2023

1. Introduction The Non-Cooperation Movement was a significant phase in India's struggle for independence against British colonial rule. Launched in 1920 under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, it aimed to achieve self-governance through non-violent resistance. 2. Key Personalities Mahatma Gandhi: Leader and driving force behind the movement, advocating non-violence and civil disobedience. Jawaharlal Nehru: Mobilized youth a... Read More...

Kath-Kuni technique: A traditional architectural method of Himachal Pradesh

Aug 31, 2023

The kath-kuni technique is a traditional architectural method that originates from the western Himalayan region, particularly in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is known for its unique construction style that combines alternating layers of wood and stone without the use of mortar or cement. This technique is primarily used in building larger structures like palaces, temples, and other important buildings. The term "kath-kuni" itself indicates the two main components of this technique: Kath: Refers ... Read More...

Introduction to Sri Aurobindo and His Ideas:

Aug 31, 2023

Sri Aurobindo Ghose, born on August 15, 1872, was a multifaceted visionary who significantly contributed to Indian philosophy, spirituality, and the struggle for independence. His ideas encompassed a wide range of topics, from Integral Yoga to spiritual evolution, education, and the synthesis of Eastern and Western thoughts. Let's delve into some key concepts associated with Sri Aurobindo: Integral Yoga: Integral Yoga, also known as Purna Yoga, is a holistic approach to spiritual growth that aims to harmonize and transcend all aspects of human nature. Unlike traditional yog... Read More...

The Quit India Movement:Causes,Legacy and British Response

Aug 31, 2023

Causes The Quit India Movement was ignited by various factors and triggers that led to its emergence. It stemmed from the growing discontent with British colonial rule and was prompted by the circumstances of World War II. The Cripps Mission's failure to address India's demands and its inability to provide a clear roadmap for independence fueled public support for the Quit India Movement. The Indian National Congress, under Mahatma Gandhi's leadership, withdrew its support and cooperation with the British government during the war. This decision was influenced by the failure of the Cripps Mission ... Read More...

Dumping, Anti-Dumping, and India-China Trade Relations

Aug 31, 2023

1. What is dumping in international trade? Dumping refers to the practice of exporting goods to another country at a price lower than their cost of production or the price in the domestic market. It can lead to unfair competition and harm domestic industries in the importing country. 2. How does dumping affect domestic industries? Dumping can lead to a disruption of the domestic market by flooding it with low-priced imports. This can result in decreased demand for domestically produced goods, lower prices for local producers, and potential job... Read More...

Link Between Rupee Exchange Rate and Interest Rates

Aug 31, 2023

Q1: What is the recent trend in the Indian rupee's value against the US dollar? A: After a period of appreciation, the Indian rupee has recently experienced depreciation, falling below the psychological level of 83 against the US dollar. Q2: What are the factors contributing to the rupee's depreciation? A: Several factors, including a strong dollar, foreign capital outflows, rising global crude oil prices, and inflation, have contributed to the rupee's decline. Q3: How does the upcoming J... Read More...

Personalities Involved in the Chandrayaan-3 Mission:

Aug 30, 2023

S Somanath (ISRO Chairman): As the ISRO Chairman, S Somanath played a pivotal role in overseeing India's ambitious Moon mission, Chandrayaan-3. His leadership extended beyond Chandrayaan-3, encompassing crucial missions like Gaganyaan and Aditya-L1. With a wealth of experience, he guided ISRO's endeavors in space exploration. His previous roles include directing the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) and the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre, both integral in developing rocket technologies for ISRO. P Veeramuthuvel (Project Director, Chandrayaan-3): P Veeramuthuvel, the ... Read More...

Smart Cities in India - Achievements and Rankings

Aug 30, 2023

1. What are the Smart Cities in India? Smart Cities are urban centers in India that focus on implementing advanced technologies and innovative solutions to enhance infrastructure, services, and quality of life for citizens. 2. How are Smart Cities evaluated and ranked? Smart Cities are evaluated based on their implementation of smart solutions across various sectors, including mobility, energy, water, sanitation, waste management, public spaces, and governance. Rankings are determined by the effectiveness of these implementations and their imp... Read More...

Israel-India Relations

Aug 30, 2023

When is Israel's Prime Minister expected to visit India and what is the agenda of his visit? The visit is expected to take place this year. The agenda includes discussions on a wide range of topics, such as technology cooperation, defence, foreign policy, economic ties, and more. How has cooperation between India and Israel increased, particularly in defence and agriculture sectors? Defence cooperation began in the late 1960s, and Israel supports India's 'Make in India' p... Read More...

China's Presence in Sri Lanka:Shi Yan 6

Aug 30, 2023

1. Why has China requested permission for its research vessel to dock in Sri Lanka? China has requested permission for its research vessel, the Shi Yan 6, to dock in Sri Lanka to conduct oceanography, marine geology, and marine ecology tests. This request is part of China's broader maritime interests and its focus on maritime infrastructure development under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). 2. What concerns does India have regarding Chinese vessels in the region? India is concerned about the presence of Chinese vessels, especially those... Read More...