UPSC Daily Current Affairs

UN 2023 Water Conference

Apr 29, 2024

► Introduction The United Nations Water Conference, held from March 22-24, 2023, at the UN Headquarters in New York, marked a pivotal moment in the global approach to water management and sustainability. Known formally as the Midterm Comprehensive Review of the Implementation of the Objectives of the 2018-2028 International Decade for Action, the conference aimed to bolster efforts toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to water. Read More...

East Africa's New Ocean: Future Geological Transformation

Apr 29, 2024

► Introduction The potential emergence of a new ocean in East Africa, due to the slow splitting of the continent along the East African Rift, presents a unique geological phenomenon with profound implications. This article explores the ongoing process of continental rifting, its expected outcomes, and the consequential socio-economic and environmental impacts. Read More...

CLIMATE HAZARDS AND VULNERABILITY ATLAS OF INDIA BY IMD

Apr 29, 2024

What is the Climate Hazards and Vulnerability Atlas of India? The Climate Hazards and Vulnerability Atlas of India is a tool developed by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to provide impact-based early warning services for the thirteen most hazardous meteorological events, including heat waves. This Atlas uses Geographic Information System (GIS) tools and is available on the IMD Pune website. Read More...

Evolution and Impact of Global Capability Centers (GCCs) in India

Apr 29, 2024

Global Capability Centers (GCCs) in India are undergoing a transformative shift from providing 24x7 back-end operational support to becoming pivotal centers for innovation and front-line operations for their parent multinational corporations (MNCs). These centers are increasingly recognized not just as cost-saving units but as integral, in-house tech outposts driving substantial technological advancements. Key Facts About GCCs in India • P... Read More...

Data Embassies: Ensuring Global Data Security

Apr 29, 2024

1. What is a Data Embassy? A Data Embassy is a facility that hosts the data and digital infrastructure of one nation within the territory of another nation. It acts like an extension of a nation’s own data centers but is located abroad, providing data protection and business continuity by mitigating risks related to physical and cyber threats. 2. Why are Data Embassies important? Read More...

ELECTORAL TRUSTS IN INDIA

Apr 29, 2024

► Definition and Purpose Electoral Trusts in India are established under Section 25 of the Companies Act as non-profit entities with the principal aim to ensure transparent and accountable political funding. These trusts facilitate the orderly receipt and distribution of voluntary contributions to political parties registered under Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. The primary objective of these trusts is to enhance transparency and reduce ... Read More...

Kailasanatha Temple: The Marvel of Rock-Cut Architecture

Apr 29, 2024

Kailasanatha Temple Q: What is the Kailasanatha Temple? A: The Kailasanatha Temple is a rock-cut monument located at Ellora and is considered the largest monolithic rock-cut monument in the world. Q: Who built the Kailasanatha Temple? Read More...

MEWAR SCHOOL OF MINIATURE PAINTING

Apr 29, 2024

What is the Mewar School of Miniature Painting? The Mewar School is a tradition of miniature painting that emerged in the 17th century in the region of Mewar, in present-day Rajasthan, India. This school was patronized by the Sisodia dynasty and is known for its unique style that developed in resistance to Mughal influence, maintaining and evolving distinct Rajput painting traditions. Who were... Read More...

BIDAR: THE JEWEL OF KARNATAKA’S HERITAGE

Apr 29, 2024

What is the historical significance of Bidar? Bidar holds a rich historical tapestry as it has been inhabited since prehistoric times and served as the capital of the Bahmani Sultanate in the 15th century. Its strategic location on the Deccan Plateau made it a vital political and cultural hub through various dynasties including the Mauryas, Satavahanas, Chalukyas, and ultimately the Mughals and Nizams. Read More...

CHARIOT WHEEL FROM SUN TEMPLE AT KONARK: EXPLAINED

Apr 29, 2024

What is the significance of the chariot wheel at the Sun Temple in Konark? The chariot wheel is a highly symbolic architectural element of the Sun Temple at Konark, designed to represent the mythical chariot of the Sun god, Surya. Each wheel is intricately carved, featuring designs that incorporate motifs symbolizing various aspects of life and spirituality. The wheels also function as sundials, capable of telling time based on the shadow cast by the spokes. Read More...

Comprehensive FAQs on the Nandi Bull

Apr 29, 2024

Nandi Bull Q: What is the mythological significance of Nandi in Hinduism? A: Nandi is considered the vehicle of Lord Shiva and is often depicted as a powerful bull with a majestic appearance. According to myth, Nandi was born from the ear of the goddess Parvati and was entrusted with the task of protecting Shiva's abode, Kailash. ... Read More...

Battle of Neuve Chapelle

Apr 29, 2024

The Battle of Neuve Chapelle which took place during World War I from March 10 to 13, 1915, marked a significant engagement for the British Expeditionary Force, with the Indian Corps playing a pivotal role. This battle was one of the first major planned offensives by the British forces on the Western Front. Here’s a brief overview: 1. Role of the Indian Corps: The Indian Corps, consisting of troops from various parts of British India, was integral to t... Read More...

Bengal Famine of 1943

Apr 29, 2024

What were the underlying factors that contributed to the Bengal Famine of 1943? The Bengal Famine of 1943 was caused by a combination of factors, including: ● A severe cyclone that hit Bengal in 1942, damaging crops and disrupting food supplies ● The British colonial government'... Read More...

Dodo and the Mughals

Apr 29, 2024

Q: What was the significance of the Dodo in Mughal art and culture? A: The Dodo was a symbol of exoticism and rarity in Mughal art and culture. Its depiction in miniatures and other artworks showcased the empire's connection to the wider world and its fascination with unusual and foreign creatures. Q: How did Mughal artists acquire knowledge ... Read More...

Battle of Ferozeshah

Apr 29, 2024

Q: What was the context of the Battle of Ferozeshah? A: The Battle of Ferozeshah was part of the First Anglo-Sikh War, which was fought between the British East India Company and the Sikh Empire in 1845-1846. The Sikh Empire was expanding its territories, and the British wanted to prevent them from gaining control over the strategic region of Punjab. Q: What were the strengths and weaknesses of the two armies? Read More...