UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Comet Nishimura

Sep 11, 2023

What is a comet? A comet is a celestial object composed primarily of ice, dust, gas, and rocky material. These objects travel through space in highly elliptical orbits, which means they can come relatively close to the Sun and then move far away into the outer regions of the solar system. Comets are often referred to as “dirty snowballs” because of their icy composition. What happens when a comet approaches sun? When a comet approaches the Sun, the heat causes the ices within it to vaporize and release gas and dust. This process cr... Read More...

Differences between meteoroid, a meteor, an asteroid, and a comet:

Sep 11, 2023

1. Meteoroid: • Meteoroids are small rocky or metallic objects that range in size from a grain of sand to a few meters across. • They can be found throughout space and are remnants from the formation of the solar system. • Meteoroids become meteors when they enter Earth’s atmosphere and create a streak of light due to friction. 2. Meteor: • A meteor is a meteoroid that has entered Earth’s atmosphere and is burning u... Read More...

Genetically Modified (GM) Mustard For and Against

Sep 11, 2023

For Genetically Modified (GM) Mustard: Increased Productivity: Proponents argue that GM mustard, specifically the Dhara Mustard Hybrid (DMH-11), has the potential to significantly increase mustard crop yields. This could help address the low productivity issues currently faced in India's mustard cultivation. Reduced Import Dependency: India imports a significant amount of edible oils, and GM mustard could reduce this dependency by increasing domestic mustard oil production. This can potentially save foreign exchange and boost self-sufficien... Read More...

G20 New Delhi Summit Scorecard: Navigating Global Challenges!

Sep 11, 2023

Introduction: The G20 New Delhi Summit, hosted by India Read More...

electronic-waste-ewaste-overview

Sep 11, 2023

Electronic waste, often referred to as eWaste, encompasses discarded electronic devices and equipment, including mobile phones, laptops, televisions, and more. These devices contain various valuable materials, components, and precious metals, but when not disposed of properly, they pose environmental and health risks. Threats from eWaste: Environmental Impact: Inappropriate disposal and recycling methods can lead to the release of hazardous chemicals and pollutants, contaminating soil and water sour... Read More...

Orphan Diseases

Sep 11, 2023

Orphan diseases, often referred to as rare diseases, are medical conditions that occur very infrequently within a population. The most common definition of a rare disease is when its prevalence rate is one case in a population of 10,000 people. These diseases are called "orphans" for several reasons: Rarity: They are rare, making them challenging to diagnose, especially for young medical practitioners who may not have encountered cases. Limited Research: Historically, there ... Read More...

Chandrayaan-3 and Vikram:Soft Landing on Moon Explained

Sep 11, 2023

A soft landing is a controlled and gentle touchdown of a spacecraft or lander on the surface of a celestial body, such as the Moon, Mars, or another planet. The primary objective of a soft landing is to ensure that the spacecraft or lander reaches its destination with minimal impact and without causing damage to its scientific instruments or the celestial body's surface. Here's how a soft landing is typically managed: Descent Profile: Mission planners calculate a precise descent trajectory that allows the spacecraft to gradually reduce its velocity as it approaches the celestial body. Th... Read More...

New Delhi Declaration:Food Security,Finance,Climate Change,Women-led Growth

Sep 11, 2023

Title: "Global Commitments and Resolutions for a Sustainable Future" In a world facing multiple challenges, world leaders came together to address critical issues and commit to a shared vision for a sustainable future. Here are the key highlights of their resolutions: Nuclear Disarmament: The international community firmly declared the inadmissibility of using or threatening to use nuclear weapons. They reaffirmed their commitment to UN Charter principles in order to maintain peace and security. Read More...

Sedition Law and the Current Debate

Sep 11, 2023

Sedition Law: The sedition law, Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), dates back to 1860 when India was under British colonial rule. It criminalizes acts that are seen as an attempt to bring hatred or contempt towards the government or to incite violence against it. The Good: Maintaining Order: Supporters argue that the sedition law helps maintain public order and prevents actions that could lead to violence, rebellion, or secession. Read More...

Rudra Veena Maestro Ustad Ali Zaki Hader Died

Sep 11, 2023

Ustad Ali Zaki Hader, a renowned Rudra veena exponent, passed away in New Delhi at the age of 50. He was a prominent figure in the world of classical music, particularly known for his expertise in the Khandarbani style of the Jaipur Beenkar gharana of Dhrupad. Artistic Legacy: Hader was a disciple of Ustad Asad Ali Khan and had the honor of being the last exponent of the Khandarbani style. He was also Ustad Asad Ali Khan's nephew, as his mother was the sister of the renowned Ustad. Ustad Asad Ali Khan adopted him as his son and began training him from the age of four. This close mentorship a... Read More...

Shadow Banks in India

Sep 09, 2023

What are Shadow Banks? Shadow banks, also known as Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), are financial institutions that provide services similar to traditional banks, such as lending and investment, but operate outside the regulatory framework of traditional banking. They are called "shadow banks" because they operate in the shadows of the traditional banking system without the same level of regulatory oversight. Why are They Called Shadow Banks? Shadow banks are termed as such because they perform banking-like activities but are... Read More...

Gig Economy and Its Challenges in India

Sep 09, 2023

Q: What is the gig economy and why are gig workers in India facing challenges? A: The gig economy is a work arrangement where individuals take on short-term or freelance jobs, known as “gigs,” instead of traditional long-term employment. This model offers flexibility and is common in sectors like food delivery and ride-sharing. However, a study by the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) found that food delivery workers in India are earning less in 2022 compared to 2019. The average monthly income has fallen, and workers are working longer hours to compensate. The reduced income is attributed to f... Read More...

Sahay-GeM Ecosystem

Sep 09, 2023

What is GeM? GeM, the Government e-Marketplace, is a pioneering platform launched in 2016 to facilitate transparent and efficient e-procurement of commonly used goods and services by government entities, public sector units, and states. It connects buyers and sellers, streamlining the procurement process. The Sahay-GeM Ecosystem is a cutting-edge digital platform that empowers sellers within the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) to access unsecured, short-tenure loans, known as Sahay Loans. This innovative initiative seamlessly connects willing sellers with willing lenders, foster... Read More...

Invasive Alien Species: A Global Threat to Biodiversity and Beyond

Sep 09, 2023

What are invasive alien species? Invasive alien species are non-native organisms that have been introduced to new environments either through global trade, travel, or climate change. These species often outcompete native species, leading to biodiversity loss, disruptions in food supply chains, and potential public health risks. How do invasive alien species impact biodiversity? Invasive alien species pose a severe threat to local biodiversity by displacing native species. They contribute to the majority of... Read More...

ASEAN-India Summit and East Asia Summit

Sep 09, 2023

1. What is the ASEAN-India Summit? The ASEAN-India Summit is a high-level meeting between leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member countries and India. It aims to enhance cooperation and strengthen bilateral relations on various fronts, including trade, security, and regional integration. 2. What is the East Asia Summit (EAS)? The East Asia Summit (EAS) is a regional forum comprising 18 member countries, including ASEAN member states, Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Russia, and the United S... Read More...