{"id":19472,"date":"2023-12-18T11:29:49","date_gmt":"2023-12-18T11:29:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/?p=19472"},"modified":"2023-12-18T11:29:53","modified_gmt":"2023-12-18T11:29:53","slug":"upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/","title":{"rendered":"UPSC Daily Current Affairs &#8211; 18th December 2023"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/current-affairs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/MicrosoftTeams-image-40-1.png\" alt=\"UPSC Current Affairs Daily Quiz - Edukemy\" class=\"wp-image-14085\" width=\"780\" height=\"182\" srcset=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/MicrosoftTeams-image-40-1.png 1280w, https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/MicrosoftTeams-image-40-1-1170x274.png 1170w, https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/MicrosoftTeams-image-40-1-585x137.png 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In today&#8217;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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_73 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69d83938e35d0\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-cssicon\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69d83938e35d0\"  \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Global_Partnership_on_Artificial_Intelligence_GPAI_Summit\" title=\"Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit&nbsp;\">Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#In_News\" title=\"In News:\">In News:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Key_Highlights_of_the_GPAI_Summit\" title=\"Key Highlights of the GPAI Summit&nbsp;\">Key Highlights of the GPAI Summit&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Inaugural_Address_by_Indian_Prime_Minister\" title=\"Inaugural Address by Indian Prime Minister\u00a0\">Inaugural Address by Indian Prime Minister\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#YUVAi_Showcased_at_GPAI_Summit\" title=\"YUVAi Showcased at GPAI Summit\u00a0\">YUVAi Showcased at GPAI Summit\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#AI_for_Digital_Inclusion\" title=\"AI for Digital Inclusion\u00a0\">AI for Digital Inclusion\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Thematic_Sessions_at_GPAI_Summit\" title=\"Thematic Sessions at GPAI Summit\u00a0\">Thematic Sessions at GPAI Summit\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Diverse_Side_Events\" title=\"Diverse Side Events\u00a0\">Diverse Side Events\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Delhi_Declaration_of_the_GPAI\" title=\"Delhi Declaration of the GPAI&nbsp;\">Delhi Declaration of the GPAI&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Commitment_to_Democratic_Values\" title=\"Commitment to Democratic Values\u00a0\">Commitment to Democratic Values\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Principles_of_Trust_and_Transparency\" title=\"Principles of Trust and Transparency\u00a0\">Principles of Trust and Transparency\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#AIs_Contribution_to_Global_Challenges\" title=\"AI&#8217;s Contribution to Global Challenges\u00a0\">AI&#8217;s Contribution to Global Challenges\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#International_Cooperation_on_AI\" title=\"International Cooperation on AI\u00a0\">International Cooperation on AI\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Comprehensive_Framework_for_Trusted_AI\" title=\"Comprehensive Framework for Trusted AI\u00a0\">Comprehensive Framework for Trusted AI\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Global_Digital_Public_Infrastructure_Repository_GDPIR\" title=\"Global Digital Public Infrastructure Repository (GDPIR)\u00a0\">Global Digital Public Infrastructure Repository (GDPIR)\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#AI_Governance_and_Ethics_Dialogue\" title=\"AI Governance and Ethics Dialogue\u00a0\">AI Governance and Ethics Dialogue\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Understanding_Artificial_Intelligence_AI\" title=\"Understanding Artificial Intelligence (AI)&nbsp;\">Understanding Artificial Intelligence (AI)&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#AI_Capabilities\" title=\"AI Capabilities\u00a0\">AI Capabilities\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Ideal_AI_Characteristics\" title=\"Ideal AI Characteristics\u00a0\">Ideal AI Characteristics\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Deep_Learning_in_AI\" title=\"Deep Learning in AI\u00a0\">Deep Learning in AI\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#About_AIRAWAT\" title=\"About AIRAWAT&nbsp;\">About AIRAWAT&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Governments_AI_Transformation_Goals\" title=\"Government&#8217;s AI Transformation Goals\u00a0\">Government&#8217;s AI Transformation Goals\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Understanding_DeepFake\" title=\"Understanding DeepFake&nbsp;\">Understanding DeepFake&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Generative_Adversarial_Networks_GANs\" title=\"Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs)\u00a0\">Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs)\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Data_Requirements_for_DeepFake\" title=\"Data Requirements for DeepFake\u00a0\">Data Requirements for DeepFake\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Part_of_Deep_Synthesis\" title=\"Part of Deep Synthesis\u00a0\">Part of Deep Synthesis\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#YUVA_Ai_Initiative\" title=\"YUVA Ai Initiative&nbsp;\">YUVA Ai Initiative&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Program_Objectives\" title=\"Program Objectives\u00a0\">Program Objectives\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Ongoing_Year-Round_Program\" title=\"Ongoing Year-Round Program\u00a0\">Ongoing Year-Round Program\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion&nbsp;\">Conclusion&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#GPAI_Summit_Launch_in_India\" title=\"GPAI Summit Launch in India\u00a0\">GPAI Summit Launch in India\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#New_Delhi_Declaration_Highlights\" title=\"New Delhi Declaration Highlights\u00a0\">New Delhi Declaration Highlights\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Continuation_of_Coordinated_Intense_Rainfall_in_Evolving_Climates\" title=\"Continuation of Coordinated Intense Rainfall in Evolving Climates&nbsp;\">Continuation of Coordinated Intense Rainfall in Evolving Climates&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#In_News-2\" title=\"In News:\">In News:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Rainfall_Trends_in_India\" title=\"Rainfall Trends in India&nbsp;\">Rainfall Trends in India&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Consistent_Geographical_Concentration\" title=\"Consistent Geographical Concentration\u00a0\">Consistent Geographical Concentration\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Stability_in_Spatial_Corridor\" title=\"Stability in Spatial Corridor\u00a0\">Stability in Spatial Corridor\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Network_Cohesiveness_in_CI\" title=\"Network Cohesiveness in CI\u00a0\">Network Cohesiveness in CI\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Correlation_with_Climatic_Patterns\" title=\"Correlation with Climatic Patterns\u00a0\">Correlation with Climatic Patterns\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Implications_for_Predictability\" title=\"Implications for Predictability\u00a0\">Implications for Predictability\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-41\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Forecast_Implications\" title=\"Forecast Implications&nbsp;\">Forecast Implications&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-42\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Insights_into_Corridor_Dynamics\" title=\"Insights into Corridor Dynamics\u00a0\">Insights into Corridor Dynamics\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-43\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Strategic_Forecast_Improvement\" title=\"Strategic Forecast Improvement\u00a0\">Strategic Forecast Improvement\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-44\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Risk_Reduction_Strategies\" title=\"Risk Reduction Strategies\u00a0\">Risk Reduction Strategies\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-45\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Leveraging_Indias_Resources\" title=\"Leveraging India&#8217;s Resources\u00a0\">Leveraging India&#8217;s Resources\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-46\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Factors_Affecting_the_Indian_Monsoon\" title=\"Factors Affecting the Indian Monsoon&nbsp;\">Factors Affecting the Indian Monsoon&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-47\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Role_of_the_Himalayan_Mountains\" title=\"Role of the Himalayan Mountains\u00a0\">Role of the Himalayan Mountains\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-48\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Impact_of_the_Thar_Desert\" title=\"Impact of the Thar Desert\u00a0\">Impact of the Thar Desert\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-49\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Contribution_of_the_Indian_Ocean\" title=\"Contribution of the Indian Ocean\u00a0\">Contribution of the Indian Ocean\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-50\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#E-cigarettes\" title=\"E-cigarettes&nbsp;\">E-cigarettes&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-51\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#In_News-3\" title=\"In News:\">In News:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-52\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Understanding_e-Cigarettes\" title=\"Understanding e-Cigarettes&nbsp;\">Understanding e-Cigarettes&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-53\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Definition_of_e-Cigarettes\" title=\"Definition of e-Cigarettes\u00a0\">Definition of