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.
Ayodhya Ram Temple: Contemporary Stone-Carved Architectural Marvel
Tag: GS-1 Art and Culture
In News:
A modern marvel emerges in Ayodhya, symbolizing India’s cultural and spiritual essence, this new landmark stands as a testament to devotion to Lord Ram.
Major Features of the Ram Temple Main Complex
- Construction Materials
- The grand structure is constructed without the use of iron or steel.
- Stones used in the construction are sourced from Rajasthan’s Bansi Paharpur area.
- Architectural Design
- Built in the traditional Nagara style.
- Dimensions: 380 feet long (east to west), 250 feet wide, and 161 feet high.
- Each floor is 20 feet high, featuring 392 pillars and 44 gates.
- Percota Periphery
- Surrounding the temple is a rectangular percota, a unique feature in north India.
- Percota is 14 feet wide, spanning 732 meters.
- Aesthetic Elements
- Stone carvings include images of Lord Hanuman, other deities, peacocks, and flower patterns.
- Divine aesthetics contribute to the overall appearance.
- Decorative Touch
- Over 3,000 kg of flowers from 20 varieties used for decoration.
Main Entrance
- Ornate statues at the main entrance:
- Elephants, lions, Lord Hanuman, and Garuda.
- Statues made from sandstone sourced from Bansi Paharpur.
Green Complex
- Green Area
- A significant portion (70%) of the complex designated as a green area.
- Hundreds of trees contribute to the green surroundings.
- Environmental Considerations
- Two sewage treatment plants within the complex.
- Water treatment plant and dedicated electricity line from the power house.
- Fire brigade post with access to water from an underground reservoir.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2012) Q. The Nagara, the Dravida and the Vesara are the (a) three main racial groups of the Indian subcontinent (b) three main linguistic divisions into which the languages of India can be classified (c) three main styles of Indian temple architecture (d) three main musical Gharanas prevalent in India Ans: c Mains (2013) Q. Chola architecture represents a high watermark in the evolution of temple architecture. Discuss Mains (2020) Q. Indian philosophy and tradition played a significant role in conceiving and shaping the monuments and their art in India. Discuss. |
Source: IE
India-Bangladesh Relations
Tag: GS-2 IR
In News:
Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina secured a historic fourth consecutive term, with India promptly extending congratulations, underscoring their strong bilateral ties.
How India-Bangladesh Relations Have Thrived
- Historical Ties
- Rooted in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, with crucial Indian support.
- Periods of strain due to military regimes, resolved by Sheikh Hasina’s leadership in 1996.
- Bilateral cooperation expanded into Trade, Energy, Infrastructure, Connectivity, and Defence.
- Economic Cooperation
- Steady growth in bilateral trade, reaching USD 18 billion in 2021-2022.
- India-Bangladesh joint feasibility study for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2022.
- Infrastructure projects like the Akhaura-Agartala Rail Link enhance connectivity.
- Infrastructure Development
- India’s Lines of Credit to Bangladesh surpass USD 7 billion since 2010.
- Resolution of long-pending issues like the Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) in 2015.
- Inauguration of the Akhaura-Agartala Rail Link in 2023 for improved connectivity.
- Energy Sector
- Bangladesh imports nearly 2,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity from India.
- Collaboration on the Rooppur Nuclear power plant project in 2018.
- Defence Cooperation
- Joint Exercises – Army (Exercise Sampriti) and Navy (Exercise Bongo Sagar).
- Shared border of 4096.7 km, the longest land boundary with any neighbor.
- Multilateral Cooperation
- Engagement in regional cooperation through SAARC, BIMSTEC, and IORA.
Points of Tensions
- Transboundary River Waters
- Only two treaties signed out of 54 common rivers, leading to ongoing negotiations.
- Illegal Migration
- Concerns over illegal migration impacting resources and security.
- Rohingya refugee crisis intensifying the issue.
- Drug Smuggling & Trafficking
- Cross-border incidences of drug smuggling, human trafficking, and poaching.
