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Jan 21, 2025 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 21th January 2025

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) AFTER ELECTORAL BOND BAN, FUNDING THROUGH TRUST ROUTE UP Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – POLITY Context: After the Supreme Court’s decision to scrap electoral bonds last year, donations to political parties significantly increased through electoral trusts, as indicated by the electoral trust contribution reports released by the Election Commission of India (ECI) for the previous financial year. Background: – Nearly three-fourths of the donations to the Prudent Electoral Trust, which has received the highest contribution, were made after the Supreme Court’s decision on February 15. Key takeaways An Electoral Trust is a non-profit organization established in India to facilitate transparent funding to political parties. On 31st January, 2013, through ‘The Electoral Trusts Scheme, 2013’, the Central government specified the eligibility and procedure for registration of Electoral Trusts. Key Features of Electoral Trusts Purpose: To collect voluntary contributions from individuals, companies, and institutions. To distribute these funds to registered olitical parties. Legal Framework: Governed under Section 25 of the Companies Act, 1956 (as a non-profit). Electoral trust can receive contribution only from permitted people/ entities as given below An ET must distribute up to 95% of the voluntary contributions collected, with the surplus brought forward from the earlier year, to eligible political parties only. The remaining 5%, with a cap of ₹3 lakh, may be used for managing its own affairs. These trusts are not allowed to use any contribution for the direct or indirect benefit of its members or contributors. Eligibility Criteria for Donations: Only registered political parties under Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, are eligible to receive funds. Donations cannot be made to independent candidates or unregistered parties. Transparency and Reporting: Trusts must file an annual contribution report with the Election Commission of India (ECI). The accounts of any ET must be audited and the report must be furnished to the Commissioner of Income Tax, including the list of contributors, list of parties that funds were distributed to, and the amounts disbursed. Tax Benefits: Donors receive tax benefits under Section 80GGB and Section 80GGC of the Income Tax Act, 1961. Electoral trusts themselves are exempt from income tax on their income. Source: Indian Express ECONOMIC SLOWDOWN Syllabus: Mains – GS 3 Context: India’s Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is seen growing at a four-year low of 6.4 per cent in the current financial year 2024-25, the first advance estimates for FY25 released by the National Statistics Office (NSO) showed. Background: – The government seems to have placed the blame for what it believes to be a cyclical slowdown largely at the door of the RBI. While the RBI’s tight monetary policy and interference with the rupee’s value have hindered export competitiveness, the issues are deeper and structural, not resolvable through interest rate cuts alone. Key takeaways The high growth rates seen in the aftermath of the pandemic were driven in large part by the surge in services exports, specifically, the boom in Global Capability Centres (GCC). However, this growth structure is biased in favour of the highly skilled who account for a very small section. With not many moving up the income ladder, the overall consumption base hasn’t been growing. Limited upward mobility has, however, been a feature of the Indian economy, reflecting the inability to generate productive forms of employment for the majority. But mobility seems to have become more restricted since the pandemic. Arguably, the clearest evidence of this can be found in the car market, specifically, the low-priced, small car market. Take the sub Rs 10 lakh segment. Cars in this segment are bought by first-time users or those upgrading from two-wheelers or used cars. In 2014-15, this category accounted for 73 per cent of all cars sold in the country. By 2024-25, the category accounted for just 46 per cent of all cars sold. The labour market is just not providing enough productive employment opportunities nor are real wages growing at a fast clip. While millions more have joined the workforce, more are now self-employed, either as unpaid help in household establishments or in one-man roadside shops or in agriculture. Informal establishments and employment continue to witness a expansion, indicating the absence of alternatives. Formal employment, as per the EPFO payroll data shows, remains driven by expert services, which are nothing but manpower suppliers, normal contractors, and security services — segments that don’t require high-skill levels. The fallout of limited job creation and muted wage growth can be seen in the greater recourse to debt. Household debt had risen to 43 per cent by June 2024. But even this debt surge has failed to boost overall consumption significantly. With little demand visibility and uncertainty over government policy, investment activity continues to remain subdued. New project announcements have slowed down as per CMIE. Source: Indian Express OLIVE RIDLEY TURTLES Syllabus: Prelims – ENVIRONMENT Context: Over the past two weeks, numerous dead olive ridley turtles have washed ashore in Tamil Nadu, particularly in Chennai. Background: Olive ridley turtles arrive near the Tamil Nadu coast around September-October to breed. Their nesting season begins in late November and ends in March. Although deaths during nesting season are not unusual, the large number of turtle carcasses found this early in the nesting period has sparked concerns. Key takeaways Olive Ridley Sea Turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) are one of the smallest and most abundant of all sea turtles found globally. Physical Characteristics: Size: Around 60–70 cm in length and 35–50 kg in weight. Shell: Olive-colored, heart-shaped, and flattened. Habitat: Found in warm waters of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans. Prefer coastal and shallow marine environments but occasionally venture into open seas. Diet: Omnivorous; feed on algae, fish, shrimp, crabs, and jellyfish. Lifespan: Typically live for 50–60 years. These turtles are known for their unique mass nesting events called “arribadas,” where thousands of females gather on the same beach to lay eggs. Significant nesting sites include the coasts of India, Mexico, and Costa Rica. Olive ridley turtles lay eggs across several coastal states on India’s east coast and west coast. However, mass nesting takes place in Odisha, followed by Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Odisha’s Gahirmatha and Rushikulya beaches witness the arrival of lakhs of female olive ridley turtles every year. Olive Ridley turtles are classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List. Source: The Hindu SVAMITVA SCHEME Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that once property cards under the Centre’s SVAMITVA scheme have been distributed in all the villages of the country, it could unlock economic activity worth over Rs 100 lakh crore. Background: – The Prime Minister was addressing an event to distribute over 65 lakh property cards to property owners in over 50,000 villages through video conferencing. Key takeaways The SVAMITVA stands for Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas. It aims to provide a ‘record of rights’ to those having houses in villages, and issue them a property card. The scheme was launched by PM Modi on National Panchayati Raj Day, on April 24, 2020. The plan is to survey all rural properties using drones and prepare GIS -based maps for each village. Benefit of a SVAMITVA. First, property cards enables rural households to use their property as a financial asset for taking loans and other financial benefits. The cards help increase liquidity of land parcels in the market and increase the financial credit availability to the village. Second, it helps in determination of property tax, which accrues to the Gram Panchayats directly in states where they are empowered to collect such taxes. The scheme also paves the way for creation of accurate land records for rural planning. All the property records and maps are available at the Gram Panchayat level, which helps in taxation of villages, construction permits, elimination of encroachments, etc. Source: Indian Express ASSET RECONSTRUCTION COMPANIES (ARC) Syllabus: Prelims – ECONOMY Context: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) modified guidelines related to asset reconstruction companies (ARCs) recently. Background: – RBI eased norms pertaining to settlement of dues between asset reconstruction companies (ARCs) and borrowers. Key takeaways Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) are specialized financial institutions that acquire non-performing assets (NPAs) or bad loans from banks and financial institutions and help recover or restructure them. This enables banks to clean up their balance sheets and focus on lending activities. Regulation: Governed by the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest (SARFAESI) Act, 2002. Regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Key Provisions under the SARFAESI Act: ARCs are empowered to take possession of secured assets of defaulters without court intervention. They can manage and recover loans through sale, lease, or restructuring. Objectives of ARCs Resolution of Stressed Assets: Help banks and financial institutions recover bad debts. Financial Stability: Improve the health of the banking sector by reducing NPAs. Resource Allocation: Enable banks to focus on productive lending by offloading non-performing loans. Functions of ARCs Acquisition of NPAs: ARCs purchase bad loans from banks at a discounted value. Restructuring and Recovery: Restructure the debt or recover dues through measures like asset liquidation or settlement. Issuance of Security Receipts (SRs): ARCs fund their operations by issuing SRs to qualified institutional buyers (QIBs). Source: The Hindu Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q1.) Which of the following statements about Olive Ridley Turtles is/are correct? Olive Ridley Turtles are classified as Critically Endangered under the IUCN Red List. Odisha’s Gahirmatha beach is one of the largest mass nesting sites for Olive Ridley Turtles. The unique mass nesting behavior of Olive Ridley Turtles is called “Arribadas.” Select the correct answer using the codes below: a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) 1, 2, and 3 Q2.) Which of the following are the benefits/objectives of the SVAMITVA Scheme? Issuing property cards to rural households for legal ownership of property. Enabling villagers to use property as a financial asset for loans. Improving the financial credit availability in rural areas. Encouraging urban migration for better economic opportunities. Select the correct answer using the codes below: a) 1, 2, and 3 only b) 1 and 4 only c) 2 and 3 only d) 1, 2, 3, and 4 Q3.) Which of the following statements regarding Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) is/are correct? ARCs are regulated under the SARFAESI Act, 2002. They are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). ARCs help banks improve financial stability by acquiring and resolving NPAs. Select the correct answer using the codes below: a) 1 and 3 only b) 2 and 3 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 20th January – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – a Q.2) – b Q.3) – b

