In today’s daily current affairs briefing for UPSC aspirants, we explore the latest developments that hold relevance for the upcoming civil services examination. Our focus today includes a critical analysis of recent policy changes, international affairs, and national developments, all of which play a pivotal role in shaping the socio-political and economic landscape of India. Stay informed and stay ahead in your UPSC preparations with our daily current affairs updates, as we provide you with concise, well-researched insights to help you connect the dots between contemporary events and the broader canvas of the civil services syllabus.
Corruption Index: India Ranks 93 among 180 Nations
Tag: GS-2 Governance
In News:
In the Corruption Perceptions Index for 2023, India secured the 93rd position out of 180 countries, as per a report from Transparency International.
Role of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
- Primary Functions
- The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) plays a crucial role in tackling serious and intricate crimes, encompassing corruption, economic offenses, major frauds, and high-profile cases.
- Investigation of Complex Crimes
- The primary responsibility of the CBI is to conduct thorough investigations into complex crimes that often involve corruption and financial malfeasance. This includes cases with significant legal and financial implications.
- Collaboration on Transnational Crimes
- The CBI actively collaborates with law enforcement agencies from other countries to investigate crimes with transnational dimensions. This collaboration is essential for addressing and combating criminal activities that extend beyond national borders.
Corruption Perception Index (CPI) Overview
- Defining Corruption*
- The Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) serves as a global ranking system, assessing countries based on their perceived levels of public sector corruption. Corruption is defined as the “abuse of entrusted power for private gain.”
- Calculation of Country Scores
- The CPI aggregates scores from at least three data sources derived from 13 corruption surveys and assessments.
- Reputable institutions such as the World Bank and the World Economic Forum contribute to the collection of data.
- The perception of corruption is measured on a scale of 0-100, with 0 indicating high corruption and 100 signifying a very clean public sector.
- Significance of CPI Rankings
- The CPI is a widely recognized measurement for global public sector corruption.
- By combining various manifestations of corruption into a single, globally comparable indicator, the CPI offers a comprehensive perspective on a country’s situation.
- Regular reviews of the calculation process ensure the index’s robustness and coherence.
Corruption Perception Index 2023 Findings
- Global Corruption Landscape
- The 2023 CPI reveals a prevalence of corruption worldwide, with over two-thirds of countries scoring below 50 out of 100.
- The global average stagnates at 43, with the majority of countries showing no improvement or experiencing a decline over the last decade.
- 23 countries hit their lowest scores to date in 2023.
- Top 3 Ranked Countries
- Denmark (90), Finland (87), and New Zealand (85) secure the top three positions in the 2023 rankings.
- Regional Trends
- Western Europe and the European Union, while remaining the top-scoring region, witness a drop in their average score to 65.
- Sub-Saharan Africa maintains the lowest average at 33, facing challenges to democracy and the rule of law.
- Other regions globally continue to struggle, with averages below 50.
- India’s Performance
- In 2023, India’s overall score is 39, placing it at the 93rd position out of 180 countries, reflecting a decline from its 2022 rank of 85.
- The report notes fluctuations in India’s score, making it challenging to draw firm conclusions on significant changes.
- Performance of Other South Asian Countries
- In South Asia, Pakistan (133) and Sri Lanka (115) grapple with their respective debt burdens and political instability.
- China’s Anti-Corruption Measures
- China (76) gains attention for its aggressive anti-corruption crackdown, resulting in the punishment of more than 3.7 million public officials over the last decade.
Source: IE
India-France Relations
Tag: GS-2 IR
In News:
On Republic Day, the French President visited India, discussing bilateral cooperation and expressing satisfaction with the increasing complexity and interoperability in joint defence exercises.
Key Highlights of India-France Bilateral Meeting
- Intensification of Cooperation in Southwest Indian Ocean
- Both nations committed to enhancing cooperation in the Southwest Indian Ocean, focusing on joint surveillance missions.
- Joint efforts contribute to securing strategic sea lanes of communication in the region.
- Indo-Pacific Partnership
- Acknowledgment of the Indo-Pacific’s significance for both countries’ sovereign and strategic interests.
- Commitment to deepening the partnership in the Indo-Pacific, emphasizing expanding engagement in the region.
- Defence and Security Partnership
- Highlighting the Indo-Pacific defence and security partnership as a cornerstone of collaboration.
