UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Senior Advocate:Basics

Sep 09, 2024

Senior Advocate:Basics In India, the designation of “Senior Advocate” is a prestigious honor given to lawyers who have demonstrated exceptional skill, experience, and standing in the legal profession. The laws and regulations governing Senior Advocates in India are primarily derived from the Advocates Act, 1961, and the rules framed by the Bar Council of India (BCI) and various High Courts. KEY PROVISIONS AND GUIDELINES FOR SENIOR ADVOCATES 1. Advocates Act, 1961: • Section 16: The Act distinguishes between two classes of advocates: Senior Advocates and other Advocates. Sen... Read More...

BAR COUNCIL OF INDIA

Sep 09, 2024

BAR COUNCIL OF INDIA The Bar Council of India (BCI) is the apex statutory body responsible for regulating the legal profession and legal education in India. Established under the Advocates Act, 1961, the BCI’s functions include setting standards for legal education, granting recognition to law schools, and ensuring ethical conduct among practicing lawyers. The BCI also has the power to take disciplinary action against advocates who violate professional ethics. STRUCTURE OF THE BAR COUNCIL OF INDIA 1. Composition: • The BCI is composed of members elected from among the State Bar Councils, with eac... Read More...

T.V. Somanathan Takes Charge as New Cabinet Secretary of India

Sep 09, 2024

T.V. Somanathan Takes Charge as New Cabinet Secretary of India Q: Who is T.V. Somanathan? A: T.V. Somanathan is a distinguished Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the 1987 batch of the Tamil Nadu cadre. He recently took over as the Cabinet Secretary of India following the superannuation of Rajiv Gauba. Q: What is T.V. Somanathan's educational background? A: T.V. Somanathan holds a PhD in Economics from Calcutta University and has completed the Executive Development Program at Harvard Business School. He also holds professional qualifications as a Chartered Accountant, Cost Accoun... Read More...

Law Commission of India

Sep 09, 2024

Law Commission of India It is a non-statutory , not based on an Act of Parliament, body established by the Government of India to work towards legal reform and development. Its primary function is to recommend legislative changes and reforms to improve and modernize India’s legal system. The Law Commission’s role is advisory, and its recommendations are not binding, but they have historically played a significant role in shaping Indian law. HISTORY AND ESTABLISHMENT The Law Commission of India was first established in 1955. Since then, it has been reconstituted multiple times, with each commission typically havin... Read More...

POKKALI RICE CULTIVATION

Sep 09, 2024

POKKALI RICE CULTIVATION What is Pokkali rice? Pokkali is a traditional rice variety cultivated in the coastal regions of Kerala, India. It is known for its salinity tolerance and organic cultivation method, which integrates rice farming with prawn culture in a unique seasonal rotation system. Where is Pokkali rice grown? Pokkali rice is grown in about 5000 hectares across Alappuzha, Kottayam, Thrissur, and Ernakulam districts in Kerala, Southern India. How is Pokkali rice cultivated? The cultivation cycle of Pokkali rice involves growing rice from June to ea... Read More...

CONCERNS ABOUT INDIA’S E-COMMERCE BOOM: SIMPLIFIER

Sep 09, 2024

CONCERNS ABOUT INDIA’S E-COMMERCE BOOM: SIMPLIFIER 1. Why is Piyush Goyal concerned about the growth of e-commerce in India? • Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is worried that the rapid expansion of e-commerce could lead to significant social disruption, especially for traditional retail sectors. He questions whether the long-term dominance of e-commerce is truly in India’s best interest. 2. What is predatory pricing, and why is it a problem? • Predatory pricing refers to the practice of selling goods at extremely low prices to capture market share, which Goyal argues is harmful to small r... Read More...

POLIO & ITS ERADICATION

Sep 07, 2024

POLIO & ITS ERADICATION What is Polio? Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a highly infectious viral disease that primarily affects children under the age of 5. The virus attacks the nervous system, which can lead to paralysis, respiratory issues, and, in severe cases, death. The virus spreads primarily through contact with fecal matter from an infected person or through contaminated water or food. How Was Polio in the Past? Polio has been a significant global health threat for centuries. Historical records, such as ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics, depict victims with withered limbs due to polio. The disease was especia... Read More...

