UPSC Daily Current Affairs

The Tirupati Laddu Controversy: Allegations of Adulteration

Oct 11, 2024

The Tirupati Laddu Controversy: Allegations of Adulteration The sacred offering of Tirupati laddus, a cherished prasadam for millions of devotees, has been shrouded in controversy following allegations of adulteration. Reports suggest that the ghee used in preparing these iconic sweets, traditionally sourced from cow milk, may have been compromised with cheaper fats, including those derived from beef and pigs. This revelation has sparked outrage and concern among devotees and religious groups, prompting a closer examination of the production process and testing methods. Unpacking the Controversy: Key Questions and ... Read More...

Operation AMRITH: Kerala's Fight Against Superbugs and Antibiotic Resistance - Critical Deep Dive

Oct 11, 2024

Operation AMRITH: Kerala's Fight Against Superbugs and Antibiotic Resistance - Critical Deep Dive Kerala is taking a pioneering step in combating antibiotic resistance with Operation AMRITH (Antimicrobial Resistance Mitigation and Optimization in Kerala). This program aims to curb antibiotic misuse and overuse, which contribute to the rise of drug-resistant "superbugs." Here's a deeper dive into Operation AMRITH: 1. What is Operation AMRITH? Operation AMRITH is Kerala's comprehensive program to tackle antibiotic resistance by regulating antibiotic use and prom... Read More...

Scarborough Shoal: South China Sea Dispute: Simplifier

Oct 11, 2024

Scarborough Shoal: South China Sea Dispute: Simplifier 1. What is Scarborough Shoal? Scarborough Shoal is a triangle-shaped chain of reefs and rocks located in the South China Sea, approximately 120 nautical miles west of the Philippine island of Luzon. It is a traditional fishing ground and is claimed by both China and the Philippines. 2. Why is Scarborough Shoal a source of tension? China claims almost the entire South China Sea, including Scarborough Shoal, despite overlapping claims by the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei. This has le... Read More...

GLOBAL INNOVATION INDEX 2024:INDIA RANKS@39

Oct 11, 2024

GLOBAL INNOVATION INDEX 2024:INDIA RANKS@39 The Global Innovation Index (GII) is an annual ranking of countries based on their capacity for and success in innovation. It serves as a tool for policymakers, business leaders, and other stakeholders to assess and improve their innovation ecosystems. The index provides insights into strengths and weaknesses in fostering innovation and aims to guide nations in enhancing their innovation-driven economic and social transformation. KEY DETAILS ABOUT THE GLOBAL INNOVATION INDEX 1. Origin and Publishing Body The GII was launched in 2007 and is published by the World I... Read More...

UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARKS: PROTECTING GEOLOGICAL HERITAGE AND PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Oct 11, 2024

UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARKS: PROTECTING GEOLOGICAL HERITAGE AND PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT UNESCO Global Geoparks are designated areas that celebrate the Earth’s geological history, while also fostering cultural and social connections to the land. Established under the International Geopark Programme (IGGP) in 2015, these parks recognize geological heritage of international importance, while promoting sustainable development, geo-tourism, and education. At present, there are 213 UNESCO Global Geoparks across 48 countries. The main goal of UNESCO Global Geoparks is to preserve geological diversity and highlight its link to natural and cultural heritage. B... Read More...

The Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary: Little Rann of Kutch - FAQs

Oct 11, 2024

The Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary: Little Rann of Kutch - FAQs The Little Rann of Kutch, a unique and harsh landscape in Gujarat, India, is home to the Indian wild ass sanctuary. This sanctuary protects the endangered Indian wild ass (Equus hemionus khur), locally known as "khur." Here's a closer look at this fascinating ecosystem and its challenges: FAQs 1. What is the Little Rann of Kutch? The Little Rann of Kutch is a vast salt marsh located in Gujarat, India. It's a harsh environment characterized by barren salt flats for most of the year,&n... Read More...

POCSO Act and Online Child Sexual Abuse: Supreme Court Widens Scope to Crack Down

Oct 11, 2024

POCSO Act and Online Child Sexual Abuse: Supreme Court Widens Scope to Crack Down What was the issue before the Supreme Court? Whether viewing, downloading, and storing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) online are offenses under the POCSO Act. What did the Madras High Court rule? The High Court ruled that only transmitting or publishing CSAM was an offense, not merely possessing or viewing it. How did the Supreme Court rule? The Supreme Court overturned the High Court's ruling, stating that possessing, viewing, and stor... Read More...

CREATION OF NEW DISTRICTS IN RAJASTHAN: AIMS and CHALLENGES

Oct 10, 2024

CREATION OF NEW DISTRICTS IN RAJASTHAN: AIMS and CHALLENGES 1. What Prompted the Creation of New Districts in Rajasthan? In 2023, the Ashok Gehlot government in Rajasthan announced the creation of 17 new districts to improve governance, enhance public service delivery, and meet popular demand. The decision was aimed at bringing administration closer to the people, especially in remote areas. However, political motivations and pressure from local leaders played a significant role in this sudden surge of district creation. 2. What Challenges Are Faced by These Newly Formed Districts? The new districts face severe log... Read More...

