May 27, 2023 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2023 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 27th May 2023

For Previous Daily Quiz (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE 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 solutionsTo take the Test Click Here

May 26, 2023 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 25th May 2023

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Ordinance 2023: Syllabus     Prelims: Polity Context: Recently, the central government promulgated an Ordinance that undid the unanimous verdict of a five-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court had earlier ruled that the government of National Capital Territory of Delhi has legislative and executive power over administrative services in the National Capital, excluding matters relating to public order, police and land. The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Ordinance 2023: The President promulgated the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Ordinance 2023 that took away the power of the Delhi government over services. Instead, the lieutenant governor (LG), an official appointed by the central government was given the final say on the question of transfers and postings of bureaucrats in the Delhi government. The ordinance established a statutory body, the National Capital Civil Services Authority, to decide on issues concerning the transfer and posting of bureaucrats. The authority comprises the chief minister (CM), the chief secretary, and the principal home secretary of the government of the national capital territory of Delhi, which means that the decision of the elected CM can be vetoed or overruled by two senior unelected bureaucrats. The 2023 ordinance was promulgated in the wake of the unanimous judgment passed by the Constitution bench of the Supreme Court (SC) on May 11, holding that the democratically elected government of Delhi, rather than the LG, should exercise control over services in Delhi. Thus, other than the constitutionally mandated exceptions of land, police, and public order, the five-judge bench held that the elected Delhi government had final legislative and co-extensive executive power over issues of transfer and posting of the bureaucrats. The rationale behind the court’s judgment was that an elected government must be able to control and hold to account the civil service officers posted in its services, since they “play a decisive role in the implementation of government policy.”  Promulgation of Ordinance; Article 123 of the Constitution grants the President of India to promulgate Ordinances. President can promulgate ordinance at any time when both Houses of Parliament are not in session (recess of Parliament) , the President is satisfied that circumstances exist which render it necessary for him/her to take immediate action, he/she may promulgate such Ordinances as the circumstances appear to him/her to require. These ordinances have the same force and effect as an Act of Parliament but are in the nature of temporary laws. The ordinance can only be promulgated on those subjects on which Parliament is empowered to legislate, that is, the Union list or Concurrent list. An ordinance is subject to the same constitutional limitations as an Act of Parliament. Hence, an ordinance cannot abridge or take away any of the fundamental rights. Every ordinance issued must be laid before both the Houses of Parliament within six weeks from the reassembly of Parliament and it ceases to exist if it is not approved within six weeks of reassembly. Whenever a Bill seeking to replace an ordinance is introduced in the House, a statement explaining the circumstances that had necessitated immediate legislation through ordinance route should also be placed before the House. After the ordinance has been passed, it is required to be approved by the parliament within six weeks of reassembling. The same will cease to operate if disapproved by either House. The 44th Constitutional Amendment has reiterated that the satisfaction of the President to promulgate ordinance could be challenged in case an ‘immediate action’ was not required. Thus, it is subject to Judicial Review. The President may withdraw an ordinance at any time. However, he exercises his power with the consent of the Council of Ministers headed by the President. The Ordinances may have retrospective effect and may modify or repeal any act of parliament or other ordinances. Article 213 deals with the broadly analogous powers of the Governor to promulgate/ withdraw an Ordinance when the state legislature is not in session. An Ordinance is valid for six weeks, or 42 days, from the date on which the next session starts. If the two Houses start their sessions on different dates, the later date will be considered, say the explanations in Articles 123 and 213. Repromulgation of Ordinance; To re-promulgate Ordinance simply means to effectively extend the life of an Ordinance. An Ordinance ‘ceases to operate’ 6 weeks after the two Houses reassemble, except if it is converted into an Act by