Spoils System in the USA

Sep 07, 2024

Spoils System in the USA Definition The spoils system, also known as patronage, is a practice where a political party, after winning an election, gives government jobs to its supporters, friends, and relatives as a reward for working toward victory, and as an incentive to keep working for the party. This system contrasts with hiring and promotion based on merit. Origin The term "spoils system" originated from the phrase "to the victor belong the spoils" by New York Senator William L. Marcy in 1832, reflecting the practice of the winning party distributing public offices. Its impl... Read More...

Lateral Entry in Civil Services: Pros and Cons

Sep 07, 2024

Lateral Entry in Civil Services: Pros and Cons Arguments For Arguments Against Need for specialized expertise: Lateral entry can bring in experts with specific skills and knowledge that may not be readily available within the existing civil service. Undermines meritocracy and fairness: Critics argue that lateral entry bypasses the rigorous selection process of the civil services examination, potentially favoring individuals with connections over those with merit. Policymaking benefits: Specialists can provide valuable insights and fresh persp... Read More...

Dahi Handi: A Playful Tradition Celebrating Lord Krishna's Birth

Sep 07, 2024

Dahi Handi: A Playful Tradition Celebrating Lord Krishna's Birth Q: What is Dahi Handi and how is it celebrated? A: Dahi Handi, also known as Gopal Kala or Utlotsavam, is a vibrant and energetic event celebrated in India, particularly in Maharashtra, during the Hindu festival of Krishna Janmashtami. It commemorates the playful childhood antics of Lord Krishna, who was known for his love of butter and curd. The highlight of the celebration involves a clay pot (handi) filled with curd, butter, or other milk-based treats, suspended high above the ground. Teams of young men and women, called Govindas, form h... Read More...

PACIFIC ISLANDS FORUM TONGA SUMMIT 2024: OUTCOMES AND SIGNIFICANCE

Sep 07, 2024

PACIFIC ISLANDS FORUM TONGA SUMMIT 2024: OUTCOMES AND SIGNIFICANCE Q: What is the Pacific Islands Forum? A: The Pacific Islands Forum is a political and economic policy organization founded in 1971. It consists of 18 member countries from the Pacific region, including Australia, New Zealand, and various Pacific island nations. The forum facilitates cooperation and coordination among member states, addressing regional issues such as economic development, climate change, and security. Q: What were the main outcomes of the 2024 Pacific Islands Forum? A: The 2024 Forum saw several significa... Read More...

BioE3 Policy and Biomanufacturing: FAQs

Sep 07, 2024

BioE3 Policy and Biomanufacturing: FAQs Q: What is the BioE3 policy, and what are its main objectives? A: BioE3, which stands for "Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment," is a new policy initiative by the Indian government aimed at boosting the biotechnology manufacturing sector. The policy's primary goals are to promote domestic production of bio-based products, reduce reliance on imports, and create jobs in this emerging field. Q: What specific areas does the BioE3 policy target? A: The policy focuses on six key verticals: bio-based chemicals and enzymes, functional foods and smart p... Read More...

State Election Commissions (SECs) in India

Sep 07, 2024

State Election Commissions (SECs) in India Q1: What is the State Election Commission? A1: The State Election Commission (SEC) is an autonomous constitutional authority established to administer elections to the local self-government bodies, which include Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies, across states in India. Q2: Why were State Election Commissions created? A2: SECs were created following the 73rd and 74th amendments to the Indian Constitution in 1992, aimed at decentralizing power and enhancing the democratic process at the local level. These amendments legally recognized and empowered Local Se... Read More...

INDIA NEEDS A NEW INCOME TAX CODE

Sep 07, 2024

INDIA NEEDS A NEW INCOME TAX CODE Overview India is considering overhauling its Income-Tax Act, 1961, to address the growing complexities and to align the tax system with modern economic realities. This effort is part of a broader initiative to simplify tax laws, enhance taxpayer services, and ensure a more effective and transparent taxation system. Why is a New Income-Tax Act Needed? 1. Reducing Complexities: • The existing Income-Tax Act, 1961, has over 1,000 sub-sections and clauses, making it highly complex and difficult to navigate. • Simplifying the tax... Read More...

OCEN and Financial Inclusion: Simplifier

Sep 07, 2024

OCEN and Financial Inclusion: Simplifier What is OCEN? What is OCEN lending? OCEN (Open Credit Enablement Network) is a digital framework aimed at making lending in India more accessible,particularly for individuals and small businesses who may have limited access to traditional financial services. It acts as a bridge between borrowers, lenders, and lending service providers (LSPs) by creating a standardized way for them to interact and share information. OCEN establishes a set of rules and standards for communication in the lending process. It simplifies how d... Read More...