Jan 21, 2025 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 20th January 2025

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) GAZA CEASEFIRE DEAL TAKES EFFECT Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: After 15 months of devastating war between Israel and Hamas, a ceasefire took effect on Sunday. Background: – The ceasefire deal, brokered by Qatar, the US, and Egypt, promises to pause fighting for 42 days and includes the release of hostages held in Gaza in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. Key takeaways During a 42-day first phase beginning Sunday, Hamas will release 33 hostages and Israel will release between 900 and 1,650 Palestinian detainees, including all of those detained since October 7, 2023. The IDF will withdraw from central Gaza and the Netzarim Corridor — a 2-4-km-wide security clearing that it has created, cutting Gaza in half up to the Mediterranean — and eventually from the Philadelphi Corridor, the buffer zone along the Gaza-Egypt border. Negotiations for a second phase will begin on the 16th day after the ceasefire comes into effect, and is expected to produce almost a full Israeli withdrawal from the Strip, and the release of all remaining hostages by Hamas in return for a yet-to-be-decided number of Palestinian detainees. War that reshaped the Middle East The war has rippled across the Middle East, triggering conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon and drawing Israel into direct confrontation with Iran. Despite billions spent by Iran in building up a network of militants around Israel, its influence in the region has taken a significant hit. Hezbollah’s formidable missile arsenal has been largely destroyed, and much of its leadership has been killed. In Syria, the collapse of the Assad regime has further weakened Iran’s position in the region, leaving Israel militarily unchallenged but diplomatically isolated. Even as Israel emerges from the conflict militarily dominant, its international standing has suffered. Outrage over the humanitarian toll in Gaza has mounted, with Netanyahu now facing allegations of war crimes at the International Criminal Court (ICC) and accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Source: Indian Express MAHA KUMBH: A CONFLUENCE OF FAITH AND CULTURE Syllabus: Prelims – ART & CULTURE Context: Maha Kumbh is progressing in Prayagraj. Kumbh mela is listed as the largest peaceful congregation of pilgrims on earth by UNESCO. Background: – It is expected to have a footfall of 450 million this year, nearly twice the population of Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous State. Key takeaways Kumbh, derived from a Sanskrit word which means a pitcher, is rotationally held every three years at the four riverside cities of Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nasik. Its schedule is based on the planetary alignments, mainly of that of Sun and Jupiter. The Ardh (half) Kumbh is held every six years at Haridwar and Prayagraj while the Purna (complete) Kumbh takes place in all four cities, every 12 years. The Maha Kumbh happens after 12 Purna Kumbhs in Prayagraj, once in 144 years and is considered the most auspicious. The mythological beliefs say that drops of Amrit (essence of immortality) were spilled at these sites from an urn which came out during the Samudra Mantha (churning of the ocean) done by the gods and demons. The central ritual of the fair remains bathing in waters of the sacred rivers where millions immerse themselves with the belief that the act will cleanse them of their sins and liberate them from the cycle of birth and death. A gathering of ascetics Religious texts also link Kumbh Mela’s origins to the 8th-century philosopher, Adi Shankaracharya, who established this practice of gatherings of ascetics from across the country, for discussion on religion. It was Shankaracharya who instituted the monastery system and the 13 Akharas (warrior-saint sects) — Nirvani, Atal, Niranjani, Anand, Juna, Awahan and Agni, Nirmohi, Digambar Ani and Nirvani Ani, the two Udasin Akharas (Naya and Bada) and the Nirmala Akhara. The saints from these sects are the main attraction at the Kumbh. The latest in the line of Akharas is the Kinnar (transgender) Akhara, established in 2015 by transgender rights activist Laxmi Narayan Tripathi. Source: The Hindu COMBATING SPAM Syllabus: Mains – GS 3 Context: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) will be using distributed ledger technology (DLT) to register spam preferences from customers, TRAI chairman said. Background: The TRAI regulates the telecom industry, and its main role is in regulating Unsolicited Commercial Communications (UCC), the official name for spam. Key takeaways Starting in 2007, TRAI implemented a do-not-disturb (DND) registry. If a telecom customer signs up to the DND registry, they are not supposed to get any spam calls or SMS messages. Under the Telecom Commercial Communication Customer Preference Regulation (TCCCPR), 2018, telemarketers who called or sent messages to DND-registered customers would receive warnings, and if enough warnings accumulate, they would be blacklisted from sending messages to telecom operators. In 2024, TRAI mandated that DND reporting be made available on every telecom provider’s app. What role does blockchain play? In order to fight the deluge of spam messages, TRAI mandated in the TCCCPR that telcos use a blockchain ledger, also known as a distributed ledger, in order to store a constantly-updated list of approved senders of SMS messages. Telcos would also be required to approve specific formats of messages. For instance, an OTP message that goes, “Your OTP is 433212,” would be stored in the blockchain as “Your OTP is …” with space for a variable. These messages have been required to be sent from sender IDs, and not phone numbers. This has been one of the most stringent rules that have been issued to fight SMS spam. In 2024, the regulations were tightened to ensure “traceability” of messages. This was aimed at plugging a crucial flaw in the system that would allow anyone to register on