then. Re-promulgation sidesteps this limitation. In 2017, (Krishna Kumar Singh and Another v. State of Bihar) a seven-judge Bench of the court, which included present Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud, reiterated that legislation should normally be done by the legislature, and the Governor’s power to issue an Ordinance is in the nature of an emergency power. The court clarified that there might be circumstances permitting the re-promulgation of an Ordinance — however, it said, repeated re-promulgations without bringing the Ordinance to the legislature would usurp the legislature’s function, and will be unconstitutional. In Dr D C Wadhwa and Ors v. State of Bihar and Ors (1986) case, a Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court headed by then CJI P N Bhagwati held that “an Ordinance promulgated by the Governor to meet an emergent situation shall cease to be in operation at the expiration of six weeks from the reassembly of the Legislature.” If the government wishes for the Ordinance to continue in force beyond the six-week period, it “has to go before the Legislature”, which is the constitutional authority entrusted with law-making functions. SOURCE: The Hindu PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION Q1. Consider the following statements: The President of India can summon a session of the Parliament at such place as he/she thinks fit. The Constitution of India provides for three sessions of the Parliament in a year, but it is not mandatory to conduct all three sessions. There is no minimum number of days that the Parliament is required to meet in a year. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only The 76th World Health Assembly Syllabus     Prelims: International Organization Context: Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya delivered the keynote address at a side event session on “Heal in India & Heal by India” at the 76th World Health Assembly, in Geneva. About World Health Assembly; The World Health Assembly is the main decision-making body of WHO. Article 19 of the WHO Constitution provides the World Health Assembly with the authority to adopt conventions or agreements on any matter within WHO’s competence. The main functions of the World Health Assembly are to determine the policies of the Organization, appoint the Director-General, supervise financial policies, and review and approve the proposed programme budget. The Health Assembly is held annually in Geneva, Switzerland. The sole instrument established under Article 19 till date is the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which has made a significant and rapid contribution to protecting people from tobacco since its entry into force in About the 76th World Health Assembly; The Seventy-sixth World Health Assembly is being held in Geneva, Switzerland, on 21–30 May 2023. The theme of this year’s Health Assembly- WHO at 75: Saving lives, driving health for all. In 76th World Health Assembly, the World Health Organization is pushing for nations to sign a global pandemic treaty to improve the world’s collective response to future pandemics. Pandemic Treaty is a legally binding agreement to be adopted by the World Health Organization’s 194 member countries. Negotiations on new rules for dealing with pandemics are underway at the World Health Organization (WHO), with a target date of May 2024. It seeks to shore up the world’s defences against new pathogens following the COVID 19 pandemic that has killed nearly 7 million people. MUST READ: WHO (UPSC Prelims – WHO) SOURCE: PIB Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) Syllabus      Prelims: Science and Technology Context : India’s Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh has said the country is working on new technologies to help make the transition to clean energy using Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) which can be factory-built. About Small Modular Reactors (SMRs); Small modular reactors (SMRs) are advanced nuclear reactors that have a power capacity of up to 300 MW (e) per unit, which is about one-third of the generating capacity of traditional nuclear power reactors. SMRs, which can produce a large amount of low-carbon electricity, are: Small– physically a fraction of the size of a conventional nuclear power reactor. Modular – making it possible for systems and components to be factory-assembled and transported as a unit to a location for installation. Reactors – harnessing nuclear fission to generate heat to produce energy. Advantages of Small modular reactors (SMRs); ·       Many of the benefits of SMRs are inherently linked to the nature of their design – small and modular. ·       Given their smaller size, SMRs can be sited on locations not suitable for larger nuclear power plants. ·       SMRs offer savings in cost and construction time, and they can be deployed incrementally to match increasing energy demand. ·       In areas lacking sufficient lines of transmission and grid capacity, SMRs can be installed into an existing grid or remotely off-grid, as a function of its smaller electrical output, providing low-carbon power for industry and the population. ·       SMRs have reduced fuel requirements. Power plants based on SMRs require less frequent refuelling, every 3 to 7 years, in comparison to between 1 and 2 years for conventional plants. ·       Some SMRs are designed to operate for up to 30 years without refuelling. MUST READ: India’s nuclear energy SOURCE: Economic Times PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION Q1.  