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DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 8th February 2025

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) DISCOVERY OF POTASH RESERVES Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ECONOMY Context: Punjab Mining Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal said the government will explore potash mining in Fazilka and Sri Muktsar Sahib districts, where surveys previously detected large mineral reserves in three mining blocks. Background: – Surveys of the Geological Survey of India (GSI) have also identified reserves in parts of Rajasthan. These findings highlight the potential for potash mining in both states, reducing India’s dependence on imports and bolstering the domestic fertilizer industry. Key takeaways Potash refers to potassium-bearing minerals that are primarily used in fertilisers. Over 90% of potash is used as fertilizer and it is one of the three primary agricultural nutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium or N-P-K).  While all potash fertilizers contain potassium there are a number of different forms in which it exists. Among these forms is Sulphate of Potash (SOP), a premium potash fertilizer that is free of chloride (a compound considered harmful to plants). On the other hand, Muriate of Potash or MOP contains some chloride.  While SOP is used primarily on high-value crops, usually leafy plants, fruits and vegetables, MOP is commonly used on carbohydrate-type crops, such as wheat. Where were potash reserves found? Punjab is now the second state after Rajasthan to have significant potash reserves. In Rajasthan, potash deposits were mainly found in the northwestern Nagaur-Ganganagar basin. According to the National Mineral Inventory (NMI) database, the total potash resources are estimated at 23,091 million tonnes in 2020. Rajasthan alone contributes 89% to the total resources. However, despite having substantial reserves, exploration and extraction have been delayed. So far, India has not engaged in potash mining.  As of now, the country is completely dependent on imports. Source: Indian Express DUNKI ROUTES Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: A US military aircraft carrying 104 deported Indian nationals landed at Amritsar airport on 5th February 2025. According to the deportees, they spent between Rs 30 lakh and Rs 1 crore in expenses and agent fees in their efforts to reach the US, mostly through what is known as the “dunki route”. Background: – The Trump administration has identified about 20,000 Indian illegal immigrants as part of its mass deportation plan. Indians comprise about 725,000 illegal migrants — the biggest group outside of Central and Latin America. Key takeaways “Dunki” or “donkey journey” refers to the long-winding, often dangerous routes that people across the world take to reach the places they want to immigrate to. These difficult journeys are undertaken due to a lack of requisite legal permits or financial resources. The American authorities have deported those who have taken this illegal route to reach America. Deportation is the process of removing a non-citizen for violating immigration law.  According to the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report, Honduras, Mexico, Guatemala, and El Salvador remain top countries where citizens are deported or repatriated from the US. However, India figures above China and almost equals Brazil. India Government’s reaction After the deportation of the illegal migrants from the USA, the Indian government said that it is considering enacting a new law, tentatively titled ‘Overseas Mobility (Facilitation and Welfare) Bill, 2024’, to establish an enabling framework which will promote “safe, orderly and regular migration for overseas employment”. There is a pressing need for comprehensive legislative overhaul to replace the outdated provisions of the Emigration Act 1983. The ministry said that Indian missions/consulates spread awareness amongst emigrants and issued advisories for prospective emigrants. These awareness activities such as advisories equip emigrants with information on safe migration practices, registered recruiting agents, valid foreign jobs, and ways to avoid fraudulent recruiting agencies. Source: Indian Express ARTICLE 200 Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – POLITY Context: The Supreme Court questioned Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi’s decision to withhold assent to some Bills presented to him by state legislature and said “he seems to have adopted his own procedure”. Background: On November 13, 2023, the Governor R.N. Ravi had declared that he was withholding assent on 10 bills passed by the Tamil Nadu state assembly. Subsequently, the assembly convened a special session on November 18, 2023, and re-enacted the same bills. This time, the governor had to proceed to refer all 10 bills to the President for consideration; the President had assented to one Bill, rejected seven and did not consider two proposed laws. The state government argued that the governor’s conduct was that of a political opponent.  Key takeaways While Article 163 of the Constitution deals with the powers of the Governor generally, Article 200 specifically deals with the issue of granting assent to Bills. Both the provisions are read together to determine the contours of the power the Governor holds on this issue. When a Bill passed by the legislature of a state is presented to the Governor, the Governor has four options: (1) grant assent to the Bill; (2) withhold assent to the Bills; (3) return the Bills for reconsideration; or (4) reserve the Bill for the consideration of the President. Article 200 reads: When a Bill has been passed by the Legislative Assembly of a State or, in the case of a State having a Legislative Council, has been passed by both Houses of the Legislature of the State, it shall be presented to the Governor and the Governor shall declare either that he assents to the Bill or that he withholds assent therefrom or that he reserves the Bill for the consideration of the President. However, the Article has a key proviso. It says that the Governor “may, as soon as possible” return Bills other than money Bills, with a message requesting that the House reconsider it in parts or in whole. However, once the Legislative House reconsiders the Bill and sends it to the Governor once again, the Governor “shall not withhold assent therefrom”. An indefinite timeline in deciding on Bills can paralyse the elected government. At the same time, giving assent to Bills is one of the few areas in which the Governor can exercise his discretion. But again, this discretion cannot be used arbitrarily or based on a personal preference, but only in Constitutional terms with cogent reasons. Additionally, Article 200 uses the word “shall” which indicates that the framers of the Constitution intended a mandatory tone for the Governor on this aspect. The Supreme Court in its landmark 2016 ruling in the Arunachal Pradesh Assembly case (Nabam Rebia and Bamang Felix vs Deputy Speaker) discussed this aspect briefly. Source: Indian Express STATES SEEK 50% SHARE IN CENTRAL TAXES Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – POLITY Context: Odisha demanded an increase in states’ share of central taxes to 50 per cent from the existing 41 per cent. Odisha, which has sought Rs 12.59 lakh crore in central taxes for the period 2026-31, joins states such as Gujarat and Tamil Nadu in making the demand. Background: – CM Mohan Charan Majhi, along with senior officers, met the finance commission headed by Arvind Panagariya to seek an increase in its share in central taxes. It also demanded inclusion of cess and surcharge in divisible pool so states can have their share in it. Key takeaways The Finance Commission (FC) is a constitutional body set up under Article 280 of the Constitution to make recommendations on the distribution of resources between the Union and the states.  