- Chinese Influence
- Bangladesh’s active participation in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
- Growing Chinese influence impacting India’s regional standing.
Way Forward
- Cross-Border Challenges
- Establish joint task forces to combat drug smuggling and human trafficking.
- Shared intelligence and coordinated operations for disrupting illegal networks.
- Smart Border Management
- Utilize AI and data analytics for efficient cross-border movements.
- Ensure security while streamlining operations.
- Digital Connectivity
- Establish a digital connectivity corridor focusing on high-speed internet, digital services, and e-commerce.
- Create new avenues for trade, collaboration, and technological exchange.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2017) Q. Concerning river Teesta, consider the following statements: 1. The source of river Teesta is the same as that of Brahmaputra but it flows through Sikkim. 2. River Rangeet originates in Sikkim and it is a tributary of river Teesta. 3. River Teesta flows into Bay of Bengal on the border of India and Bangladesh. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (b) Mains (2018) Q. Analyze internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh and Pakistan borders including Line of Control (LoC). Also discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard. |
Source: TH
Social Audit Advisory Body
Tag: GS-2 Governance
In News:
The first meeting of the Social Audit Advisory Body (SAAB) occurred at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi.
What is a Social Audit?
- Overview
- A systematic, independent evaluation of an organization’s social impact and ethical performance.
- Focuses on aligning actions and policies with stated values, emphasizing community, employee, and environmental impact.
- Historical Context
- Coined by Howard Bowen in 1953 in the book “Social Responsibilities of the Businessman.”
Key Features of Social Audit
- Fact-Finding Approach
- Emphasis on understanding rather than blaming.
- Stakeholder Dialogue
- Creates a platform for dialogue among diverse stakeholders.
- Grievance Redressal
- Timely resolution of grievances.
- Democracy and Institutions
- Strengthens democratic processes and institutions.
- People’s Advocacy
- Mobilizes public pressure for improved program implementation.
Types of Social Audits
- Organizational
- Assessing a company’s overall social responsibility efforts.
- Program-Specific
- Focusing on the impact and effectiveness of specific programs.
- Financial
- Reviewing social and environmental implications of financial decisions.
- Stakeholder-Driven
- Involving various stakeholders in the auditing process.
Framework Associated with Social Audit in India
- MGNREGA 2005
- Gram sabha responsible for monitoring work execution.
- Independent social audit units mandated for community-driven verification.
- Meghalaya Community Participation Act 2017
- First state-level legislation mandating social audits.
- BOCW Act Framework
- Ministry of Labour & Employment’s framework for social audits.
- Right to Information Act 2005
- Enhances transparency and access to information.
- NRCSA
- National Resource Cell for Social Audit ensures social audits at state levels.
Challenges Related to Social Audit in India
- Lack of Standardization
- Absence of standardized procedures leading to variations.
- Awareness and Capacity
- Limited understanding hampers effective implementation.
- Limited Participation
- Inadequate involvement of marginalized groups affects assessments.
- Political Interference
- Influence from authorities compromises independence.
- Resource Constraints
- Financial and human resource limitations impact effectiveness.
- Capacity and Training
- Social audit units lack funds and trained professionals.
Way Forward
- Blockchain for Transparency
- Explore blockchain technology for secure and tamper-proof audit information.
- Accessibility and Representation
- Simplify processes and provide information in local languages.
- Diverse Participation
- Encourage participation from marginalized groups through incentives.
- Standardization and Protection
- Develop uniform guidelines for social audits and enact whistleblower protection.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Mains (2021) Q. An independent and empowered social audit mechanism is an absolute must in every sphere of public service, including judiciary, to ensure performance, accountability and ethical conduct. Elaborate. |
Source: PIB
Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) Scheme
Tag: GS-3 Economy
In News:
The Centre has no plans to revise the RoDTEP scheme for exporters, despite the imposition of anti-subsidy duties by the US government.
Understanding the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) Scheme
- Introduction
- Launched by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, effective from January 1, 2021.