In India, why are some nuclear reactors kept under “IAEA Safeguards” while others are not? (2020) Some use Uranium and others use thorium. Some use imported uranium and others use domestic supplies. Some are operated by foreign enterprises and others are operated by domestic enterprises. Some are State- owned and others are privately-owned. The Insurance Information Bureau of India (IIB) Syllabus       Prelims: Economy Context: Recently, the Insurance Information Bureau of India (IIB) approached Cyberabad police stating that hackers from Russia encrypted their data through ransomware attack and demanded bitcoins to undo the damage. About the Insurance Information Bureau of India (IIB); TheInsurance Information Bureau of India (IIB), an independent body that maintains a repository of insurance-related information in the country. Insurance Information Bureau (IIB) was promoted by IRDA as a single platform to meet the needs of the insurance industry, in 2009. IIB is backed by a directive of IRDA, which in turn derives authority to obtain data from the insurers, as enunciated in Section 14 (2) (1) (e) of the IRDA Act, 1999. The [then] Honorable Finance Minister, Shri Pranab Mukherjee, formally inaugurated IIB in July 2010. IIB was registered as an independent nonprofit earning society on 21 November 2012 under the Andhra Pradesh Societies Registration Act 2001. IIB was mandated to be market neutral and provide independent and non-judgmental analysis to all stakeholders. The Bureau operates through its Insurance Domain Verticals Life, Health, Motor, Property/Fire/Engineering with dedicated support from IT and Analytics Verticals. The Bureau provides a bundle of services related to motor insurance to multiple stakeholders such as public, police, transport departments and insurers through its service package titled V- Seva. The services are call centre-, SMS- and web-based and provide information regarding insurance status of the vehicle, stolen vehicles, ownership of recovered vehicles, accident record etc. IIB also spearheads the Mortality and Morbidity Investigation Centre (MMIC) Operations with the support of Actuarial Oversight Committee and Operational Oversight Committee – Members have been nominated from the Life Insurance Industry. IIB handles the Central Index Server, which acts as a nodal point between different Insurance Repositories, and helps in de-duplication of demat accounts at the stage of creation of a new account. The Central Index Server also acts as an exchange for transmission/routing of information pertaining to transactions on each policy between an insurer and the insurance repository. The Bureau also maintains a Registry of all Hospitals in the network of Insurance (ROHINI). A portal on “Health Portability” for use of the Insurers is also under production stage. The Bureau has also been entrusted by IRDAI, the responsibility of building a repository of all Insurance Sales Persons. De-duplication is also facilitated to ensure that the Applicant is not engaged with any other insurer or insurer intermediary. Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI); Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), is a statutory body formed under an Act of Parliament, i.e., Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority Act, 1999 (IRDAI Act 1999) for overall supervision and development of the Insurance sector in India. The powers and functions of the Authority are laid down in the IRDAI Act, 1999 and Insurance Act, 1938. The key objectives of the IRDAI include promotion of competition to enhance customer satisfaction through increased consumer choice and fair premiums, while ensuring the financial security of the Insurance market. Entities regulated by IRDAI: Life Insurance Companies – Both public and private sector Companies General Insurance Companies– Both public and private sector Companies. Among them, there are some standalone Health Insurance Companies that offer health Insurance policies. Re-Insurance Companies Agency Channel Intermediaries  MUST READ:  Cyber Attacks (UPSC Mains – Cyber Attacks) SOURCE:  Times of India PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION Q1. In India, under cyber insurance for individuals, which of the following benefits are generally covered, in addition to payment for the loss of funds and other benefits? (2020) Cost of restoration of the computer system in case of malware disrupting access to one’s computer. Cost of a new computer if some miscreant willfully damages it, if proved so. Cost of hiring a specialized consultant to minimize the loss in case of cyber extortion. Cost of defence in the Court of Law if any third party files a suit. Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1, 2 and 4 only 1, 3 and 4 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2, 3 and 4 Q2. The terms ‘WannaCry, Petya and EternalBlue’ sometimes mentioned in the news recently are related to Exoplanets Cryptocurrency Cyber attacks Mini satellites INS Sindhuratna Syllabus    Prelims – Defence Technology Context: Kilo-class submarine INS Sindhuratna reaches India after major refit in Russia. About INS Sindhuratna; INS Sindhuratna (S59) (Jewel of the Sea) is a Sindhughosh-class diesel-electric submarine of the Indian Navy. Eight of the Navy’s diesel-electric submarines are Kilo class or Sindhughosh class from Russia, sourced between 1984 and 2000 and INS Sindhuratna is among the oldest Kilo-class submarines in the fleet. It was commissioned into the Indian Navy in December 1988. Sindhughosh-class submarines; Sindhughosh-class submarines are Kilo-class diesel-electric submarines in active service with the Indian Navy. The Kilo Class is the NATO designation for a naval diesel-electric submarine made in Russia. The Kilo Class submarines are mainly intended for anti-shipping and anti-submarine operations in relatively shallow waters. The Kilo-class submarines have a displacement of 2,300 tonnes, a maximum diving depth of 300 metres and a top speed of 18 knots. They are able to operate solo for 45 days with a crew of over 50. MUST READ: Project 75I SOURCE: The Hindu PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q1. Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently? (2016) Amphibious warfare ship. Nuclear-powered submarine. Torpedo launch and recovery vessel. Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. National e-Vidhan Application Syllabus    Prelims – Governance Context: The Union Minister for Ministry of Commerce and Industry inaugurated the two-day National Workshop on National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA). About National e-Vidhan Application; “National eVidhan Application (NeVA)”, a Mission Mode Project for Digital Legislatures to make the functioning of all Legislative Houses in the country paperless. It has been developed on the theme of ‘One Nation – One Application’. NeVA is transforming all State Legislatures into ‘DIGITAL HOUSES’. It enables the legislatures to transact entire Government business on digital platform including information exchange with the State Government Departments in digital mode. The aim of the project is to bring all the legislatures of the country together, in one platform. Thereby creating a massive data depository without having the complexity of multiple applications. NeVA is a workflow system deployed on NIC Cloud, MeghRaj. It helps the Chair of the House to conduct the proceedings of the House smoothly and in a paperless manner. NeVA is a device neutral and member centric application created to equip them to handle diverse House Business smartly by putting entire information regarding member contact details rules of procedure list of business notices, bulletins and bills starred/unstarred questions and answers papers laid, Committee reports etc. NeVA will completely eliminate the process of sending out a notice/request for collection of data. The application hosts a secure page for each Member of the House for submitting questions & other notices. mNeVA is a user-friendly Mobile App of NeVA which is available on Android as well as on iOS. mNeVA has made information on the conduct of business in Legislatures accessible anytime, anywhere to everyone.  MUST READ:  National E-governance Plan (NeGP) (UPSC Mains). SOURCE: PIB. PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q.1. Which one of the following is a purpose of ‘UDAY’, a scheme of the Government? (2016) Providing technical and financial assistance to start-up entrepreneurs in the field of renewable sources of energy. Providing electricity to every household in the country by 2018. Replacing the coal-based power plants with natural gas, nuclear, solar, wind and tidal power plants over a period of time. Providing for financial turnaround and revival of power distribution companies. Q.2. Consider the following: Aarogya Setu. CoWIN DigiLocker DIKSHA Which of the above are built on top of open-source digital platforms? (2022) 1 and 2 only. 2, 3 and 4 only. 1, 3 and 4 only. 1, 2, 3 and 4. Q3. Which of the following is/are the aim/aims of “Digital India” Plan of the Government of India? (2018) Formation of India’s own Internet companies like China did. Establish a policy framework to encourage overseas multinational corporations that collect Big Data to build their large data centres within our national geographical boundaries. Connect many of our villages to the Internet and bring Wi-Fi to many of our schools, public places and major tourist centres. Select the correct answer using the code given below. 