The First FC was constituted in 1951 and its recommendations covered the five-year period 1952-57. Since then, we have had 15 FCs. Currently the 16th Finance Commission is in office which was constituted in December 2023. The Commission is required to submit its report by October 31, 2025 and would make recommendations for the five-year period starting April 1, 2026. The FC addresses the vertical imbalance arising out of asymmetric assignment of revenues and expenditure between the Union and the states in the Constitution by recommending sharing a proportion of all taxes collected by the Union government with the states (also called devolution). The 13th FC recommended sharing 32% of the divisible pool of resources with the states. The14th FC increased this proportion to 42% while the 15th FC recommended sharing 41% with the states. A number of criteria (with weights) is used for distribution of the shareable tax revenue among states. These are classified under four heads: need (population, area, demographic change), equity (income distance), efficiency/ performance (tax-effort, fiscal discipline, demographic performance), and fiscal disability (forest cover). The 15th FC used 2011 population (with 15% weight), area (15%), forest and ecology (10%), income distance (45%), tax and fiscal efforts (2.5%) and demographic performance (12.5%) for determining inter se shares of states. FCs also recommend grants to states. However, devolution is the dominant component, accounting for 80-85% of total FC transfers. Source: Indian Express CO2 BATTERY Syllabus: Prelims – SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: NTPC announced the launch of CO2 battery energy storage technology – a pioneering step towards sustainable and innovative energy solutions. This cutting-edge project is spearheaded by NETRA, the R&D wing of NTPC, in collaboration with M/s Triveni Turbine Limited and M/s Energy Dome, Italy. Background: – A CO2 Battery with an energy capacity of 160 MWh will be set up at NTPC Kudgi. This initiative is a part of NTPC’s broader strategy to diversify its energy portfolio and enhance renewable power generation.  Key takeaways A CO₂ battery is an innovative energy storage system that utilizes carbon dioxide (CO₂) to store and release electrical energy, offering an alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries. This technology is particularly suited for long-duration energy storage, addressing the intermittency of renewable energy sources like wind and solar. Unlike Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), which operate on electrochemistry, the CO2 Battery is based on specialized electro-mechanical turbomachinery. It functions on a ‘Closed Brayton Thermodynamic Cycle’ using anhydrous CO2 as the process fluid. The charging and discharging of electricity occur by manipulating the physical parameters of CO2 from vapor to liquid state and vice versa. How CO₂ Batteries Work: Energy Storage (Charging): CO₂ gas is compressed, which heats it to approximately 400°C. The heated CO₂ is then cooled through a heat exchanger, allowing it to liquefy. The liquid CO₂ is stored under pressure in specialized containers. Energy Release (Discharging): When electricity is needed, the stored liquid CO₂ is evaporated and passed through the heat exchanger, where it absorbs heat and reverts to a gaseous state. The expanding CO₂ gas drives a turbine, generating electricity. CO₂ is re-captured and reused, creating a closed-loop system. This closed-loop system efficiently stores energy and can release it over extended periods, making it ideal for balancing supply and demand in power grids. Advantages of CO₂ Batteries: Cost-Effectiveness: Utilizing readily available CO₂ and standard industrial components reduces costs compared to lithium-ion batteries. Scalability: The modular design allows for easy scaling to meet various energy storage needs. Environmental Benefits: By using CO₂ in a closed-loop system, these batteries minimize greenhouse gas emissions and offer a sustainable energy storage solution. No requirement for critical minerals like lithium and cobalt. Source: PIB Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs   Q1.) Which of the following correctly describes the sequence of steps in the working of a CO₂ battery? CO₂ gas is compressed, which increases its temperature. The hot CO₂ is then cooled in a heat exchanger, causing it to liquefy and be stored under pressure. When energy is required, the stored liquid CO₂ is evaporated, expands, and drives a turbine to generate electricity. Which option is correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, and 3   Q2.) Regarding Article 200 of the Indian Constitution, which of the following statements is correct? When a bill (other than a money bill) is returned by the Governor for reconsideration with a message, and the Legislature passes it again, the Governor is bound to give his assent. The Governor may withhold assent indefinitely if he does not find the bill personally acceptable. The Governor has the option to either grant assent, withhold assent, return the bill for reconsideration, or reserve the bill for the President’s consideration. Select the correct answer: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3   Q3.) Consider the following statements regarding the devolution of central taxes in India through the Finance Commission: The Finance Commission (FC) is a constitutional body that recommends the sharing of a portion of central taxes with the states, addressing vertical imbalances. The 15th Finance Commission recommended a 41% share of the divisible pool for the states. Several states are demanding an increase in their share from the current level (41%) to 50%. Select the correct answer: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) 2 and 3 only Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’  Today’s – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs ANSWERS FOR  7th February – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – b Q.2) – a Q.3) – b

