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.
Innovative Technologies Introduced in MGNREGA Implementation
Tag: GS – 2 Poverty, Government Policies & Interventions, Issues Relating to Development GS – 3 Employment, Growth & Development
In News:
The Ministry of Rural Development addresses concerns over technology, including Aadhaar, causing delays in MGNREGA wage payments and denial of welfare benefits.
MGNREGA Scheme Overview
Launched in 2005 by the Ministry of Rural Development, MGNREGA is a global leader in work guarantee programs, ensuring 100 days of employment annually for adult members of rural households through unskilled manual labor on public projects.
Current Status of MGNREGA
With 14.32 crore registered Job Cards and 25.25 crore workers, the scheme boasts 68.22% active Job Cards and 56.83% active workers.
Technological Innovations in MGNREGA Implementation
Aadhaar Integration
- Involves continuous Aadhaar seeding for de-duplication and authentication.
- 14.08 crore (98.31%) active workers have Aadhaar seeding, enabling Aadhaar Payment Bridge System (APBS).
- APBS success rate is 99.55%, facilitating electronic subsidy transfers to Aadhaar-linked bank accounts.
National Electronic Fund Management System (NEFMS)
- Introduced in FY 2016-17 for direct wage payments to beneficiaries.
- Over 99% of wage payments are directly credited to beneficiaries’ bank/post office accounts.
Real-time Monitoring through NMMS
- National Mobile Monitoring System (NMMS) app captures real-time attendance at worksites, ensuring transparency.
- Beneficiaries and citizens can verify worker attendance.
Geotagging of Assets
- Utilizes remote sensing technology for geotagging created assets.
- Enhances public scrutiny and accountability by providing location-specific information.
Job Card Updation
- States/UTs conduct regular exercises for job card updation/deletion.
- Job cards are deleted for reasons such as fake/duplicate cards, unwillingness to work, and household relocation.
Drone Monitoring
- Pilot testing of drone usage for real-time monitoring and data collection.
- Enhances implementation efficiency and decision-making processes.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2011) Q. Among the following who are eligible to benefit from the “Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act”? (a) Adult members of only the scheduled caste and scheduled tribe households. (b) Adult members of below poverty line (BPL) households. (c) Adult members of households of all backward communities. (d) Adult members of any household. Ans: (d) Exp: Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee (MGNREGA), which is the largest work guarantee programme in the world, was enacted in 2005 with the primary objective of guaranteeing 100 days of wage employment per year to every household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work. It aims at addressing the causes of chronic poverty through the ‘works’ (projects) that are undertaken, and thus ensuring sustainable development. There is also an emphasis on strengthening the process of decentralisation by giving a significant role to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in planning and implementing these works. Therefore, option D is the correct answer. |
Source: PIB
Inflation in India: Demand vs. Supply
Tag: GS – 3 Fiscal Policy, Inclusive Growth, Banking Sector & NBFCs, Planning, Government Budgeting
In News:
In India, ongoing inflation is a persistent worry, with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) noting shifting dynamics influenced by both supply and demand factors.
Causes of Inflation in Recent Years in India
Impact of COVID-19 Waves
- During the pandemic, supply disruptions were the primary driver of inflation.
- Lockdowns led to a decline in production and demand, causing economic contraction.
- Reopening and vaccine distribution resulted in faster demand recovery than supply, leading to inflationary pressures.
- The Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022 exacerbated supply chain challenges, adding to inflation pressures.
Methodology for Analyzing Inflation Causes
Price and Quantity Shifts
- Unforeseen changes in prices and quantities within a month determine whether inflation is demand-driven or supply-driven.
- Demand-driven inflation sees prices and quantities moving in the same direction, while supply-driven inflation involves opposite movements.
Sub-Group Level Assessment
- Combining demand and supply factors at the sub-group level using CPI weights to evaluate overall headline inflation.
- Headline inflation, reported through the Consumer Price Index (CPI), reflects the total inflation in the economy, including volatile commodities.
Understanding Inflation
Definition
- Inflation, per the International Monetary Fund, is the rate of price increase over a specified period.
- It signifies the rising cost of living, indicating how much more expensive goods and services have become.
Impact in India
- In India, inflation’s impact is notable due to economic disparities and a large population.
Diverse Causes of Inflation
Demand-Pull Inflation
- Occurs when demand exceeds supply, leading to a general price rise.
- High consumer spending in a booming economy creates excess demand, influencing prices.
Cost-Push Inflation
- Driven by increased production costs, including higher incomes, raw material costs, or supply chain disruptions.
Built-In or Wage-Price Inflation
- Described as a feedback loop between wages and prices.