- Emphasis on bilateral, multinational, regional, and institutional initiatives, especially in the Indian Ocean Region.
- Trilateral Cooperation
- Pledge to revitalize trilateral cooperation with Australia and deepen ties with the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
- Exploration of new trilateral partnerships in the region, exemplified by the India, France, and UAE Maritime Partnership Exercise.
- Economic Development and Connectivity
- Recognition of the importance of joint initiatives for sustainable economic development, environmental sustainability, and resilient infrastructure.
- Call for the early launch of the Indo-Pacific Triangular Development Cooperation Fund for scaling up green technologies.
- India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC)
- Acknowledgment of the strategic importance of the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor for enhancing commerce and energy flow.
- Reflecting on the potential and resilience of the corridor for India, the Middle East, and Europe.
- Multilateralism and UN Reform
- Joint call for reformed and effective multilateralism, stressing the urgent need for United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reform.
- France’s reiterated support for India’s permanent membership in the UNSC.
- Defence Industrial Cooperation
- Commitment to deepening integration in defence industrial sectors, exploring co-design, co-development, and co-production opportunities.
- Focus on supplying not only for India but also for other friendly nations.
- Tata Group and Airbus Agreement
- Tata Group and Airbus collaboration for the development and manufacturing of civilian helicopters.
- Expansion of the industrial partnership to produce H125 helicopters with significant indigenous components.
- Shakti Jet Engine Deal
- Ongoing discussions between India and Safran regarding the Shakti jet engine deal.
- Focus on aligning specifications with India’s future fighter jet requirements.
- CFM International and Akasa Air
- Agreement between CFM International and India’s Akasa Air for more than 300 LEAP-1B engines.
- Engines to power 150 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
- Space Cooperation
- Launch of the Strategic Space Dialogue and signing of agreements on Defence Space Cooperation.
- Memorandum of Understanding between ISRO’s NSIL and Arianespace for satellite launch missions.
Major Areas of Cooperation between India and France
- Pillars of Relationship
- Long-standing cultural, trade, and economic linkages forming the foundation of the strategic partnership.
- Three pillars: non-interference, strategic autonomy, and refraining from involving in respective coalitions.
- Defence Partnerships
- Strong Indo-French defence partnership with significant technology transfers.
- Joint exercises: Exercise Shakti, Exercise Varuna, and Exercise Garuda.
- Similarity in Stand on NATO+
- Joint rejection of NATO+ partnership plans, aligning on the stance that NATO is not a template for India.
- Economic Cooperation
- Bilateral trade reaching USD 13.4 billion in 2022-23, with France as the 11th largest foreign investor in India.
- Collaboration on supporting sustainable economic development and resilient infrastructure.
- Cooperation at International Forum
- France’s support for India’s permanent membership in the UNSC.
- Joint efforts in multilateral forums, emphasizing climate change mitigation through the International Solar Alliance.
- Climate Cooperation
- Shared concern about climate change, with joint efforts including the launch of the International Solar Alliance in 2015.
Challenges Between India-France Relations
- FTA and BTIA Stagnation
- Lack of progress in the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the India-EU Broad-Based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA).
- Differing Défense and Security Priorities
- Differences in priorities and approaches influencing defence and security cooperation.
- India’s regional focus versus France’s global interests.
- Intellectual Property Rights Concerns
- French concerns about India’s protection of intellectual property rights affecting bilateral trade.
- Trade Imbalance and Dominance of Défense Products
- Trade imbalance and the dominance of defence products in bilateral trade.
- Challenges in achieving a more balanced economic exchange.
- Barriers to Indian Products in France
- Challenges faced by Indian products in entering the French market, especially related to Sanitary and Phytosanitary measures.
- Student Mobility
- Issues related to student mobility, including visa processes and cultural integration.
- Human Trafficking Concerns
- Concerns about human trafficking, necessitating enhanced cooperation in addressing transnational crimes.
Way Forward
- Strengthen Indo-French cooperation in shaping the international order and balancing dependencies on other nations.
- Leverage the Indo-Pacific concept for strategic interests and bilateral collaboration.
- Enhance discussions on emerging areas such as connectivity, climate change, cyber-security, and science and technology.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2016) Q. Consider the following statements: 1. The International Solar Alliance was launched at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in 2015. 2. The Alliance includes all the member countries of the United Nations. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Ans: (a) Mains (2022) Q. How will the I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics? (2022) |
Source: TH
Indian Stamp Bill 2023
Tag: GS-2 Polity
In News:
The Indian government is considering the repeal of the Indian Stamp Act, 1899, and introducing a new law for stamp duty.
