UPSC Daily Current Affairs

SRIRAM’s Overview: Dark Matter

Oct 25, 2023

Title: Deciphering Dark Matter Introduction: Dark matter is a form of matter that doesn’t emit, absorb, or reflect light. It doesn’t interact with electromagnetic forces, which means it doesn’t produce or interact with light. Though invisible directly, its presence is inferred from gravitational effects on visible matter, radiation, and the structure of the universe. Key Features: 1. Gravitational Influence: While we cannot see or detect dark matter directly, we can observe its effects through its gravitation... Read More...

SRIRAM’s Overview: Ashoka and Buddhism

Oct 25, 2023

Title: Ashoka’s Relationship with Buddhism Introduction: Emperor Ashoka, the third monarch of the Maurya Dynasty, ruled the Indian subcontinent from circa 268 to 232 BCE. He is often remembered for his conversion to Buddhism and the subsequent spread of its teachings. Ashoka’s Early Association with Buddhism: 1. Minor Rock Edict: In his first Minor Rock Edict, Ashoka does mention his commitment to the teachings of the Buddha. He talks about the “Dhamma victories” instead of military conquests, hi... Read More...

International Humanitarian Law and the Israel-Hamas Conflict

Oct 25, 2023

What is the purpose of International Humanitarian Law? A: International humanitarian law, also known as the law of armed conflict, is designed to constrain the ways wars are fought. Its primary objective is to protect non-combatants and set limitations on the means and methods of warfare. How does International Humanitarian Law view the Israel-Hamas conflict? A: International humanitarian law aims to protect civilians and ensure that all combatants, whether state or non-state actors, conduct warfare within its confines. Violations include attacks targeting civ... Read More...

Cybercrime Trends: Navigating the Digital Threat Landscape

Oct 25, 2023

The digital age, while offering numerous conveniences, has also brought forth a new wave of cybercrimes. States like Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh are no exception to this trend, with each facing unique challenges and responding with specific countermeasures. Punjab’s Landscape: Punjab, a state with both urban and rural diversities, has noticed a rise in cybercrimes spanning domestic and international territories. The primary challenge remains in tracking the core operatives behind these intricate networks. Key Insights for Punjab: Read More...

Promise of Vizhinjam: A Vision for India’s Blue Economy

Oct 25, 2023

Get Ready for Civil Services with SRIRAM’s Classes Introduction: India’s maritime sector holds vast potential, waiting to be tapped. The Vizhinjam port, located in Kerala, is one such promise in the vast landscape of opportunities that the Indian maritime domain presents. Beyond being a mere port, Vizhinjam symbolizes a vision for India’s blue economy - a holistic approach to leveraging the nation’s oceanic resources. FAQs about Vizhinjam and India’s Blue Economy Vision: 1. What is the... Read More...

Ashfaqulla Khan - The Revolutionary Hero

Oct 25, 2023

Who was Ashfaqulla Khan? Ashfaqulla Khan was a key figure in India's freedom movement. He is most renowned for leading the 1925 Kakori train robbery alongside Ram Prasad Bismil, the leader of the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA). The objective of the robbery was to seize the British state treasury being transported from Kakori to Lucknow and use the funds to purchase arms for the freedom struggle. Khan, Bismil, and nine other associates were eventually captured and executed by British forces. Is Ashfaqulla Khan's story depicted in a Bollywood film? Read More...

Melting Ice and Snow in Antarctic: Causes and Consequences

Oct 25, 2023

Introduction: The Antarctic, Earth’s southernmost continent, is undergoing dramatic shifts. The ice sheets and glacial structures are melting at accelerated rates, prompting scientific scrutiny and global concern. Why is Antarctic Ice Melting at a Record Pace? 1. Anthropogenic Global Warming: Human activities release greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane, which trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, leading to an increase in global temperatures. 2. Oceanic Changes: Upwelling of warmer sub-surface ocean waters causes b... Read More...