- Higher wage demands lead to increased production costs, prompting businesses to raise prices.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2021) Q. With reference to Indian economy, demand-pull inflation can be caused/increased by which of the following? Expansionary policies Fiscal stimulus Inflation-indexing of wages Higher purchasing power Rising interest rates Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 4 only (b) 3, 4 and 5 only (c) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Ans: (a) Prelims (2020) Q.2 Consider the following statements: The weightage of food in Consumer Price Index (CPI) is higher than that in Wholesale Price Index (WPI). The WPI does not capture changes in the prices of services, which CPI does. The Reserve Bank of India has now adopted WPI as its key measure of inflation and to decide on changing the key policy rates. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (a) Q 3. If the RBI decides to adopt an expansionist monetary policy, which of the following would it not do? Cut and optimize the Statutory Liquidity Ratio. Increase the Marginal Standing Facility Rate. Cut the Bank Rate and Repo Rate. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 only (C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: B |
Source: TH
World’s Largest Radio Telescope Project
Tag: GS-3 Science and Tech.
In News:
Indian scientists will now join the global mega-science endeavor, the Square Kilometer Array Observatory (SKAO), which will operate as the largest radio telescope in the world.
Understanding Radio Telescopes
Role of Radio Telescopes
- Detect and amplify radio waves from space to enhance astronomical understanding.
- Observations in various parts of the electromagnetic spectrum, including radio waves, gamma rays, X-rays, and infrared radiation.
Components of a Radio Telescope
- Antennas collect radio waves.
- Receiver and amplifier boost weak signals.
- Recorder maintains a record of the signal.
- Operational day and night.
Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT)
Overview of GMRT
- Located near Narayangaon, Pune, with 30 steerable parabolic radio telescopes.
- Operational since 2000, investigates diverse radio astrophysical problems.
- Recognized with the IEEE Milestone facility in 2021.
National Centre for Radio Astrophysics
- Part of TIFR, Pune University Campus.
- Originated from the Radio Astronomy Group of TIFR in the 1960s under Prof. Govind Swarup’s leadership.
Square Kilometer Array Observatory (SKAO)
About SKAO
- International radio telescope project in Australia and South Africa.
- Aims to transform understanding of the Universe through global collaboration.
- Construction began in December 2022 with two phases: SKA1 and a potential later phase called SKA2.
India’s Role in SKAO
- India, through NCRA and other institutions, involved since the 1990s.
- A significant contribution to the development and operation of the Telescope Manager element, crucial software for the telescope.
- Recent financial sanction of Rs 1,250 crore by the Central Government.
Gravitational Waves and LIGO
Understanding Gravitational Waves
- ‘Ripples’ in space-time caused by energetic processes in the Universe.
- Predicted by Einstein in 1916, carrying information about their origins and nature of gravity.
Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO)
- World’s largest gravitational wave observatory.
- Operates two widely-separated interferometers in the U.S. to detect gravitational waves.
Source: IE
India as a MICE Destination
Tag: GS – 2 Government Policies & Interventions GS Paper – 3 IT & Computers
In News:
The Ministry of Commerce & Industry is actively positioning India as a prominent global destination for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions).
Understanding MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions)
Overview
- MICE, a term in the tourism and events sector, categorizes business and corporate tourism activities.
- Encompasses organizing events, meetings, conferences, exhibitions, and incentives for companies and groups.
MICE Tourism in India
- Aims to facilitate networking, knowledge exchange, business collaborations, and product/service showcasing in a professional context.
- Creates a platform for meaningful conversations among business, industry, government, and the academic community.
Scope in India
- India boasts core MICE infrastructure comparable to developed countries.
- Improved rankings in World Bank Ease of Doing Business and WEF Travel and Tourism Competitiveness (54th in 2021).
- Rapid progress in Information Technology and Scientific Research reflects India’s growing economic strength.
Global Scenario and India
- ICCA ranks countries based on international association meetings.
- In 2019, the USA led with 934 meetings, followed by Germany and France.
- India holds less than 1% share in global MICE business, ranking 28th with 158 meetings in ICCA’s 2019 rankings.
Major Strategies
- “Meet in India” Brand
- Promoting the MICE industry.
- Infrastructure Status
- Providing financing infrastructure status for MICE.
- Skill Development
- Focusing on skill development for the MICE industry.
Source: PIB
Pelagic Birds
Tag: GS-3 Environment and Ecology
In News:
Throughout 2023, bird enthusiasts successfully documented rare ‘pelagic’ birds right off the coast of Karnataka.
Understanding Pelagic Birds
Overview
- Pelagic birds spend a significant part of their lives on the open ocean.