e-Cigarettes\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-54\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Composition_of_e-Cigarette_Liquid\" title=\"Composition of e-Cigarette Liquid\u00a0\">Composition of e-Cigarette Liquid\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-55\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Concerns_Regarding_e-Cigarettes\" title=\"Concerns Regarding e-Cigarettes&nbsp;\">Concerns Regarding e-Cigarettes&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-56\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Nicotine_Addiction\" title=\"Nicotine Addiction\u00a0\">Nicotine Addiction\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-57\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Health_Hazards_for_Specific_Groups\" title=\"Health Hazards for Specific Groups\u00a0\">Health Hazards for Specific Groups\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-58\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Metals_and_Chemicals_in_Aerosols\" title=\"Metals and Chemicals in Aerosols\u00a0\">Metals and Chemicals in Aerosols\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-59\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Lack_of_Awareness_and_Accessibility\" title=\"Lack of Awareness and Accessibility\u00a0\">Lack of Awareness and Accessibility\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-60\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Non-Registration_as_Nicotine_Replacement_Therapy\" title=\"Non-Registration as Nicotine Replacement Therapy\u00a0\">Non-Registration as Nicotine Replacement Therapy\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-61\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Arguments_Against_the_Ban\" title=\"Arguments Against the Ban&nbsp;\">Arguments Against the Ban&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-62\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Selective_Ban_Concerns\" title=\"Selective Ban Concerns\u00a0\">Selective Ban Concerns\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-63\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Regulation_and_Taxation_Approach\" title=\"Regulation and Taxation Approach\u00a0\">Regulation and Taxation Approach\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-64\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Safety_Claim_and_Tobacco_Industry_Ties\" title=\"Safety Claim and Tobacco Industry Ties\u00a0\">Safety Claim and Tobacco Industry Ties\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-65\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Lessons_from_Alcohol_Prohibition\" title=\"Lessons from Alcohol Prohibition\u00a0\">Lessons from Alcohol Prohibition\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-66\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Revenue_Generation_Potential\" title=\"Revenue Generation Potential\u00a0\">Revenue Generation Potential\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-67\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Arguments_in_Favor_of_Ban\" title=\"Arguments in Favor of Ban&nbsp;\">Arguments in Favor of Ban&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-68\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Public_Health_Imperative\" title=\"Public Health Imperative\u00a0\">Public Health Imperative\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-69\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Challenge_to_Socio-Cultural_Justification\" title=\"Challenge to Socio-Cultural Justification\u00a0\">Challenge to Socio-Cultural Justification\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-70\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Nicotine_Addiction_and_Carcinogenicity\" title=\"Nicotine Addiction and Carcinogenicity\u00a0\">Nicotine Addiction and Carcinogenicity\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-71\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Global_Tobacco_Industry_Shift\" title=\"Global Tobacco Industry Shift\u00a0\">Global Tobacco Industry Shift\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-72\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Effectiveness_of_Total_Ban\" title=\"Effectiveness of Total Ban\u00a0\">Effectiveness of Total Ban\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-73\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Economic_Considerations_and_Public_Health_Expenditure\" title=\"Economic Considerations and Public Health Expenditure\u00a0\">Economic Considerations and Public Health Expenditure\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-74\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#The_Way_Forward\" title=\"The Way Forward&nbsp;\">The Way Forward&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-75\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Sustaining_Decline_in_Tobacco_Consumption\" title=\"Sustaining Decline in Tobacco Consumption\u00a0\">Sustaining Decline in Tobacco Consumption\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-76\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Correcting_Historical_Mistakes\" title=\"Correcting Historical Mistakes\u00a0\">Correcting Historical Mistakes\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-77\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Governments_Decision_for_an_Addiction-Free_Society\" title=\"Government&#8217;s Decision for an Addiction-Free Society\u00a0\">Government&#8217;s Decision for an Addiction-Free Society\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-78\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Green_Hydrogen_Projects_and_SEZs\" title=\"Green Hydrogen Projects and SEZs&nbsp;\">Green Hydrogen Projects and SEZs&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-79\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#In_News-4\" title=\"In News:\">In News:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-80\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Key_Proposed_Amendments\" title=\"Key Proposed Amendments\u00a0\">Key Proposed Amendments\u00a0<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-81\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Expansion_of_SEZs_for_Green_Hydrogen_Projects\" title=\"Expansion of SEZs for Green Hydrogen Projects\u00a0\">Expansion of SEZs for Green Hydrogen Projects\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-82\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Eligibility_for_Fiscal_Benefits\" title=\"Eligibility for Fiscal Benefits\u00a0\">Eligibility for Fiscal Benefits\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-83\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Understanding_Special_Economic_Zone_SEZ\" title=\"Understanding Special Economic Zone (SEZ)&nbsp;\">Understanding Special Economic Zone (SEZ)&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-84\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Definition_and_Types_of_SEZs\" title=\"Definition and Types of SEZs\u00a0\">Definition and Types of SEZs\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-85\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#SEZs_in_India\" title=\"SEZs in India\u00a0\">SEZs in India\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-86\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Binsar_Wildlife_Sanctuary\" title=\"Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary&nbsp;\">Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-87\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#In_News-5\" title=\"In News:\">In News:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-88\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#About_Binsar_Wildlife_Sanctuary_An_Overview\" title=\"About Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: An Overview&nbsp;\">About Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: An Overview&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-89\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Geographical_Location\" title=\"Geographical Location\u00a0\">Geographical Location\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-90\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Namesake_and_Elevation\" title=\"Namesake and Elevation\u00a0\">Namesake and Elevation\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-91\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Scenic_Views\" title=\"Scenic Views\u00a0\">Scenic Views\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-92\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Flora_of_Binsar_Wildlife_Sanctuary\" title=\"Flora of Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary\u00a0\">Flora of Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary\u00a0<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-93\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Diverse_Vegetation\" title=\"Diverse Vegetation\u00a0\">Diverse Vegetation\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-94\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Botanical_Variety\" title=\"Botanical Variety\u00a0\">Botanical Variety\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-95\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Fauna_in_Binsar_Wildlife_Sanctuary\" title=\"Fauna in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary\u00a0\">Fauna in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary\u00a0<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-96\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Rich_Biodiversity\" title=\"Rich Biodiversity\u00a0\">Rich Biodiversity\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-97\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Avian_Diversity\" title=\"Avian Diversity\u00a0\">Avian Diversity\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-98\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Vijay_Diwas\" title=\"Vijay Diwas&nbsp;\">Vijay Diwas&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-99\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#In_News-6\" title=\"In News:\">In News:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-100\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#About_Vijay_Diwas\" title=\"About Vijay Diwas&nbsp;\">About Vijay Diwas&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-101\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Austropallene_halanychi\" title=\"Austropallene halanychi&nbsp;\">Austropallene