Stamp Duty Overview
- Definition
- A stamp duty is a government-imposed tax designed for the registration of various documents, such as agreements or transaction papers, through the registrar.
- Amount Determination
- Typically, the specified amount for stamp duty is either fixed based on the nature of the document or calculated as a percentage of the agreement value stated in the document.
- Applicable Transactions
- Stamp duties can be levied on a range of transactions, including bills of exchange, cheques, promissory notes, bills of lading, letters of credit, policies of insurance, transfer of shares, debentures, proxies, and receipts.
- Legal Validity
- Documents stamped with the requisite duty are considered valid evidence in a court of law, emphasizing the legal significance of stamp duties.
- Appropriation Process
- While stamp duties are levied by the Central Government, their appropriation occurs at the state level within their respective territories, as stipulated by Article 268 of the Constitution.
Indian Stamp Bill, 2023
- Introduction
- The Indian Stamp Bill, 2023 is a draft legislation crafted by the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, with the objective of replacing the outdated Indian Stamp Act, 1899 and aligning it with contemporary stamp duty practices.
- Need for Reform
- The 1899 Act contained obsolete provisions and lacked considerations for digital e-stamping. Additionally, it lacked uniform legislation across Indian states regarding stamp duties.
- Key Provisions
- The bill introduces provisions for digital e-stamping, defining it as an electronically generated impression indicating the payment of stamp duty through electronic means.
- Inclusions of provisions for digital signatures, authenticating electronic records through electronic methods or procedures.
- Proposals to increase penalties, including raising the maximum penalty from Rs 5,000 to Rs 25,000 for violations and imposing a daily penalty of Rs 1,000 for repeated offenses.
Indian Stamp Act, 1899
- Introduction
- The Indian Stamp Act, 1899, serves as a fiscal statute regulating the taxation through stamps on instruments documenting various transactions.
- Instrument Definition
- Section 2 of the Act defines an instrument as any document creating, transferring, limiting, extending, ending, or recording a right or liability.
- Stamp Definition
- The Act defines a “stamp” as any mark, seal, or endorsement made by a person authorized by the State Government, covering both adhesive and impressed stamps.
- Chargeable Instruments
- Section 3 of the Act specifies that certain instruments or documents are chargeable with the amounts indicated in Schedule 1, encompassing instruments like bills of exchange or promissory notes.
Source: IE
Prohibition on Sapinda Marriage
Tag: GS – 1 GS – 2 Issues Related to Transgenders, Social Empowerment, Judgements & Cases, Indian Society
In News:
In the 2024 case of Neetu Grover v. Union of India & Ors, the Delhi High Court dismissed a challenge to the constitutionality of Section 5(v) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955.
Legal Challenge and Court Ruling
- Petitioner’s Arguments
- In 2007, the petitioner’s marriage was annulled based on her husband’s successful assertion of a sapinda marriage, challenging the constitutional validity of the prohibition on such unions.
- The petitioner contended that Section 5(v) violated the right to equality under Article 14, as sapinda marriages exist even without established customs.
- The petitioner emphasized that family consent should validate the marriage.
- Delhi Court’s Decision
- The Delhi High Court dismissed the petitioner’s arguments, citing a lack of stringent proof for an established custom justifying sapinda marriages.
- The court asserted that regulating the choice of a partner in marriage is within legal bounds.
- It found no “cogent legal ground” supporting the claim that the prohibition infringed on the right to equality.
Understanding Sapinda Marriage
- *Definition and Criteria
- Sapinda marriages involve individuals related within a specific degree of closeness, defined under Section 3 of the Hindu Marriage Act (HMA). Individuals are considered sapindas if they share a lineal ascendant or have a common lineal ascendant within the limits of sapinda relationship.
- Lineal Ascendant Regulations
- The HMA prohibits marriage within three generations on the mother’s side and five generations on the father’s side. This restricts unions with siblings, parents, and grandparents on the mother’s side and extends further on the father’s side.
- Section 5(v) of HMA 1955
- Violation of Section 5(v) for sapinda marriages without an established custom result in the marriage being declared void. The marriage is considered invalid from the outset.