- They can be blown onto land during storms and high winds, typically coming inland only for breeding.
Features
- Vary in size and appearance but share a habitat on open water, diving for food, and excelling at swimming.
- Possess long, slender wings for extended flights, with some capable of staying airborne for days or weeks.
- Unique salt gland extracts salt from seawater, preventing toxic accumulation.
- Feed on planktonic crustaceans, squid, and fish far from land.
Examples
- Well-known species include the Laysan Albatross, known for breeding in Hawaiian islands and roaming the Pacific for feeding.
- Other pelagic birds include Sooty Shearwater, Brown Skua, Brown Booby, Streaked Shearwater, Masked Booby, Pomarine Skua, Arctic Skua, Long-tailed Skua, Swinhoe’s Storm-petrel, Wilson’s Storm-petrel, and more.
Threats
- Human activities pose threats to remote open ocean birds.
- Global seabird threats arise from terrestrial nesting grounds and oceanic factors.
- Challenges include oil spills, climate change affecting prey availability, and fishing nets.
- Pelagic bird density decline may link to decreasing fish populations, influenced by factors like sea rains pushing fish to deeper waters.
- Plastic pollution poses a significant risk as birds mistake plastic fragments for prey, leading to ingestion and associated health risks.
Source: DTE
Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia)
Tag: GS-3 Environment and Ecology
In News:
Kyrgyzstan has formally designated the Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia) as its national symbol, underscoring its dedication to conservation and maintaining ecological equilibrium.
About Snow Leopard
- The snow leopard holds significant cultural importance in Kyrgyzstan, featuring prominently in the tale of Manas, a revered Kyrgyz folk hero symbolizing greatness, courage, and resilience.
- Often referred to as the ‘ghost of the mountains,’ the snow leopard has become an integral part of Kyrgyz culture.
- These elusive creatures play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, occupying one-third of the global territory.
- Their dwindling population poses risks to various species, emphasizing the importance of their conservation.
- Adapted to high-altitude terrains, snow leopards possess a unique physique that ensures agility in steep, rugged environments.
- However, they face threats from poaching, habitat loss, declining prey, human-wildlife conflict, and the impact of warming in the high Himalayas.
- Recognizing the significance of snow leopards, the Government of India has designated them as a flagship species for the high-altitude Himalayas.
- The development of Project Snow Leopard reflects India’s commitment to conserving both the species and its habitats.
Source: DTE
Warli Tribe
Tag: GS-1 Art and Culture GS-2 Tribal and other vulnerable sections of the society
In News:
The Indigenous Warli Tribe, residing in proximity to Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Maharashtra, imparts a valuable lesson on harmonious coexistence with leopards.
Warli Tribe Overview
- The Warli Tribe is an Adivasi indigenous community residing in the mountainous, coastal, and bordering regions of Gujarat and Maharashtra. The term ‘Warli’ is derived from ‘Warla,’ meaning ‘piece of land.’
- Language
- The Warli people speak Varli or Warli, an Indo-Aryan language, often classified as Marathi, Konkani, or Bhil.
- Culture
- Embracing animistic beliefs, the Warli Tribe has its unique way of life, customs, and traditions, incorporating elements of Hindu beliefs.
- Their culture revolves around Mother Nature, prominently depicted in Warli paintings.
- Folk art, deities, and ritual culture are highly valued, with women predominantly creating paintings reflecting traditional life.
- Style & Attire
- Warli Tribe women wear Lugden, a knee-length sari influenced by Maharashtrian rural regions.
- Festival
- Bohada, a three-day mask festival, features mask owners wearing and performing with masks.
- Dance & Music
- The Warli Tribes engage in Tarpa Dance accompanied by Tarpa music instruments.
- Group performances involve circle formations, with one person playing the Tarpa instrument in the center while others dance around.
Source: DTE
New Hit-and-Run Law
Tag: GS-2 Governance
In News:
The nationwide truckers’ protest has recently been called off following the government’s assurance to consult stakeholders before enforcing a controversial law against hit-and-run incidents.
New Hit-and-Run Law Overview
Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS)
- Replaces the British-era Indian Penal Code (IPC).
- Under BNS, causing a serious road accident due to careless driving, followed by leaving without informing authorities, may result in up to 10 years in jail and a Rs 7 lakh fine.
Categories Under “Causing Death by Negligence”
- BNS establishes two categories:
- First category addresses death caused by a rash or negligent act not amounting to culpable homicide, with potential imprisonment up to five years and a fine.
- Second category deals with death caused by rash and negligent driving not amounting to culpable homicide, carrying up to 10 years imprisonment and a fine if the offender fails to promptly report the incident.
