UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Old Pension Scheme vs National Pension System

Sep 09, 2023

table { border-collapse: collapse; width: 80%; margin: 20px auto; } th, td { border: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 8px; text-align: left; } th { background-color: #f2f2f2; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #f2f2f2; } Aspect National Pension System (NPS) Old Pension Scheme (OPS) Retirement Savings Managed by PFRDA Traditional pension system Membership Covers employees who joined after Jan 1, 2004 Read More...

The French Laïcité and Recent Controversies

Sep 09, 2023

1. What is the French idea of Laïcité? Laïcité is the French principle of secularism. It signifies a formal separation of the State and Church, with religious values removed from the public sphere, replaced by secular values such as liberty, equality, and fraternity. The principle mandates that religion should remain within the private sphere. 2. Why did the French government recently ban the wearing of abaya in state-run schools? The French education minister stated that this decision was in line with the principle of ... Read More...

Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) and LPG Cylinder Prices

Sep 09, 2023

1. What is the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)? PMUY is a scheme aimed at providing LPG gas cylinders to rural and deprived households. 2. How many PMUY beneficiaries did not take cylinders or took only one refill in 2022-2023? One out of every four beneficiaries did not take any cylinders or took just one refill. 3. Why are many beneficiaries not refilling their cylinders? The spike in LPG cylinder prices made them expensive. Rates have nearly doubled sin... Read More...

Federalism & The 'One Nation One Election' Proposal

Sep 09, 2023

What is federalism? Federalism is a system of governance in which powers are divided between a central authority and constituent political units, like states. How does the 'one nation one election' proposal impact federalism? Critics argue that the proposal could erode the autonomous decision-making power of individual states, centralizing authority and undermining India's federal structure. Why is federalism significant for India? India is a divers... Read More...

Lunar Day

Sep 09, 2023

The duration of a single day on the Moon, from sunrise to sunrise, is approximately 29.5 Earth days. However, this is broken down into roughly 14.75 days of daylight followed by 14.75 days of nighttime, due to the Moon's synchronous rotation with Earth. When we refer to the "life of one lunar day" in the context of a moon mission, it usually pertains to the duration of sunlight (daytime) that the mission equipment can operate within. This is because most moon missions, including rovers and landers, rely on solar panels for power. During the lunar night, temperatures can drop drastically (to below m... Read More...

NEP 2020: Embracing Mother Tongue

Sep 09, 2023

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 brings a vibrant shift in education, cherishing the beauty of mother tongues in the learning journey. Let's explore the colorful provisions that celebrate linguistic diversity: Medium of Instruction: NEP puts mother tongue at the heart of early education. Learning begins best when guided by the language closest to our hearts - our mother tongue. Bilingual Brilliance: The NEP embraces bilingual magic. Starting with mother tongue, it gently introduces new languages like English, ensuring ... Read More...

Gaganyaan Mission: Core FAQs

Sep 09, 2023

What is the Gaganyaan mission? The Gaganyaan mission is India’s ambitious endeavor to send humans into space. It aims to launch a three-person crew on a three-day voyage in a 400-km orbit around Earth and ensure their safe return. First Indian in Space? Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma was the first Indian to travel to space in 1984. Gaganyaan aims for an indigenous mission with Indian astronauts. Challenges Ahead Technical hurdles include a human-certified l... Read More...

Invasive Species:Caribbean False Mussel

Sep 09, 2023

Caribbean False Mussel and Its Origin The Caribbean false mussel (Mytilopsis sallei) is a mussel species originally from the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of South and Central America. Impact in Kerala, India The Caribbean false mussel has caused significant issues in Kerala, India. It has led to the depletion of local clams and oysters, which are vital food sources for local fishermen. How Did It Arrive? The mussel likely arrived on ships and was further spread ... Read More...

'Adopt a Heritage' Program by ASI:

Sep 09, 2023

The ‘Adopt a Heritage’ program, launched by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, encourages corporate stakeholders to use their CSR funds to enhance historically-important monuments. This initiative promotes responsible tourism, improves visitor amenities, and contributes to heritage conservation. Monuments Adopted Under the Program: Examples of monuments under the 'Adopt a Heritage' program include: Qutub Minar, New Delhi: Ad... Read More...

G20 and Crypto Asset Regulation in Emerging Economies:Risks and Remedies

Sep 09, 2023

Q1: What areas of concern surround crypto assets in emerging economies within the G20 context? Response: Several areas of concern have emerged: Systemic Risk: The interconnectedness between crypto assets and traditional finance might lead to systemic risks. Monetary Policy: Legitimizing crypto assets could impact the effectiveness of monetary policies. Resource Leakage: Crypto assets might lead to outflows of domes... Read More...

The Budget Preparation Process Gets Underway 24-25

Sep 09, 2023

The Budget preparation process involves various stages and considerations to ensure effective allocation of funds and financial planning. Here's a breakdown of key components: Article 112 and Annual Financial Statement (AFS): Article 112 of the Constitution of India mandates the presentation of the Annual Financial Statement (AFS), commonly known as the Budget, before the Parliament. The AFS comprises estimates of revenue and expenditure for the upcoming fiscal year. It includes the Consolidated Fund of India, Contingency Fund, and Public Account. Read More...

ASEAN-India Summit and East Asia Summit

Sep 09, 2023

1. What is the ASEAN-India Summit? The ASEAN-India Summit is a high-level meeting between leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member countries and India. It aims to enhance cooperation and strengthen bilateral relations on various fronts, including trade, security, and regional integration. 2. What is the East Asia Summit (EAS)? The East Asia Summit (EAS) is a regional forum comprising 18 member countries, including ASEAN member states, Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Russia, and the United S... Read More...

Invasive Alien Species: A Global Threat to Biodiversity and Beyond

Sep 09, 2023

What are invasive alien species? Invasive alien species are non-native organisms that have been introduced to new environments either through global trade, travel, or climate change. These species often outcompete native species, leading to biodiversity loss, disruptions in food supply chains, and potential public health risks. How do invasive alien species impact biodiversity? Invasive alien species pose a severe threat to local biodiversity by displacing native species. They contribute to the majority of... Read More...

Sahay-GeM Ecosystem

Sep 09, 2023

What is GeM? GeM, the Government e-Marketplace, is a pioneering platform launched in 2016 to facilitate transparent and efficient e-procurement of commonly used goods and services by government entities, public sector units, and states. It connects buyers and sellers, streamlining the procurement process. The Sahay-GeM Ecosystem is a cutting-edge digital platform that empowers sellers within the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) to access unsecured, short-tenure loans, known as Sahay Loans. This innovative initiative seamlessly connects willing sellers with willing lenders, foster... Read More...

Gig Economy and Its Challenges in India

Sep 09, 2023

Q: What is the gig economy and why are gig workers in India facing challenges? A: The gig economy is a work arrangement where individuals take on short-term or freelance jobs, known as “gigs,” instead of traditional long-term employment. This model offers flexibility and is common in sectors like food delivery and ride-sharing. However, a study by the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) found that food delivery workers in India are earning less in 2022 compared to 2019. The average monthly income has fallen, and workers are working longer hours to compensate. The reduced income is attributed to f... Read More...