- Exceptions to Prohibitions
- The exception under Section 5(v) permits sapinda marriages if there is a well-established custom within the community, tribe, group, or family. The custom must be continuously and uniformly observed for a long time and adhere to specified conditions.
International Perspectives on Incestuous Marriages
- France and Belgium
- France and Belgium abolished the crime of incest, allowing marriages between consenting adults under the Penal Code of 1810.
- Portugal
- Portuguese law does not criminalize incest, implying that marriages between close relatives may not be prohibited.
- Republic of Ireland
- While same-sex marriages are recognized, laws on incestuous relationships have not been explicitly updated.
- Italy
- In Italy, incest is a crime only if it causes a “public scandal,” indicating consideration of certain circumstances.
- United States
- In the U.S., incestuous marriages are generally prohibited, with variations in laws among states. Some states permit such relationships under specific conditions.
Conclusion
- Sapinda Marriages and HMA
- The HMA’s regulation of sapinda marriages aims to maintain familial and social harmony by restricting unions within defined lineal ascendants. Marriages violating these restrictions are declared void unless an established custom permits them.
- Global Legal Diversity
- Internationally, countries exhibit diverse legal approaches to incestuous relationships. Legal stances vary, showcasing the different perspectives on personal choice and family relationships.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2020) Q. In the context of Indian history, the Rakhmabai case of 1884 revolved around women’s right to gain education age of consent restitution of conjugal rights Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (b) Exp: Rakhmabai (1864 – 1955) made her mark in history due to the legal case she was involved in, which contributed to the enactment of the Age of Consent Act, 1891. In 1885, after 12 years of marriage, her husband sought “restitution of conjugal rights”, Rakhmabai was ordered to go live with her husband or spend six months in jail. Hence, 3 is correct. Rakhmabai refused to live with the man she was married to as a child, as she had no say in the marriage. Rakhmabai wrote to Queen Victoria. The Queen overruled the court’s verdict and dissolved the marriage. The ripples that the case created led to the influence on the passage of the Age of Consent Act, 1891, which made child marriages illegal across the British Empire. Hence, 2 is correct. Though Rakhmabai became the first women doctor to practice medicine in British India, the case was not related to the women’s right to gain education. Hence, 1 is not correct. Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
Source: IE
Mosquitofish
Tag: GS Paper – 3BiotechnologyGS Paper – 2Government Policies & Interventions
In News:
In recent times, local water bodies in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Punjab have seen the introduction of mosquitofish as a strategy to tackle the growing mosquito issue.
Background – Surge in Mosquito-borne Diseases
- Climate and Habitat Changes
- Global shifts in climate and habitats have led to a rise in mosquito-borne diseases, affecting over 500 million people in 150+ countries.
- India’s Public Health Challenge
- In India, around 40 million individuals annually face the impact of these diseases, posing a persistent public health challenge for decades.
The Mosquitofish Approach
- Mosquitofish Characteristics
- Originating from the southeastern United States, Mosquitofish are known for their larvae-eating appetite, consuming up to 250 larvae per day.
- Introduction in India
- Initially introduced in India in 1928 during British rule to combat mosquito spread, Mosquitofish, specifically Gambusia species, were intended to control larvae but turned invasive.
Negative Impacts of Mosquitofish
- Invasive Nature
- Adaptable and highly tolerant to environmental changes, Mosquitofish became highly invasive and are now considered among the hundred most detrimental invasive alien species.
- Disruption of Native Ecosystem
- Aggressive feeding habits lead to the consumption of not only mosquito larvae but also native fish eggs, posing a threat to local species and biodiversity.
- Loss of Unique Species
- The introduction of Mosquitofish jeopardizes the existence of endemic fish species, potentially resulting in a loss of biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
- Significant Steps
- The World Health Organization ceased recommending Gambusia for mosquito control in 1982. In 2018, the National Biodiversity Authority of India designated G. affinis and G. holbrooki as invasive alien species.
Major Challenges in Mosquito and Disease Control
- Challenges in Mosquito Control
- Complex Environment
- Diverse conditions across India lead to varied mosquito breeding patterns.
- Insecticide Resistance
- Mosquitoes develop resistance to insecticides, necessitating the development of new alternatives.
- Poor Sanitation
- Open drains and stagnant water sources provide abundant breeding grounds.