Previous Hit-and-Run Law
Under Old IPC
- The British-era IPC lacked specific provisions for hit-and-run cases.
- Actions were taken under IPC Section 304A.
- Offenders causing death due to a reckless or negligent act faced a maximum jail term of two years or a fine.
Understanding Culpable Homicide in IPC
Definition in IPC
- Culpable Homicide refers to causing death through acts with the intention of causing death, intending to cause severe bodily injury likely to cause death, or having knowledge that the act is likely to cause death.
- Distinct from murder, it lacks certain elements of premeditation and extreme culpability.
- Section 299 IPC focuses on the offender’s intention and knowledge, playing a crucial role in distinguishing various degrees of criminal liability for causing another person’s death.
Source: NDTV
The Karman Line
Tag: GS-3 Environment
In News:
The Karman Line, much like the idea of international waters, does not have a distinct national demarcation.
Understanding the Karman Line
- Location and Definition
- The Karman Line is an imaginary boundary situated at 100 km (62 miles) above sea level, separating Earth’s atmosphere from space.
- Established in the 1960s by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI).
- Named after aerospace pioneer Theodore von Kármán.
- Controversy and Recognition
- While some entities, like the Federal Aviation Administration, NASA, and the U.S. military, place the space boundary at 80 km (50 miles), a majority of countries and space organizations recognize the Karman Line.
- Despite differing opinions, it serves as a widely acknowledged demarcation between Earth’s sky and space.
- Operational Significance
- Practical in marking the altitude where traditional aircraft can no longer effectively fly due to the thinning atmosphere.
- Craft above the Karman Line require propulsion systems independent of Earth’s atmospheric lift.
- Astronaut Qualification
- Crossing the Karman Line qualifies an individual as an astronaut.
- Signifies the shift in physical laws governing a craft’s ability to fly.
- Importance and Legal Framework
- The 1967 Outer Space Treaty advocates for space accessibility to all countries for scientific investigation.
- Defining a legal boundary helps prevent disputes, facilitates tracking of space activities, and regulates human space travel.
Source: FE
Hattee Community
Tag: GS-2 Vulnerable Sections
In News:
The Himachal Pradesh state government has recently issued an official notification granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Hattee community residing in the Trans-Giri area of Sirmaur district.
Exploring the Hattee Community
- Origins and Naming
- The Hattee community is tightly-knit and derives its name from the practice of selling homegrown produce, meat, wool, etc., at local markets known as ‘haat’ in towns.
- Geographical Homeland
- The community’s homeland spans the Himachal-Uttarakhand border within the Giri and Tons river basins, both tributaries of the Yamuna.
- Distinctive Attire and Geography
- During ceremonies, the Hattee community’s men often wear a unique white headgear.
- Geographically separated from Sirmaur by the Giri and Tons rivers, with the Tons acting as a boundary with the Jaunsar Bawar area of Uttarakhand.
- Historical Background
- The Hattees in the trans-Giri area and Jaunsar Bawar were originally part of the royal estate of Sirmaur until the separation of Jaunsar Bawar in 1815.
- Traditional Governance
- Governed by a traditional council known as Khumbli, which plays a key role in community affairs.
- Clans and Traditions
- Two Hattee clans, residing in Trans-Giri and Jaunsar Bawar, share similar traditions, and inter-marriages within the community are common.
Source: TH
Case Study of the Day – “Sikkim teen empowers 250+ North East tribes in preserving indigenous arts.”
Prajal Regmi 19 year old sikkim boy’s initiative is helping more than 250 tribes of North East to preserve and promote their indigenous arts & craft. A 19-year-old social entrepreneur from Sikkim has started a clothing platform that works with more than 270 communities across the 8 northeast Indian states. The initiative is focusing on promoting the indigenous culture, arts, stories of the people and market them through their platform by bridging the gap and connecting the buyers and sellers. The traditional or modern clothes have design references of various ornaments, cultural habits of communities or tribes from the North east, through this they aim to bring forward the content, community and the hidden art & culture of Northeast India. Further, the team promotes and mobilizes the youngsters to come forward and design fashionable clothes with cultural references thus breaking glass ceilings of caste-defined work. Ripra collaborates with many women-led boutiques from several parts of northeast India to provide them an ecommerce platform to sell their products. Connect the artisans with the businesses/vendors/schools or provide them a platform to showcase and sell their products. Prajal Regmi has started a clothing platform named Ripra Clothing. He has been awarded with Ashoka Young Changemaker award in 2022 for his work in healthcare during the covid pandemic.
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