UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Unveiling the Gobi Desert: Environment, Wildlife, and Conservation

Apr 20, 2024

1. Where is the Gobi Desert located? The Gobi Desert spans two countries, northern China and southern Mongolia. It is a vast region known for its harsh climate and challenging terrain. 2. What makes the Gobi Desert unique? The Gobi is known for its extreme temperatures, which can range from scorching heat in the summer to freezing cold in the winter. Unlike sandy Saharan landscapes, the Go... Read More...

VIRAL HEPATITIS AND WHO ALERT: BASIC INFORMATION

Apr 19, 2024

What is Viral Hepatitis? Viral hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by infection with one of the five main hepatitis viruses: A, B, C, D, and E. Each virus is distinct in its transmission route, the severity of the liver disease it causes, and its epidemiological profile. Types of Hepatitis Viruses: Hepatitis A: Often spread th... Read More...

MAGNETOTACTIC BACTERIA

Apr 19, 2024

Imagine tiny organisms that can swim in water by following the Earth’s magnetic field, just like a compass. These organisms, called magnetotactic bacteria, are special because they contain tiny magnetic particles inside them. Here’s a simple breakdown of why scientists are excited about these little bacteria: Tiny Navigators: These bacteria use their built-in magnetic particles to move towards environments that are best for their survival. Think of them as tiny submarines with built-in compasses that help them find the best places to live where they can thrive. Read More...

Preserving Temperate Rainforests: Strategies and Challenges

Apr 19, 2024

Temperate rainforests, which have been around for over 65 million years, are vital ecological zones found in regions like eastern North America, Europe, and Asia. These forests are crucial due to their roles as major sources of timber and wood products, and as homes for some of the largest and oldest living organisms on Earth. Despite their importance, over 99% of the world’s temperate rainforests have been altered through activities such as harvesting, development, and conversion for agriculture. Understanding Temperate... Read More...

SALINE INTRUSION IN INDIA: IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

Apr 19, 2024

► What is saline intrusion? Saline intrusion, also known as saltwater intrusion, is the process by which saltwater enters freshwater aquifers. This can occur naturally or be exacerbated by human activities such as groundwater over-extraction, leading to a decrease in freshwater availability for communities and agriculture. ► Where is saline intrusion occurring in India? Read More...

Invasive Species Threat & Response Measures in India

Apr 19, 2024

Invasive species pose a significant threat to biodiversity worldwide, including in India. These organisms can disrupt local ecosystems, outcompete native species, and lead to unforeseen environmental consequences. Global Overview: Globally, invasive species such as the zebra mussel, kudzu plant, and grey squirrel have spread beyond their native ranges, primarily due to human activities. Their introduction into new environments often leads to ecological imbalance. Methods like ecoacoust... Read More...

THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ & INDIA

Apr 19, 2024

Geoeconomic Significance: The Strait of Hormuz plays a crucial role in India’s energy security and economic stability due to its position as a primary route for oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG). About 85% of India’s crude oil and 70% of natural gas imports traverse through this strait. The flow of energy resources through the strait directly impacts global oil prices, and any disruption can lead to significant increases in energy costs for India, affecting the overall economic growth. Read More...

Understanding Winter Dzud: Impact and Mitigation

Apr 19, 2024

► Winter Dzud 1. What is a dzud? A dzud is a severe winter weather phenomenon in Mongolia and parts of Siberia, characterized by harsh conditions that lead to significant livestock mortality. This occurs due to heavy snow, extreme cold, or ice covering the ground, preventing livestock from accessing forage. Read More...

Choke Points: The Lifelines and Vulnerabilities of Global Trade

Apr 19, 2024

What is a choke point? A choke point refers to a point of natural congestion along two broader and more critical navigable passages. In military strategy, it is a geographical feature on land such as a valley, defile or bridge, or maritime passage through a critical waterway such as a strait. Why are choke points important for global trade? Choke points are vital for global trade as they are n... Read More...

Net Zero and India's Climate Strategy

Apr 19, 2024

What is Net Zero? Net zero refers to achieving a balance between the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced and the amount removed from the atmosphere. This balance is crucial for stabilizing global temperatures. When a country, company, or individual reaches net zero emissions, it means their actions result in no net increase in atmospheric greenhouse gases. This is achieved by reducing emissions as much as possible and balancing remaining emissions with equivalent ca... Read More...

THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ

Apr 19, 2024

GEOECONOMIC, GEOPOLITICAL, AND GEOSTRATEGIC IMPORTANCE Geoeconomic Significance: The Strait of Hormuz is a critical artery for the global economy, through which approximately 21% of the world’s petroleum consumption passes. This narrow passage is essential for the transportation of oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) from major producers like Saudi Arabia, Iran, and other Gulf countries to global markets. The strait's stability directly affects... Read More...

Carbon Offsetting:Concepts

Apr 19, 2024

1. What is Carbon Offsetting? Carbon offsetting is a method used by individuals, companies, and governments to compensate for their greenhouse gas emissions by funding an equivalent amount of carbon savings elsewhere. This often involves investing in projects that reduce emissions, such as renewable energy, forest conservation, or reforestation initiatives. 2. How does Carbon Offsetting work? Read More...

Abanindranath Tagore: Reviving Indian Artistry

Apr 19, 2024

What was the Bengal School of Art and how was Abanindranath Tagore related to it? The Bengal School of Art was an art movement and a style of Indian painting that originated in Bengal, primarily Kolkata and Shantiniketan, around the early 20th century. Abanindranath Tagore founded this school in an effort to counter the dominant academic art styles taught in India at the time, which were largely influenced by European styles. He promoted a revival of indigenous Indian artistic traditions, incorporating elements... Read More...

IRAN-ISRAEL TENSIONS:SIMPLIFIER

Apr 19, 2024

1. Historical Context: The tensions between Iran and Israel have deep historical roots, primarily stemming from ideological differences and regional power dynamics. Iran’s Islamic Revolution in 1979 and its subsequent anti-Israel stance, along with Israel’s alliances with Western powers, have fueled decades of animosity. 2. Key Issues: Read More...

Iron Age in India: Malhar and Mayiladumparai Discoveries

Apr 19, 2024

Q1: What's the significance of the Mayiladumparai discovery? A: The excavation revealed the Iron Age in southern India began as early as 2172 BCE, much earlier than previously believed. This pushes the timeline further back than the Malhar sites in Uttar Pradesh. Q2: How does Mayiladumparai challenge established ideas about the Iron Age? A: It challenges these ideas in multiple ways: Read More...