UPSC Daily Current Affairs

NITROUS OXIDE EMISSIONS: INDIA’S IMPACT AND CHALLENGES

Jun 18, 2024

India is the world’s second-largest emitter of nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent greenhouse gas, contributing nearly 11% of global man-made emissions in 2020, second only to China at 16%. This significant contribution stems mainly from the use of nitrogen fertilizers and animal manure. SOURCES OF NITROUS OXIDE EMISSIONS • Nitrogen Fertilizers: Usage in agricultural production is the primary source. • Animal Manure: Emissions from animal waste also contribute signifi... Read More...

ENVIRONMENT PERFORMANCE INDEX (EPI): 2024 KEY POINTS

Jun 18, 2024

WHAT IS EPI? The Environment Performance Index (EPI) is a biennial report that evaluates countries’ environmental performance based on their environmental health, ecosystem vitality, and climate change mitigation efforts. CRITERIA The EPI assesses countries across 11 categories, including: • Air quality • Water quality • Waste management • Biodiversity and habitat • Climate change... Read More...

SMALL MODULAR REACTORS: OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDIA

Jun 18, 2024

Introduction: Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) represent a significant advancement in nuclear technology, offering a range of benefits over traditional nuclear reactors. For India, SMRs provide a unique opportunity to enhance energy security, meet climate goals, and forge important international collaborations. What are SMRs? SMRs are a type of nuclear reactor that are smaller in size and capacity compared to conventional reactors. They are designed to be modula... Read More...

SOHRA: THE WETTEST DESERT

Jun 18, 2024

Introduction: Sohra, historically known as Cherrapunji, is renowned for its record-breaking rainfall. Despite this, the region faces a paradox of acute water shortages during the dry months. This article delves into the factors contributing to this contradiction and explores potential solutions. Rainfall Patterns: • Monsoon Influence: Sohra receives heavy rainfall from May to September due to monsoon winds from the Bay ... Read More...

IMPORTANCE OF 1.5°C GLOBAL WARMING TARGET

Jun 18, 2024

Introduction: The global community must remain committed to limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. This goal, set by the Paris Agreement, is critical for minimizing the risks associated with climate change. As COP29 approaches, there is an urgent need to enhance climate ambitions and actions. Current Climate Trends: • Rising Temperatures: Global temperatures have increased by 1.1°C in the ... Read More...

GLOBAL SEA LEVEL RISE: AN OVERVIEW

Jun 17, 2024

Introduction: NASA’s recent analysis highlights a significant rise in global sea levels, attributed to climate change and seasonal phenomena. This rise has critical implications for coastal regions worldwide. Key Findings: • Significant Increase: The global average sea level rose by 0.76 centimeters between 2022 and 2023, a relatively larger jump than previous years. • Long-term Data: Ove... Read More...

CUTTING-EDGE COMPUTER CHIPS & THE AI REVOLUTION:GPUs etc

Jun 17, 2024

Introduction: Engineers are leveraging advanced computer chips, including graphics processing units (GPUs) and other technologies, to meet the high computational demands of artificial intelligence (AI). These cutting-edge chips are pivotal in accelerating the development and deployment of AI applications. Graphics Processing Units (GPUs): • Parallel Processing Power: GPUs are designed to handle multiple tasks simultaneo... Read More...

MICROGRAVITY and HEALTH DURING SPACEFLIGHT

Jun 17, 2024

Introduction: Microgravity, the condition in which objects appear to be weightless, significantly impacts the human body. During spaceflight, astronauts experience a range of physiological changes due to the lack of gravitational force. Understanding these effects is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of astronauts during their missions. Muscular and Skeletal Effects: • Muscle Atrophy: In microgravity, muscles do not have ... Read More...

GAAR and TAX AVOIDANCE REGULATIONS IN INDIA

Jun 17, 2024

Concern Over Abusive Tax Planning Abusive tax planning is a significant concern not only globally but also in India. The Indian government has implemented measures to combat tax evasion, such as the general anti-avoidance rules (GAAR). GAAR aims to curb unacceptable tax avoidance practices and is part of India’s broader strategy to ensure tax compliance and integrity. Importance for Corporate Tax Specialists in India For corporate tax specialists... Read More...

THE SOLAR SYSTEM AND ICE AGES

Jun 17, 2024

The Solar System and the Heliosphere The Solar System consists of the Sun and eight planets, along with several dwarf planets, including Pluto. According to NASA, the entire system is enveloped by a “giant bubble” known as the heliosphere. This heliosphere is formed by solar winds, which are a continuous stream of charged particles emitted by the Sun. These solar winds can travel up to three times the distance to Pluto. The heliosphere acts as a protective shield, safeguarding the Solar System from galactic rays that have the po... Read More...

BRICS MINISTERS ON LOCAL CURRENCIES

Jun 17, 2024

The BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs convened in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, to discuss various significant topics, including the enhanced use of local currencies in trade and financial transactions among the BRICS countries. Key Discussions: 1. Local Currencies in Trade and Financial Transactions: • The ministers emphasized the importance of increasing the use of local currencies in trade and financial transactions between BRICS nations. • This move aims to ... Read More...

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ROCKS AND MINERALS

Jun 17, 2024

What Are Rocks? Rocks are aggregates composed of two or more minerals. They form the solid foundation of the Earth’s crust. An example of a rock is one containing raw gold, which is a mineral. What Are Minerals? Minerals are naturally occurring solids with a definite chemical composition and an orderly, repeating crystal structure. They are the building blocks of rocks. Examples include quartz (SiO2) and halite (NaCl). Read More...

HUNTER BIDEN FOUND GUILTY IN GUN CASE

Jun 17, 2024

What Is the Case About? Hunter Biden faced three federal felony gun charges related to his purchase of a revolver in October 2018. The charges included lying about his drug use on a federal background check form and possessing a gun while addicted to, or using, illegal drugs. These laws aim to prevent drug addicts from owning firearms. What Was the Verdict? A federal jury found Hunter Biden guilty on all three charges after deliberating for just unde... Read More...

HCFC Decline: Milestone in Ozone Recovery

Jun 17, 2024

What Are HCFCs and Why Are They Important? Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) are chemicals used as temporary replacements for chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in refrigeration and air-conditioning. Although less harmful to the ozone layer than CFCs, HCFCs still contribute to ozone depletion and are potent greenhouse gases. How Have HCFCs Impacted the Environment? HCFCs contain chlorine, which depletes the ozone layer, although to a lesser extent than CFCs. The most commonl... Read More...

SOIL ORGANIC CARBON (SOC)

Jun 17, 2024

What is Soil Organic Carbon (SOC)? Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) refers to the carbon component of organic compounds found within soil. These organic compounds are derived from plant and animal residues at various stages of decomposition, soil organisms, and substances synthesized by soil organisms. SOC is a crucial part of the soil organic matter (SOM), which includes all organic components in the soil. Why is SOC Important? SOC plays a vital role in soil h... Read More...