1 and 2 only. 3 only. 2 and 3 only. 1, 2 and 3. Baralacha La Pass Syllabus Prelims -Geography Context:  Border Roads Organisation rescued over 70 people stranded at Baralacha La Pass. About Baralacha La Pass; Bara-lacha la, also known as Bara-lacha Pass is a high mountain pass in Zanskar range. It is at an elevation of 4.890m (16,043ft) above the sea level, located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, in India. It connects Lahaul district in Himachal Pradesh to Leh district in Ladakh, situated along the Leh–Manali Highway. The two headwaters of the Chenab River, Chandra and Bhaga, originate near the Baralacha Pass. The Bhaga River originates from Surya taal lake, which is situated a few of kilometres from the pass. The Chandra River originates from glacier in this region. The native name of Chenab, “Chandrabhaga”, represents the union of Chandra and Bhaga rivers downstream. MUST READ: Atal Tunnel (UPSC Prelims) SOURCE: The Print PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q1. Consider the following pairs: (2014)             Hills                                    Region Cardamom Hills.             Coromandel Coast. Kaimur Hills.                    Konkan Coast. Mahadeo Hills.                Central India. Mikir Hills.                     North-East India. Which of the above pairs are correctly matched? 1 and 2. 2 and 3. 3 and 4. 2 and 4. Q2. Siachen Glacier is situated to the (2020) East of Aksai Chin. East of Leh. North of Gilgit. North of Nubra Valley. G7 Syllabus Prelims – International Events of Importance Context: The 49th G7 summit was held from 19 to 21 May 2023 in Hiroshima, Japan. About G7; Image Source: BBC G7 stands for “Group of Seven” industrialized nations. This intergovernmental organisation was formed in The bloc meets annually to discuss issues of common interest like global economic governance, international security and energy policy. Headquarters: The G-7 does not have a formal constitution or a fixed headquarters. The decisions taken by leaders during annual summits are non-binding. G-7 countries include United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United Kingdom. Members share common values like democracy, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, free markets, and respect for international law. Origin: The G7 draws its roots from a meeting between the current G7 members, excluding Canada that took place in 1975. At the time, the global economy was in a state of recession due to the OPEC oil embargo. As the energy crisis was escalating, US decided that it would be beneficial for the large players on the world stage to coordinate with each other on macroeconomic initiatives. Nature of working: While G7 initially focused on international economic policy, in the 1980s, the G7 extended its mandate to include issues related to foreign policy and security as well. In recent years, G7 leaders have met to formulate common responses to challenges encompassing counterterrorism, development, education, health, human rights and climate change. MUST READ: G7 (UPSC Mains) SOURCE:  The Indian Express PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q1. In which one of the following groups are all the four countries members of G20? (2020) Argentina, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey. Australia, Canada, Malaysia and New Zealand. Brazil, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam. Indonesia, Japan, Singapore and South Korea. Q2. Which of the following is NOT a member of Gulf Cooperation Council? (2016) Iran Saudi Arabia Oman Kuwait Mains: Why women must have a seat at the climate change decision-making table Syllabus GS 3: Environment and Conservation; Climate Change GS 1: Women and Climate change Context: Climate change affects everyone, but its harshest consequences are felt by the most vulnerable i.e., women, children, and people from the sections of society who have almost no say in the decision-making process. In times of crisis, women are often left behind and face increased health and safety risks due to inadequate infrastructure and the unequal burden of domestic care. An intersectional lens that looks at the barriers and challenges faced by vulnerable populations is needed as we design adaptation and mitigation strategies to deal with the crisis. “When there are more women in boardrooms and in high-level positions in institutions, you get decisions that are wiser… there is a tendency for women to be more collaborative… (Women) have the first duty of care of our newborn children and hence, biologically, we’re geared towards that stewardship. But it is just plain stupid, frankly, not to use 50 per cent of human potential.” The Costa Rican diplomat Christiana Figueres [Christiana Figueres successfully steered the global diplomatic effort that culminated in the 2015 Paris Agreement that made most of the world’s governments commit to limiting global temperature rise by 1.5 degrees Celsius] Let us talk about Why Women Should Get to sit at the Decision-making Table: Lack of Access: Women rely heavily on natural resources, yet face major obstacles in accessing them. In low and middle-income countries especially, women work harder to secure food, fodder, and water during extreme weather events, often leading to girls dropping out of school to support