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 7th February 2025

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) RBI’S REPO RATE CUT Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ECONOMY Context: After holding the repo rate at 6.50 per cent for two years, the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) six-member Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) reduced the key policy rate by 25 basis points (bps) to 6.25 per cent on February 7. Background: – This marks the first repo rate cut in nearly five years and will likely lead to a fall in interest rates and equated monthly instalments (EMIs) on home and personal loans. Key takeaways The repo rate is the interest rate at which the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) lends money to commercial banks. The term “repo” stands for Repurchase Agreement or Repurchasing Option. Mechanism: When commercial banks need funds, they can sell securities to the RBI with an agreement to repurchase them at a predetermined price. The difference between the sale and repurchase price is the interest charged, which is the repo rate. The main reason behind the repo rate cut is to stimulate economic growth by making borrowing cheaper, leading to increased spending and investment, ultimately supporting job creation and employment. How might the repo rate cut impact the economy? All external benchmark lending rates (EBLR) — lending rates set by the banks based on external benchmarks such as the repo rate — will come down by 25 bps, giving relief to borrowers as their equated monthly instalments (EMIs) will also fall.  Lenders may also reduce interest rates on loans that are linked to the marginal cost of fund-based lending rate (MCLR, or the minimum lending rate below which a bank is not allowed to lend), where the full transmission of a 250-bps hike in the repo rate between May 2022 and February 2023 has not happened. EMIs on home and vehicle loans will come down, making it easier for individuals to repay their debts.  A lower repo rate makes borrowing cheaper for individuals and businesses, which can lead to increased spending and investment, thereby boosting economic growth. However, a lower repo rate can lead to higher inflation, as increased money supply and lower interest rates can drive up prices. It can reduce the interest earned on savings, making it less attractive for individuals to save. Source: Indian Express MARINE HEATWAVES (MHWs) Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ENVIRONMENT Context: The marine heatwaves (MHWs) linked to the death of more than 30,000 fish off the coastal Western Australia in January were made up to 100 times more likely to occur due to climate change. Background: – The MHWs began in September 2024 and are still ongoing in the region. The current MHWs are the second-worst in Western Australia’s recorded history. The region saw its most intense MHWs during the 2010–11 summer, when temperatures soared to 5 degrees Celsius above average. Key takeaways A marine heatwave occurs when the surface temperature of a particular region of the sea rises to 3 or 4 degrees Celsius above the average temperature for at least five days.  MHWs can last for weeks, months or even years. A 2021 report by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) said MHWs have increased by 50% over the past decade and now last longer and are more severe. MHWs have been recorded in surface and deep waters, across all latitudes, and in all types of marine ecosystems, the report said. Why have marine heatwaves intensified? The primary reason is the climate crisis. As global temperatures have soared to 1.3 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial levels, 90% of the extra heat has been absorbed by the ocean.  Global mean SST increased close to 0.9 degrees Celsius since 1850, and the rise over the last four decades is around 0.6 degrees Celsius. As a result, MHWs have become more frequent, long-lasting, and severe. Impact Of Marine Heatwaves MHWs can be devastating for marine life. For example, the 2010-11 MHWs in Western Australia caused large-scale fish kills. It also destroyed klep forests and fundamentally altered the ecosystem of the coast. Kelps usually grow in cooler waters, providing habitat and food for many marine animals. These heatwaves contribute to coral bleaching, which reduces the reproductivity of corals and makes them more vulnerable. Thousands of marine animals depend on coral reefs for survival and damage to corals could, in turn, threaten their existence. Source: Indian Express RISING TENSIONS IN THE GREAT LAKES REGION Syllabus: Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: Days after the capture of Goma, M23 rebels and allied Rwandan forces have launched a new offensive in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Background: The ongoing insurgency in the DRC, which is the continuation of protracted turmoil and insecurity that has plagued the region for generations, is intertwined with the region’s geography and resources. Key takeaways The Great Lakes Region of Africa The Great Lakes Region of Africa, located in East and Central Africa, is a series of lakes in and around the East African Rift Valley.  This network of large freshwater lakes in the heart of Africa is endowed with various natural resources, which give the East African Rift Valley a unique ecology and socioeconomic significance.  These lakes include Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika, Lake Malawi, Lake Albert, Lake Kivu and Lake Edward. They are surrounded by ten riparian states that include Burundi, the DRC, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.  Most of them have a traumatic past, while violent conflict is endemic in the region. The resource curse—whereby abundant natural wealth spurs conflict and corruption—is a recurring theme. Source: Indian Express WESTERN DISTURBANCE Syllabus: Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: A significant temperature drop has been observed across North India due to a western disturbance currently positioned over North Pakistan, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported. Background: – The system is gradually moving eastward, impacting weather patterns in the region. Key takeaways Western Disturbances are extratropical storm systems that originate over the Mediterranean Sea/ Caspian Sea region. These systems travel eastward across the Middle East into the Indian subcontinent, particularly affecting the northern and northwestern parts of India during the winter months (November to April). Meteorological Features: Moisture Transport: They carry moisture from the Mediterranean, which, upon interacting with the Himalayan barrier, leads to cloud formation and precipitation. Weather Impact: In the plains of northern India, they cause light to moderate rainfall, while in the higher reaches of the Himalayas, they result in significant snowfall. Agricultural and Hydrological Importance: Winter Rainfall: The rainfall from Western Disturbances is critical for replenishing soil moisture and supporting the rabi (winter) cropping season. Crops such as wheat, barley, and mustard benefit from the moisture provided by these systems. Snowfall Contribution: Snowfall in the Himalayas not only supports winter tourism and local ecosystems but also plays a crucial role in feeding the major rivers during the melt season, which is vital for agriculture and water supply in the summer. Source: DD News MARSUPIALS Syllabus: Prelims – ENVIRONMENT Context: Australian scientists have produced the world’s first kangaroo embryo through in vitro fertilisation (IVF), a breakthrough they say could help save other species from extinction. Background: – The feat provides important insights into marsupial breeding and could aid efforts to improve the genetic diversity of endangered species such as the koala, Tasmanian devil, northern hairy-nosed wombat and Leadbeater’s possum. Key takeaways Marsupials are a group of mammals characterized by premature birth and continued development of their young in a pouch (marsupium). They belong to the infraclass Marsupialia under the class Mammalia. Unlike placental mammals, marsupials give birth to underdeveloped young, which then crawl into the mother’s pouch to continue development. Global Distribution: Australia & Nearby Islands – The largest diversity of marsupials, including kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and Tasmanian devils. South America – Home to species like the opossum. North America – The Virginia Opossum is the only marsupial found in the wild. Marsupials in Evolution & Biogeography: They diverged from placental mammals around 160 million years ago. Australia’s long geographic isolation led to the dominance of marsupials over placental mammals. Convergent Evolution – Many marsupials resemble placental mammals due to similar ecological niches (e.g., the marsupial mole vs. placental mole). Conservation & Ecological Importance: Many marsupial species face threats due to habitat destruction, invasive species, and climate change. Conservation efforts in Australia focus on predator control (feral cats, foxes) and habitat restoration. Marsupials play key ecological roles as herbivores, pollinators, and prey species in their ecosystems. Marsupials are considered strong evidence of continental drift, particularly in the context of the breakup of the supercontinent Gondwana. Source: BBC Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs   Q1.) The Great Lakes Region of Africa, frequently in the news, includes which of the following lakes? Lake Victoria Lake Baikal Lake Tanganyika Lake Malawi Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1, 3, and 4 only (c) 2, 3, and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4   Q2.) With reference to Western Disturbances, consider the following statements: Western Disturbances originate over the Mediterranean Sea and move eastward toward the Indian subcontinent. They are most active during the summer monsoon season in India. Western Disturbances are responsible for winter rainfall in North India and snowfall in the Western Himalayas. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1, 2, and 3   Q3.) Consider the following statements regarding Marine Heatwaves (MHWs): A Marine Heatwave is defined as a sea surface temperature rise of at least 1°C above the average for three consecutive days. MHWs have been increasing in frequency and intensity due to global warming. They contribute to coral bleaching, marine biodiversity loss, and ecosystem disruptions. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, and 3 Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’  Today’s – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs ANSWERS FOR  5th February – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – a Q.2) – a Q.3) – a

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 8th February 2025

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂 After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions. .To take the Test Click Here

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 6th February 2025

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂 After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions. .To take the Test Click Here

