UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Saudi-UAE Rivalry

Aug 26, 2023

What are the key areas of difference between Saudi Arabia and the UAE? Ans:Following are the differences Regional Politics: The two nations have shown differing approaches to regional political dynamics. While Saudi Arabia has pursued various geopolitical interventions and alliances, the UAE has exhibited a more independent and pragmatic foreign policy. This has resulted in divergent stances on regional conflicts and issues. Economic Policies: Economic disparities and polic... Read More...

Controlled Human Infection Studies (CHIS):Basics

Aug 26, 2023

What are Controlled Human Infection Studies (CHIS)? Controlled Human Infection Studies (CHIS) are scientific studies in which healthy human volunteers are deliberately exposed to a specific pathogen or disease-causing agent in a controlled environment. These studies are conducted to better understand the disease, its progression, immune response, and potential treatments or vaccines. Why are activists raising concerns about CHIS? A group of activists, including an advocate, independent journalist, researcher, and others, have expressed concern... Read More...

Cauvery River Water Sharing Dispute:The Issue,Constitution and Law

Aug 26, 2023

Article 262 of the Constitution of India: Article 262 holds importance in resolving disputes related to the distribution of water resources among states, particularly in the context of inter-state rivers. It grants the authority to Parliament to intervene and provide solutions to disputes that arise over the use, control, and sharing of water from inter-state rivers and river valleys. The President of India can establish an Inter-State Council to investigate and settle such water-sharing disputes and ensure equitable solutions. Read More...

Capital Punishment:For and Against

Aug 26, 2023

For Capital Punishment: Deterrence: One of the primary arguments in favor of the death penalty is its potential to deter grave crimes. The most severe punishment can act as a deterrent for criminals to avoid heinous acts. Retribution: Some argue that the death penalty is a form of retribution or justice, especially in cases where the criminal has taken another's life. Closure for Victims' Families: For some families of victims, the execution of a criminal can provide a se... Read More...

Understanding Chandrayaan Moon Missions

Aug 26, 2023

Chandrayaan-3 learns from Chandrayaan-2 Mistakes What happened with Chandrayaan-2? Chandrayaan-2's lander, named Vikram, was attempting to land on the Moon. During the landing process, it went through three main stages: Rough breaking: The lander slows down as it gets closer to the moon, starting from 30 km above the surface. Camera coasting: The onboard camera directs the lander to the landing site. F... Read More...

Understanding the Heat Content of the Arctic Ocean

Aug 26, 2023

1. Why is the heat content of the Arctic Ocean vital? The heat content of the Arctic Ocean has a profound impact on global climate, weather, sea levels, and ecosystems. It acts as a bellwether, signaling broader climate change effects on a worldwide scale. Grasping this heat content offers insights into the intricate web of global ecosystems, economies, and societal implications related to climate change. 2. How does the Arctic Ocean's heat content tie into broader climate systems? The Arctic Ocean's heat content (OHC) serves as a foun... Read More...

Aditya L-1 is Unique

Aug 26, 2023

The Aditya L-1 mission by ISRO marks a pivotal moment in India's space exploration. It brings forth a variety of unique factors, and this article touches on its significance. Here's a summary and breakdown: Purpose of Aditya L-1: Long Term (Scientific Quest): To study the behavior of the Sun and its impact on Earth's climate, including the effects of UV radiation on the ozone layer and climate. Short Term (Satellite Protection): To serve as an early warning system against solar storms... Read More...

Slowdown in Chinese Growth

Aug 26, 2023

What are the current signs of economic slowdown in China? Economic data shows a deflationary trend in China, with both retail sales and industrial production missing forecasts in July. Notably, retail sales grew at 2.5% y-o-y in July, down from 3.1% in June. Moreover, exports fell by 14.5%, imports dropped by 12.4%, and the overall unemployment rate reached 5.3% in July. Why is there concern about China's economic performance? The Chinese economy was expected to rebound after a prolonged zero-Covid policy, but the latest figures indicate d... Read More...

REITs and InvITs

Aug 25, 2023

What are REITs? REITs, or Real Estate Investment Trusts, are investment vehicles that allow individuals to invest in portfolios of real estate assets. These trusts own or finance income-producing real estate in various property sectors. What are InvITs? InvITs, or Infrastructure Investment Trusts, are similar to mutual funds and provide a way for investors to invest in infrastructure projects like roads, highways, and power transmission assets. How do REITs and InvITs differ from traditional in... Read More...

Indian Carbon Market (ICM) :Carbon Credit Trading Scheme 2023

Aug 25, 2023

What is the Indian Carbon Market (ICM)? The Indian Carbon Market (ICM) is an initiative to develop a national framework for carbon credit trading in India. What is the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme 2023? It's a recent notification that outlines the specifics of how carbon credit trading will be conducted within the ICM. How does the carbon credit trading system work? The system rewards entities that transition to low-carbon practices by assigning a value, te... Read More...

Animal Husbandry in India

Aug 25, 2023

Why is animal husbandry becoming a more reliable source of livelihood than crop cultivation in India? Animal husbandry provides consistent food and income, even during adverse weather conditions affecting crops. Additionally, the demand for animal products, such as milk, meat, and eggs, is growing faster than plant-based foods due to rising income and changing food habits. How does animal husbandry contribute to household food and income security? Even when crops fail, animals continue to provide food and income through products like milk, egg... Read More...

From BIMARU to Aspirational Districts

Aug 25, 2023

The transition from the "BIMARU" terminology to the concept of "Aspirational Districts" represents a shift in India's development narrative. While "BIMARU" categorized certain states as economically backward during the 1980s, the "Aspirational Districts" initiative, launched much later, seeks to focus on individual districts that have shown relatively lesser progress in key development areas. Here's a breakdown of this transition: From BIMARU to Aspirational Districts BIMARU: Con... Read More...

Onion Inflation: Dealing with it Government's Multi-Faceted Approach to Stabilize Onion Prices

Aug 25, 2023

Background: In the last two weeks, onion prices have surged by approximately 20%, causing concern among consumers and policymakers. Measures Taken: • Heavy Export Duty: In a bid to ensure domestic availability and control the rising prices, the government has imposed a hefty 40% duty on onion exports. This duty will remain in effect up to December 31, 2023. • Buffer Stock Enhancement: The government has set an... Read More...

Nepal-China Relations: Implications for India

Aug 25, 2023

Overview: Nepal's historical ties with its two giant neighbours, India and China, have always been a balancing act. While India and Nepal have deep-rooted cultural, historical, and socio-economic ties, Nepal's relationship with China has seen a significant boost in recent years. With both India and China looking to strengthen their ties with Nepal, this trilateral dynamic holds broader geopolitical implications. Recent Developments: Bilateral Military Cooperation: Nepal and China are set to enhance their military cooperation wit... Read More...

Climate Change and Food Security in India

Aug 25, 2023

Introduction Inflation Pressures: The Indian government is grappling with a significant inflationary challenge, as reflected by the 15-month high of 7.44% in July. As a response, it has implemented measures to curb inflation, including discouraging onion exports with a 40% duty and banning exports of certain key food items. The Underlying Problem Climate Change Impacts: Adverse weather patterns, including unexpected rains, prolonged droughts, and flooding, contribute to escalating food inflation worldwide. Read More...