TACKLING AIR POLLUTION IN INDIA

Oct 10, 2024

TACKLING AIR POLLUTION IN INDIA 1. What Are the Main Causes of Air Pollution in India? Air pollution in India is caused by a mix of factors, including: • Vehicular Emissions: The growing number of vehicles contributes significantly to urban air pollution. • Industrial Activities: Factories and power plants release pollutants, including particulate matter and toxic gases. • Agricultural Burning: Stubble burning, especially in northern India, contributes heavily to seasonal pollution. • Construction Dust: Ongo... Read More...

LOTHAL DOCKYARD and NAL CORRIDOR:NEW INSIGHTS INTO HARAPPAN MARITIME TRADE

Oct 10, 2024

LOTHAL DOCKYARD and NAL CORRIDOR:NEW INSIGHTS INTO HARAPPAN MARITIME TRADE 1. Where Is Lothal Located and What Is Its Historical Significance? Lothal is located about 30 km inland from the Gulf of Khambhat on India’s western coast in Gujarat. It was a major port city during the Harappan period (2600 BCE to 1900 BCE) and played a crucial role in trade and commerce, connecting various Harappan production and distribution centres along the Gulf of Kachchh and the Rann of Kachchh. 2. What Evidence Supports the Dockyard Theory at Lothal? Recent studies published in the Journal of Archaeological Science ... Read More...

LOTHAL:100 YEARS OF HARAPPAN CIVILISATION DISCOVERY

Oct 10, 2024

LOTHAL:100 YEARS OF HARAPPAN CIVILISATION DISCOVERY 1. What Is the Significance of the 100th Anniversary of the Harappan Civilisation Discovery? The 100th anniversary marks the day when John Marshall, then Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India, announced the discovery of the Harappan Civilisation on 20 September 1924. This revelation highlighted ancient cities like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, showcasing the existence of a sophisticated urban culture in the Indian subcontinent during the Bronze Age. 2. How Has the Understanding of Harappan Sites Evolved Over the Past Century? Despite numerous excavati... Read More...

WOMEN-LED DEVELOPMENT IN INDIA: INITIATIVES AND IMPACT

Oct 10, 2024

WOMEN-LED DEVELOPMENT IN INDIA: INITIATIVES AND IMPACT 1. WHAT IS WOMEN-LED DEVELOPMENT? Women-led development is a concept that emphasizes including women as active participants in the economic, social, and political progress of a country. It focuses on empowering women not just as beneficiaries but also as decision-makers, planners, and key contributors to development. 2. HOW DOES WOMEN-LED DEVELOPMENT DIFFER FROM WOMEN-CENTRIC DEVELOPMENT? While women-centric development targets women as primary beneficiaries of various programs, women-led development actively involves women in decision-making an... Read More...

BHAGAT SINGH:A RADICAL THINKER AND IDEOLOGUE

Oct 10, 2024

BHAGAT SINGH:A RADICAL THINKER AND IDEOLOGUE Bhagat Singh remains one of India's most iconic freedom fighters and intellectuals, whose actions and writings significantly influenced the Indian independence movement. His life, marked by a profound commitment to revolutionary ideals, continues to inspire discussions on justice, equality, and freedom. Biography and Historical Contributions 1. Who was Bhagat Singh? Born on September 28, 1907, in Banga, Punjab, British India, Bhagat Singh grew into a prominent revolutionary thinker deeply affected by the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919. His upbringing... Read More...

World Rabies Day:September 28

Oct 10, 2024

World Rabies Day:September 28 Synopsis: World Rabies Day serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing fight against rabies. Despite medical advancements, the disease continues to pose a threat, as highlighted by the tragic death of a young boy in Kerala. This day commemorates Louis Pasteur, whose pioneering work led to the first rabies vaccine. Historically, rabies was shrouded in misconceptions, but Pasteur's breakthrough paved the way for modern prevention and treatment methods. India, in particular, faces a significant burden of rabies, predominantly from dog bites. A "One Health" approach involving coll... Read More...

Jitiya Festival -Jivitputrika Vrat

Oct 10, 2024

Jitiya Festival -Jivitputrika Vrat 1. What is Jitiya? Jitiya, also known as Jivitputrika Vrat, is a three-day Hindu festival primarily observed by mothers in regions like Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. It is dedicated to the well-being and longevity of their children. 2. When is Jitiya celebrated in 2024? In 2024, Jitiya is observed from September 25th to 27th. 3. What is the significance of Jitiya? Jitiya revolves around the legend of Jimutavahana, who sacrificed himself to save the lives of young snakes. It symbolizes... Read More...