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 5th February 2025

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) PINEAPPLE EXPRESS Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – GEOGRAPHY Context: Following an unusually dry January, a powerful atmospheric river known as the ‘Pineapple Express’ has been sweeping through northern and central California, bringing periods of strong winds, heavy rain, and snowfall in the hills. Background: – Pineapple Express gets its name from the warm, moist air drawn into the system, originating near Hawaii, a region known for its pineapple production. Key takeaways Pineapple Express is a type of atmospheric river— a narrow, fast-moving “river in the sky” that transports significant moisture over long distances. The warm air and high humidity it carries from the Pacific lead to heavy rainfall when the system reaches land. The atmospheric rivers are long, narrow bands in the atmosphere that transport vast amounts of water vapour from the tropics. Their size and strength can differ significantly, but on average, they carry a volume comparable to the flow of the Mississippi River at its mouth. Exceptionally strong atmospheric rivers can transport up to 15 times that amount. When atmospheric rivers make landfall, they typically release this moisture as rain or snow, often covering a vast region as they move inland. The atmospheric rivers in the sky occur often on the West Coast but can happen in other locations, including the eastern United States, where they often channel moisture from the Caribbean.When this moisture begins to interact with land, it can fall as rain or snow.  Although atmospheric rivers come in different shapes and sizes, for one to be a “true Pineapple Express,” location matters. The tail end, where the moisture is pulled into the atmosphere, must start near Hawaii. Then the river must stretch continuously through the atmosphere to the US West Coast. Source: Indian Express INTERNATIONAL BIG CAT ALLIANCE (IBCA) Syllabus: Prelims – ENVIRONMENT Context: The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) has officially come into force as a treaty-based, inter-governmental organisation, becoming a fully functional international legal entity. Background: – The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), acting as the Depository for the Framework Agreement, confirmed that five countries – Nicaragua, Eswatini, India, Somalia, and Liberia – have deposited their instruments of ratification, acceptance, or approval, making them the founding members of the IBCA. Key takeaways The IBCA was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 9, 2023, during an event commemorating the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger.  The initiative’s main objective is the conservation of seven major big cat species: the Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma. Members: As of now, 27 countries have consented to join, including India, Nicaragua, Eswatini, Somalia, and Liberia. The membership of the IBCA is open to all UN member countries, especially those that host these species, and to non-range countries that are interested in supporting big cat conservation efforts. The IBCA has a framework agreement, and its headquarters is in India. It includes an Assembly of Members, a Standing Committee, and a Secretariat. The Union Cabinet approved a one-time budgetary support of Rs 150 crore for the IBCA for the period from 2023-24 to 2027-28. The IBCA aims to become self-sustaining after the initial five years through membership fees, contributions from bilateral and multilateral organizations, and the private sector. Source: DD News PM SURYA GHAR MUFT BIJLI YOJANA Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: The Union Budget 2025 has increased the allocation for PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (SGMBY) scheme to ₹20,000 crore, a sharp rise from the ₹11,100 crore in the FY25 Revised Estimates (RE) and ₹6,250 crore in the FY25 Budget Estimates (BE). Background: According to Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets, India has committed to reducing the emission intensity of its GDP by 45 percent by 2030 from the 2005 level and achieving about 50 percent cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources by 2030. Key takeaways The Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSG) is a flagship initiative launched by the Government of India with the twin objectives of promoting renewable energy and ensuring affordable electricity access. The scheme aims to install rooftop solar systems in one crore residential households. This is expected to not only reduce household electricity bills (by providing up to 300 units of free electricity per month) but also help reduce the nation’s carbon footprint. Key Components of the Scheme Residential consumers are provided with a subsidy based on their system capacity. For example, for the first 2 kW of rooftop solar capacity, a subsidy of up to 60% (at benchmark costs) is available, while for the next 1 kW (i.e. capacity between 2 and 3 kW), the subsidy is capped at 40% of the additional cost. No subsidy is provided beyond 3 kW capacity. Loan Facilities: In addition to the subsidy, the scheme offers access to collateral-free, low-interest loans for eligible households to finance the installation of rooftop solar systems. National Portal: Applications are processed through a dedicated online portal, where households register using their consumer details and select from a network of government-registered vendors.  Vendor and DISCOM Coordination: The implementation is carried out by registered vendors and coordinated at the state level by Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) or power departments, ensuring that installations meet the technical and quality benchmarks. Model Solar Village Initiative: To further promote renewable energy at the grassroots, the scheme includes establishing one Model Solar Village per district. Who are eligible to apply for the Scheme? The applicant must be an Indian citizen. Must own a house with a roof that is suitable for installing solar panels. The household must have a valid electricity connection. The household must not have availed of any other subsidy for solar panels. Source: Moneycontrol NAVIGATION WITH INDIA CONSTELLATION (NAVIC) Syllabus: Prelims – SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: ISRO reported the partial failure of its NVS-02 navigation satellite due to the non-firing of its engines in space. This was the latest in a series of setbacks suffered by the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), operationally referred to as the Navigation with India Constellation (NavIC) system. Background: – The IRNSS was conceived in 1999 following the war in Kargil, during which India’s military could not use the American Global Positioning System (GPS) in the conflict zone. Key takeaways An indigenous seven-satellite constellation serving both defence and civilian needs was proposed to be put in place by 2016, and the first satellite, IRNSS 1A, was launched on July 1, 2013. Eleven years later, however, only five of the 11 satellites launched in the NavIC program – including replacements for failed satellites – are fully operational. After IRNSS-1A in 2013, the IRNSS-1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, 1G, 1H, 1I, 1J, and 1K were launched between 2014 and January, 2025.  Following the launch of IRNSS-1G, the seventh in the series in 2016, ISRO had said that “the successful launch of the satellite signifies the completion of the IRNSS constellation. What went wrong with the satellites? Mid-2016 onward, there were reports of failures of the rubidium atomic clocks used in several navigation satellites, including ISRO’s IRNSS and the European Space Agency’s (ESA’s) Galileo Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). There are three atomic clocks on each IRNSS satellite. The engine failure on the IRNSS-1K (or NVS-02) launched last month, which has left it in a sub-optimal orbit around Earth, means that six of the 11 IRNSS satellites launched so far have been partial failures. Why is the IRNSS/ NavIC system important for India? The NavIC satellites provide two types of services – Standard Positioning Service which is for general and commercial use, and Restricted Service which is meant for the defence forces – over the Indian landmass and neighbouring regions. The system provides positioning data at all times with position accuracy better than 20 metres during all weather conditions, anywhere within India and a region extending about 1,500 km around India on dual frequencies in L5 and S band. A primary reason to develop an indigenous system like the IRNSS despite the existence of global systems such as the GPS (US), GLONASS (Russia), Galileo (Europe), Beidou (China), and QZSS (Japan), is the reliability that it offers in defence use. For NavIC to become ubiquitous in the Indian subcontinent, ISRO will have to sell its capabilities to general positioning service providers such as mobile phone and vehicle manufacturers, etc. Source: Indian Express POST-QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY Syllabus: Prelims – SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: The timeline for quantum computing’s impact remains debated, with estimates ranging from imminent to 15 years away. Regardless, its rapid computational power poses a major cybersecurity threat, as it can break traditional encryption. This underscores the need for post-quantum cryptography (PQC). Background: – Quantum computers use qubits, which can represent 0, 1, or a combination of both simultaneously, allowing them to process data much faster than traditional computers. This capability makes them a potential tool for mounting lethal cyberattacks if security layers are not prepared. Key takeaways Post-quantum cryptography (PQC) refers to cryptographic algorithms designed to be secure against attacks from quantum computers.  As quantum computers advance, they pose a threat to traditional cryptographic systems such as RSA, ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography), and DH (Diffie-Hellman), which rely on the difficulty of factoring large numbers or solving discrete logarithm problems—both of which quantum computers can efficiently solve using Shor’s algorithm. Threats Posed by Quantum Computing Store Now, Decrypt Later (SNDL) Attack In this attack, adversaries intercept and store encrypted data today with the intention of decrypting it later when quantum computers become powerful enough to break existing cryptographic systems. This is a major concern for long-lived sensitive data (e.g., government communications, financial transactions, military secrets). Even if quantum computers are not yet available, encrypted data stolen today could be compromised in the future. Breaking Public-Key Cryptography Quantum computers can use Shor’s Algorithm to efficiently factor large numbers and solve discrete logarithms, making widely used encryption protocols like RSA, ECC, and Diffie-Hellman obsolete. This threatens secure communications, digital signatures, and online authentication systems. Attacks on Symmetric Cryptography Grover’s Algorithm allows quantum computers to search databases and brute-force encryption keys much faster than classical computers. While symmetric encryption remains relatively secure, its key sizes need to double to maintain the same level of security. Quantum-Enhanced Cyberattacks Quantum computing could enhance AI-driven cyberattacks, allowing faster exploitation of vulnerabilities in software and networks. Quantum machine learning algorithms might optimize phishing, password cracking, or intrusion detection evasion. Quantum Threats to Blockchain and Digital Signatures Cryptographic signatures securing blockchains and cryptocurrencies are vulnerable to quantum attacks. A sufficiently powerful quantum computer could forge digital signatures, allowing an attacker to steal funds or manipulate transactions. Source: Hindustan Times Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs   Q1.) The “Store Now, Decrypt Later” (SNDL) attack in the context of quantum computing refers to: (a) Storing encrypted data today with the aim of decrypting it later using quantum computers. (b) Using quantum computing to break traditional passwords in real time. (c) Developing post-quantum cryptographic algorithms for secure data transmission. (d) Encrypting data with quantum-resistant algorithms to prevent future cyber threats.   Q2.) With reference to the ‘Pineapple Express,’ consider the following statements: It is a type of atmospheric river that originates near the Hawaiian region and transports moisture towards the U.S. West Coast. It is associated with bringing heavy rainfall and snowfall to regions where it makes landfall. The Pineapple Express is unique to the North American region and does not occur elsewhere in the world. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, and 3   Q3.) Consider the following statements regarding the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA): It is an intergovernmental treaty-based organization focused on the conservation of seven big cat species. India is the headquarters of IBCA. Only range countries that host big cat species can become members of IBCA. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, and 3 Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’  Today’s – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs ANSWERS FOR  4th February – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – d Q.2) – b Q.3) – b