the blockchain solutions implemented by telecom operators and send out fraudulent or spam messages. Have these measures been effective? For those who have registered their DND preferences, communications from legitimate businesses that follow the rules have reduced. However, spam is constantly changing. Fraudulent calls have emerged, with frauds seeking to ensnare Indians in scams. Many of these operations are done outside the framework of SMS sender IDs, through disposable 10-digit phone numbers. There is also the issue of spam and scam calls from international numbers, which can be leased from certain online Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) providers. Other steps taken by the government to end spam The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has launched the Sanchar Saathi portal, which has a reporting site called Chakshu. DoT has partnered with law enforcement, banks, and other stakeholders to accept reports of suspected fraudulent calls and messages, and has moved to cancel lakhs of numbers associated with unauthorised telemarketers and scammers. It also set up the Telecom Security Operation Centre at its New Delhi headquarters to monitor suspicious internet traffic in real time. Meanwhile, firms like Airtel have taken steps to declare suspicious calls using Artificial Intelligence as “Suspected Spam,” a move that is being replicated by other telcos as well. Source: The Hindu STRATEGIC STRAITS Syllabus: Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: The Navies of nine Indo-Pacific countries, including India, are taking part in a multilateral exercise, La Perouse, hosted by France in the strategic straits of Malacca, Sunda, and Lombok, between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. Background: – The three straits are critical choke points as these provide entry and exit into the Indian Ocean Region. With forays by the Chinese Navy in the region rising, the straits are under increased focus. Key takeaways Strait of Malacca Strait of Malacca connects the Andaman Sea (Indian Ocean) to the South China Sea (Pacific Ocean). Location: Lies between Peninsular Malaysia and Sumatra (Indonesia), with its northern end near Thailand. Length: Approximately 930 kilometers. Width: Narrowest point: Around 2.8 kilometers at the Philips Channel near Singapore. Widest point: Approximately 370 kilometers. Depth: Varies, with shallowest points being around 25 meters, making navigation challenging for large vessels. Sunda strait The Sunda Strait is a significant waterway in Southeast Asia that separates the islands of Java and Sumatra in Indonesia. It connects the Java Sea (part of the Pacific Ocean) to the Indian Ocean. Though less utilized than the Strait of Malacca, the Sunda Strait holds strategic and economic importance. Length: Approximately 130 kilometers. Width: Varies between 24 kilometers at its narrowest and about 150 kilometers at its widest. Depth: Relatively shallow, with depths ranging from 20 to 100 meters, making it less suitable for large vessels compared to other straits. Volcanic Activity: The strait includes several volcanic islands, the most notable being Krakatoa, which erupted catastrophically in 1883. Lombok strait The Lombok Strait is a key maritime passage in Southeast Asia, situated between the Indonesian islands of Bali (to the west) and Lombok (to the east). It connects the Java Sea (Pacific Ocean) to the Indian Ocean and serves as a critical alternative to the congested Strait of Malacca. Length: Approximately 60 kilometers. Width: Around 20 kilometers at its narrowest point. Depth: Significantly deeper than the Sunda and Malacca Straits, with depths ranging from 250 to 1,300 meters. Part of the Wallace Line: The strait is a biogeographical boundary between Asian and Australasian flora and fauna, making it ecologically significant. Source: The Hindu WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: The World Economic Forum (WEF) is holding its Annual Meeting from January 20 to 24 in Davos, Switzerland. Background: – Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw will head the Indian delegation. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu Chief will also attend. Key takeaways Founded: 1971 by Klaus Schwab, originally known as the European Management Forum. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. Nature: An international, non-governmental organization. Objective: To improve the state of the world by fostering public-private cooperation. Key Focus Areas: Economic growth, sustainable development, technological innovation, social inclusion, and global governance. The WEF is largely funded by its partnering corporations. Functions of the WEF Platform for Dialogue: Brings together political leaders, business executives, academicians, and civil society representatives. Focuses on addressing global challenges such as climate change, poverty, inequality, and economic instability. Annual Meetings: The Davos Agenda, held annually in Davos, Switzerland, serves as a platform for addressing pressing global issues. Regional and thematic meetings are also organized. Publishes key reports such as: Global Competitiveness Report Global Gender Gap Report Global Risks Report Future of Jobs Report Energy Transition Index Source: Indian Express Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q1.) Which of the following reports is published by the World Economic Forum (WEF)? Global Risks Report World Development Report Global Gender Gap Report Human Development Report Select the correct option: a) 1 and 3 only b) 2 and 4 only c) 1, 3, and 4 only d) 1, 2, and 3 only Q2.) Which of the following straits is the narrowest at the Philips Channel near Singapore? a) Sunda Strait b) Strait of Malacca c) Lombok Strait d) Makassar Strait Q3.) The Sunda Strait connects which two water bodies? a) Andaman Sea and South China Sea b) Indian Ocean and Java Sea c) Pacific Ocean and Banda Sea d) Timor Sea and Java Sea 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 17th January – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – b Q.2) – b Q.3) – c

