UPSC Daily Current Affairs

No Fundamental Right to Same-Sex Marriage: Supreme Court.

May 02, 2024

Delivered on October 17, 2023,the verdict clarified that the Indian Constitution does not explicitly recognize the right to marry as a fundamental right for any person, whether heterosexual or non-heterosexual. Case Background and Key Arguments... Read More...

Asian Clearing Union (ACU)

May 02, 2024

What is the Asian Clearing Union (ACU)? The Asian Clearing Union (ACU) is an economic framework designed to facilitate easier and more efficient trade between member countries in Asia. Established in 1974, its primary role is to simplify the process involved in settling payments for intra-regional transactions among the participating central banks. Headquarters: The ACU’s oper... Read More...

The Sengol :Historical significance in Indian culture

May 01, 2024

Symbol of Sovereignty and Authority The Sengol has been a symbol of royal authority and governance. In historical contexts, it was often used by kings during ceremonies and important events to signify their rule and sovereignty over their lands and people. Possessing the Sengol was akin to holding the mandate to govern, and it was often passed from one ruler to another as a sign of the continuation of authority. Cere... Read More...

Chalukyas: Karnataka’s Early Medieval Monarchs

May 01, 2024

Who were the Chalukyas? The Chalukyas were a significant royal dynasty in southern India that ruled large parts of the Indian subcontinent between the 6th and 12th centuries. They are known for their contributions to the cultural, architectural, and political landscapes of South India, particularly in Karnataka. When did the Chalukyas rule? The Chalukya dynasty is typically divided into three ... Read More...

Sansar Chand: The Emperor of the Hills

May 01, 2024

Who was Sansar Chand? Sansar Chand II was a prominent ruler of the Kangra Kingdom in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, famously known as the "Emperor of the Hills." He ruled from 1775 to 1823 and is renowned for his administrative acumen and patronage of the arts, particularly the Kangra school of painting. When did Sansar Chand rule Kangra? Sansar Chand ascended the throne of Ka... Read More...

Samdhara: Ahoms' First Mughal Victory

May 01, 2024

The Battle of Samdhara, fought in 1615, marks a significant moment in Indian history as the first major victory of the Ahom kingdom over the Mughal Empire. This battle is a testament to the strategic prowess and resilience of the Ahoms, who were based in what is now modern-day Assam. Background The Ahom kingdom, established in 1228 in Northeast India, had expanded its territory and influence over several centuries, coming into frequent conflict with the Mughal Empire, which was seeking... Read More...

Rajaji and the Swatantra Party

May 01, 2024

Who was C Rajagopalachari (Rajaji)? Read More...

Niccolao Manucci and His Observations of Mughal India

May 01, 2024

Who was Niccolao Manucci? Niccolao Manucci was an Italian adventurer and traveler who arrived in India in 1656 at the age of 17. Over the years, he became deeply involved in the local culture and politics, eventually serving in the courts of several Mughal princes. His extensive writings provide a vivid account of the Mughal Empire, its customs, and its people during the 17th and early 18th centuries. What is 'Storia do Mo... Read More...

Thanjavur Painting: A Classic Indian Art Form

May 01, 2024

What is Thanjavur painting? Thanjavur painting is a classical South Indian painting style that originated in the town of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu. Known for its rich and vibrant colors, the art form dates back to around 1600 AD and is renowned for its intricate gold leaf work and embellishments with glass beads and occasionally precious stones. How did Thanjavur painting evolve? The style evolved under the patronage of the Nayakas of Thanjavur, who were ... Read More...

AJIVIKA SECT AND THE BARABAR CAVES

May 01, 2024

1. What was the Ajivika sect, and where did it originate? The Ajivika sect was an ancient religious group in India, known for its deterministic beliefs. It originated around 2500 years ago, emerging during a period of religious and philosophical development alongside Buddhism and Jainism. The sect was founded by Makkhali Gosala in the region that corresponds to modern-day Bihar and was particularly active during the Mauryan Empire. Read More...

Kallakkadal: Impact on Kerala and Southern Tamil Nadu

May 01, 2024

1. What is the Kallakkadal Phenomenon? The Kallakkadal Phenomenon refers to an unexpected, sudden swell of the sea that results in rough and dangerous waves. This term originates from a local description likening the swell to a sea that comes stealthily like a thief. 2. What causes the Kallakkadal Phenomenon? This phenomenon is typically caused by strong winds in the southern part of the Indian Ocean. These winds can create swell surges suddenly, without clear indic... Read More...

Credit Default Swaps (CDS) in India

May 01, 2024

What is a Credit Default Swap (CDS)? A Credit Default Swap (CDS) is like insurance for lenders. It is a financial derivative that allows a lender to swap or transfer the risk of a borrower defaulting on a loan. The lender pays a fee to another party, the CDS protection seller, who agrees to cover the defaulted amount if the borrower fails to meet the loan obligations. How do CDS work in India according to the Master Directions... Read More...

CLASH OF CIVILIZATIONS THEORY

Apr 30, 2024

1. What is the Clash of Civilizations Theory? • The Clash of Civilizations theory was proposed by Samuel P. Huntington in 1993. It suggests that the primary source of conflict in the post-Cold War global landscape would not be ideological or economic, but cultural and civilizational. According to this theory, the world is divided into distinct civilizations primarily differentiated by cultural and religious identities, which are more likely to be sources of conflict than political ideologies. Read More...

Global Lunar Race: Strategic Value of the Moon's Far Side.

Apr 30, 2024

1. What is the significance of the moon’s far side in global lunar exploration? The far side of the moon, often called the “dark side” because it permanently faces away from Earth, remains largely unexplored. Its unique geological characteristics and isolation from Earth’s electromagnetic noise make it an ideal location for scientific research, particularly in astronomy and geology. 2. How is China contributing to the exploration of the moon’s far side? Read More...

Paradox of Thrift: Do Higher Savings Cut Investments?

Apr 30, 2024

Q1: What is the Paradox of Thrift? A1: The Paradox of Thrift is an economic theory proposed by John Maynard Keynes, suggesting that while saving is generally a financially prudent behavior for individuals, if everyone increases their savings simultaneously, it could lead to reduced consumer spending. This decrease in spending may lower business revenues and result in a cutback on investments, potentially leading to slower economic growth. Q2: Why do Keynesian economists believe higher savings... Read More...