UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Statehood for Puducherry

Oct 19, 2023

What is the demand for statehood for Puducherry? The demand for statehood for Puducherry is a long-standing issue where some sections of the population in Puducherry have been advocating for full-fledged statehood status, similar to other Indian states. What is the current status of Puducherry? Puducherry, also known as Pondicherry, is a Union Territory in India. It is administered directly by the Central Government of India, and its governance is different from that of a full-fledged state. What are the reasons behind the demand fo... Read More...

Pearl Farming in Bihar

Oct 19, 2023

Pearl farming in Bihar is an emerging agricultural venture that has the potential to generate higher annual income compared to traditional farming. This practice involves cultivating pearls in freshwater ponds, with around 25 pearl farmers currently engaged in this endeavor in Bihar. The pearls are harvested from oysters, and each oyster can produce two pearls. This process includes grafting a nucleus or particle into the oyster, leading to the development of a coating and shell layer, eventually forming a pearl. The longer the cultivation period, the better the quality of the pearls. While pearl farmers face marketing challenges, they... Read More...

Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership(RCEP)

Oct 19, 2023

Sri Lanka and Bangladesh's Consideration to Join RCEP What is RCEP, and why are Sri Lanka and Bangladesh considering joining it? RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership) is a 15-nation trading bloc that includes major economies like China, Japan, and South Korea. Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are considering joining RCEP to access this vast trade bloc, which represents 30% of the global GDP. They see it as an opportunity to diversify their markets, access ASEAN-led trade, and potentially boost their economies. Has Sri Lanka officially appl... Read More...

Tilapia Parvovirus: A New Threat to Tilapia Farming in Tamil Nadu

Oct 19, 2023

Tilapia parvovirus, also known as Tilapia tilapinevirus, is a viral pathogen that affects tilapia fish species, including the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). This virus is responsible for causing a highly contagious and often fatal disease known as Tilapia Parvoviral Disease (TPVD). TPVD can lead to severe economic losses in aquaculture as it affects fish farms worldwide. Infected fish display clinical signs such as lethargy, reduced appetite, erratic swimming, and hemorrhages. Tilapia parvovirus poses a significant threat to the global tilapia industry, emphasizing the importance of stringent biosecurity measures and research to control and m... Read More...

Navaratri:Overcoming Inner Demons through Religious and Cultural Symbols

Oct 19, 2023

During the nine nights of Navaratri, a sacred Hindu festival, the focus shifts inward to confront and conquer the latent adharma (inner demons) within us. This period, vibrant with devotion and introspection, sets the stage for spiritual growth. Devotees dedicate themselves to Govindha and willingly practice austerities, particularly on Saturdays, throughout the month of Purattasi. Navaratri is the pinnacle of this spiritual journey, offering a path to liberation from evil influences. Each set of three days during Navaratri is dedicated to a different goddess. Durga, the dispeller of suffering, Lakshmi, the bestower of wealth, and Saraswati, the source of ... Read More...

Border Management

Oct 19, 2023

Radiation Detection Equipment (RDE) at India's Border Crossings Q1: What is the purpose of installing Radiation Detection Equipment (RDE) at India's border crossings? A1: The primary purpose of installing RDE is to check and prevent the trafficking of radioactive materials across India's borders with neighboring countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Nepal. Q2: Where will the RDE be installed? A2: The RDE will be installed at eight strategic land crossing points, including Attari (Pakistan border), Petra... Read More...

Quantum Engine: Converting Quantum Energy into Work

Oct 19, 2023

Q1: What is a quantum engine, and what does it do? A1: A quantum engine is a device designed by physicists in Germany to convert the energy difference between two quantum states of atoms into work. It adapts principles from classical engines to the subatomic world. Q2: Why is this quantum engine significant? A2: This quantum engine allows scientists to explore quantum thermodynamics in more detail and potentially enhance the development of quantum computers. It provides insights into how energy can be harnessed at the quantum level. Read More...