- Challenges in Disease Control
- Underreporting
- Many cases in rural areas go unreported, hindering accurate data and targeted interventions.
- Limited Access to Healthcare
- Remote areas face delays in treatment due to limited access to healthcare.
Way Forward
- Improved Sanitation and Infrastructure
- Efficient waste collection and disposal to eliminate breeding grounds.
- Proper drainage systems to prevent stagnant water accumulation.
- Providing clean water storage solutions to reduce dependence on open containers.
- Integrated Vector Management (IVM)
- Implementing a comprehensive approach combining biological control, insecticide use, and environmental management to address mosquito-related challenges.
- Community Engagement and Education
- Foster public awareness through educational campaigns.
- Emphasize preventive measures and encourage community participation in mosquito control.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2017) Q. Consider the following statements: 1. In tropical regions, Zika virus disease is transmitted by the same mosquito that transmits dengue. 2. Sexual transmission of Zika virus disease is possible. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Ans: (c) Prelims (2023) Q. ‘Wolbachia method’ is sometimes talked about with reference to which one of the following? (2023) (a) Controlling the viral diseases spread by mosquitoes (b) Converting crop residues into packing material (c) Producing biodegradable plastics (d) Producing biochar from thermo-chemical conversion of biomass Ans: (a) Mains (2013) Q. Identify the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that are related to health. Discuss the success of the actions taken by the Government for achieving the same. Mains (2020) Q. What do you understand by nanotechnology and how is it helping in health sector? |
Source: TH
6th Edition of Khelo India Youth Games
Tag: GS-2 Government Policies & Interventions, Sports & Affairs
In News:
The ongoing 6th edition of the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) is taking place from January 19th to January 31st, 2024, spanning four cities in Tamil Nadu – Chennai, Trichy, Madurai, and Coimbatore.
Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) Overview
- Nature of the Event
- National-level, multi-disciplinary sports competition.
- Targets school and college students across India.
- Frequency and Initiative
- Held annually in January or February.
- Integral part of the government’s Khelo India initiative.
- Objectives
- Promote a sports culture.
- Identify and nurture sporting talent at the grassroots level.
- Past Editions
- Previous venues include Delhi, Pune, Guwahati, Panchkula, and Bhopal.
- 6th edition hosted in Tamil Nadu.
- Format and Categories
- Divided into under-17-year-old school students and under-21 college students.
- Operates in a team championship format.
- Medal Tally System
- Individual athletes or teams contribute medals to the overall tally of their respective state or Union Territory (UT).
- The state or UT with the highest count of gold medals is declared the winner.
- Historical Dominance
- Maharashtra and Haryana are the only teams to have clinched the KIYG title.
- 6th Edition Highlights
- 933 medals at stake (278 gold, 278 silver, and 377 bronze) across 26 sports.
- Introduction of Squash as a new sport.
- Silambam, an indigenous martial art, featured as a demonstration sport.
- Mascot
- Named Veera Mangai.
- Inspired by Rani Velu Nachiyar, an Indian queen known for her resistance against British colonial rule.
- Logo Significance
- Incorporates the figure of poet Thiruvalluvar, adding cultural and literary elements to the event.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2021) Q. Consider the following statements in respect of the Laureus World Sports Award which was instituted in the year 2000: American golfer Tiger Woods was the first winner of this award. The award was received mostly by ‘Formula One’ players so far. Roger Federer received this award maximum number of times compared to others. Which of the above statements are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: C The Laureus World Sports Awards is the premier global sporting awards. First held in 2000, the annual event honours the greatest and most inspirational sporting triumphs of the year and showcases the work of Laureus Sport for Good. American golfer Tiger Woods was the first winner of this award. Hence, statement 1 is correct. The award has been received mostly by Men’s Football Team (6 times) players so far. Hence, statement 2 is not correct. Roger Federer (5 times) has received this award, the maximum number of times compared to others followed by Usain Bolt (4 times) and Novak Djokovic (4 times). Hence, statement 3 is correct. Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer. Prelims (2021) Q. Consider the following statements in respect of the 32nd Summer Olympics: The official motto for this Olympics is ‘A New World’. Sport Climbing, Surfing, Skateboarding, Karate and Baseball are included in this Olympics. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Ans: (b) The Games of the 32nd Summer Olympiad (Tokyo 2020) were held from 23 July to 8 August 2021. The Olympics have been held every four years since 1948. However, Tokyo Olympic 2020 was not held after four years as it was postponed for 2021, because of Covid pandemic. The official motto for Olympics 2020 was “United by Emotion”. The motto emphasised the power of sport to bring together people from diverse backgrounds of every kind and allow them to connect and celebrate in a way that reaches beyond their differences. Hence, statement 1 is not correct. A total of 46 Olympic Sports were contested at the Tokyo 2020 Games including Rugby, Sport Climbing, Fencing, Football, Skateboarding, Handball, Surfing, Karate, Baseball, among others. Hence, statement 2 is correct. Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer. Mains (2014) Q. An athlete participates in Olympics for personal triumph and nation’s glory; victors are showered with cash incentives by various agencies, on their return. Discuss the merit of state sponsored talent hunt and its cultivation as against the rationale of a reward mechanism as encouragement. |
Source: PIB
Philippines and Vietnam Cooperation in South China Sea
Tag: GS-2 IR
In News:
In the face of opposition from China, the Philippines and Vietnam have recently taken substantial steps to enhance their collaboration in the South China Sea, asserting their interests in the region.