halanychi&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-102\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#In_News-7\" title=\"In News:\">In News:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-103\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#About_Austropallene_halanychi\" title=\"About Austropallene halanychi&nbsp;\">About Austropallene halanychi&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-104\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Noteworthy_Features\" title=\"Noteworthy Features:&nbsp;\">Noteworthy Features:&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-105\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Unique_Eating_Method\" title=\"Unique Eating Method\u00a0\">Unique Eating Method\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-106\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Unusual_Respiration\" title=\"Unusual Respiration\u00a0\">Unusual Respiration\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-107\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Large_Boxing_Glove-Like_Claws\" title=\"Large Boxing Glove-Like Claws\u00a0\">Large Boxing Glove-Like Claws\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-108\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Habitat_and_Discovery\" title=\"Habitat and Discovery\u00a0\">Habitat and Discovery\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-109\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Key_Points_about_Ross_Sea\" title=\"Key Points about Ross Sea&nbsp;\">Key Points about Ross Sea&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-110\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Frontotemporal_Dementia_FTD\" title=\"Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)&nbsp;\">Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-111\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#In_News-8\" title=\"In News:\">In News:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-112\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#About_Frontotemporal_Dementia_FTD\" title=\"About Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)&nbsp;\">About Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-113\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Tax_Inspectors_without_Borders_TIWB_Programme\" title=\"Tax Inspectors without Borders (TIWB) Programme&nbsp;\">Tax Inspectors without Borders (TIWB) Programme&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-114\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#In_News-9\" title=\"In News:\">In News:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-115\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#About_the_Tax_Inspectors_without_Borders_TIWB_Programme\" title=\"About the Tax Inspectors without Borders (TIWB) Programme&nbsp;\">About the Tax Inspectors without Borders (TIWB) Programme&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-116\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Program_Duration\" title=\"Program Duration\u00a0\">Program Duration\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-117\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Program_Focus\" title=\"Program Focus\u00a0\">Program Focus\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-118\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#About_the_Organisation_for_Economic_Cooperation_and_Development_OECD\" title=\"About the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)&nbsp;\">About the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-119\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Key_Points_about_OECD\" title=\"Key Points about OECD&nbsp;\">Key Points about OECD&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-120\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#The_MH-60_Romeo_Helicopter\" title=\"The MH-60 Romeo Helicopter&nbsp;\">The MH-60 Romeo Helicopter&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-121\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#In_News-10\" title=\"In News:\">In News:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-122\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#About_The_MH-60_Romeo_Helicopter\" title=\"About The MH-60 Romeo Helicopter&nbsp;\">About The MH-60 Romeo Helicopter&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-123\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Key_Features\" title=\"Key Features:&nbsp;\">Key Features:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-124\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-125\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Q_What_are_daily_current_affairs\" title=\"Q: What are daily current affairs?\">Q: What are daily current affairs?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-126\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Q_Why_is_it_important_to_stay_updated_with_daily_current_affairs\" title=\"Q: Why is it important to stay updated with daily current affairs?\">Q: Why is it important to stay updated with daily current affairs?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-127\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Q_Where_can_I_access_daily_current_affairs_information\" title=\"Q: Where can I access daily current affairs information?\">Q: Where can I access daily current affairs information?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-128\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Q_How_can_I_effectively_incorporate_daily_current_affairs_into_my_routine\" title=\"Q: How can I effectively incorporate daily current affairs into my routine?\">Q: How can I effectively incorporate daily current affairs into my routine?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-129\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Q_What_are_some_tips_for_critical_analysis_of_daily_current_affairs\" title=\"Q: What are some tips for critical analysis of daily current affairs?\">Q: What are some tips for critical analysis of daily current affairs?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-130\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#In_case_you_still_have_your_doubts_contact_us_on_9811333901\" title=\"In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.&nbsp;\">In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-131\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-december-2023\/#Visit_our_YouTube_Channel_%E2%80%93_here\" title=\"Visit our YouTube Channel &#8211;&nbsp;here\">Visit our YouTube Channel &#8211;&nbsp;here<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Global_Partnership_on_Artificial_Intelligence_GPAI_Summit\"><\/span><strong>Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tag:<\/strong> GS-3 Science and Tech.\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_News\"><\/span><strong>In News:<\/strong> <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit was officially launched by the Prime Minister of India.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"556\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/image-22-1024x556.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19474 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/556;\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Highlights_of_the_GPAI_Summit\"><\/span><strong>Key Highlights of the GPAI Summit<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Inaugural_Address_by_Indian_Prime_Minister\"><\/span><strong>Inaugural Address by Indian Prime Minister<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Prime Minister of India delved into the national AI portal, spotlighting the AIRAWAT initiative and expressing concerns about potential deep fake technology misuse.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"YUVAi_Showcased_at_GPAI_Summit\"><\/span><strong>YUVAi Showcased at GPAI Summit<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>YUVAi took center stage, featuring winners and start-ups presenting their AI models and solutions during the GPAI Summit.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"AI_for_Digital_Inclusion\"><\/span><strong>AI for Digital Inclusion<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Prime Minister advocated for using AI to provide digital services in local languages, aiming to enhance digital inclusion.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Thematic_Sessions_at_GPAI_Summit\"><\/span><strong>Thematic Sessions at GPAI Summit<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Responsible AI, data governance, future of work, and innovation and commercialization were the focal themes of distinct sessions at the GPAI Summit.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diverse_Side_Events\"><\/span><strong>Diverse Side Events<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The summit comprised various side events, including industry panel discussions, workshops, research symposiums, hackathons, and the Global AI Expo.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Delhi_Declaration_of_the_GPAI\"><\/span><strong>Delhi Declaration of the GPAI<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It recognizes the imperative to seize emerging opportunities and address the associated risks stemming from the development, deployment, and utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI)&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Commitment_to_Democratic_Values\"><\/span><strong>Commitment to Democratic Values<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Affirms the commitment to uphold human dignity, human rights, and democratic values in the realm of AI.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Principles_of_Trust_and_Transparency\"><\/span><strong>Principles of Trust and Transparency<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Emphasizes fostering trust, transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness as key principles in the development and deployment of AI.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"AIs_Contribution_to_Global_Challenges\"><\/span><strong>AI&#8217;s Contribution to Global Challenges<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Recognizes AI&#8217;s potential to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and address global challenges.