Jan 21, 2025 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 21st January 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

Jan 20, 2025 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 20th January 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

Jan 20, 2025 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 18th January 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

Jan 18, 2025 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 17th January 2025

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) PAY COMMISSION Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: On 16 January, the Union government announced the constitution of the 8th Pay Commission. Background: – Since 1947, seven Pay Commissions have been constituted, with the last one constituted in 2014 and implemented on January 1, 2016. The 7th pay commission saw an expenditure increase of Rs 1 lakh crore for fiscal 2016-17. Key takeaways A Pay Commission, set up by the government of India, decides the salary and compensation of Central government staffers and allowances of pensioners. Pay commissions consult with central and state governments, along with other stakeholders, before recommending salary structures, benefits, and allowances for government employees. The commission also suggests formulas for revising dearness allowance and dearness relief for central government employees and pensioners, aiming to offset the impact of inflation. The recommendations are suggestive, there is no obligation on the government to accept the recommendations of the pay commission. There are over 49 lakh central government employees and nearly 65 lakh pensioners who will benefit. Generally, every 10 years, the central government implements a pay commission to revise employee remuneration. As the 7th Pay Commission’s term concludes in 2026, initiating the process now ensures sufficient time to receive and review recommendations before its completion. Source: Indian Express RIVER INTERLINKING Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: India, with 17% of the world’s population but only 4% of its freshwater resources, faces uneven water distribution. The river interlinking project aims to address challenges from topography, climate, natural disasters, and water inequality. Background: – The idea of interlinking rivers goes back to 1858 when Captain Arthur Cotton, a British Army engineer, first proposed linking rivers through canals, mainly for inland navigation. River interlinking in India River interlinking is a large-scale water management strategy involving human-induced water redistribution from surplus areas to areas experiencing shortages. The strategy involves connecting two or more basins through a network of canals, reservoirs, pipelines, etc. In 1980, the Ministry of Irrigation (Now the Ministry of Water Resources) framed the National Perspective Plan (NPP) for inter-basin water transfer. The plan identified 30 link projects divided into two components:14 Himalayan and 16 Peninsular link projects. Subsequently, in 1982, The National Water Development Agency (NWDA) was set up to study and implement river interlinking projects. In 2002, in response to a Public Interest Litigation or PIL, the Supreme Court ordered the government to complete all river links within 12 years, bringing the issue to the forefront. Ken-Betwa Link Project On December 25, 2024, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of the Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP) in Madhya Pradesh. The project aims to provide irrigation to Bundelkhand. In this project, surplus water from the Ken River in Madhya Pradesh will be transferred to the Betwa River in Uttar Pradesh. Both of these rivers are right-bank tributaries of the Yamuna River. The project will irrigate 10.62 lakh hectares (8.11 lakh ha in MP and 2.51 lakh ha in UP) of land annually and supply drinking water to about 62 lakh people. This project will generate 103 MW of hydropower and 27 MW of solar energy. The project passes through Panna Tiger Reserve. KBLP is the first project under the National Perspective Plan that is currently being implemented. Significance of river interlinking The scheme aims to transfer about 200 billion Cubic Meters (BCM) of water annually from water-rich to drought-prone regions. It will irrigate 34 million hectares of agricultural land and generate 34,000 MW of substantial hydropower. It will ensure continuous and reliable water supply for irrigation, which can hugely increase the country’s agricultural productivity. Additionally, interlinking projects will lead to equitable access to water resources for drinking and industrial uses by reducing regional imbalances in current water availability. Equitable and reliable water supply will also support industries and help in employment generation. They will also help mitigate floods’ impacts by storing excess water in reservoirs. Simultaneously, this stored water can be used to provide relief during droughts. Environmental and social concerns The inter-basin water transfer will change the river morphology and also have an impact on the physical and chemical composition of the sediment load. Subsequently, it will also affect the water quality and ecosystem of the region. The large-scale diversion of water can disrupt the river’s natural ecosystem and affect the habitat of the various species. Canals and reservoirs can alter the migratory routes of fish and other species, which, as a result, will decline, eventually leading to biodiversity loss. Water transfer may also disturb the inter-relationship between rivers and climatic attributes such as temperature, precipitation and Humidity. The construction activities will cause significant social disruptions mainly due to the displacement of populations. Water is a state subject, and conflicts exist among states regarding water-sharing. Moreover, these projects are excessively expensive. Also, such large-scale projects often suffer from time and cost overruns, diminishing their economic viability. Therefore, the economic feasibility of these projects needs to be assessed against more cost-effective, sustainable, and environment-friendly alternatives such as rainwater harvesting, local water conservation, and efficient irrigation. It may be more suitable to explore localised solutions alongside these large-scale projects. Source: Indian Express KASHI TAMIL SANGAMAM Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced that the main theme of the third edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam, a cultural exchange programme scheduled to be held from February 14 to 25, will be Rishi Agastya. Background: The first edition of the programme was held in 2022. Key takeaways Kashi Tamil Sangamam is an annual month-long programme organized by the Ministry of Education, Government of India to celebrate, reaffirm and rediscover the age-old links between Tamil Nadu and Varanasi. The event underscores the connections between these two ancient centers of learning and spirituality. The most recent third edition of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam is scheduled from February 15 to 24, 2025. The main theme in this year’s event is highlighting the significant contributions of Sage Agasthyar to the Siddha System of Medicine (Bharatiya Chikitsa), Classical Tamil Literature, and also his contributions in the cultural unity of the Nation. In this edition, around 1000 people under 5 categories (Students, Teachers, Farmers & Artisans, Professionals and small Entrepreneurs, women, and Researchers) will participate. An online registration portal has been launched, and the selection of participants will be done through a quiz. Seminars and cultural programmes will be held during the programme. Participants will visit Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya, and with the event coinciding with the Maha Kumbh, they will also visit the Kumbh. Objectives: Strengthen Cultural Bonds: Deepen the understanding and appreciation of each other’s cultural practices and heritage. Promote Knowledge Exchange: Facilitate the exchange of traditional knowledge systems and contemporary innovations. Encourage Tourism and Education: Boost tourism between the regions and promote educational interactions across universities. Source: Indian Express SIACHEN GLACIER Syllabus: Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: Reliance Jio announced that it had extended its 4G and 5G services to Siachen Glacier, known as the world’s highest battlefield. Background: – Reliance Jio noted that it worked with Army Signallers of the Indian army in order to manage the logistics and airlift Jio equipment to the glacier in freezing weather conditions. Key takeaways Location and Geography: Situated in the eastern Karakoram range in the Himalayas. The Siachen Glacier is positioned from northwest to southeast. It originates at the base of the Indira Col West, a col (low point) on the Indira Ridge, at an altitude of 6,115 metres (20,062 feet), and it descends to an altitude of 3,570 metres (11,713 feet). Length: Approximately 76 km, making it the longest glacier in the Karakoram and the second-longest in non-polar regions. Lies to the north of the Nubra Valley in Ladakh. At the glacier’s snout, two proglacial meltwater streams emerge, and eventually they combine into a single stream, thus forming the Nubra River in the Indian union territory of Ladakh. The Nubra flows 90 km before its confluence with the Shyok River, which in turn drains into the approximately 3,200-km- long Indus River. Strategic Importance: Positioned at the tri-junction of India, Pakistan, and China, making it geopolitically significant. Overlooks major supply routes and the Karakoram Pass, crucial for controlling the region. Conflict and Military Presence: The Siachen region has been at the center of military significance due to its strategic position between India and Pakistan. India controls the entire Siachen Glacier since the Operation Meghdoot in 1984 Highest militarized zone in the world, with troops stationed at altitudes exceeding 20,000 feet. Source: The Hindu TUNGABHADRA RIVER Syllabus: Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: The Tungabhadra water has turned green around Shiranahalli, Gangapur and Korlahalli villages in Mundargi taluk of Gadag district creating panic among the residents Background: – According to the residents, the river flowing in the region usually dries up during summer and the water left in puddles turns green. However, this year, flowing river water turning green has caused anxiety among them. Key takeaways The Tungabhadra River is a prominent river in southern India.It is a key tributary of the Krishna River and plays a vital role in the irrigation, hydroelectricity, and water supply of the region. Geographical Features: Source: Originates in the Western Ghats at the confluence of the Tunga and Bhadra rivers near Kudremukh in Karnataka. Course: Flows for approximately 531 km through Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana before merging with the Krishna River at Sangameswaram in Andhra Pradesh. Basin Area: Covers about 71,417 square kilometers across Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and a small part of Telangana. Irrigation: The river supports extensive agricultural activities in the Deccan Plateau. The Tungabhadra Dam near Hospet in Karnataka provides irrigation to over 1.25 million hectares of land. Hydroelectric Power: The dam generates hydroelectric power, contributing to the energy requirements of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Historical Importance: The river was central to the prosperity of the Vijayanagara Empire, with Hampi located on its banks. Source: The Hindu Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q1.) Which of the following statements regarding the Siachen Glacier is/are correct? The Siachen Glacier is the longest glacier in the Karakoram range and the second-longest in the world. The glacier forms the source of the Nubra River, which eventually merges with the Shyok River. Operation Meghdoot was launched by India to secure the Siachen Glacier. Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1, 2, and 3 (d) 1 and 3 only Q2.) Consider the following statements regarding the Tungabhadra River: It originates from the confluence of the Tunga and Bhadra rivers in the Eastern Ghats. The Tungabhadra Dam provides irrigation to more than 1.25 million hectares of land. The river was historically significant for the Vijayanagara Empire. Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1, 2, and 3 (d) 1 and 3 only Q3.) With reference to the Pay Commission in India, consider the following statements: The recommendations of the Pay Commission are binding on the government. The 7th Pay Commission was implemented on January 1, 2016. Pay Commissions are generally constituted every 5 years to revise central government employee salaries. Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 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 16th January – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – b Q.2) – a Q.3) – a