Key Agreements Between Countries
- Comprehensive Relationship
- Agreements between the two nations encompass various aspects, fostering a comprehensive relationship.
- Maritime Security Focus
- Emphasis on enhancing maritime security cooperation.
- Trade and Investment
- Agreements extend to facilitate and strengthen trade and investment ties between the countries.
South China Sea Overview
- Geographical Context
- The South China Sea is a marginal sea located in the Western Pacific Ocean.
- Bordering Nations
- Surrounded by Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and China.
- Connecting Waterways
- Linked to the East China Sea through the Taiwan Strait.
- Connected to the Philippine Sea through the Luzon Strait.
- Contested Maritime Area
- Subject to territorial disputes involving six countries: China, Brunei, Taiwan, Vietnam, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
- Territorial Disputes
- Ongoing disagreements revolve around territorial claims and sovereignty rights in the South China Sea.
Source: TH
Eravikulam National Park
Tag: GS-3 Environment and Ecology
In News:
Eravikulam National Park (ENP), the native environment of the Nilgiri tahr, is set to temporarily close during the calving season of the species.
Eravikulam National Park Overview
- Location
- Situated along the Western Ghats in the Idukki district of Kerala.
- Establishment
- Declared as a National Park in the year 1978.
- Geographical Coverage
- Spans an expansive area of 97 sq. km.
- Highest Peak
- Home to Anamudi, the highest peak south of the Himalayas, reaching 2695 meters.
- Positioned on the southern side of the park.
- Unique Natural Phenomenon
- Renowned for the rare blooming of the “Neelakurinji” flower, occurring once every twelve years.
- Climate
- Experiences heavy rainfall during the southwest (June/July) and retreating (October/November) monsoons.
- Recognized as one of the wettest areas globally.
- Vegetation
- Dominated by rolling grasslands.
- Upper regions feature patches of shola forests.
- Flora
- Noteworthy plant species include Actinodaphne bourdilloni, Microtropis ramiflora, Pittosporum tetraspermium, Sysygium aronottianum, and Chrysopogon Zelanieus.
- Shola grasslands boast a rich array of balsams and orchids, including the supposedly extinct Brachycorythis wightii.
- Fauna
- Diverse wildlife includes Nilgiri Tahr, Gaur, Sloth Bear, Nilgiri Langur, Tiger, Leopard, Giant Squirrel, and wild dogs.
- Hosts half of the world population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
- Home to the Atlas moth, the largest of its kind globally.
- Avian and Insect Life
- Supports 140 bird species, with 10 exclusive to the Western Ghats.
- Records over 100 butterfly varieties.
Source: TH
Snow Leopard
Tag: GS-3 Environment and Ecology
In News:
Recently, the government announced that the first scientific survey of the snow leopard in India reveals the presence of 718 of these elusive cats in the country.
About Snow Leopard
- A large, long-haired Asian cat, classified as Panthera uncia or Uncia uncia in the family Felidae.
- Geographic Range
- Inhabit a vast area in northern and central Asia’s high mountains, including the Himalayan region.
- Found in 12 countries, such as China, Bhutan, Nepal, India, Pakistan, Russia, and Mongolia.
- In India, observed in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.
- Features
- Average adult length from nose to tail is 1000 to 1300 mm.