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 5th February 2025

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂 After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions. .To take the Test Click Here

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 4th February 2025

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂 After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions. .To take the Test Click Here

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 3rd February 2025

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) THE BUDGET Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ECONOMY Context: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her eighth consecutive Budget on Feb 1st. Background: – Finance Minister lists four engines of development in the Union Budget 2025-26. These are agriculture, MSMEs, investments, and exports. Key takeaways Agriculture The government will promote self-sufficiency in pulses, focusing on the production and procurement of toor, urad, and masur.  Bihar will get a Makhana board, to boost the cultivation and marketing of fox nuts. The people engaged in Makhana cultivation will be organized in FPOs. Bihar accounts for about 85 per cent of the total Makhana production of the country. ‘Rural Prosperity and Resilience’ program will be launched in collaboration with states. This initiative aims to tackle under-employment in agriculture by promoting skill development, investment, technology adoption, and revitalization of the rural economy. The objective is to create abundant opportunities in rural areas, ensuring migration remains a choice rather than a necessity. A National Mission on High Yielding Seeds will be launched. The loan limit under the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme will be enhanced from  Rs. 3 lakh to 5 lakh for loans taken through the KCC. A new scheme for the agriculture sector—Prime Minister Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY). The scheme will be on the lines of Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) and  will be implemented across agriculture districts. MSMEs To help them achieve higher efficiencies of scale, technological upgradation and better access to capital, the investment and turnover limits for classification of all MSMEs will be enhanced. In a boost to credit to Micro industries, the government will provide customised credit cards with limit of Rs 5 lakh under Udyam portal. Building on the National Action Plan for Toys, the government will implement a scheme to make India a global hub for toys – promoting ‘Make in India’ brand. The government will launch the National Manufacturing Mission covering small, medium, and large enterprises for furthering Make in India. The Mission will also support clean tech manufacturing, given India’s commitment to climate-friendly development. Investments Extension of Jal Jeevan Mission until 2028 to obtain 100 percent coverage. The Government will establish a ₹1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund to support initiatives like ‘Cities as Growth Hubs,’ ‘Creative Redevelopment,’ and ‘Water & Sanitation’. The fund will cover up to 25% of viable project costs, requiring at least 50% funding from bonds, bank loans, or PPPs. A Nuclear Energy Mission for research & development of Small Modular Reactors (SMR) with an outlay of Rs. 20,000 crore will be set up. The Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy will be revised to offset cost disadvantages, including Credit Notes for shipbreaking in Indian yards to support the circular economy. Budget announced a ‘Deep Tech Fund of Funds’ for next generation startups and ten thousand PM research fellowships for technological research in IITs and IISc in next 5 years. The 2nd Gene Bank was announced with 10 lakh germplasm lines will be set up for future food and nutritional security. (Supporting both public and private sector.)  Exports Establish an Export Promotion Mission to enhance export credit access and support MSMEs in global markets. BharatTradeNet: Develop a unified digital platform for international trade documentation and financing solutions. Global Supply Chain Integration: Support domestic manufacturing to integrate India’s economy into global supply chains, focusing on Industry 4.0 and youth talent. National Framework for GCC: Create a framework to promote Global Capability Centres in tier 2 cities, focusing on talent and infrastructure. Source: Indian Express CITIZENSHIP LAWS Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – POLITY Context: In the gale of executive orders announced after Trump assumed office for a second term, the President issued one diluting birthright citizenship, which has been written into the U.S. Constitution since 1866. The order has been challenged in court in more than 20 States and a federal judge has temporarily blocked it.  Background: – If implemented, it will mean that children born to illegal immigrants — as well as those legally in the U.S. on temporary visas for study, work or tourism purposes — will not be eligible for automatic U.S. citizenship. At least one parent must now be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident, the order says. Key takeaways The 14th amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which granted citizenship to “all persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof” was enacted in 1866, against the backdrop of the Civil War which had just ended. Trump’s supporters rail against the practice of birth tourism, or anchor babies, where foreign nationals seek to give birth in the U.S., in the hope that those babies will be able to help their families migrate to the country as well. How do citizenship laws vary? The U.S. follows the principle of jus soli (the right of soil), based on geography regardless of parental citizenship, as opposed to jus sanguinis (the right of blood), which gives citizenship based on the nationality of the child’s parents.  There are only 37 countries which currently enforce the jus soli principle, of which 29 are in the Americas. Of the other eight, two are in India’s neighbourhood: Nepal and Pakistan, though the latter introduced a Bill seeking to end this. Jus soli historically allowed colonisers to quickly outnumber native populations as citizens. Countries that have traditionally built their national character through diverse immigrant populations have used jus soli as a way of integrating diversity into the common stream of nationhood.  Countries protective of their culture and identity have generally followed the principle of jus sanguinis.  Jus soli derives from English common law and, until anti-migrant backlash a few decades ago, was implemented in the U.K. and most of its former colonies, including India. India offered automatic citizenship to all those born on Indian soil before 1987. Introducing the Citizenship Bill in Parliament in 1955, then-Home Minister Govind Ballabh Pant said, “The mere fact of birth in India invests with it the right of citizenship in India. We have taken a cosmopolitan view and it is in accordance with the spirit of the times, with the temper and atmosphere which we wish to promote in the civilised world.”  