Jan 17, 2025 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 17th January 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

Jan 17, 2025 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 16th January 2025

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) BHARAT RANBHOOMI DARSHAN Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: In a historic move to showcase India’s military heritage, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled the Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan on January 15, 2025, during the 77th Army Day celebrations in Pune. Background: – This initiative is a joint effort between the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Tourism to highlight India’s rich military heritage and honor the sacrifices made by the armed forces Key Aspects of Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan: Historical Battlefield Sites: The initiative includes iconic war zones like Siachen (the world’s highest battlefield), Galwan (site of the 2020 India-China clash), and Longewala (highlighted in the 1971 India-Pakistan war), Kibithoo and Bum La Pass (locations in Arunachal Pradesh from the 1962 war with China) among others. Digital Tools: A dedicated app and website provide detailed insights into the historical significance of these sites, including virtual tours, historical narratives, and multimedia content. For those planning visits, the platform offers comprehensive travel information. Economic and Educational Benefits: By opening these regions to tourism, the initiative aims to boost local economies, provide educational opportunities, and inspire patriotism among visitors. The program aligns with the broader “Incredible India” campaign, merging tourism with educational experiences. Additional Information Most of these sites fall along India’s borders with China (Line of Actual Control) and Pakistan (Line of Control) that have had a history of wars after independence and other clashes in recent times. What is the Line of Actual Control? The LAC is the demarcation that separates Indian-controlled territory from Chinese-controlled territory. India considers the LAC to be 3,488 km long, while the Chinese consider it to be only around 2,000 km. It is divided into three sectors: the eastern sector which spans Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, the middle sector in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, and the western sector in Ladakh. How is the LAC different from the Line of Control with Pakistan? The LoC emerged from the 1948 ceasefire line negotiated by the UN after the Kashmir War. It was designated as the LoC in 1972, following the Shimla Agreement between the two countries. It is delineated on a map signed by DGMOs of both armies and has the international sanctity of a legal agreement. The LAC, in contrast, is only a concept – it is not agreed upon by the two countries, neither delineated on a map or demarcated on the ground. Source: Indian Express EVOLUTION OF INDIAN AGRICULTURE Syllabus: Mains – GS 3 Context: As one of the oldest agrarian societies in the world, India’s farming practices have evolved over the years. However, agriculture today stands at a crossroads, with farmers grappling with challenges like climate change, shrinking arable land, depleting freshwater reserves, and rising input costs. Background: – While there has been a major shift in agriculture’s contribution to the Gross Value Added in the economy from 61.7% in 1950 to 16.3% in 2020, the proportion of the workforce engaged in agriculture remains high at 46.5% as of 2020 compared to 69.2% in 1950-51. From subsistence farming to market-oriented practices In subsistence farming, farmers usually raise crops or livestock to fulfil the needs of their families. Subsistence agriculture can be broadly classified into two types – Primitive subsistence agriculture and Intensive subsistence agriculture. Primitive subsistence agriculture or shifting cultivation involves clearing vegetation by fire and cultivating the land for 4-5 years before abandoning it. This practice is common in the northeastern states, where it is known as Jhuming, and Odisha and Telangana, where it is called Podu. Intensive subsistence agriculture is prevalent in densely populated regions with monsoon climates. Subsistence farming is labour-intensive as it lacks mechanization due to the small size of holdings. Organic manure is commonly used and fertilizers and pesticides are rare, resulting in low productivity. In addition, there is a high dependence on the monsoon. Predominance of small and marginal land holdings and monsoon dependence According to the Agricultural Census 2015-16, small( 1-2 hectares) and marginal (<1 hectare) land holdings make up over 86% of the total agricultural land holdings in India. The average land holding size is just 0.38 hectares for marginal farmers and 1.4 hectares for small farmers. As per NITI Aayog, 55% of the net cropped area in India is under irrigation, while the rest is dependent on the monsoon for irrigation. There are various issues associated with the dependence on the monsoon. These include insufficient rainfall in the events of El Nino, excess rainfall (La Nina) causing destruction of crops and flooding, untimely rainfall, and dry spells during the monsoon season. Shift to profit-driven agricultural practices Over time, there has been a gradual shift towards market-oriented agricultural practices, including diversification and the cultivation of high-value crops. Farmers are increasingly moving away from traditional food crops to non-food crops that offer higher returns, such as horticulture, floriculture, sericulture, viniculture, and apiculture. This shift reflects a structural change in the demand for high-value agricultural products like fruits, vegetables, and meat. Commercial farming in India is characterised by capital-intensive practices, the use of inorganic and modern inputs, advanced irrigation techniques, and larger landholdings. These trends indicate a move towards more specialised, profit-driven agricultural practices. Challenges and the way forward The evolving nature of Indian Agriculture presents it with various challenges, such as the need for modern techniques, greater awareness, and better access to extension services. Overuse of fertilisers and inadequate soil conservation has resulted in soil degradation, underlining the potential and need for organic farming. Furthermore, the lack of adequate infrastructure, including storage facilities, cold chains, and poor road networks, causes substantial post-harvest losses. Another pressing issue is the lack of credit to small and marginal farmers, which limits their ability to invest. The government has introduced various measures to improve agriculture. Some of the initiatives are PM-KISAN, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, the formation and promotion of 10,000 FPOs scheme, the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, the Soil Health Card scheme, the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana, Market Intervention Scheme, Micro Irrigation Fund, and Namo Drone Didi. Source: Indian Express MISSION MAUSAM Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: During the inaugural event to celebrate 150 years of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), P M Modi launched ‘Mission Mausam’. Background: Established in 