Climate Action: Prioritizing Communities

Oct 25, 2023

Introduction: The most profound impacts of climate change are often felt by the vulnerable communities that have contributed the least to the problem. As a result, any comprehensive climate action plan must prioritize these communities, ensuring their well-being and active participation in mitigation and adaptation strategies. Steps to Put Communities First in Climate Action: 1. Community Engagement: Description: Actively involve local communities in the decision-making process, ensuring their voices are heard. Example: A ... Read More...

Life and Reforms of Narayana Guru

Oct 25, 2023

Introduction: Narayana Guru (1856-1928) was a renowned spiritual leader, social reformer, and philosopher from Kerala, India. His contributions spanned the realms of spirituality, socio-political reform, and education, aiming to eradicate caste-based discrimination and promote universal brotherhood. Early Life: Born in the Ezhava community in Chempazhanthy, a village near Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. He was well-versed in Malayalam, Sanskrit, and Tamil, which he learned from traditional gurukulas and scholars of his time. Read More...

Drones and Narcoterrorism at the India-Pakistan Border: A Comprehensive Overview.

Oct 25, 2023

Introduction: The nexus between drug trafficking, weapons smuggling, and terrorism has grown more intertwined and complex, particularly at the India-Pakistan border. This has been exacerbated by the use of drones for cross-border delivery of narcotics and arms. Key Highlights: 1. Arrests and Connections: On October 11, the Punjab Police detained individuals planning targeted killings in the state who had ties to Pakistan-based terrorist organizations. 2. Financial Trail: The Punjab Police discovered the flow of substantial amounts of drug... Read More...

Money Bills in India: An Overview

Oct 25, 2023

Definition: As per Article 110 of the Constitution, a bill is considered a money bill if it pertains “only” to matters outlined in Article 110(1)(a) to (g). These matters include topics like taxation, government borrowings, and appropriation of funds from the Consolidated Fund of India. Introduction: To become law, a bill typically requires the endorsement of both houses of Parliament. However, a money bill is an exception. Key Characteristics of a Money Bill: 1. Lok Sabha Introduction: Read More...

MBBS Seat Allocation and Regional Disparities: A Closer Look

Oct 25, 2023

Background: The National Medical Commission (NMC) has issued a notification that restricts the number of MBBS seats in any state/UT to 100 per one million population. The intention behind this move is to “reduce regional disparities” and prevent overcrowding in medical colleges. Impact on Southern States: Seat Saturation: All southern states have already surpassed this newly established limit. This means they cannot inaugurate new medical colleges or introduce more MBBS seats in existing institutions. Perceived Penalty: The se... Read More...

Hanle Dark Sky Reserve in Ladakh

Oct 25, 2023

The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve in Ladakh is India's first dark sky reserve. It was designated as a dark sky reserve in 2022 by the Union Territory of Ladakh to control man-made light pollution and preserve the area's dark skies. The reserve spans an area of approximately 1,073 square kilometers and includes the six hamlets of Bhok, Shado, Punguk, Khuldo, Naga, and Tibetan Refugee habitations. Hanle Dark Sky Reserve Ladakh The Hanl... Read More...

SRIRAM’s Digest: Food Production Trends for 2022-23

Oct 23, 2023

Overall Food Production: Expected growth: 4.4% for 2022-23 compared to the previous year. Estimated output: A record 3,296.87 LT, which is 140.71 LT more than 2021-22. Rice: Estimated production: 1,357.55 LT, showing an increase of 62.84 LT from the previous year. Wheat: Estimated production: 1,105.54 LT, an increase of 28.12 LT from 2021-22. Nutri/Coarse Cereals: Estimated production: 573.19 LT, higher by 62.18 LT from last year. Read More...

SRIRAM’s Basics: Understanding Cotton Subsidies in Global Trade

Oct 23, 2023

What are Cotton Subsidies? Financial assistance given by governments to cotton producers. Aim: Support farmers, stabilize domestic markets, and promote exports. Why are they Controversial at the WTO? Developed countries, with fewer farmers and larger farms, provide massive subsidies. These subsidies distort global cotton prices, making it hard for farmers in developing nations to compete. The Global Players: USA: Major cotton producer and largest exporter. Subsidizes its cotton heavily, impacting global p... Read More...