Three decades later, sentiments changed, in the wake of unrest in Assam due to migration from Bangladesh as well as the refugees from Sri Lanka, following the civil war there. “The time has come to tighten up our citizenship laws. We cannot be generous at the cost of our own people, at the cost of our own development,” said P. Chidambaram, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, while introducing the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha in 1986. Source: The Hindu GUNERI INLAND MANGROVES Syllabus: Prelims – ENVIRONMENT Context: The 32.78 hectare area of Guneri village in Lakhtar tehsil of Kutch district, which is a natural inland mangrove site, has been declared as the first Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS) of Gujarat. Background: The announcement has been done under the provisions of The Biodiversity Act, 2002. The Act empowers the state government to notify an area as a BHS after consulting concerned local bodies. Key takeaways Inland mangroves are rare and have been reported from only eight locations across the globe till date. The Guneri inland mangrove site is the last remains of its kind in India. Mangroves are typically sighted at the sea coast which is sludgy and accessed by seawater at least once every day. However, the Guneri mangrove site is located at a distance of 45 km from the Arabian Sea and four km from the Kori Creek, where seawater never approaches. It is also devoid of any sludge, and is spread over a flat piece of land like a forest. The Guneri inland mangroves are presumed to have originated either after the marine transgression which occurred in the area during the Miocene period or on the bank of the lost river (the Saraswati River) in the Great Rann of Kachchh. The Saraswati, a mythological river, is assumed to have once run in the Great Rann of Kachchh during 3000-4000 B.C. Studies have reported that the inland mangroves survive in areas having limestone deposition which connects with the sea bed. The limestone provides a continuous flow of groundwater to the mangrove ecosystem/vegetation.  The Western Kutch and areas surrounding the Guneri mangroves have records of limestone depositions. Source: Indian Express AATMANIRBHARTA IN PULSES Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: Finance Minister has announced the launch of a six-year ‘Mission for Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in Pulses’ with a special focus on tur/arhar (pigeonpea), urad (black gram) and masoor (red lentil). Budget has allocated Rs 1,000 crore towards this scheme, which aims to provide minimum support price (MSP)-based procurement and post-harvest warehousing solutions in respect of the three pulses crops. Background: – India’s pulses imports during April-November 2024 were valued at $3.28 billion, 56.6% higher than the $2.09 billion for the corresponding period of 2023. Key takeaways Domestic pulses production, as per the Agriculture Ministry’s data, increased from 192.55 lt (lakh tonnes) in 2013-14 to 273.02 lt in 2021-22 and 260.58 lt in 2022-23. This was mainly courtesy two crops: chana and moong (green gram). That, in turn, was enabled by the development of short-duration varieties. Traditional chana varieties take 140-150 days to grow from seed to grain, while requiring 1-2 irrigations. The newer varieties can be harvested in 100-120 days, with farmers having to give a single irrigation. They can sow from end-September to mid-October, after harvesting of the kharif (post-monsoon) crop and using the residual moisture left by it in the soil. The breeding breakthroughs is greater in moong, where farmers today take as many as four crops. The first one is during kharif, second is during rabi (winter), third is grown in spring (February-March sowing) and the last one over summer (after April 1-20 sowing). The summer and rabi moong crops mature in 50-60 days, while it is slightly longer (65-75 days) for the kharif and spring varieties. In moong, Indian scientists have bred varieties that are not just short-duration, but also photo-thermo insensitive: Being non-sensitive to temperature or photoperiod (the length of time in a 24-hour period that plants are exposed to light), they can practically be grown anytime and anywhere. Breeding apart, the government has made some concerted effort at MSP procurement of both chana and moong. The Modi government probably wants to replicate the above success story and extend it to other pulses – namely tur/arhar, urad and masoor. The challenge There are growing limitations, particularly in tur/arhar, which was traditionally a 250-270 days crop yielding around 20 quintals/hectare. Breeders brought the duration down to 150-180 days with 15-16 quintals/hectare yields, but that’s still long and low. As a result, tur/arhar is confined largely to the rainfed Marathwada-Vidarbha regions of Maharashtra and northern Karnataka, where farmers have fewer alternative cropping options. Aatmanirbharta in tur/arhar would, perhaps, require development of hybrids maturing within 140-150 days, giving 18-20 quintals/hectare yields and also amenable to mechanical harvesting. The second factor has to do with policy ambiguity. The Modi government wants farmers to expand pulses acreages and plant these nitrogen-fixing leguminous crops, instead of the more water-guzzling cereals or sugarcane. But tur/arhar is now wholesaling at prices lesser than its MSP.  Moreover, the Centre, on January 20, allowed duty-free imports of tur/arhar for an additional year up to March 31, 2026. Imports of most other pulses – matar, masoor, urad and desi (small-sized) chana – are also attracting zero duty. Source: Indian Express SUZETRIGNE Syllabus: Prelims – SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: The US Food and Drug Administration approved a new type of non-opioid painkiller. Although expensive, the medicine is not addictive, unlike commonly used opioid painkillers. The drug, suzetrigine, will be sold under the brand name Journavx, and manufactured by US-based Vertex Pharmaceuticals. Background: – The number of opioid overdoses has increased in recent years in several countries, in part due to the increased availability of opioids used in the management of chronic pain, and also due to increasing use of highly potent opioids appearing on the illicit drug market. Key takeaways What are opioids? Opioids are a class of drugs that “derive from, or mimic, natural substances found in the opium poppy plant”. Some common opioids include oxycodone, morphine, codeine, heroin, and fentanyl. Prescription opioids are primarily used for pain relief. They do so by getting attached to opioid receptors in the brain cells to release signals that block the perception of pain, and boost the feelings of pleasure or euphoria. Although opioids have several benefits and are extremely effective as painkillers, they can be quite addictive. How does suzetrigine work? Pain is essentially a signal from one’s body to the brain that something potentially harmful has happened or is happening to the body. It is meant to prompt a reaction where one avoids further damage. Several body parts are involved in the sensation of pain. First are specialised nerve endings or ‘nocireceptors’ which are widely distributed across the body. Any tissue damage activates these receptors which send electrical signals through the spinal cord to the brain, which then interprets these as pain. Unlike opioids, which numb the sensation of pain in the brain, suzetrigine works by targeting pain signals before they reach the brain. Since suzetrigine does not produce any sensation of pleasure or euphoria, experts believe that the drug could not create addiction or dependence. Source: Indian Express Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs   Q1.) With reference to Citizenship Laws, consider the following statements: Jus soli refers to the right to citizenship based on birthplace, whereas jus sanguinis grants citizenship based on the nationality of one’s parents. Countries emphasizing cultural identity tend to follow jus sanguinis. India granted automatic citizenship to all those born on Indian soil before 1987. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1, 2, and 3   Q2.) Consider the following statements regarding Guneri Inland Mangroves: They are the first Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS) of Gujarat. These mangroves are located near the coastline and are regularly accessed by seawater. The presence of limestone deposits in the region supports the survival of these mangroves. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, and 3   Q3.) Consider the following statements regarding Suzetrigine: It is an opioid painkiller approved by the US FDA. Unlike opioids, it works by targeting pain signals before they reach the brain. It has a high potential for addiction similar to other opioid painkillers. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1, 2, and 3 Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’  Today’s – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs ANSWERS FOR  1st February – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – c Q.2) – c Q.3) – b