their mothers. If women in developing countries had the same access to resources as men, they could increase agricultural yields. However, due to legal and cultural constraints, less than 20 per cent of landholders are women With even fewer in North Africa and West Asia, and Sub-Saharan Africa. Women are also less likely to survive during crises due to long-standing inequalities vis-a-vis information-access and mobility creating a vicious cycle of vulnerability to future disasters. Health Concerns: Climate disasters worsen women’s health by limiting access to healthcare and increasing risks related to maternal and child health. Emergent research reveals that women are more likely to experience deaths from heatwaves in France, China, and India, and from tropical cyclones in Bangladesh and the Philippines. According to the UN, 60 per cent of the world’s hungry and malnourished are women. The International Food Policy Research Institute estimates that climate change could lead to an additional 1.2 million stunted children by 2050. Girls are expected to be disproportionately affected due to gender disparities in access to food, health care, and education. Extreme heat increases the incidences of stillbirth The rampant spread of vector-borne diseases worsens maternal and neonatal outcomes. Therefore, to ensure effective and equitable solutions to climate change, it’s essential to recognize the disproportionate impact on women and provide them with a seat at the decision-making table. Women as Farmers have proved their excellence repeatedly: Women farmers play an important role in the protection of environment and biodiversity as well as in taking care of the health and nutrition needs of their families. Therefore, it is important for women’s voices to be included, and those from indigenous communities who have practical experience of living in harmony with nature. However, women are not in decision-making positions as they have limited land-owning rights and almost no financial resources. The challenge of excluding women from Wildlife Conservation: The connections between gender and wildlife use are diverse and depend on particular economic, cultural and ethnic contexts. However, women may not participate in conservation activities either because they are excluded from doing so by vested interests or because they do not feel empowered to speak out in their cultural contexts. This lack of understanding is highly problematic for conservation projects. In addition, women’s productive and reproductive unpaid work and their participation in decision-making have a direct impact in wildlife use by: Making male labour available to hunt or fish at times when seasonal demand for labour in agriculture peaks Reducing monetary cost of family reproduction, generating alternative sources of income, and supporting food production, all of which might reduce pressure on wildlife. Women’s particular roles and responsibilities within the household, community, and society lead women to develop unique knowledge related to biodiversity, shaped by their specific needs and priorities. They are thereby in a unique position to bring different perspectives and new solutions to addressing biodiversity concerns. Women and Leadership Position: Unfortunately, women continue to face barriers that impede their advancement into leadership positions. However, when women are involved in decision-making, it positively affects the environment. Countries with higher female representation in parliament are more likely to endorse international environmental agreements, and have more stringent climate policies. At workplaces too, women’s leadership has shown a positive correlation with greater transparency regarding environmental footprints and disclosure of emissions. Successful Cases-in-Point Women have played a major role in the conservation of agrobiodiversity. The Equator initiative award was won by Komala Pujari in 2003, a tribal woman from Odisha, for conserving local land races of paddy and getting farmers in Jeypore in Koraput district to shift to natural farming methods. The Way Forward: It is not just about Gender Equality anymore! A gender-intentional response to the climate crisis will result in sustainable economic growth, taking care of climate spillovers. However, elevating women leaders is not just about gender equality. What is it exactly then? It is about deploying our full resources to an urgent crisis. In addition, we must also invest in infrastructure that is sensitive to gender concerns to cope with the climate crisis. At the workplace particularly, women’s leadership has shown a positive correlation with increased transparency regarding environmental footprints and the disclosure of emissions. One-fifth of major corporations have pledged to go net-zero by 2050 but do not proactively include women at the board level. Measures are necessary to increase the representation of women in decision-making roles related to biodiversity and environmental governance at all levels. We need to mitigate both cultural and logistical barriers to allow women to voice their