- Replaces the existing MEIS (Merchandise Exports from India Scheme).
- Objectives
- Aims to ensure exporters receive refunds on previously non-recoverable embedded taxes and duties.
- Intended to boost export volumes.
- Need for the RoDTEP Scheme
- Originated in response to WTO ruling against India’s export subsidy schemes.
- WTO dispute panel recommended withdrawal of existing subsidy programs.
- RoDTEP designed to make India WTO-compliant.
- Features of the RoDTEP Scheme
- Refund of previously non-refundable duties and taxes, including Mandi tax, VAT, Coal cess, and Central Excise duty on fuel.
- Automated credit system issued as a transferable electronic scrip by CBIC.
- Quick verification facilitated through digitization.
- Multi-sector coverage with a priority for labor-intensive sectors previously benefiting from the MEIS Scheme.
- Eligibility Criteria
- Both manufacturer exporters and merchant exporters (traders) eligible.
- Exported products must have India as the country of origin.
- No turnover threshold for RoDTEP claims.
- Special Economic Zone Units and Export Oriented Units also eligible.
- Applies to goods exported via courier through e-commerce platforms, excluding re-exported products.
- Issues in RoDTEP Scheme Implementation
- Global principle: Taxes and duties should not be exported.
- Countervailing duties imposed by the US and EU against RoDTEP payments availed.
- Challenges in obtaining detailed records of input taxes, particularly for hand-written invoices.
- Streamlining and proper training needed for exporters to comply effectively.
Source: BL
Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana
Tag: GS-2 Governance
In News:
Prime Minister Modi unveiled the ‘Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana,’ a government initiative to provide rooftop solar power systems to one crore households.
Previous Initiatives for Rooftop Solar Promotion
- Introduction
- In 2014, the government launched the Rooftop Solar Programme.
- Aiming for 40 GW cumulative installed capacity by 2022.
- Target Achievement and Extension
- By the end of 2023, only 11 GW rooftop solar energy generated.
- The deadline extended to 2026 due to unmet targets.
- Features of the Rooftop Solar Programme
- Consumer benefits through DISCOM tendered projects or the National Portal.
- DISCOMs’ role limited to technical feasibility, net-meter installation, and system inspection.
- Net metering allows credits for surplus solar energy added to the grid.
- Monetary benefits for surplus power as per prevailing regulations.
Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana
- Overview
- New scheme aiming to achieve 40 GW rooftop solar capacity.
- Implementation Details
- Involves installing solar power systems on residential rooftops.
- Aims to reduce electricity bills for the poor and middle class.
- Current Solar Capacity in India
- Installed Capacity
- Total solar power capacity: 73.31 GW (as of December 2023).
- Rooftop solar capacity: 11.08 GW (as of December 2023).
- State-wise Performance
- Rajasthan leads in total solar capacity (18.7 GW).
- Gujarat tops in rooftop solar capacity (2.8 GW).
Need for Solar Energy Expansion in India
- World Energy Outlook by IEA
- India expected to witness the largest energy demand growth globally over the next 30 years.
- IEA emphasizes the need for sustainable and secure energy sources.
- Renewable Energy Goals
- India targets 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
- A shift towards reliable and sustainable energy sources.
Source: IE
Distress Alert Transmitter for Fishermen
Tag: GS-3 Science and Tech.
In News:
ISRO has introduced the second-generation Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT-SG), a homegrown technology enabling fishermen at sea to send emergency messages from their boats.
Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT) and Second Generation DAT-SG
About the First Version of DAT
- Operational since 2010.
- Messages sent through communication satellites to INMCC (Indian Mission Control Centre).
- Alert signals decoded for identity and location of fishing boats.
- Information forwarded to MRCCs under the Indian Coast Guard for search and rescue operations.
- Over 20,000 DATs in use.
Introduction to DAT-SG
- Enhanced Capabilities
- Builds upon the original DAT for improved maritime safety and communication.
- Acknowledgement Feature
- Can send acknowledgements to fishermen activating distress alerts from sea.