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"International_Cooperation_on_AI\"><\/span><strong>International Cooperation on AI<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Encourages collaboration and coordination among nations on AI research, innovation, and policy.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Comprehensive_Framework_for_Trusted_AI\"><\/span><strong>Comprehensive Framework for Trusted AI<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Supports the development of a comprehensive framework with shared principles for ensuring safe and trusted AI.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Global_Digital_Public_Infrastructure_Repository_GDPIR\"><\/span><strong>Global Digital Public Infrastructure Repository (GDPIR)<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Endorses India&#8217;s proposal to establish and maintain GDPIR, a repository for sharing digital public goods.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"AI_Governance_and_Ethics_Dialogue\"><\/span><strong>AI Governance and Ethics Dialogue<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Calls for continued dialogue among stakeholders on AI governance and ethics.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_Artificial_Intelligence_AI\"><\/span><strong>Understanding Artificial Intelligence (AI)<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>AI refers to the ability of a computer or robot, controlled by a computer, to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence and judgment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"AI_Capabilities\"><\/span><strong>AI Capabilities<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>While no AI can match the broad capabilities of an ordinary human, specific AI applications can rival humans in particular tasks.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ideal_AI_Characteristics\"><\/span><strong>Ideal AI Characteristics<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The ideal AI possesses the ability to rationalize and take actions that optimize the chances of achieving a specific goal. Machine Learning (ML) is a subset of AI.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Deep_Learning_in_AI\"><\/span><strong>Deep Learning in AI<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Deep Learning (DL) techniques enable automatic learning through the absorption of vast amounts of unstructured data, such as text, images, or video.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_AIRAWAT\"><\/span><strong>About AIRAWAT<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>NITI Aayog proposed the establishment of AIRAWAT, a cloud computing platform, in 2019 to advance India&#8217;s leadership in AI across various sectors.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Governments_AI_Transformation_Goals\"><\/span><strong>Government&#8217;s AI Transformation Goals<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Creating a cloud computing platform aligns with the government&#8217;s vision to position India as a frontrunner in AI, transforming areas like education, health, agriculture, urbanization, and mobility.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_DeepFake\"><\/span><strong>Understanding DeepFake<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Deepfakes are synthetic media produced using AI to manipulate or generate visual and audio content with the intent to deceive or mislead.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Generative_Adversarial_Networks_GANs\"><\/span><strong>Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs)<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Deepfakes are crafted through GANs, involving a generator creating fake content and a discriminator distinguishing between real and fake content.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Data_Requirements_for_DeepFake\"><\/span><strong>Data Requirements for DeepFake<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Deepfakes necessitate a large dataset, often collected without consent from the internet or social media, to create realistic content.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Part_of_Deep_Synthesis\"><\/span><strong>Part of Deep Synthesis<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Deepfakes are part of Deep Synthesis, which deploys technologies like deep learning and augmented reality to generate virtual scenes.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"YUVA_Ai_Initiative\"><\/span><strong>YUVA Ai Initiative<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The National e-Governance Division partnered with Intel India to launch YUVAi, aiming to equip school students with AI skills and foster human-centric designers and users of AI.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Program_Objectives\"><\/span><strong>Program Objectives<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>YUVAi seeks to deepen understanding, equip students with relevant skills, and empower them to use AI to address critical problems and contribute to inclusive development.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ongoing_Year-Round_Program\"><\/span><strong>Ongoing Year-Round Program<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The program runs throughout the year, providing students ample opportunities to empower themselves and become future-ready.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"GPAI_Summit_Launch_in_India\"><\/span><strong>GPAI Summit Launch in India<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>India initiated the GPAI Summit, emphasizing the empowerment of school students with AI skills for inclusive development.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"New_Delhi_Declaration_Highlights\"><\/span><strong>New Delhi Declaration Highlights<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The New Delhi Declaration underscores the importance of a global AI framework grounded in democracy, human rights, and responsible practices.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><div class=\"pcrstb-wrap\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>UPSC Previous Year Questions<\/strong>\u00a0<br><br><strong>Prelims (2020)<\/strong>\u00a0<br>Q. With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following?\u00a0\u00a0<br>Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units\u00a0<br>Create meaningful short stories and songs\u00a0<br>Disease diagnosis\u00a0<br>Text-to-Speech Conversion\u00a0<br>Wireless transmission of electrical energy\u00a0<br><strong>Select the correct answer using the code given below<\/strong>:\u00a0<br>(a)\u202f1, 2, 3 and 5 only\u00a0<br>(b)\u202f1, 3 and 4 only\u00a0<br>(c)\u202f2, 4 and 5 only\u00a0<br>(d)\u202f1, 2, 3, 4 and 5\u00a0<br><strong>Ans: (b)<\/strong>\u00a0<br><br><strong>Prelims (2018)<\/strong>\u00a0<br>Q. The terms \u2018WannaCry, Petya and EternalBlue\u2019 sometimes mentioned in the news recently are related to\u00a0\u00a0<br>(a)\u202fExoplanets\u00a0<br>(b)\u202fCryptocurrency\u00a0<br>(c)\u202fCyber attacks\u202f\u00a0<br>(d)\u202fMini satellites\u00a0<br><strong>Ans: (c)<\/strong>\u00a0<br><br><strong>Mains (2022)<\/strong>\u00a0<br>Q.\u202fWhat are the main socio-economic implications arising out of the development of IT industries in major cities of India?<br>\u202f\u00a0<br><strong>Mains (2020)<\/strong>\u00a0<br>Q.\u202f\u201cThe emergence ofthe Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of government\u201d. Discuss.\u202f\u00a0<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pib.gov.in\/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1985585\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>PIB<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Continuation_of_Coordinated_Intense_Rainfall_in_Evolving_Climates\"><\/span><strong>Continuation of Coordinated Intense Rainfall in Evolving Climates<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tag: <\/strong>GS-3 Environment\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_News-2\"><\/span><strong>In News:<\/strong> <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A recent AGU study highlights significant changes in the Indian Monsoon due to Global Warming.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Rainfall_Trends_in_India\"><\/span><strong>Rainfall Trends in India<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Consistent_Geographical_Concentration\"><\/span><strong>Consistent Geographical Concentration<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Despite increased variability in Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall (ISMR) over the past century, extreme rainfall events consistently concentrate in Central India (CI) from West Bengal and Odisha to Gujarat and Rajasthan, maintaining this pattern since 1901.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stability_in_Spatial_Corridor\"><\/span><strong>Stability in Spatial Corridor<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The identified corridor for extreme rainfall events in CI has remained unchanged, indicating a stable synchronization pattern despite overall increased variability in ISMR.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Network_Cohesiveness_in_CI\"><\/span><strong>Network Cohesiveness in CI<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>A persistent network of interconnected extreme rainfall hubs in CI demonstrates strong local connections, emphasizing stable synchronization of extreme events over the long term.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Correlation_with_Climatic_Patterns\"><\/span><strong>Correlation with Climatic Patterns<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>ISMR correlates with El Ni\u00f1o Southern Oscillations (ENSO), with heightened synchronization during strong El Ni\u00f1o periods and reduced synchronization during La Ni\u00f1a conditions.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Implications_for_Predictability\"><\/span><strong>Implications for Predictability<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Understanding the persistent nature of extreme rainfall synchronization in CI is crucial for predicting synchronous extremes, informing effective adaptation strategies and risk management during the monsoon season.