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 3rd February 2025

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂 After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions. .To take the Test Click Here

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 1st February 2025

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) ECONOMIC SURVEY FOR 2024-25 Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ECONOMY Context: The Economic Survey for 2024-25 was tabled by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament on Friday.  Background: – The Survey is a report of the state of the Indian economy in the financial year that is coming to a close. It is prepared by the Department of Economic Affairs in the Union Finance Ministry, under the guidance of the Chief Economic Advisor (CEA). Key takeaways from Economic Survey Real Gross Domestic Product, which maps economic activity from the demand side of the economy, in the current financial year (FY25) is pegged at 6.4%; in the coming year (FY26), the Survey expects it to lie between 6.3% and 6.8%. The goal of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ in the 100th year of Independence, the Survey’s authors emphasised, will require about 8% growth for at least a decade — with the investment rate rising from the current rate of 31% of GDP to 35% of GDP. The survey noted that while the labour share of GVA (gross value added) shows a slight uptick, the disproportionate rise in corporate profits — predominantly among large firms — raises concern about income inequality. A higher profit share and stagnant wage growth risk are slowing the economy by curbing demand. The Economic Survey warns that excessive financialisation, driven by rising household savings in the stock market and increased retail investor participation, could harm the economy, especially in a low-middle-income country like India.  It highlights the risk of financial markets dominating policy decisions, making economic growth overly dependent on asset price inflation and leverage, which could widen inequality and unduly influence regulatory policies. India’s equity market has rapidly grown particularly after the pandemic, but its debt market remains undercapitalised, according to the Economic Survey. Corporate bond issuances in India for the period April to December 2024 rose to 7.3 lakh crore rupees. Still, the size of India’s corporate bond market stands at just 18% of the country’s total GDP as against 80% in Korea and 36% in China, the Survey noted. A majority of these funds were gathered by firms through private placements, thus deterring the participation of retail investors. India will need to focus on indigenisation of technology and raw materials as an “urgent task” to achieve the transition to electric mobility, even as the global automobile industry looks to reduce its dependence on China, the Economic Survey said. Pointing towards a decrease in regular jobs, the Survey found that the proportion of self-employed workers in the workforce has risen from 52.2% in 2017-18 to 58.4% in 2023-24. This shift reflects growing entrepreneurial activity and a preference for flexible work arrangements, the Survey claimed. It added that the agriculture sector still remains dominant in employment, with its share rising from 44.1% in 2017-18 to 46.1% in 2023-24. The share of workers (male and female) in regular or salaried jobs decreased from 22.8% to 21.7% during the same period. The decline in casual workers, from 24.9% to 19.8%, also indicates a shift toward more structured forms of self-employment. Micro, Small and Medium-scale Enterprises (MSMEs) that employ 23.24 crore people in the country continue to face challenges in the regulatory environment, the Survey noted. Regulatory compliance burden holds back formalisation and labour productivity, limits employment growth, chokes innovation and depresses growth, it said. There is an observed tendency for MSMEs in India to remain small. So, they lose access to capital, talent, and technology infusion and often operate outside the formal supply chains. This creates a parallel, informal economy, the Survey noted. The logic for staying small often is to remain under the regulatory radar and steer clear of the rules and labour and safety laws. Overexposure to social media, lack of exercise, not spending enough time with one’s family and overwork (hours exceeding 55-60 per week) have all worsened mental well-being among Indians, said the Economic Survey 2024-25. Establishing a link between good mental health and clean eating habits, the Survey noted that individuals who rarely consume ultra-processed or packaged junk food have better mental well-being than those who regularly do so. Source: The Hindu MURDER OF MAHATMA GANDHI Syllabus: Prelims – HISTORY Context: On January 30, 1948, at exactly 5.17 pm, Nathuram Godse fired three shots at Mahatma Gandhi from his Beretta M1934. The Mahatma died on the spot. Background: – During his trial, Godse tried to take sole responsibility for the crime. But his arguments were rejected. Key takeaways A Bench of the Punjab High Court in Shimla in 1949 upheld the convictions and sentences of five people for the larger conspiracy: Godse, his younger brother Gopal, Narayan Apte, Vishnu Karkare, and Madanlal Pahwa. Apart from these five convicts, the other accused were Savarkar, Shankar Kistayya, and Dattatraya Parchure. Digambar Badge confessed to his role in the conspiracy and became an approver in return for a pardon. The conspiracy Godse and Apte conceived of the plan to kill Gandhi in December 1947. The duo left Poona for Bombay on January 13. The same day, Badge, accompanied by his servant, Shankar Kistayya, also left for Bombay with a bag containing two gun-cotton slabs and four hand-grenades. Godse, Apte, and Badge were joined in Bombay by Pahwa and Karkare at the Hindu Mahasabha office, where the plan was chalked out. After some money was raised for the project — ostensibly to help Hindus in Hyderabad — Godse and Apte travelled to Delhi by plane. They stayed at the Marina hotel till January 20. The rest of the conspirators too arrived in Delhi by January 19. In the morning of January 20, Apte, Karkare, Badge and Shankar reconnoitered Birla House, where Gandhi was staying. The first attempt to kill Gandhi was made on January 20. The plan was to throw a grenade to disperse the crowd — and then throw another at Gandhi. However, Badge lost his courage and the second grenade was never thrown. Pahwa was arrested and interrogated by the police. The plan had failed. Subsequently, Godse decided to kill Gandhi himself. On January 30, as the Mahatma was on his way to give his evening sermon, Nathuram walked up to him and shot him dead. Apte was by his side. Godse was apprehended immediately, while Apte would be picked up from Bombay a few weeks later. Both Godse and Apte were hanged in 1949. The rest of the conspirators were handed prison sentences of varying lengths. Source: Indian Express GRAPHICS PROCESSING UNITS (GPU) Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: The Indian government is set to issue a notice to procure more graphics processing units (GPUs) under the IndiaAI Mission.  