1875, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) completed 150 years of service on January 15. About Mission Mausam The mission aims to upgrade the capabilities of India’s weather department in forecasting, modelling, and dissemination. The primary objectives of Mission Mausam are: To enhance India’s capability in weather forecasting across various scales—short-term, medium-term, extended-range, and seasonal. To develop high-resolution models for improved accuracy in predicting monsoon behaviour. To strengthen observational networks with advanced radars, satellites, and automated weather stations. To provide actionable advisories for agriculture, water resources, energy, health, and disaster management sectors. To build capacity through research collaborations with national and international institutions. Mission Mausam will have a budget of Rs 2,000 crore for the first two years of its implementation. Mission Mausam adopts a multi-pronged approach to achieve its objectives: Infrastructure Development: Installation of Doppler Weather Radars (DWRs), Automatic Weather Stations (AWS), and rain gauges across the country. Supercomputing Power: Leveraging high-performance computing systems like Pratyush and Mihir for advanced climate modelling. Collaborative Research: Partnerships with global organizations like the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) to enhance forecasting techniques. Public Outreach: Dissemination of user-friendly advisories through mobile apps (e.g., Mausam app), SMS services, and media channels. The mission will also ‘manage’ certain weather events, and on-demand, enhance or suppress rainfall, hail, fog and, later, lightning strikes. For effective weather modification, one of the most important areas is cloud physics. Towards this end, India is establishing a first-of-its-kind cloud chamber at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune. A cloud chamber resembles a closed cylindrical or tubular drum, inside which water vapour, aerosols, etc. are injected. Under the desired humidity and temperature inside this chamber, a cloud can develop. With Mission Mausam, India will build a cloud chamber with convection properties, as required to study Indian monsoon clouds. Source: Indian Express DIEGO GARCIA Syllabus: Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: Even as Tamil Nadu’s coastal communities continue to face challenges due to the regular arrests of fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy, another group of ten fishermen from Thothoor village in the state has been allegedly arrested by the British Navy near Diego Garcia Island. Background: – The fishermen were reportedly arrested for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). Key takeaways Diego Garcia is a coral atoll located in the central Indian Ocean, forming the largest and southernmost part of the Chagos Archipelago. It is part of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) and serves as a strategic military base jointly operated by the United Kingdom and the United States. Location: Approximately 3,535 km east of Tanzania, 2,984 km east-southeast of Somalia, and 726 km south of the Maldives Diego Garcia’s location along major international trade routes between Asia and Africa enhances its strategic importance. The joint UK-US military base supports various operations and serves as a logistical hub for forces operating in the Indo-Pacific region. The sovereignty of Diego Garcia has been a subject of international dispute. Mauritius claims the Chagos Archipelago, including Diego Garcia, as its territory. In October 2024, the UK announced plans to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, while retaining a long-term lease for the military base on Diego Garcia. Source: NDTV HYDROCLIMATE WHIPLASH Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – GEOGRAPHY Context: The wildfires that have devastated large parts of the Los Angeles city and surrounding areas in the United States since January 7 occurred due to rare meteorological conditions enhanced by global warming and consequent climate change, mainly due to a ‘hydroclimate whiplash’. Background: – The blazes have already killed 24 people and burnt 12,000 structures to the ground over an area of 155 square kilometres as of January 13 and may intensify further due to fierce winds in the coming days. Key takeaways Hydroclimate whiplash refers to rapid and extreme transitions between very wet and very dry conditions in a region. This phenomenon is becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change, leading to significant environmental and societal impacts. Causes of Hydroclimate Whiplash: A primary driver is the increasing capacity of a warmer atmosphere to hold moisture. For every degree Celsius of warming, the atmosphere can hold about 7% more water vapor. This “expanding atmospheric sponge” effect results in: Intensified Precipitation: When the saturated atmosphere releases moisture, it leads to heavier and more intense rainfall events. Enhanced Evaporation: A warmer atmosphere also increases evaporative demand, drawing more moisture from soils and vegetation, which exacerbates drought conditions during dry periods. These dynamics contribute to more pronounced swings between wet and dry periods, characteristic of hydroclimate whiplash. Impacts of Hydroclimate Whiplash: Wildfires: Periods of heavy rainfall promote vegetation growth, which, during subsequent droughts, becomes dry fuel, increasing wildfire risk. This sequence has been observed in regions like California, where wet winters followed by dry summers have led to severe wildfires. Flooding and Landslides: Intense rainfall can lead to flash floods and landslides, especially when occurring after prolonged dry spells that compromise soil stability. Agricultural Disruption: Crops may suffer from alternating flooding and drought conditions, affecting food production and security. Water Resource Management Challenges: The unpredictability of water availability complicates the management of reservoirs and water supplies, impacting both human consumption and ecological needs. Source: Down To Earth Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q1.) With reference to Diego Garcia, consider the following statements: Diego Garcia is a coral atoll located in the Atlantic Ocean. It serves as a strategic military base jointly operated by the United Kingdom and the United States. The sovereignty of Diego Garcia has been a subject of international dispute involving Mauritius. 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 Q2.) Hydroclimate whiplash is characterized by which of the following? Rapid transitions between very wet and very dry conditions. Stable level of atmospheric pressure. Enhanced stability in water resource management. Select the correct answer using the codes below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, and 3 Q3.) Which of the following is/are objectives of Mission Mausam? Strengthening India’s capability in weather forecasting. Developing high-resolution models for improved accuracy in monsoon predictions. Enhancing collaborative research with World Health Organization (WHO). Select the correct answer using the codes below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 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 15th January – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – b Q.2) – d Q.3) – d