- NavIC Receiver Module
- UHF transmitter based on NavIC receiver module developed by ISRO.
- Supports position determination and broadcast messages reception (NavIC messaging service).
- Advanced Features
- Bluetooth Interface: Connects to mobile phones, enabling message reception and app-based reading in native languages.
- Integration with Mobile Phones: Provides a widely-used platform for communication.
- SAGARMITRA Network Management System
- Web-based system at INMCC.
- Manages registered DAT-SGs.
- Assists MRCCs in accessing real-time information for prompt Search & Rescue operations.
- Two-Way Communication
- Capable of receiving messages from the control center.
- Enables the central control station to send advance alerts to fishermen about events like bad weather or emergencies.
- Information Transmission
- Can transmit details about Potential Fishing Zones (PFZs) to aid fishermen in locating productive areas.
- Operational 24/7
- DAT-SG services are available 24×7, ensuring continuous support for fishermen in distress.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2018) Q. Concerning the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), consider the following statements: 1. IRNSS has three satellites in geostationary and four satellites in geosynchronous orbits. 2. IRNSS covers entire India and about 5500 sq. Km beyond its borders. 3. India will have its own satellite navigation system with full global coverage by the middle of 2019. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) None Ans: (a) Mains (2018) Q. Why is Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS) needed? How does it help in navigation? Mains (2016) Q. Discuss India’s achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology has helped India in its socio-economic development? |
Source: ET
FiloBot
Tag: GS-3 Science and Tech.
In News:
A novel robot called FiloBot, inspired by plants, has been created to climb structures in a manner reminiscent of climbing vines.
About FiloBot
- Distinct from Conventional Climbing Robots
- Unlike traditional climbing robots, FiloBot doesn’t rely on pre-programmed movements.
- It absorbs 3D printing filament and extends its length over time, resembling a creeper.
- Bioinspired Behaviors
- Utilizes plant behaviors like phototropism, negative phototropism, and gravitropism.
- Incorporates these natural behaviors into high-tech robots.
- Successful Tests
- Demonstrated remarkable adaptability.
- Adjusts its growth trajectory dynamically in response to changing light intensity.
Significance
- Equipping autonomous systems with transportable additive manufacturing techniques and bioinspired behaviors.
- Enables robots to navigate unstructured and dynamic environments.
- Capable of self-building infrastructure, expanding the potential impact of technology in robotics.
Other Similar Innovations
- NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory unveiled EELS 1.0, a snake-like robot.
- Crafted for exploration on rough terrains of planets and moons.
- Engineered to navigate diverse landscapes, including ice, sand, cliff walls, deep craters, and lava tubes.
Source: WION
Exercise KHANJAR
Tag: GS-3 Defence and Security
In News:
The India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR has started at the Special Forces Training School in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh.
About Exercise Khanjar
- Initiation
- Commenced in December 2011 in Nahan, India.
- Edition and Frequency
- 11th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise.
- An annual event alternately conducted in both countries.
- Participants
- Indian Army contingent (20 personnel) represented by The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces).
- Kyrgyzstan contingent (20 personnel) represented by Scorpion Brigade.
- Objective
- Exchange experiences and best practices in Counter Terrorism and Special Forces Operations.
- Focus on Built-up Area and Mountainous Terrain under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
- Training Emphasis
- Develop Special Forces skills.
- Learn advanced techniques of insertion and extraction.
- Purpose
- Strengthen defence ties.
- Address common concerns of international terrorism and extremism.
- Showcasing Capabilities
- Provide an opportunity to display cutting-edge indigenous defence equipment.
- Achieve shared security objectives and foster bilateral relations.
Source: PIB
Madhika
Tag: GS-1 Art and Culture
In News:
The Chakaliya community in the secluded colony of Kookanam, near Karivellur Grama Panchayat in Kerala, is facing the imminent disappearance of its distinct language, Madhika.
About Madhika Language
- Chakaliya Community Language
- Spoken by the Chakaliya community.