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Forecast_Implications\"><\/span><strong>Forecast Implications<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The study challenges the belief that stationary elements in climate systems no longer exist due to global warming, highlighting consistent patterns like synchronized extreme rainfall events.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Insights_into_Corridor_Dynamics\"><\/span><strong>Insights into Corridor Dynamics<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Identification of a geographic corridor as the trapping zone for synchronized extreme rainfall events provides vital insights for more accurate forecasts.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Strategic_Forecast_Improvement\"><\/span><strong>Strategic Forecast Improvement<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Improving forecasts of synchronized extreme rainfall events may not require increased model resolution or higher computational costs.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>Instead, understanding synchronization dynamics within existing models can lead to more accurate predictions.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Risk_Reduction_Strategies\"><\/span><strong>Risk Reduction Strategies<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Accurate forecasts of large-scale extreme rainfall events are essential for minimizing risks across sectors.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>Refining risk reduction strategies based on improved forecasts enhances preparedness and mitigation.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Leveraging_Indias_Resources\"><\/span><strong>Leveraging India&#8217;s Resources<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The study underscores India&#8217;s modeling capacity and computational resources, positioning the country to exploit its potential for better forecasting and understanding synchronization dynamics.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Factors_Affecting_the_Indian_Monsoon\"><\/span><strong>Factors Affecting the Indian Monsoon<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Role_of_the_Himalayan_Mountains\"><\/span><strong>Role of the Himalayan Mountains<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Himalayas play a crucial role in forming monsoon winds by creating a low-pressure system, drawing warm, moist air from the Indian Ocean during the summer months&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Impact_of_the_Thar_Desert\"><\/span><strong>Impact of the Thar Desert<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Thar Desert acts as a rain shadow, receiving minimal rainfall due to the Aravalli Mountain range barrier.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>The hot and dry air creates a low-pressure zone, drawing moisture-laden winds from the Indian Ocean, resulting in summer rainfall.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Contribution_of_the_Indian_Ocean\"><\/span><strong>Contribution of the Indian Ocean<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Indian Ocean contributes significantly to the formation of monsoon winds by interacting with the low-pressure system over the Indian subcontinent, leading to the development of the monsoon winds.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><div class=\"pcrstb-wrap\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>UPSC Previous Year Questions<\/strong>\u00a0<br><br><strong>Prelims (2017)<\/strong>\u00a0<br><strong>Q. With reference to \u2018Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)\u2019 sometimes mentioned in the news while forecasting Indian monsoon, which of the following statements is\/are correct?\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0<br>IOD phenomenon is characterised by a difference in sea surface temperature between tropical Western Indian Ocean and tropical Eastern Pacific Ocean.\u00a0<br>An IOD phenomenon can influence an El Nino\u2019s impact on the monsoon.\u00a0<br><strong>Select the correct answer using the code given below:<\/strong>\u00a0<br><strong>(a)<\/strong>\u202f1 only\u00a0<br><strong>(b)<\/strong>\u202f2 only\u00a0<br><strong>(c)<\/strong>\u202fBoth 1 and 2\u00a0<br><strong>(d)<\/strong>\u202fNeither 1 nor 2\u00a0<br><strong>Ans: (b)<\/strong>\u00a0<br><strong>Explanation:<\/strong>\u00a0<br>The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is an atmosphere ocean coupled phenomenon in the tropical Indian Ocean (like the El Nino is in the tropical Pacific), characterised by a difference in Sea-Surface Temperatures (SST).\u00a0<br>A \u2018positive IOD\u2019 is associated with cooler than normal sea-surface temperatures in the eastern equatorial Indian Ocean and warmer than normal sea-surface temperatures in the western tropical Indian Ocean.\u00a0<br>The opposite phenomenon is called a \u2018negative IOD\u2019, and is characterised by warmer than normal SSTs in the eastern equatorial Indian Ocean and cooler than normal SSTs in the western tropical Indian Ocean.\u00a0<br>Also known as the Indian Nino, it is an irregular oscillation of sea-surface temperatures in the Indian Ocean in which the western Indian Ocean becomes alternately warmer and colder than the eastern part of the Indian Ocean. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.\u00a0<br>The IOD is one aspect of the general cycle of global climate, interacting with similar phenomena like the El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) in the Pacific Ocean. An IOD can either aggravate or weaken the impact of El Nino on Indian monsoon. If there is a positive IOD, it can bring good rains to India despite of an El Nino year. Hence, statement 2 is correct.\u00a0<br>Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer.<br><br><strong>Mains (2015)<\/strong>\u00a0<br><strong>Q:<\/strong>\u202fHow far do you agree that the behaviour of the Indian monsoon has been changing due to humanizing landscape? Discuss.\u202f\u00a0<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/sci-tech\/science\/indias-extreme-rain-was-restricted-to-a-corridor-during-1901-2019-explained\/article67623871.ece#:~:text=The%20so%2Dcalled%20large%2Dscale,parts%20of%20Gujarat%20and%20Rajasthan.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>TH<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"E-cigarettes\"><\/span><strong>E-cigarettes<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tag: <\/strong>GS-2 Health,<strong> <\/strong>GS-3 Environment\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_News-3\"><\/span><strong>In News:<\/strong> <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Immediate measures are essential to safeguard children and curb the initiation of e-cigarette use said WHO.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"blob:https:\/\/edukemy.com\/1bb64496-4982-4e37-81b2-b3ae15ddbbf1\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_e-Cigarettes\"><\/span><strong>Understanding e-Cigarettes<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Definition_of_e-Cigarettes\"><\/span><strong>Definition of e-Cigarettes<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Electronic cigarettes, or e-Cigarettes, are battery-powered devices designed to heat a liquid into an aerosol for inhalation and exhalation.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Composition_of_e-Cigarette_Liquid\"><\/span><strong>Composition of e-Cigarette Liquid<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The liquid used in e-cigarettes typically includes nicotine, propylene glycol, glycerin, flavorings, and other chemicals.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Concerns_Regarding_e-Cigarettes\"><\/span><strong>Concerns Regarding e-Cigarettes<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Nicotine_Addiction\"><\/span><strong>Nicotine Addiction<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The presence of nicotine in e-cigarettes raises concerns about addiction, especially among the youth.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Health_Hazards_for_Specific_Groups\"><\/span><strong>Health Hazards for Specific Groups<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>e-Cigarettes pose health hazards for youth, young adults, and pregnant women.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Metals_and_Chemicals_in_Aerosols\"><\/span><strong>Metals and Chemicals in Aerosols<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Aerosols from some Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) contain metals like lead, chromium, and nickel, as well as chemicals like formaldehyde, with concentrations comparable to or exceeding traditional cigarettes.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lack_of_Awareness_and_Accessibility\"><\/span><strong>Lack of Awareness and Accessibility<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Limited awareness of the negative effects of nicotine, coupled with easy accessibility, increases the susceptibility of youth to addiction.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Non-Registration_as_Nicotine_Replacement_Therapy\"><\/span><strong>Non-Registration as Nicotine Replacement Therapy<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>e-Cigarettes are not registered as nicotine replacement therapy products in India.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Arguments_Against_the_Ban\"><\/span><strong>Arguments Against the Ban<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Selective_Ban_Concerns\"><\/span><strong>Selective Ban Concerns<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The legality of traditional cigarettes and related products in India raises questions about the arbitrary nature of selectively banning e-cigarettes.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Regulation_and_Taxation_Approach\"><\/span><strong>Regulation and Taxation Approach<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Advocates for regulating and taxing e-cigarettes as &#8220;sin goods&#8221; argue for discouraging use, rather than an outright ban.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Safety_Claim_and_Tobacco_Industry_Ties\"><\/span><strong>Safety Claim and Tobacco Industry Ties<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Supporters of e-cigarettes highlight their safety claims compared to traditional cigarettes and assert that the ban reveals a nexus between tobacco companies and the government.