Jan 16, 2025 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 16th January 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

Jan 16, 2025 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 15th January 2025

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) INDIAN ARMY DAY 2025 Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: Indian Army Day is observed every year on January 15. Background: – Army Day is celebrated to mark the occasion when General (later Field Marshal) K M Cariappa took over the command of the Indian Army from General Sir F R R Bucher, the last British Commander-in-Chief, in 1949 and became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of Independent India. Key takeaways Pune is hosting the Army Day parade for the first time, marking a historical event. This will be the third occasion on which a city other than New Delhi will host the Army Day Parade, keeping in line with the Union government’s decision to hold events of national importance outside the national capital. This is the second occasion when the Pune-headquartered Southern Command is hosting the event in its area of responsibility after Bengaluru, where it was held in 2023. In addition to being home to the strategically significant Southern Command, Pune is also home to some major defence establishments. The over-200-year-old Bombay Engineer Group and Centre, which will coincidently host the Army Day Parade, stands as a major centre of military engineering. Premier defence training establishments like the National Defence Academy, Armed Forces Medical College, College of Military Engineering, Military Intelligence Training School and Depot, and INS Shivaji put Pune on the global map of military training. Additional Information – Year of Defence Reforms India has declared 2025 the year of defence reforms. The focus will be on rolling out integrated theatre commands to boost tri-services synergy and ensure simpler and time-sensitive military procurement, with a broader aim of transforming the military into a technologically advanced force. Source: Indian Express INTERNAL MIGRATION Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: According to the 2011 Census, 37% of India’s population comprises internal migrants, up from 31% in 2001. The Periodic Labour Force Survey 2020-21 estimated a migration rate of 28.9%. Recent report from Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) shows slowing domestic migration. Background: – Understanding India’s migration story requires a deeper engagement with data that captures its various dimensions. Key takeaways Rural-urban migration is the most dominant form of migration in India, often attributed to better employment opportunities, especially in the informal sector. At the same time, agricultural issues, poverty, unemployment, and environmental degradation in rural areas are also seen as drivers of rural-urban migration. Studies have found that in–migration in India is more prevalent in states with higher per capita Net State Domestic Product like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, Haryana, and Punjab. In contrast, states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, and Odisha send a large number of migrants to the economically advanced states. Regional stories of migration Kerala has emerged as a “new Gulf of India” as internal migrants from the Northern, Eastern, and North-Eastern parts of the country come to the state for livelihood opportunities. Interestingly, Kerala is also known for its high out-migration overseas. This outward migration is driven by the state’s high education and skill levels along with the reluctance of its youth to take up non-white collar jobs. The resulting labour gap in sectors like construction and blue-collar work is filled by in-migration from other states. The example of Uttarakhand can also be noted to understand how migration patterns differ across regions. The 2011 Census data reveals a stark contrast in population growth between hill districts (0.7%) and plain districts (2.8%). A key reason behind this disparity can be attributed to the large-scale emigration from the hill districts, driven by dependence on the subsistence economy, lack of employment opportunities, and the impact of climate and natural disasters. This has led to significant depopulation of villages and given rise to “ghost villages” – villages that are not inhabited by a single person but still retain their land and houses. The paradox of internal migration For migrant-sending states, studies have also highlighted the role of remittances in improving the lives of those left behind. It has been found that age has been a crucial determinant of both migration and remittance patterns. Around 25-60% of the total remittances in India are sent by individuals aged 15-45 years. Furthermore, studies have also focussed on the experiences of left-behind women in migrant households and the emerging processes of “feminisation of agriculture” or “feminisation of labour”. For migrant-receiving states, there is a need to understand how increasing in-migration places rising pressure on housing, water availability, sanitation, health, and education. The risks of urban poverty, the rise in urban slums, and the expansion of the urban informal economy need to be addressed more actively. Why upward mobility remains elusive for migrant workers Studies have highlighted that caste and class hierarchies, along with landlessness and debt – factors that shape migrant’s political and socio-economic status in source areas – often accompany them to their destination areas. Therefore, upward mobility for migrants from marginalised groups becomes very difficult, with only a small fraction able to marginally improve their condition after settling in urban areas. Migrant workers often become a “footloose” labour force, with little to no access to social protection mechanisms and social security benefits. However, there are policies that aim to address the challenges faced by informal workers. These include the Unorganised Workers’ Social Security Act 2008, Maternity Benefits Act 1961 (Amendment 2017), Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana, the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulations of Street Vending) Act, 2014, the Rajasthan Platform Based Gig Workers Act, and the Karnataka State Gig Workers Insurance Scheme. Effective implementation of such policies can ensure that migrant-receiving states provide better opportunities and protection to their migrant informal workers. Source: Indian Express RUPEE DEPRECIATION Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ECONOMY Context: The rupee weakened to its all-time low on Tuesday, hitting a record low of 86.6475 before closing at 86.63 against the US dollar. Background: In the last three months, the Indian rupee has depreciated by around 3.2 percent against the US dollar. Key takeaways Rupee depreciation refers to a decline in the value of the Indian Rupee (₹) relative to foreign currencies, for example to the US Dollar ($). It