needs, knowledge, priorities, and solutions in relation to sustainable development – at the same level as men. We need to spread awareness among women and girls of proposed biodiversity-related actions that affect them. We must build their knowledge about their rights and about their options for contributing to shaping those actions. Equal rights and access to ownership and control over land are also critically important for women across the world, as reflected in the Sustainable Development Goals (targets 1.4, 2.3, 5.a). Provide more learning opportunities for girls to support their future participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) related jobs. The IPCC reports call for a faster shift to renewable energy, which can only happen with women’s skills, participation, and leadership in the energy transition. This will require handholding support apart from creating an education system that provides opportunities to willing women to choose careers in STEM fields. An education regime encouraging women in STEM will help in creating a sizeable number of women leaders, managers, engineers, and technical workforce in green jobs associated with renewable energy solutions. Among the actions with the most significant potential for reducing land-use emissions are reduced deforestation and forest degradation, a shift to plant-based diets, and reduced food and agricultural waste. Some of the solutions with the most significant potential for CO2 removal are afforestation and sequestration of soil carbon in croplands and grasslands. These are all actions where women play a critical role, including influencing shifting diets and participating in community-led nature-based solutions such as afforestation or mangrove restoration. Women’s involvement in nature-based solutions for climate mitigation and adaptation offers a cost-effective way of protecting, sustainably managing, and restoring ecosystems. With women leading these efforts, we stand a chance to address societal challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and poverty and inequality. To support these actions, we need to scale up climate financing for women. Women have less access to financial resources to prepare for and adapt to climate change. For example, restrictions on women’s land ownership mean that many women do not have access to productive land to farm. A lack of financial capital and access to technologies means they cannot quickly diversify their livelihoods. If women are disproportionately affected by climate change, then resources need to prioritize strengthening their resilience. We also have to ignite the full engagement and support of men and boys to enable empowered participation of women and girls in biodiversity conservation. It is critical that men and boys understand and support measures for women’s empowerment, to ensure that these measures will be accepted in the community. Climate experts say we are at the tipping point, but through women’s leadership in climate action, we might be able to tip the scales in our favor. An inclusive approach would also contribute to addressing the root causes of inequalities, through creating awareness and promoting long-term beneficial action. SOURCE: Indian Express Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q1. With reference to ordinance making power of president, consider the following statements: Ordinances have the same force and effect as an Act of Parliament. The ordinance can only be promulgated on those subjects on which Parliament is empowered to legislate. Every ordinance issued must be laid before both the Houses of Parliament within six months from the reassembly of Parliament. The Ordinances may have retrospective effect and may modify or repeal any act of parliament or other ordinances. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1and 2 only 1,2 and 4 only 2,3 and 4 only 1,2,3 and 4 Q2. With reference to World Health Assembly, Consider the following statements: The World Health Assembly is the main decision-making body of WHO. World Health Assembly has the authority to adopt conventions or agreements on any matter within WHO’s competence. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q3. In which one of the following groups are all the four countries members of G7? Canada, Italy, Germany and France. Australia, Canada, India and New Zealand. China, Japan, Malaysia and South Korea. Russia, China, Japan and United States Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’ 25th May 2023 – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs.st ANSWERS FOR 24th May – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – c Q.2) – b Q.3) – d

May 26, 2023 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2023 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 26th May 2023

For Previous Daily Quiz (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE 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 solutionsTo take the TestClick Here

May 25, 2023 Important Articles

176+ Ranks UPSC CSE 2022 Topper’s from IASbaba – Yet another Year of Outstanding Results!

