UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Explaining the Smile Curve of Raghuram Rajan

Dec 23, 2023

The smile curve is a concept that illustrates the value addition in different stages of a product’s lifecycle. Imagine a smiley face; the value addition is represented by the shape of the smile. The tips of the smile are high, indicating high value, and the bottom of the curve is low, indicating low value. Let’s break it down: High-Value Ends: These are like the corners of a smile, where the value is highest. For a product like an iPhone, this includes the creation of new ideas, designs, and unique software—things that require creativity and innovation. Low-Value Middle: This represents the bot... Read More...

CBAM and India’s Position

Dec 22, 2023

What is CBAM? The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is a tax imposed on imports of goods from countries that do not have carbon pricing mechanisms. It aims to prevent carbon leakage and encourage cleaner production processes by putting a carbon cost on imports. When was CBAM implemented? CBAM was initiated on October 1, with initial steps focusing on carbon emissions reporting requirements for imports. What is the timeline for CBAM’s full implementation? From 2023 to 2026, there is a transi... Read More...

'Krishi Sakhis' and Natural Farming Promotion

Dec 22, 2023

Context: 'Krishi Sakhis', a significant initiative, is part of a collaborative effort by India's Ministry of Rural Development and Agriculture Ministry. This program integrates agricultural advancement with women's empowerment, focusing on promoting natural farming practices. Key Aspects of 'Krishi Sakhis' Initiative: Joint Launch by Ministries: The training program for 'Krishi Sakhis' was launched under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), marking a synergistic approach between two pivotal ministries. Objective: The c... Read More...

Indian Evidence Act (IEA) Replaced by Bharatiya Sakshya Bill (BSB) 2023

Dec 22, 2023

Indian Evidence Act, 1872 (IEA) Purpose: Governs how evidence is presented in Indian courts. Scope: Applies to all civil and criminal cases. Key Amendments: 2000: Included electronic records as secondary evidence. 2013: Focused on consent in rape cases, placing the burden of proof on the accused and disregarding the victim's past sexual history for consent determination. Bharatiya Sakshya Bill, 2023 (BSB) Goal: Proposed to replace the IEA. Intention: To modernize and simplify evidence laws. The Bharatiy... Read More...

Code of Criminal Procedure Replaced by the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023

Dec 22, 2023

Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (CrPC) Nature: A procedural law for administering the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Functions: Governs investigation, arrest, prosecution, and bail for offenses. History: Originated in 1861, revised multiple times. The current version enacted in 1973 introduced changes. 2005 Amendment: Added provisions for plea bargaining and rights of arrested persons. Supreme Court Interpretations: Key rulings include mandatory FIR registration for cognizable offenses, making arrests an exception for less severe crimes, and ensuring absolute bail rights for bailable off... Read More...

Indian Penal Code Replaced By Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023

Dec 22, 2023

Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860 Primary Criminal Law: The IPC is the main legislation governing criminal offenses in India. Coverage of Offenses: Includes crimes related to the human body (e.g., assault, murder), property (e.g., theft, extortion), public order (e.g., rioting), public health, safety, decency, morality, religion, defamation, and offenses against the state. Amendments Over Time: The IPC has been updated to add new offenses, modify existing ones, and alter punishments. Decriminalization by Courts: Certain offenses like consensual same-sex intercourse, adultery, and attempted suicide hav... Read More...

Geographical Indicators and India’s Export Landscape

Dec 22, 2023

Geographical Indicators: Safeguarding Cultural Wealth Geographical Indicators (GIs) act as certificates authenticating the origin and unique characteristics of products like Assam Tea and Kanjeevaram Silk, ensuring the preservation and recognition of India’s diverse cultural assets. The Export Enigma: Balancing Act of Tradition and Trade Indian exports such as Darjeeling tea, Basmati rice, and Rajasthani miniature paintings represent a blend of rich heritage and economic value. While products like these have gained international acclaim, many others strive for recognition and market share. Read More...