Estivation - Summer Urge to Nap

Oct 19, 2023

What is Estivation? Estivation, also known as aestivation, is a biological phenomenon observed in certain animals as a response to high temperatures or drought-like conditions. During estivation, these animals enter a prolonged period of dormancy or inactivity, typically lasting for an entire season. This behavior helps them conserve energy and water during challenging environmental conditions. How Does Estivation Work? Animals practicing estivation often seek shelter in cool underground burrows, crevices, or cocoons. In this sheltered environment, they reduce... Read More...

Hosting the Olympics - India's Global Ambitions

Oct 19, 2023

1. What is the significance of hosting the Olympics for a country? Hosting the Olympics has both sporting and socio-political significance for a country. It serves as a soft-power medium, showcasing a nation's sporting prowess, economic strength, and cultural diversity. It can also enhance a country's political legitimacy on the global stage. 2. Why is India interested in hosting the Olympics? India aims to capitalize on the success of its athletes in international competitions, such as the Asian Games. Hosting the Olympics is seen as a way to further boost i... Read More...

World Food Day 2023 theme: Water is Life, Water is Food

Oct 19, 2023

The theme for World Food Day 2023, "Water is Life, Water is Food," is a timely reminder of the critical importance of water for food and nutrition security, especially in light of climate change. Water is essential for all aspects of food production, from irrigation to processing to transportation. Without water, we cannot grow food or produce the nutritious foods that we need to stay healthy. Climate change is making water more scarce and unpredictable. This is leading to more frequent and severe droughts and floods. It is also affecting crop yields and nutritional quality. For example, a study by the Indian... Read More...

China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: New Agreements & Broader Implications

Oct 19, 2023

Introduction: The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has been a subject of intense focus, representing a cornerstone of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) spearheaded by China. As a transformative venture aiming to bolster connectivity and economic cooperation between China and Pakistan, CPEC has seen significant progress but also faces challenges, especially considering the regional dynamics involving neighboring countries like India. Progress: In the latest development, during caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul haq Kakar’s four-day visit to Beijing... Read More...

2023 Australian Referendum

Oct 19, 2023

1. What was the primary purpose of the October 14, 2023, referendum in Australia? The referendum aimed to decide whether to enshrine an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in the Australian Constitution. 2. How did the public vote in the referendum? Approximately 60% of voters voted against the proposal, leading to its defeat. 3. What was the Indigenous Voice to Parliament? It was a proposed consultative body comprising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives. This body would have advised the Pa... Read More...

World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) at a Glance

Oct 19, 2023

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) is an intergovernmental organization that sets international standards for animal health and welfare. Founded in 1924, WOAH's primary objective is to improve animal health and welfare worldwide, ensuring disease control and promoting safe trade. It provides scientific expertise and transparency regarding global animal disease situations, aiding member countries in disease detection and management. WOAH plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of zoonotic diseases, thereby safeguarding both animal and human health. Headquarters: The World Organisation for Animal Health (WO... Read More...

Stepwells of India

Oct 18, 2023

Can India’s Ancient Stepwells Solve Its Water Crisis? Q1: What are ancient stepwells? A1: Ancient stepwells are traditional water storage and harvesting structures found in various parts of India. They are designed to collect and store rainwater during the monsoon season. These stepwells have a unique architectural design with a series of steps leading down to the water source, allowing people to access water even during dry seasons. Q2: How do stepwells work? A2: Stepwells work by collecting rainwater runoff from the su... Read More...

SRIRAM’s Explainer: Understanding Stubble Burning and Sustainable Solutions

Oct 18, 2023

Q1: What is the issue with stubble burning in northern states of India? A: Stubble burning is a common practice among farmers in northern states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. They burn paddy crop residues in the fields to prepare for winter crops, leading to severe air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR) from September to November. Q2: Why do farmers resort to stubble burning? A: Farmers often burn stubble due to the need for quick field clearance and the lack of economically viable alternatives. This practice has detrimental effects on air qual... Read More...