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lessons_from_Alcohol_Prohibition\"><\/span><strong>Lessons from Alcohol Prohibition<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Drawing parallels with alcohol prohibition, opponents argue that a total ban may lead to an underground economy for sin goods.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Revenue_Generation_Potential\"><\/span><strong>Revenue Generation Potential<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Considering the economic aspects of &#8220;sin goods,&#8221; e-cigarettes are seen as a significant revenue source for public exchequers.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Arguments_in_Favor_of_Ban\"><\/span><strong>Arguments in Favor of Ban<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Public_Health_Imperative\"><\/span><strong>Public Health Imperative<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Smoking-related diseases pose significant public health challenges, and recent deaths in the US due to vaping-related lung disease underscore the need for the ban.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Challenge_to_Socio-Cultural_Justification\"><\/span><strong>Challenge to Socio-Cultural Justification<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The notion of vaping as a socio-cultural phenomenon is challenged, emphasizing the need to address public health concerns.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Nicotine_Addiction_and_Carcinogenicity\"><\/span><strong>Nicotine Addiction and Carcinogenicity<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>e-Cigarettes are identified as a direct source of highly addictive nicotine, potentially more addictive than cocaine, and nicotine in its pure form is considered carcinogenic.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Global_Tobacco_Industry_Shift\"><\/span><strong>Global Tobacco Industry Shift<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Contrary to allegations of industry-government nexus, the global tobacco industry sees e-cigarettes as a lucrative avenue, dispelling claims of collusion.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Effectiveness_of_Total_Ban\"><\/span><strong>Effectiveness of Total Ban<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The ban is seen as effective for e-cigarettes with a relatively small customer base, mainly in urban areas, distinguishing it from traditional cigarettes.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Economic_Considerations_and_Public_Health_Expenditure\"><\/span><strong>Economic Considerations and Public Health Expenditure<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Arguments about revenue loss are refuted, emphasizing that e-cigarettes, not manufactured in India, won&#8217;t cause financial loss.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>Additionally, public health costs may exceed revenues from sin goods.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Way_Forward\"><\/span><strong>The Way Forward<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sustaining_Decline_in_Tobacco_Consumption\"><\/span><strong>Sustaining Decline in Tobacco Consumption<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Acknowledging the steepest decline in tobacco consumption in India, the ban on e-cigarettes is seen as a step towards maintaining this positive trend.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Correcting_Historical_Mistakes\"><\/span><strong>Correcting Historical Mistakes<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Viewing tobacco use as a historical mistake, there is an opportunity to correct it and protect the next generation from the harmful tobacco industry and its evolving products.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Governments_Decision_for_an_Addiction-Free_Society\"><\/span><strong>Government&#8217;s Decision for an Addiction-Free Society<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The government&#8217;s choice to ban e-cigarettes is seen as a progressive step toward fostering a society free from addiction.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/news\/item\/14-12-2023-urgent-action-needed-to-protect-children-and-prevent-the-uptake-of-e-cigarettes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>WHO<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Green_Hydrogen_Projects_and_SEZs\"><\/span><strong>Green Hydrogen Projects and SEZs<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tag:<\/strong> GS-3 Environment\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_News-4\"><\/span><strong>In News:<\/strong> <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Indian government is contemplating regulatory amendments that could offer financial incentives to renewable energy projects producing green hydrogen within Special Economic Zones (SEZs).\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"blob:https:\/\/edukemy.com\/2313c316-4864-4173-a53e-6f7967e07145\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Proposed_Amendments\"><\/span><strong>Key Proposed Amendments<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Expansion_of_SEZs_for_Green_Hydrogen_Projects\"><\/span><strong>Expansion of SEZs for Green Hydrogen Projects<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Ministry of Commerce is considering allowing Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to encompass multiple non-contiguous areas, specifically tailored for green hydrogen initiatives.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>The current requirement of a contiguous land area of 50 hectares or more may be relaxed for such projects, accommodating the unique needs of green hydrogen development, including the placement of wind turbines at considerable distances&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Eligibility_for_Fiscal_Benefits\"><\/span><strong>Eligibility for Fiscal Benefits<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The proposed amendment aims to extend fiscal benefits to renewable energy plants utilized for captive consumption within SEZs.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>Currently, fiscal benefits within SEZ rules are granted only to renewable energy plants designated as SEZ units selling power outside of SEZs.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>The suggested changes would make it possible for export-oriented green hydrogen ventures to access tax breaks for establishing and operating renewable energy facilities dedicated to green hydrogen production.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_Special_Economic_Zone_SEZ\"><\/span><strong>Understanding Special Economic Zone (SEZ)<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Definition_and_Types_of_SEZs\"><\/span><strong>Definition and Types of SEZs<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>A Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is a designated geographical region with economic laws more liberal than a country&#8217;s domestic economic laws.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>It encompasses various zone types, including Free Trade Zones (FTZs), Export Processing Zones (EPZs), Free Zones (FZs), and Industrial Estates (IEs).&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"SEZs_in_India\"><\/span><strong>SEZs in India<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The SEZ Policy in India, introduced in April 2000, aims to boost foreign investment, employment, and provide a competitive environment for exports.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>India, a pioneer in Asia, established its first EPZ in Kandla, Gujarat, in 1965.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>SEZs in India operate under the SEZ Act of 2005 and SEZ Rules of 2006, adhering to all national laws unless exempted. Each zone is overseen by a Development Commissioner and is subject to the SEZ Act and Rules.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>Units within SEZs may engage in manufacturing, trading, or service activities.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><div class=\"pcrstb-wrap\"><table><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>UPSC Previous Year Questions<\/strong>\u00a0<br><br><strong>Prelims (2023)<\/strong>\u00a0<br><strong>Q. With reference to green hydrogen, consider the following statements:<\/strong>\u00a0<br>It can be used directly as a fuel for internal combustion.\u00a0<br>It can be blended with natural gas and used as fuel for heat or power generation.\u00a0<br>It can be used in the hydrogen fuel cell to run vehicles.\u00a0<br><strong>How many of the above statements are correct?<\/strong>\u00a0<br><strong>(a)<\/strong>\u202fOnly one\u00a0<br><strong>(b)<\/strong>\u202fOnly two\u202f\u00a0<br><strong>(c)<\/strong>\u202fAll three\u202f\u00a0<br><strong>(d)<\/strong>\u202fNone\u00a0<br><strong>Ans: (c)<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/business\/export-oriented-green-hydrogen-projects-may-get-fiscal-support-multi-locational-sezs-on-the-table-9067384\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>IE<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Binsar_Wildlife_Sanctuary\"><\/span><strong>Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tag:<\/strong> GS-3 Environment and Ecology\u00a0\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_News-5\"><\/span><strong>In News:<\/strong> <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A recent sighting marks the first-ever presence of a tiger at Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"blob:https:\/\/edukemy.com\/fdeb85ba-9b7b-4b7d-8bbf-698eb8634777\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_Binsar_Wildlife_Sanctuary_An_Overview\"><\/span><strong>About Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: An Overview<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Geographical_Location\"><\/span><strong>Geographical Location<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Situated in the Almora district of the Kumaon region in Uttarakhand, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1988, holds historical significance as the former summer capital of the Chand dynasty, rulers of Kumaon from the 11th to the 18th centuries AD.