Debating Paid Menstrual Leave: Pros and Cons

Dec 22, 2023

The debate over paid menstrual leave, as highlighted by Union Minister Smriti Irani’s comments, is complex and multifaceted. It encompasses social, legal, and workplace dynamics. Arguments Against Paid Menstrual Leave: 1. Non-Handicap View: Menstruation, as per Irani, is not a handicap that warrants special leave. This view posits that it should be managed like any regular health issue. 2. Workplace Discrimination Concerns: Providing menstrual leave may inadvertently lead to discrimination against women in hiring or promotions, as employers might perceive them as less available. 3. Stigma an... Read More...

Evaluating India’s Urban Development: History, Current Content, and Proposed Improvements

Dec 22, 2023

Historical Context of Urban Development in India: 1. Initial Challenges: India’s cities have long faced recurring issues such as floods, air pollution, sanitation, housing for the urban poor, public safety, water scarcity, and traffic congestion. 2. Government Initiatives: Over the past decade, there has been a significant increase in government investment in urban projects, with a 488% rise in funding between 2009-10 and 2021-22. 3. Flagship Schemes: Programs like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, AMRUT, Swachh Bharat Mission, and Smart Cities Mission have been instrume... Read More...

POSH Act: History, Content, and Evaluation

Dec 21, 2023

History and Background of the POSH Act: 1. Origins: The POSH Act’s roots lie in the Vishakha Guidelines of 1997, formulated after the Bhanwari Devi gang rape case in Rajasthan. These guidelines laid the foundation for addressing sexual harassment at workplaces. 2. Legislation Enactment: After nearly 16 years, in 2013, the POSH Act was enacted, transforming the guidelines into a legal framework. Content of the POSH Act: 1. Objective: The Act aims to prevent and protect women from sexual harassment at workplaces and ensure effective redressal. 2. Key Provisions: Read More...

Food irradiation technology for onion storage

Dec 21, 2023

In India’s quest for agricultural innovation , food irradiation technology is a game-changer for onion storage. By exposing onions to precise levels of ionizing radiation from Cobalt-60 or Cesium-137, the technology disrupts the growth of spoilage agents like bacteria, insects, and fungi . This process significantly enhances the onions’ shelf life, ensuring they remain non-radioactive and nutritionally intact. For Indian farmers , especially in Maharashtra’s prolific onion fields, this means potentially higher profits due to less spoilage and longer storage. The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) has rigorously tested and approv... Read More...

Understanding JN.1: The Omicron Sub-Variant in Kerala

Dec 21, 2023

Kerala’s Rising CasesKerala has observed a surge in COVID cases attributed to the JN.1 sub-variant, with 115 new instances recorded, escalating the active case count to 1,749. The state’s total is a stark contrast to the national figure, standing at 1,970, highlighting a localized spike. Symptoms and Risks of JN.1JN.1, a mutation distinct from another Omicron sub-variant BA.2.86 (Pirola), presents symptoms including cough, fever, and breathing difficulties. It remains uncertain if JN.1 induces symptoms different from other COVID variants. Currently, those with comorbidities and seniors are considered most vulnerable. Vari... Read More...

Indian Ocean Update: The Maldives-China FTA’s Implications for India

Dec 21, 2023

The Indian Ocean, a pivotal artery for global maritime trade, is witnessing a significant geopolitical shift. At the heart of this transformation is the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the Maldives and China. This FTA, the first for the Maldives with an external power, is a strategic milestone for China, potentially reshaping the power dynamics within the region, which has long been influenced by India’s economic and political reach. The FTA’s revival may have profound implications for India. Traditionally, the Maldives has leaned on India for a significant portion of its imports, with India being the leading source of Maldivian impo... Read More...

Global Remittances for India

Dec 21, 2023

Introduction: India is expected to receive $125 billion in remittances in 2023, solidifying its position as the top remittance-receiving country in the world. These remittances, primarily sent from countries with strong Indian expatriate communities, such as the US, UK, Singapore, and the Gulf nations, are a significant boon to India’s economy. Key Points: GDP Support: The substantial funds contribute to India’s GDP, signifying a vital income source that supports economic growth. Economic Stability: Remittances help mitigate financial chall... Read More...