- Lacks a written script.
- Distinct Influences
- Despite similarities to Kannada, it can be perplexing due to diverse linguistic influences.
- Blend of Languages
- Fusion of Telugu, Tulu, Kannada, and Malayalam.
- Major influence from Havyaka Kannada, an archaic form of Kannada.
- Endangered Status
- Facing extinction, especially with the younger generation favoring Malayalam.
Key Facts about Chakaliya Community
- Nomadic Origins
- Originally a nomadic community.
- Devotees of Thiruvenkatramana and Mariamma.
- Migration History
- Migrated from hilly regions of Karnataka to northern Malabar centuries ago.
- Recognition and Categorization
- Initially recognized as a Scheduled Tribe.
- Later included in the Scheduled Caste category in Kerala.
- Historical Mention
- Referenced in the book “Caste and Tribes of Southern India.”
Government of India’s Language Preservation Initiative
- Scheme for Protection and Preservation of Endangered Languages of India (SPPEL)
- Initiated by the Government of India.
- Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL), Mysore, focuses on safeguarding languages spoken by fewer than 10,000 people.
- CIIL’s Role
- Works on protection, preservation, and documentation of endangered languages.
- Aims to ensure the survival of all mother tongues/languages in India.
Source: TH
Binturong (Arctictis binturong) and the Small-Clawed Otter
Tag: GS-3 Environment and Ecology
In News:
Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in Assam recently welcomed two new mammalian species: the elusive binturong (Arctictis binturong) and the small-clawed otter.
About Binturong
- Largest Civet in India
- Colloquially known as the bearcat.
- Common names: Asian Bearcat and the Asian Civet.
- Scientific name: Arctictis binturong.
- Behavior and Characteristics
- Generally solitary and nocturnal.
- Moves slowly and cautiously in trees.
- Possesses scent glands under its tail for marking territory.
- Family and Tail Adaptation
- Belongs to the same family as Civets, Genets, Mongooses, and Fossa.
- One of only two carnivores with a prehensile tail (the other being the kinkajou).
- Prehensile tail aids in climbing and provides stability.
- Habitat and Distribution
- Medium-sized carnivore in the dense forests of South-East Asia.
- Found in China, India, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Borneo.
- Conservation Status
- IUCN: Vulnerable.
- Wildlife Protection Act of 1972: Schedule I.
- CITES: Appendix III.
Key Facts about Small-clawed Otter
- Adaptations for Aquatic Hunting
- Exhibits partially webbed feet and short claws for adept hunting in aquatic environments.
- Distribution Range
- Spans from India eastwards to Southeast Asia and southern China.
- In India, primarily found in protected areas in West Bengal, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and certain regions of Kerala within the Western Ghats.
- Habitat and Diet
- Primarily inhabits freshwater habitats.
- Diet includes fish and crustaceans.
- Threats
- Faces threats from habitat destruction, deforestation, and reduction in prey biomass.
- Conservation Status
- IUCN: Vulnerable.
- Wildlife Protection Act of 1972: Schedule I.
- CITES: Appendix I.
Source: FE
Case Study of the Day – ‘BETI BACHAO, BETI PADHAO’ CITIZEN RECOGNITION
The District Administration in Firozpur has implemented an innovative approach to raise awareness about the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ campaign. In a creative endeavor, walls of over-bridges are adorned with graffiti portraying women who have excelled in their professions or studies, showcasing their remarkable achievements. These visual narratives not only serve as a source of inspiration for local girls and women but also instill a sense of pride in parents whose daughters’ success stories are prominently featured. Moreover, the city features two dedicated roundabouts for the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ initiative, adorned with statues depicting themes such as ‘a mother nurturing a girl child’ and ‘a girl child studying.’ These installations act as continuous catalysts, emphasizing the values of a mother’s care for a girl child and the paramount importance of girls receiving proper education. This strategic move by the Administration aims to foster social consciousness regarding the significance of girl children, their education, and the imperative for achieving a balanced sex ratio.
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