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Namesake_and_Elevation\"><\/span><strong>Namesake and Elevation<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Named after Bindeshwar Mahadev Temple, an ancient Hindu rock temple dedicated to Lord Shiva atop the sanctuary&#8217;s highest point, Binsar covers approximately 45.59 sq km, reaching an elevation of 2500 m.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Scenic_Views\"><\/span><strong>Scenic Views<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Offering awe-inspiring panoramic vistas, Binsar treats visitors to breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks such as Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, Panchachuli, and Kedarnath.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Flora_of_Binsar_Wildlife_Sanctuary\"><\/span><strong>Flora of Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diverse_Vegetation\"><\/span><strong>Diverse Vegetation<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The sanctuary boasts diverse vegetation, with rhododendrons and oaks dominating higher altitudes, while pines thrive at lower elevations.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Botanical_Variety\"><\/span><strong>Botanical Variety<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Binsar hosts a rich array of flora, including 25 tree types, 24 varieties of bushes, and seven kinds of grass.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fauna_in_Binsar_Wildlife_Sanctuary\"><\/span><strong>Fauna in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Rich_Biodiversity\"><\/span><strong>Rich Biodiversity<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Home to a variety of wildlife, Binsar is inhabited by wild boars, deer, monkeys, black bears, porcupines, mountain goats, red foxes, jackals, pine martens, and leopards.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Avian_Diversity\"><\/span><strong>Avian Diversity<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Notably, Binsar is a birdwatcher&#8217;s paradise, with over 200 species of birds. Designated an &#8216;Important Bird Area (IBA)&#8217; by BirdLife International, the sanctuary is home to rare bird species like the Forktail and Blackbird.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/zeenews.india.com\/india\/uttarakhand-tiger-spotted-for-first-time-in-almoras-binsar-wildlife-sanctuary-watch-2699227.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>ZN<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Vijay_Diwas\"><\/span><strong>Vijay Diwas<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tag:<\/strong> GS-3 Security Forces\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_News-6\"><\/span><strong>In News:<\/strong> <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Leaders from various political backgrounds paid homage to the soldiers who fought in the 1971 war on the occasion of the 52nd Vijay Diwas recently.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"820\" height=\"540\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/image-49.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19479 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/image-49.jpeg 820w, https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/image-49-585x385.jpeg 585w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 820px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 820\/540;\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_Vijay_Diwas\"><\/span><strong>About Vijay Diwas<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Vijay Diwas is observed on <strong>December 16<\/strong> each year to commemorate the Indian <strong>armed forces&#8217; victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war<\/strong> and honor the sacrifices of soldiers.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>The day also <strong>marks Bangladesh&#8217;s Victory Day<\/strong>, celebrating its formal independence from Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>The conflict arose from the oppressive actions of the Pakistani military regime in East Pakistan after the 1970 elections.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>India intervened, and after a 13-day battle, achieved a significant triumph on December 16, 1971, leading to the creation of Bangladesh.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li><strong>General Sam Manekshaw,<\/strong> the Indian Chief of the Army Staff during the war, played a crucial role in India&#8217;s victory and was later promoted to the rank of field marshal.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/india\/vijay-diwas-pm-modi-congress-bjp-tributes-9070478\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>IE<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Austropallene_halanychi\"><\/span><strong>Austropallene halanychi<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tag:<\/strong> GS-3 Environment and Ecology\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_News-7\"><\/span><strong>In News:<\/strong> <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A new species of sea spider, identified as Austropallene halanychi, has been recently uncovered by scientists.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_Austropallene_halanychi\"><\/span><strong>About Austropallene halanychi<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A peculiar spider, distinguished by its unusual yellow body color, was discovered near the Antarctica Ocean. This arachnid, with four nearly black eyes and distinctive large claws, belongs to the sea spider family and shares a distant relation with horseshoe crabs.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"blob:https:\/\/edukemy.com\/b04cf9a7-da5d-4d25-9b20-a4d297c3785a\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Noteworthy_Features\"><\/span><strong>Noteworthy Features:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Unique_Eating_Method\"><\/span><strong>Unique Eating Method<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The sea spider displays an uncommon method of consuming food. Instead of using its mouth, it utilizes a straw-like proboscis for feeding.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Unusual_Respiration\"><\/span><strong>Unusual Respiration<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Unlike conventional respiratory methods, this species breathes through its legs, adding to its distinctive characteristics.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Large_Boxing_Glove-Like_Claws\"><\/span><strong>Large Boxing Glove-Like Claws<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Sporting large claws resembling &#8220;boxing gloves,&#8221; the spider is presumed to use them for securing soft prey such as anemones and worms.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Habitat_and_Discovery\"><\/span><strong>Habitat and Discovery<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Discovered in the Ross Sea, submerged approximately 1,870 feet (570 meters) below the surface, this species showcases its uniqueness in the Antarctic environment.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Points_about_Ross_Sea\"><\/span><strong>Key Points about Ross Sea<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Situated just 320 kms from the South Pole, the Ross Sea is a colossal bay covered by the expansive Ross Ice Shelf, Antarctica&#8217;s largest. Designated as the first protected area in Antarctica, it serves as a habitat for numerous penguin and whale species.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>The sea&#8217;s distinct ecosystem, influenced by the coastal East-Wind Drift, positions it as one of the last remaining marine ecosystems globally, housing diverse wildlife like penguins, seals, Antarctic toothfish, and whales.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wionews.com\/science\/boxing-glove-claws-breathing-through-legs-newly-found-sea-spider-species-has-some-bizarre-features-669867\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>WION<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frontotemporal_Dementia_FTD\"><\/span><strong>Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tag:<\/strong> GS-2 Health\u00a0\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_News-8\"><\/span><strong>In News:<\/strong> <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An international team of researchers has identified a protein called TAF15 in the brains of individuals with frontotemporal dementia (FTD).\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"255\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/image-23.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19480 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 512px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 512\/255;\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_Frontotemporal_Dementia_FTD\"><\/span><strong>About Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) is a rare form of dementia characterized by behavioral and language difficulties.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>It primarily affects the front and sides of the brain, causing gradual changes and damage to mental abilities.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>The exact cause of FTD is unknown, but certain subtypes are associated with gene mutations, and some individuals may exhibit abnormal protein structures called Pick bodies in their brain cells.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>Unlike most types of dementia that typically affect individuals over 65, FTD often begins at a younger age, with diagnoses most common in the 45-65 age range.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>Symptoms include personality and behavior changes, language problems, mental abilities issues, and memory problems.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>Physical symptoms may also emerge over time. While there is currently no cure for FTD, some treatments can help manage symptoms for a period.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timesnownews.com\/health\/protein-present-in-brain-associated-with-frontotemporal-dementia-study-article-106025391\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>TN<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tax_Inspectors_without_Borders_TIWB_Programme\"><\/span><strong>Tax Inspectors without Borders (TIWB) Programme<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tag:<\/strong> GS-2 IR\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_News-9\"><\/span><strong>In News:<\/strong> <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>India has recently been designated as the Partner Administration for the Tax Inspectors Without Borders (TIWB) program, and it will contribute Tax Experts to support this initiative.