UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Joshimath Landsubsidence

Sep 28, 2023

Editorial Backstory: The year started with alarming reports of the temple town of Joshimath in Uttarakhand facing geological risks, partially attributed to the Tapovan Vishnugad power project. The situation led to a crisis, prompting evacuations. Various institutions were commissioned to study the risks, but their findings were initially withheld from the public. The High Court intervened, pushing for transparency. These reports highlight the widespread non-compliance with building codes and the inherent geological risks of the region. There is an urgent need for susta... Read More...

Bennu,the Asteroid

Sep 28, 2023

Bennu, officially known as 101955 Bennu, is a remarkable celestial body in our solar system. This asteroid follows an orbit around the sun, completing it every 436 days, and it periodically comes relatively close to Earth, making a close approach once every six years. However, what makes Bennu particularly fascinating is its composition and potential significance. Characteristics of Bennu: Carbonaceous Asteroid: Bennu belongs to the category of carbonaceous asteroids, which are rich in carbon and organic compounds. These types of asteroids are considered to be relics from the ear... Read More...

What is 'Sanatana Dharma'?

Sep 28, 2023

'Sanatana Dharma' is a term often used to describe Hinduism. It signifies an ancient and enduring way of life and belief system. It is not bound by a single founder, creed, or holy book but is characterized by a continuous search for truth based on evolving experiences. 'Sanatana Dharma' encompasses a vast array of beliefs, practices, and philosophies within the Hindu tradition. Arguments Surrounding 'Sanatana Dharma' Progressive vs. Cons... Read More...

Tribal Development

Sep 28, 2023

Human Development;STs and Non-STs a table summarizing the key findings from the study comparing the performance of Scheduled Tribes (STs) and non-Scheduled Tribes (non-STs) in various health indicators in 2021: Categories of Health Indicators STs Outperformed Non-STs Non-STs Outperformed STs Overall Gender Balance yes no Gender Balance at Birth yes no ... Read More...

Tigers in Nilgiris: A Crisis Unfolding

Sep 28, 2023

Tiger Deaths: 10 tigers (6 cubs, 4 adults) died in Nilgiris. Deaths occurred between August and September. Concerns arise about the welfare of the animals. Investigating the Causes: Cubs' deaths due to starvation or infection. Adult tigress died from suspected injuries. Another adult tiger died in a fight. Sub-adult tiger had injury marks. Larger male tiger found dead after preying on a cow. Four tiger cubs found dead. Conservation Concerns: Poaching i... Read More...

Reimagining Indian Secularism: Beyond Minority Rights

Sep 28, 2023

Secularism in India: Rajeev Bhargava discusses Indian secularism. Examines the relationship between the state and religion. Highlights the uniqueness of India's secularism. Strengths and Challenges: India's constitutional idea of "principled distance." The challenges posed by orthodoxies and Hindu nationalism. Misunderstandings about the role of religion in public space. Historical Pluralism: Contrasting Indian and European sec... Read More...

India:50 Year Government Bonds For The First Time

Sep 28, 2023

India's Ultra-Long Government Bonds and Green Bonds What are these 50-year government bonds and 30-year green bonds in India? These are types of government securities with ultra-long tenures. The 50-year government bonds are issued by the Indian government, while the 30-year green bonds are designed to fund environmentally friendly projects. Why is India issuing these ultra-long bonds? India is raising funds through these bonds as part of its market borrowings plan for the second half of the fiscal year. The ... Read More...

Judicial Appointments: Collegium System

Sep 27, 2023

Talent Drain in Judiciary: Supreme Court Flags Government Delays Pending Recommendations & Segregation Issues The Supreme Court raises alarm over 70 languishing recommendations for High Court judgeships, causing talent drain in the judiciary. Name Segregation: A Cloud of Uncertainty The Centre's practice of segregating names without clear reasons adds to the delays and introduces potential bias, eroding the judiciary's integrity. Legal Fraternity Calls for Action Read More...

Punjab : Stubble Burning and Air Pollution

Sep 27, 2023

Table of Contents Introduction Key Issues and Commitments Data and Tools Related Actions and Collaboration Stubble Burning Basics Introduction By committing to substantial reductions in stubble burning, Punjab is taking a proactive stance to improve air quality and public health, while the Delhi government is also implementing parallel initiatives. Key Issues and Commitments Issue:Stubble burning in Punjab significantly contributes to air pollution in the r... Read More...

India's Web of Interdependencies in the Indo-Pacific Region:Geostrategy

Sep 27, 2023

Security Cooperation India collaborates with various nations, such as the United States, to tackle a myriad of security issues. This includes territorial disputes, maritime security, and combating terrorism. The 13th Indo-Pacific Army Chiefs Conference, hosted by India, underlines India's intent for multilateral military cooperation. Trade Relations Trade partnerships with nations like Japan, South Korea, and ASEAN countries are vital for India's economic growth. Countering Chinese Influence Both Indi... Read More...

IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2023

Sep 27, 2023

Context Where:Bombay High Court When:On a recent Tuesday What:The court was hearing petitions that challenge the constitutional validity of the IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2023. Stakeholders and Their Arguments Bombay High Court Justices:Gautam Patel and Neela Gokhale Main Concern:Balancing public interest against fake news and the overarching powers of the government. "Political Satirist Kunal Kamra and Other ... Read More...

India and Taliban:Geopolitics

Sep 27, 2023

Taliban's Request for Recognition and Monetary Aid from India What is the current issue? Answer: The Taliban has approached India for recognition and economic assistance ahead of the Moscow format discussion in Kazan, Russia. This meeting is notably significant, considering China has increased its engagement with the Taliban. What is India's stance on recognizing the Taliban? Answer: India has so far refused to recognize the Taliban's "Islamic Emirate," urging the group to respect hum... Read More...

Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award: A Tribute to Waheeda Rehman

Sep 27, 2023

Lifetime Excellence:The Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the pinnacle of Indian cinema awards, honors Waheeda Rehman's over five decades of stellar contributions to Indian films. Iconic Roles:Known for her unforgettable performances in classics like "Pyaasa," "Guide," and "Saheb Biwi Aur Ghulam," she has set a high benchmark for acting talent. Extensive Filmography:With more than 90 films to her name, her career is both expansive and impactful. Multiple Honors:Apart from this lifetime achievement award, she has received a National Film Award and the prestigious Padma... Read More...

"Climate Crisis & Emerging Disease Patterns: A One Health Approach"

Sep 27, 2023

Hot Topics: Climate Change & Infection Risks The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) warns that climate change amplifies the global risk of infectious diseases, altering transmission cycles and increasing human vulnerability. Vector Chaos: Unpredictable Outbreaks Climate variabilities like temperature, precipitation, and humidity are reshaping the behavior and distribution of disease vectors like mosquitoes, leading to unpredictable outbreaks of diseases like Dengue. Human-Animal Conflict: A Pathogenic Exchange Habitat des... Read More...

The Need for Quiet Diplomacy to Clear the Air

Sep 27, 2023

Overview India and Canada have long held differing views on bilateral matters, with a lack of constructive engagement hindering meaningful diplomacy. Issues like Canada's stance on Khalistan and misunderstandings related to governance and laws have been contentious. The Nijjar case has brought these frictions to the forefront, requiring a nuanced approach to mend fences. Historical Context: Khalistan Issue Indian frustrations with Canada concerning the Khalistan issue go back over four decades. Canada's perceived leniency towards Khalista... Read More...