Background: As of now, the government has procured nearly 19,000 GPUs under the IndiaAI Mission, and intends to make them available for startups and researchers on a portal at subsidised rates. Key takeaways What is a GPU? A Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) is a specialized electronic circuit designed to rapidly manipulate and alter memory to accelerate the creation of images in a frame buffer intended for output to a display device.  GPUs are highly efficient at handling multiple tasks simultaneously, making them ideal for rendering graphics, video processing, and, more recently, accelerating computational tasks in fields like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and scientific computing. What is a CPU? A Central Processing Unit (CPU), often referred to as the “brain” of the computer, is a general-purpose processor designed to handle a wide variety of tasks. CPUs are optimized for sequential processing. They are responsible for managing the overall operation of a computer, including running the operating system, applications, and other system functions. Differences Between GPUs and CPUs Architecture: CPU: CPUs have a few cores (e.g., 4, 8, 16) optimized for sequential serial processing. Each core is designed to handle complex tasks with high efficiency. GPU: GPUs have thousands of smaller cores designed for parallel processing. These cores are optimized for handling multiple tasks simultaneously, making GPUs highly efficient for tasks that can be broken down into smaller, parallelizable operations. Use Cases: CPU: General-purpose computing, running operating systems, applications, and tasks that require complex decision-making and low latency. GPU: Graphics rendering, video processing, scientific simulations, and, importantly, AI and machine learning tasks that involve large-scale matrix operations and parallel processing. Why GPUs are Important for AI Parallel Processing: AI and machine learning algorithms, particularly those involving deep learning, require the processing of vast amounts of data. These algorithms often involve matrix multiplications and other operations that can be parallelized. GPUs, with their thousands of cores, can perform these operations much faster than CPUs. Handling Large Datasets: AI models often require large datasets for training. GPUs can process and manipulate these large datasets more efficiently than CPUs, enabling faster data preprocessing, augmentation, and feeding into the model. Real-Time Inference: In applications like autonomous driving, real-time object detection, and natural language processing, GPUs enable real-time inference by quickly processing input data through trained models. This is crucial for applications where latency is a critical factor. Scalability: Modern AI workloads often require scalable solutions. GPUs can be used in clusters (e.g., in data centers) to provide the necessary computational power for large-scale AI training and inference tasks. Specialized Libraries and Frameworks: Many AI frameworks and libraries, such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, and CUDA, are optimized to take advantage of GPU acceleration. These tools provide APIs that allow developers to easily offload computations to the GPU, making it easier to develop and deploy AI models. Source: Moneycontrol POINT NEMO Syllabus: Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: Two young women officers of the Indian Navy recently crossed the Point Nemo, as a part of their efforts to circumnavigate the globe in a sailboat. Background: – A Spanish research vessel Hespérides in 1999 had become the first ship to sail to Point Nemo, but not many vessels passed through the point since then. The INSV Tarini passed through the point purely on sails. Key takeaways Point Nemo is the most remote location in the world’s oceans, also called the Oceanic Pole of Inaccessibility. It is situated in the South Pacific Ocean, 2,688 km (1,450 nautical miles) from the nearest land. Closest Humans: Astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS), orbiting at ~400 km above Earth, are often the closest humans to Point Nemo. Spacecraft Cemetery: Used as a dumping ground for decommissioned spacecraft, including Russian, American, and European satellites. The Mir Space Station and parts of the International Space Station are planned to be deorbited here. Extreme Isolation: It lies within the South Pacific Gyre, a vast ocean current that blocks nutrient-rich waters. As a result, marine life is scarce, and it is one of the least biologically active regions of the ocean. Source: Deccan Herald SEA OF OKHOTSK Syllabus: Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: Japan scrambled fighter jets after Russian bombers flew over international waters around the country. Background: – Russia’s Defense Ministry said that two long-range bombers flew over international waters in the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk. Key takeaways The Sea of Okhotsk is a marginal sea of the Pacific Ocean, located between Russia and Japan. It is bordered by: The Kamchatka Peninsula to the east The Kuril Islands to the southeast The Sakhalin Island to the west The Siberian coast to the northwest The Hokkaido Island (Japan) to the south The sea remains frozen for nearly six months a year, from November to May, due to extreme cold in Siberia. It is one of the world’s iciest seas, significantly affecting navigation and fishing activities. Rich in Marine Resources: Supports fishing industries of Russia and Japan, with abundant salmon, herring, and crab. Energy Reserves: Contains oil and natural gas fields. Disputes exist between Russia and Japan over the Kuril Islands, which affect territorial claims in the Sea of Okhotsk. Source: The Hindu Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs   Q1.) Which of the following statements about Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) is correct? (a) GPUs are primarily designed for general-purpose computing rather than parallel processing. (b) GPUs have limited applications beyond gaming and graphic rendering. (c) GPUs are increasingly used in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and high-performance computing. (d) GPUs operate independently of the Central Processing Unit (CPU) in computing devices.   Q2.) The Sea of Okhotsk is an important water body located in which of the following regions? (a) Between Japan and the Philippines (b) Between Russia and Alaska (c) Between Russia and Japan (d) Between China and North Korea   Q3.) Point Nemo, often referred to as the “oceanic pole of inaccessibility,” is known for: (a) Being the deepest point in the Pacific Ocean (b) Its proximity to space debris re-entry zones (c) Being the closest landmass to Antarctica (d) Hosting the world’s largest underwater volcanic chain Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’  Today’s – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs ANSWERS FOR  31st January – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – b Q.2) – b Q.3) – b