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"blob:https:\/\/edukemy.com\/31a45ce5-3e2c-4abc-94f7-c64442c0639f\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_the_Tax_Inspectors_without_Borders_TIWB_Programme\"><\/span><strong>About the Tax Inspectors without Borders (TIWB) Programme<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Tax Inspectors without Borders (TIWB) Programme is a collaborative initiative between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Launched in 2015, its primary objective is to enhance the auditing capabilities of developing countries and promote global compliance among multinational corporations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Program_Duration\"><\/span><strong>Program Duration<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The TIWB Programme typically spans 12-18 months, focusing on transferring technical expertise and skills to strengthen tax administration in developing nations.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><li>In collaboration with the TIWB Secretariat and with support from the UNDP Country Office in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, India is actively involved in assisting Saint Lucia in bolstering its tax administration.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Program_Focus\"><\/span><strong>Program Focus<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The program emphasizes the effective utilization of automatic exchange of information under the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) framework. By facilitating the transfer of knowledge and best practices, TIWB aims to contribute to the domestic resource mobilization efforts of developing countries.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_the_Organisation_for_Economic_Cooperation_and_Development_OECD\"><\/span><strong>About the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The OECD is an international organization consisting of 38 member countries committed to principles of democracy and market economies. Established on December 14, 1960, by 18 European nations, the United States, and Canada, the organization&#8217;s mission is to shape policies that foster prosperity, equality, opportunity, and well-being globally.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Points_about_OECD\"><\/span><strong>Key Points about OECD<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Goal:<\/strong> The OECD&#8217;s overarching goal is to influence policies that support prosperity and well-being for all while promoting equality and opportunity.&nbsp;<\/li><li><strong>Membership:<\/strong> Its members typically comprise democratic nations that endorse free-market economies.&nbsp;<\/li><li><strong>Publications:<\/strong> The OECD publishes economic reports, statistical databases, analyses, and forecasts, providing insights into the outlook for global economic growth.&nbsp;<\/li><li><strong>Headquarters:<\/strong> The organization is headquartered in Paris, France.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pib.gov.in\/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1986833\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>PIB<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_MH-60_Romeo_Helicopter\"><\/span><strong>The MH-60 Romeo Helicopter<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tag:<\/strong> GS-3 Security Forces and Science and Tech.\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_News-10\"><\/span><strong>In News:<\/strong> <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Lockheed Martin has delivered the Indian Navy&#8217;s sixth MH-60R &#8220;Romeo&#8221; helicopter in recent developments.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_The_MH-60_Romeo_Helicopter\"><\/span><strong>About The MH-60 Romeo Helicopter<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The MH-60 Romeo Helicopter, crafted by U.S. defense major Lockheed Martin, stands as the world&#8217;s most advanced maritime helicopter, serving as the primary anti-submarine and surface warfare helicopter for the U.S. Navy.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>It is meticulously designed for versatile land and maritime operations, featuring cutting-edge avionics and sensors.\u00a0<\/li><li>Manufactured by Lockheed Martin, the all-weather helicopter is equipped for various missions, including anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), search-and-rescue (SAR), naval gunfire support (NGFS), surveillance, communications relay, logistics support, personnel transfer, and vertical replenishment (VERTREP).\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>Operational from frigates, destroyers, cruisers, amphibious ships, and aircraft carriers, it is well-suited for both confined littoral warfare operations and open-water scenarios.\u00a0<\/li><li>In 2020, the Indian government placed an order for 24 MH-60 Romeo helicopters for the Indian Navy, investing over 14,000 crores.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>The delivery commenced in 2022, with completion slated for 2025.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Features\"><\/span><strong>Key Features:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Advanced airborne active sonar, multi-mode search radar, and a nose-mounted forward-looking infrared (FLIR) turret.&nbsp;<\/li><li>Accommodates three or four flight crews and five passengers in the cabin.&nbsp;<\/li><li>Powered by two turboshaft engines rated at 1,425 kW.&nbsp;<\/li><li>Maximum Speed: 267 km\/h&nbsp;<\/li><li>Range: 454 km&nbsp;<\/li><li>Weaponry includes torpedoes, air-to-ground missiles, rockets, and crew-served guns.&nbsp;<\/li><li>Integrated self-defense system.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indiasentinels.com\/navy\/lockheed-martin-delivers-6th-mh-60r-romeo-helicopter-to-indian-navy-6070\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>IS<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q_What_are_daily_current_affairs\"><\/span>Q: What are daily current affairs? <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q_Why_is_it_important_to_stay_updated_with_daily_current_affairs\"><\/span>Q: Why is it important to stay updated with daily current affairs? <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q_Where_can_I_access_daily_current_affairs_information\"><\/span>Q: Where can I access daily current affairs information? <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q_How_can_I_effectively_incorporate_daily_current_affairs_into_my_routine\"><\/span>Q: How can I effectively incorporate daily current affairs into my routine? <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q_What_are_some_tips_for_critical_analysis_of_daily_current_affairs\"><\/span>Q: What are some tips for critical analysis of daily current affairs? <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A: When analyzing daily current affairs, it&#8217;s essential to cross-reference information from multiple sources to ensure accuracy. Additionally, consider the source&#8217;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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_case_you_still_have_your_doubts_contact_us_on_9811333901\"><\/span><strong>In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For UPSC Prelims Resources,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/upsc-cse-prelims-resource-centre\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Click here<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For Daily Updates and Study Material:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Join our Telegram Channel &#8211;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/t.me\/WithEdukemy4IAS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Edukemy for IAS<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>1. Learn through Videos &#8211;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/3vOD8sU\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a><\/li><li>2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs &#8211;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/3Q9z2nF\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a><\/li><li>3. Daily Newsletter &#8211; Get all your Current Affairs Covered &#8211;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/3bE2y5J\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a><\/li><li>4. Mains Answer Writing Practice &#8211;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/3mZuVxl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Visit_our_YouTube_Channel_%E2%80%93_here\"><\/span>Visit our YouTube Channel &#8211;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@ShabbirsEduKemyforIAS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In today&#8217;s daily current affairs briefing for UPSC aspirants, we explore the latest developments that hold relevance for the upcoming civil services examination.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":17,"featured_media":19477,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_eb_attr":"","om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[265],"tags":[160,161,232,140],"class_list":["post-19472","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-current-affairs","tag-daily-current-affairs","tag-daily-current-affairs-upsc","tag-upsc","tag-upsc_preparation_strategy"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19472","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/17"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=19472"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19472\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":19481,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19472\/revisions\/19481"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/19477"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=19472"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=19472"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=19472"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}