- Thick grey and yellow-tinged fur with solid spots on the head, neck, and lower limbs, and rosettes over the rest of the body.
- Long, thick tails used for balancing on rocks and protection from the cold.
- Short forelimbs and long hind limbs for agility, capable of jumping up to 50 feet in length.
- Solitary creatures with prolonged social contact occurring during cub-raising by females.
- Conservation Status
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
- CITES: Appendix I
- Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972: Schedule I
Source: LM
Bharat 5G Portal
Tag: GS-3 Science and tech.
In News:
Recently, on the sidelines of ‘Bharat Telecom 2024,’ the Secretary of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications (MoC), inaugurated the “Bharat 5G Portal – an integrated portal.”
About Bharat 5G Portal
- Overview
- Bharat 5G Portal is a comprehensive platform designed to cater to the interests of startups, industry, and academia, focusing on quantum, 6G, IPR, and 5G domains.
- Collaborative Initiative
- The portal collaborates with PANIIT USA to host the Future Tech-Experts registration portal.
- This collaboration aims to provide assistance and guidance to the Indian Telecom ecosystem, aligning with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
- Unified Solution
- Functioning as a one-stop solution, Bharat 5G Portal addresses various aspects, including quantum, IPR, PoCs/Pilot, 5G, and 6G.
- It consolidates academic R&D developments, industry standards, information on OEMs, startups/MSMEs, and subject matter experts.
- Objectives
- The primary goal of the portal is to propel India’s capabilities in the 5G domain.
- It seeks to foster innovation, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing within the telecom sector.
Other 5G Initiatives in India
- PM’s Recognition
- During the India Mobile Congress, the Prime Minister of India acknowledged and awarded 100 “5G Use Case Labs” to educational institutions across the country.
- The initiative is geared towards building competencies and engagement in 5G technologies for students and the startup community.
- Network of Labs
- All awarded labs and institutions, totalling over 100, are interconnected through a dedicated portal, creating a digital network of 100 5G Labs.
- Knowledge Dissemination
- The portal serves as a knowledge dissemination platform for institutions, students, and startups.
- It facilitates the testing and development of 5G use cases within the connected labs.
- Implementation Agency
- Telecommunications Consultants India Limited (TCIL) is the designated implementation agency responsible for the installation of 100 Labs and the development of the associated portal.
Source: PIB
Case Study of the Day – SOLAR MAMAs
In remote districts like Gumla, few hamlets have not yet been electrified due to scattered settlements, difficult topography and challenges of inaccessibility. To mitigate this challenge, the District Administration along with an International NGO, Barefoot College, organised local women in Self-Help Groups(SHGs) and trained them with skills needed for fabrication of solar panels, lights and photovoltaic circuits. These women are fondly addressed as Solar Mamas. The first phase of the project involved solar electrification of 150 unelectrified households. Women were also trained to practise sustainable livelihoods like bee-keeping and coffee plantation. As a result of this initiative, women of Gumla District have equipped themselves with skill sets that ensure a steady income and also greatly helped in providing electricity to those households which were lingering in darkness.
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A: Daily current affairs refer to the most recent and relevant events, developments, and news stories that are happening around the world on a day-to-day basis. These can encompass a wide range of topics, including politics, economics, science, technology, sports, and more.
Q: Why is it important to stay updated with daily current affairs?
A: Staying updated with daily current affairs is crucial because it helps individuals make informed decisions in their personal and professional lives. It enables people to understand the world around them, stay aware of significant events, and engage in informed discussions about important issues.
Q: Where can I access daily current affairs information?
A: There are various sources for daily current affairs, including newspapers, news websites, television news broadcasts, radio programs, and dedicated apps or newsletters. Social media platforms are also widely used to share and access current affairs information.
Q: How can I effectively incorporate daily current affairs into my routine?
A: To incorporate daily current affairs into your routine, consider setting aside specific times each day to read or watch news updates. You can also subscribe to newsletters or follow news apps to receive curated content. Engaging in discussions with peers or participating in online forums can further enhance your understanding of current events.
Q: What are some tips for critical analysis of daily current affairs?
A: When analyzing daily current affairs, it’s essential to cross-reference information from multiple sources to ensure accuracy. Additionally, consider the source’s credibility and bias, if any. Develop the ability to identify the main points and implications of news stories, and critically evaluate the significance and impact of the events reported.
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