UPSC Daily Current Affairs

General Studies Governance

Sep 07, 2023

State Capacity in India: An Overview Definition: State capacity in India pertains to the government's ability in formulating and executing policies, as well as rendering public services effectively. Key Examples Demonstrating State Capacity: Technological Prowess: Aadhaar Program: A monumental initiative aimed at endowing over a billion citizens with a uniqu... Read More...

General Studies

Sep 07, 2023

Governance Whole of Government Approach in India: An Integrated Strategy Definition: The "Whole of Government Approach" underscores a synergized strategy that calls for the collective efforts of diverse government agencies and departments. This approach is aimed at addressing intricate challenges by ensuring seamless coordination. Core Principles: Collaborative efforts of multiple governmental units. ... Read More...

Ethics and Integrity

Sep 07, 2023

Introduction: Business ethics is the lens through which corporate behavior is assessed, especially in the context of profit-making, keeping in view its overarching influence on society. Key Pillars of Business Ethics: Corporate Governance: Ensures accountability and fairness in all transactions, safeguarding stakeholders' rights. Transparency: Encourages open communication, promoting trust between a business and its stakeholders. Read More...

Ethics and Integrity Bioethics

Sep 07, 2023

Introduction: Bioethics is a specialized field delving into the ethical issues presented by emerging biological and medical advancements. This domain becomes increasingly significant as innovations challenge our conventional moral compass. Core Issues in Bioethics: Genetic Engineering: Key Question: Should we permit the engineering of custom-designed babies? Implications: This touches on issues of human autonomy, socio-... Read More...

Ethics and Integrity

Sep 07, 2023

Environmental Ethics: Evaluating the Human Impact on Nature Introduction: Environmental ethics delves into the ethical relationship between humans and the ecosystem, analyzing the moral dimensions of our activities and their ramifications on the environment. Central Themes and Concerns: Anthropocentrism vs. Biocentrism: Anthropocentrism: The perspective that sees nature primarily for its utility... Read More...

Ethics and Integrity Spiritual Quotient (SQ)

Sep 07, 2023

Understanding Spiritual Quotient (SQ) and Its Significance in Indian Leadership What is SQ? The Spiritual Quotient (SQ) is about understanding deeper values and connections in life. It's about our inner self and the world around us. Why is SQ Important for Leaders, especially in India? Seeing the Bigger Picture: Leaders with SQ, like Mahatma Gandhi, always looked at the broader goals. They think about the welfare of everyone and not just imm... Read More...

Ethics and Integrity

Sep 07, 2023

AI Autonomy:Challenges Ahead

Sep 07, 2023

AI Autonomy: Navigating the Future Landscape of Human-Machine Coexistence Defining AI Autonomy: Core Concept: AI autonomy refers to the capability of AI systems to operate without human intervention, making decisions based on their programming, learning, and data processing. Dimensions of AI Autonomy: Decision-making: AI systems with high autonomy can take decisions independently, without human input. They're based on algorithms, ... Read More...

Ethics and Integrity

Sep 07, 2023

Digital Ethics: Navigating the Virtual Realm Responsibly Definition of Digital Ethics: Core Concept: Digital Ethics revolves around the values and practices that guide behavior, decisions, and actions in the digital realm. It encompasses the moral dilemmas posed by technological advances and our responsibilities as users, creators, and administrators of digital tools and platforms. Key Pillars of Digital Ethics: Privacy: Respecting and protecting personal information and user data. Consent, d... Read More...

Ethics and Integrity

Sep 07, 2023

The Price of Honesty: Value and Consequences Definition of Honesty: Core Concept: Honesty is the quality of being truthful, sincere, and free from deceit or fraud. It's a moral virtue that guides an individual's actions, ensuring they remain in line with truth and integrity. The Value of Honesty: Trustworthiness: Honesty builds trust in personal and professional relationships, serving as the foundation for meaningful connectio... Read More...

Happy Raksha Bandhan Day

Sep 06, 2023

History and Sociology of Raksha Bandhan History of Raksha Bandhan Q: What is the history of Raksha Bandhan? A: Raksha Bandhan finds its origins in ancient India and is woven into historical and mythological narratives. One such tale revolves around Lord Krishna and Draupadi, where Krishna protected Draupadi by providing her with an endless cloth. Another legend features Rajput queen Karnavati sending a rakhi to Emperor Humayun for protection. These stories epitomize the festival's essence of care and saf... Read More...

BRICS Bloc: Expansion, Impact, and Future Prospects

Sep 06, 2023

Understanding the Evolving Dynamics of Emerging Economies What is the BRICS bloc? BRICS is an association of five major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Its objectives include reforming global financial structures, supporting inclusive growth, promoting regional trade, and fostering South-South cooperation. How has the BRICS bloc expanded recently? The BRICS bloc has recently added six new countries: Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, often ... Read More...

Non-Tariff Barriers: A Primer

Sep 06, 2023

Non-tariff barriers (NTBs) are policy measures, other than tariffs, that restrict international trade. While they can take many forms, their main effect is to make imports more expensive or to limit their quantity. Let's explore NTBs with a few examples, both from the Indian context and other countries: Standards and Regulations: Countries might set strict standards for product quality or safety. For instance, India's exports of certain food items face challenges in the EU due to high pesticide levels. Similarly, the EU's strict standards for toys, electrical equipment, and other goo... Read More...

Primer on Cloud Seeding

Sep 06, 2023

Cloud seeding is a form of weather modification that aims to enhance precipitation by introducing agents into clouds to stimulate the precipitation process. Here's a concise overview: What is Cloud Seeding? It involves the dispersion of substances (like silver iodide, potassium iodide, or crushed dry ice (solid carbon dioxide)) into the air that act as cloud condensation or ice nuclei. These particles encourage the growth of larger cloud droplets, eventually leading to precipitation. How is it done? Read More...

EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and India's Challenge at the WTO

Sep 06, 2023

What is the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)? The CBAM is a proposed tariff that the European Union plans to impose on imports of goods that are associated with high carbon emissions. The aim is to discourage carbon-intensive production methods outside the EU, to prevent 'carbon leakage' (where companies relocate production to regions with laxer emissions regulations), and to promote greener practices. How Much is the Proposed Tariff? The EU's proposal is to impose tariffs ranging from 20% to 35% on imports of hig... Read More...