UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Section 6A of the Citizenship Act and Assam’s Dilemma

Dec 14, 2023

What’s Section 6A about? Section 6A is a part of India’s Citizenship Act that deals specifically with Assam. It was created after the Assam Accord of 1985 to handle the unique situation in Assam regarding immigrants from Bangladesh. Why does Section 6A exist? Assam had a lot of people coming in from Bangladesh, and it was causing tension and problems. To stop this, the Assam Accord made a deal, and Section 6A was the law to enforce it. This law sorts people into groups based on when they came to Assam: before 1966, between 1966 and 1971, and after 1971. E... Read More...

Organ Transplant Regulations in India

Dec 14, 2023

Comprehensive Understanding of Organ Donation Laws What statutes regulate organ transplantation in India? The primary legal framework is the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, 1994 (THOTA). It outlines the norms for the removal, storage, and transplantation of human organs for therapeutic purposes and prevents commercial dealings. Amendments to the act have strengthened the regulatory mechanisms to address advancements in transplantation and emerging ethical issues. How does the Indian government address the disparity between organ demand an... Read More...

Food Inflation Disaggregated: Analyzing Causes, Effects, and Policy Measures

Dec 13, 2023

Food Inflation Trends The latest reports indicate a significant surge in food inflation in India, reaching 8.7% in November 2023. This rise is attributed to various factors impacting the prices of vegetables, cereals, pulses, and spices, with edible oils seeing some deflation. Causes of Food Inflation 1. Supply Chain Disruptions: Delays in the arrival of import cargos in essential food items have been one contributing factor. 2. Increased Consumer Demand: A robust demand in food and beverages has driven prices up. 3. Seasonal Variations: The transition period betw... Read More...

G7 Sanctions and Surat’s Diamond Industry

Dec 13, 2023

1. What are the G7 sanctions on Russian diamonds? The G7 countries have imposed sanctions on Russian diamond imports, including diamonds processed in third countries, in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. This includes a ban on large rough diamonds from Russia, affecting the global diamond trade. 2. How do these sanctions affect Surat’s diamond industry? Surat, a major diamond processing hub in India, is significantly impacted as it specializes in small diamonds. The sanctions lead to a decrease in the availability of low-quality rough diamonds, whi... Read More...

India, and China’s Policy Towards Tibet

Dec 13, 2023

1. What is the significance of China referring to Tibet as ‘Xizang’? Referring to Tibet as ‘Xizang’ is part of China’s strategy to assert its sovereignty and integrate the region more closely with the rest of the country. This terminology change aims to reinforce the idea of Tibet being an integral part of China and diminish its distinct cultural identity. 2. How has China’s policy in Tibet evolved since 1950? Since annexing Tibet in 1950, China has consistently aimed to consolidate its control over the region. This has involved ex... Read More...

Chief Election Commissioner and ECs Bill, Dec 2023

Dec 13, 2023

Introduction The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023, passed in the Rajya Sabha, introduces amendments that significantly affect the Election Commission of India’s structure and functioning. These changes have elicited diverse responses across the political spectrum. Key Amendments in the Bill 1. Immunity for CEC and ECs: New Provision: Grants immunity to both current and former CECs and ECs from civil or criminal proceedings for their official acti... Read More...

President Xi Jinping’s Visit to Vietnam and its Geopolitical Implications

Dec 13, 2023

1. Why did President Xi Jinping visit Vietnam? President Xi Jinping’s visit to Vietnam, his first in six years, aimed to strengthen ties between China and Vietnam. This visit is viewed as China’s effort to counter growing U.S. influence in the region, especially following President Biden’s visit to Vietnam three months earlier . 2. What agreements were made during Xi Jinping’s visit? The visit resulted in the signing of 37 agreements, including on cross-border rail development, trade, joint patrols in the Tonkin Gulf, and the establishment of ... Read More...

Excavation of Ancient Sites in Bihar

Dec 13, 2023

Overview: The Bihar government, under the guidance of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), is set to commence significant archaeological excavations and explorations in the state. These activities will focus on two major sites with profound historical and religious significance. Key Highlights: 1. Bhadaria Village Excavation: Location: In Banka district, near the Chandan river. Historical Significance: Linked to Hindu mythology and Buddhism. Age: Preliminary studies suggest the remains are approximately 2,600 y... Read More...

Pen’s Lord Ganesh Idols Secure Geographical Indication Tag

Dec 13, 2023

Overview Development: The clay idols of Lord Ganesh made in Pen, Maharashtra, have been granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. Significance: Ensures authenticity and protection against imitation of these idols. Unique Features of Pen Ganesh Idols 1. Craftsmanship: Known for their aesthetics, serene expressions, shading, color work, and grace. 2. Eye Carving (‘akhani’): A skillful aspect, showcasing the artisans’ dexterity. 3. Organic Materials: Made using organic soil or clay and natural colors. Read More...

Pen’s Lord Ganesh Idols Secure Geographical Indication Tag

Dec 12, 2023

Artificial Intelligence Regulation

Dec 12, 2023

What is the new regulatory framework for AI in the EU? The European Union has implemented a regulatory framework to oversee the ethical use of AI, emphasizing transparency and consumer rights. It includes strict rules against high-risk AI systems and provisions for AI applications that impact public safety. How does the US approach AI regulation? The United States has taken a less centralized stance, with measures to promote innovation and economic competitiveness in AI, while also considering privacy and security concerns. What ste... Read More...

NAMO Drone Didi scheme:

Dec 12, 2023

1. What is the NAMO Drone Didi scheme? The NAMO (New Agriculture Market Order) Drone Didi scheme is a government initiative aimed at empowering women by supplying drones to Self Help Groups (SHGs) for agricultural purposes. This scheme is intended to enhance agricultural productivity through the use of technology and to create new job opportunities for rural women. 2. How does the NAMO Drone Didi scheme empower women? The scheme empowers women by involving them in the emerging field of drone technology, particularly in its application for agriculture. By training and... Read More...

Services-Led Growth in India: Leveraging Human Capital and Innovation

Dec 12, 2023

India’s shift towards a services-led economy represents a strategic pivot from the traditional manufacturing-led growth model. This transition is particularly suited to India’s strengths — a vast pool of human capital and an innovative technology sector. Human Capital as a Cornerstone The foundation of services-led growth rests on nurturing human capital. Educational initiatives, such as the ‘Skill India’ campaign, aim to train millions in various sectors. Institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) have been instrumental in producing a s... Read More...

Wetlands in Urban Environments: A Case Study of Chennai

Dec 11, 2023

Wetlands and Their Uses: Wetlands are vital ecological features that provide numerous benefits. They act as natural sponges, absorbing rainfall and reducing flooding. These areas support a diverse range of flora and fauna, contributing to biodiversity. Wetlands also filter pollutants from water, improve water quality, and recharge groundwater aquifers. In coastal cities like Chennai, they serve as critical buffers against storms and sea-level rise. Causes of Wetland Destruction: Urban sprawl and unregulated development are primary causes of wetland destruction in cit... Read More...

Health Impacts of Climate Change

Dec 11, 2023

Introduction: Climate change has far-reaching impacts on global health, intensifying emergencies like floods and heatwaves, which disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. The ongoing COP28 conference has recognized the overlap of climate and health concerns, emphasizing the need for health-centric climate resilience. Health Risks from Climate Change: Direct Effects: Increased incidences of respiratory diseases from air pollution, heat stress, and the spread of infectious diseases due to changing weather patterns. Strain on Healthcare: Natural disasters stress healthcare... Read More...