UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse in Baltimore

Apr 04, 2024

What caused the bridge collapse? The collapse occurred after the DALI, a Singaporean flagged container vessel, struck one of the bridge's pillars. The ship reportedly lost propulsion, attempted to drop its anchor as part of its emergency protocol, and drifted into the bridge. How many people are missing or injured? Six construction workers who were on the bridge are presumed dead. Two other individuals were rescued from the water; one was unharmed, and the o... Read More...

Sri Lanka-China Development Bond

Apr 04, 2024

Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena's Meeting with Chinese Leadership Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena recently held talks with Chinese officials in Beijing, marking a significant step in the island nation's efforts to strengthen its economic and strategic ties with China. As Sri Lanka's largest bilateral creditor, China's role is pivotal in the restructuring of Sri Lanka's external debt, which is esse... Read More...

Government e-Marketplace (GeM)

Apr 04, 2024

1.What is the Government e-Marketplace (GeM)? The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) inder Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is a digital procurement platform designed to facilitate online procurement of goods and services by various government departments, organizations, and public sector units in India. It aims to enhance transparency,efficiency, and speed in the government procurement process. Read More...

Sustainable Building Materials

Apr 04, 2024

ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: FOCUS ON AAC BLOCKS India's rapid construction growth underscores the need for energy-efficient residential buildings due to environmental and climatic challenges. Energy efficiency is crucial for reducing electricity consumption, enhancing thermal comfort, and contributing to sustainability goals. The Rol... Read More...

Basics of Hyperloop Transport Technology

Apr 04, 2024

What is Hyperloop? Hyperloop represents a proposed mode of passenger and/or freight transportation, first conceptualized by Elon Musk in 2013. It aims to revolutionize travel by moving people or goods in pods through low-pressure tubes at high speeds, potentially surpassing traditional rail or air travel speeds. How Does it Work? 1. Tubes: Hyperloop systems involve near-vacuum tubes that significantly reduce air resistance. Read More...

UNEP FOOD WASTE INDEX REPORT

Apr 04, 2024

What is the UNEP Food Waste Index Report? The United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) Food Waste Index Report measures the amount of food wasted globally, focusing on retail and consumer levels. It aims to track progress towards halving global food waste by 2030, in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12.3. How much food is wasted globally according to the latest report? Read More...

AI's Role in Mental Health Navigation

Apr 04, 2024

Can AI help in navigating mental health? Yes, AI, particularly through Natural Language Processing (NLP), offers innovative tools for mental health care, providing accessible therapy options and supporting clinicians. How do NLP programs provide personalized care? NLP programs offer tailored support by understanding and responding to user inputs in a conversational manner, helping in reframing thoughts and providing resources for coping strategies. ... Read More...

United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL)

Apr 04, 2024

The United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) is a key legal body under the United Nations, established in 1966 with the aim to promote the harmonization and unification of international trade law. It’s known for creating frameworks and guidelines that facilitate international trade and investment, making it easier for countries with different legal systems to engage in commerce with each other. UNCITRAL holds its annual sessions alternately in New York City and Vienna, which is also where its headquarters are located. This practice allows for inclus... Read More...

STRATEGIES FOR INDIA TO PREVENT A CHINA-TAIWAN CONFLICT

Apr 04, 2024

Amid growing tensions across the Taiwan Strait, India finds its interests increasingly intertwined with the stability of this region. China's claim over Taiwan and the potential for conflict pose significant risks not just for the involved parties but for India as well. Given the substantial stakes, India has compelling reasons to contribute to preventing a conflict between China and Taiwan. Here’s a closer look at why maintaining the status quo is vital for India and what strategies it could employ. Read More...

INDIAN NAVY’S SUCCESSFUL ANTI-PIRACY OPERATION

Apr 04, 2024

In a significant anti-piracy operation, the Indian Navy accomplished a commendable feat by intercepting and liberating the hijacked Iranian fishing vessel, Al-Kambar. The operation, executed by the naval ships Sumedha and Trishul, culminated late on Friday with the capture of the vessel from pirates’ control. The pirates, aboard the hijacked vessel, were coerced into surrendering after enduring over 12 hours ofintensive tactical maneuvers, adhering strictly to the Standard Operating P... Read More...

Black Carbon and India's Efforts

Apr 04, 2024

What is black carbon? Black carbon is a pollutant produced by incomplete combustion of fuels, contributing to climate change and health issues. Main source of black carbon in India? The residential sector, due to traditional biomass burning, is the largest source, accounting for 47% of emissions. Impact of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)? PMUY reduced traditional fuel use by ... Read More...

Sickle Cell Disease FAQs

Apr 03, 2024

What is Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)? SCD is a genetic blood disorder that affects the shape and function of red blood cells. Instead of being round and flexible, cells become rigid, crescent-shaped, or "sickled," leading to various complications, including blockage of blood flow, pain, and organ damage. Who is affected by Sickle Cell Disease? Read More...

WTO’S INVESTMENT FACILITATION NEGOTIATIONS

Apr 03, 2024

At the heart of recent discussions within the World Trade Organization (WTO) is the debate over the Investment Facilitation for Development (IFD) Agreement, particularly spotlighted during the 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) in Abu Dhabi. The negotiation of the IFD Agreement marks a critical juncture in the evolution of global trade and investment norms, reflecting broader trends towards integrating investment facilitation within the framework of international trade regulations. Read More...

UNDERSTANDING THE COMPLEXITY OF HUMANITARIAN AID

Apr 03, 2024

Sri Muralidhara Swamigal explains how God, likened to a devoted farmer, employs various methods to guide humanity toward spiritual enlightenment. Through the Vedas' pure teachings and the exemplary lives of deities and sages, God offers a path out of the cycle of birth and rebirth, leading us towards ultimate liberation. What is humanitarian aid? Read More...