means more rupees are required to buy a unit of foreign currency. Reasons behind current fall of rupee The strong dollar, rise in crude oil prices and selling by foreign investors in the equity market are the major reasons for depreciation in the rupee. US jobs report came out which was higher than market consensus. Robust economic data in the US has pushed US 10-year yields higher, triggering capital outflows from emerging markets like India. Sharp rise in crude oil prices. How does a weak rupee affect the economy? A weak rupee increases the import bill since importers pay in dollars. Weaker rupee means more expensive imports which hike inflation in the country. For example, higher oil prices lead to higher transport costs, making food items costlier. Higher import bill worsens trade deficit. Pharmaceuticals, textiles and IT sectors will benefit from an improvement in export revenues in rupee terms since these are export-centric sectors. A weaker rupee will help make exports more competitive and by protecting the interest of domestic manufacturers from cheap import substitutes. Import-dependent sectors (energy, electronics, chemicals, transportation) will be negatively impacted. Debt servicing costs of companies that have raised funds from overseas will go up. Those who want to study abroad will be hit hard by a weakening rupee, paying more than before for their studies. A weakening rupee stoking inflation will make the RBI’s job to control inflation harder and also lower possibilities of a rate cut which many expect due to the recent slump in India’s GDP growth rate. Source: Economic Times RAT-HOLE MINING Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: An oral question from the Supreme Court to the Union government continues to remain unanswered even as rescue workers recover bodies of workers who died trapped in a flooded rat-hole coal mine at Dima Hasao district in Assam. Background: – Unlike in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, coal seams in Meghalaya are very thin. This, miners say, makes rat-hole mining more economically viable than opencast mining. Key takeaways Rat-hole mining refers to an unscientific and hazardous coal extraction method involving small tunnels barely allowing workers to crawl in and out. It is of two types: Side-Cutting Mining: Conducted on hill slopes by following visible coal seams (dark brown or black-banded coal within rock layers). Box-Cutting Mining: Involves digging a circular or square pit (approximately 5 sq. meters wide) to a depth of up to 400 feet. Miners descend using makeshift cranes or rope-and-bamboo ladders. Once coal seams are located, horizontal tunnels are dug in all directions from the pit’s edge, resembling octopus tentacles. Why is such mining banned? The government has little control over the land in Meghalaya, a Sixth Schedule State where the Coal Mines Nationalisation Act of 1973 does not apply. The landowners are thus also the owners of the minerals beneath. Coal mining boomed after Meghalaya attained statehood in 1972. However, the terrain and expenses involved discouraged mine owners from employing advanced drilling machines. So, labourers mainly from Assam, Nepal, and adjoining Bangladesh were employed. Apart from issues of safety and health, unregulated mining led to land degradation, deforestation, and water with high concentrations of sulphates, iron, and toxic heavy metals, low dissolved oxygen, and high biochemical oxygen demand. At least two rivers, Lukha and Myntdu, became too acidic to sustain aquatic life. Environmentalists and human rights activists began flagging the hazards of rat-hole mining in Meghalaya two decades ago. The campaign intensified after Impulse, a Meghalaya-based NGO, began addressing the issue of human trafficking and child labour in such mines. The State’s Department of Mining and Geology refuted the claim but, under pressure from the National Human Rights Commission, admitted in 2013 that 222 children were employed in rat-hole mines, specifically in the East Jaintia Hills district. NGT banned rat-hole mining in Meghalaya in 2014. The State has an estimated reserve of 576.48 million tonnes of low-ash, high-sulphur coal belonging to the Eocene age (33-56 million years ago). The stakes for a section of locals have been so high that the State government has been under pressure to facilitate the resumption of mining legally. Source: The Hindu UTRICULARIA Syllabus: Prelims – ENVIRONMENT Context: A rare and unique carnivorous plant ‘Utricularia’ has been found in Rajasthan’s Keoladeo National Park in large numbers this season. Background: – This plant is typically found in regions like Meghalaya and Darjeeling. Key takeaways Utricularia, commonly known as bladderworts, is a genus of carnivorous plants belonging to the family Lentibulariaceae. Utricularia species are found in diverse habitats, ranging from fresh water and wet soils to tropical rainforest canopies. They can be terrestrial or aquatic. Trap Mechanism: Utricularia plants do not have a typical root system; instead, they possess small bladder-like traps attached to their stolons (horizontal stems). These bladders exhibit highly sophisticated carnivorous mechanisms. When prey, such as tiny invertebrates, triggers the sensory hairs on the trapdoor, the bladder rapidly sucks in water and the prey. Feeding and Digestion: The bladders capture a variety of small prey, including protozoa, rotifers, water fleas , and even larger organisms like mosquito larvae, nematodes, and tadpoles. Enzymes digest the prey, providing nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, which are scarce in their habitats. Utricularia species are notable for their attractive and often colorful flowers, which can resemble orchids or snapdragons Source: etvbharat Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q1.) Consider the following statements: Indian Army Day is celebrated on January 15 to commemorate the first Indian Commander-in-Chief taking charge of the Indian Army. Pune is hosting the Army Day Parade for the first time in 2025. The National Defence Academy is located in Hyderabad, India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 only b) 1 and 2 only c) 1, 2, and 3 d) 2 and 3 only Q2.) Which of the following factors can lead to rupee depreciation? High crude oil prices Robust economic growth in the US Decreasing foreign investments in Indian equity markets Select the correct answer using the codes given below: a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) 1, 2, and 3 Q3.) With reference to the carnivorous plant Utricularia, consider the following statements: Utricularia is commonly known as bladderwort. It is a genus of carnivorous plants. Utricularia species are found in diverse habitats, ranging from fresh water and wet soils to tropical rainforest canopies. Which of the statements given above 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 14th January – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – b Q.2) – b Q.3) – a

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