Dear Friends, It is wonderful news for us here at IASbaba. The sense of joy has no bounds today as something that we started with pure passion has borne the fruit. At IASbaba the focus from day one has been on quality and every year thousands of students realize why we are the most trusted and reliable portal! We are happy to announce that our students have bagged 22 out of the top 100 ranks, and over 176 have been successful in UPSC Civil Services Examination, 2022. These 176+ students have been part of our Baba’s Gurukul, Integrated Learning Program (ILP), Gurukul, Think Learn Perform (TLP) Mains Test Series, TLP Connect (Prelims + Mains Test Series), and Prelims Test Series (AIPTS) and Interview Mentorship Program (IMP) and 60 Days RaRe Series. List of IASbaba’s Toppers UPSC CSE 2022   Rank Roll Number Name Course/Programme Rank 2 1506175 GARIMA LOHIA PEP Rank 9 3517201 KANIKA GOYAL IMP & Website Initiatives Rank 11 3407299 PARSANJEET KOUR Website Initiatives Rank 12 6302509 ABHINAV SIWACH Baba’s Gurukul Rank 14 6310372 KRITIKA GOYAL Website Initiatives Rank 22 5005936 G V S PAVANDATTA ILP & IMP Rank 26 0400900 GUNJITA AGRAWAL TLP Mains Rank 27 0835608 YADAV SURYABHAN ACHCHHELAL IMP Rank 30 5409668 PREKSHA AGRAWAL Website Initiatives Rank 41 5800842 SHUBHAM IMP Rank 49 7815739 SANSKRITI SOMANI IMP & Website Initiatives Rank 50 7108433 MAHENDRA SINGH TLP Mains Rank 62 866165 VAISHNAVI PAUL TLP Mains & IMP Rank 66 2638851 KRITIKA MISHRA TLP Mains Rank 67 0711618 KASTURI PANDA TLP Mains & IMP Rank 80 2637553 ANUJA TRIVEDI Website Initiatives Rank 81 1909035 MALINI S IMP Rank 87 0425416 AYAN JAIN IMP Rank 88 1701299 NIDHI Website Initiatives Rank 89 852472 PRINCE KUMAR TLP Mains Rank 91 6810072 JATIN JAIN IMP Rank 100 1105423 BHAAVIKA THANVI Website Initiatives & IMP Rank 109 1009203 AKSHANSH YADAV IMP Rank 121 2408495 P K SIDHARTH RAMKUMAR ILP, PEP, TLP Mains Answer Writing Rank 122 1533607 KUMAR SUSHANT TLP Mains Rank 137 0826526 ABHINAV DWIVEDI Website Initiatives & IMP Rank 138 0883890 SRISHTI BHATT Website Initiatives & IMP Rank 143 0887986 HARSH PARASHAR TLP Mains & IMP Rank 144 814861 NEEPA MANOCHA TLP Mains & IMP Rank 151 6309142 DEEPIKA AGARWAL TLP Mains & IMP Rank 155 0339870 MELVYN VARGHESE Website Initiatives & IMP Rank 169 1216291 CHATHRIYA KAVIN DJ IMP Rank 171 823631 AYUSH GOEL TLP Mains Rank 172 1900616 MALAVIKA G NAIR TLP Mains Rank 180 5409703 AYUSH GUPTA Website Initiatives Rank 185 866859 ANUNAY ANAND PEP Rank 189 6205586 SHAIK HABEEBULLA IMP & Website Initiatives Rank 192 823315 SHREY SHASHANK TLP Initiatives Rank 198 0334794 SAURABH A NARENDRA TLP Mains & IMP Rank 205 1532770 AAKANSHA ANAND TLP Mains Rank 207 2206028 ARPIT R PARAKH TLP Mains Rank 209 2206028 VIBHORE MENDIRATTA IMP Rank 210 0317324 AKASH A L Website Initiatives & IMP Rank 216 0856109 SHIVAM KUMAR Website Initiatives Rank 217 8200793 RAVULA JAYASIMHA REDDY IMP Rank 220 0881463 SAKSHI Website Initiatives Rank 222 1001337 P SRAVAN KUMAR TLP Mains, PEP & IMP Rank 225 834186 ROHIT KUMAR Website Initiatives Rank 227 3515024 HARDEEP Website Initiatives Rank 230 6314614 SIDDHARTH SINGH DANGI TLP Mains & IMP Rank 236 2619924 ADITYA SRIVASTAVA Website Initiatives Rank 237 0834939 SONAM Website Initiatives Rank 238 0333533 CHALUVARAJU R IMP Rank 239 1121453 ANUPRIYA CHOUDHARY TLP Mains & IMP Rank 240 0850491 SHASHI SHEKHAR Website Initiatives Rank 242 0872629 ABHISHEK MAJI Website Initiatives & IMP Rank 243 5105666 KASIRAJU PAVANA SAI SAHITHYA TLP Mains Rank 246 0827664 AMIT GUPTA Website Initiatives Rank 248 6409509 SUSHREE SUVANGI KHUNTIA TLP Mains Rank 249 0813113 AAKRITI SETHI TLP Mains & IMP Rank 256 0817162 MAHIPAL SINGH GURJAR TLP Mains & IMP Rank 257 0825668 ANKUR KUMAR Website Initiatives & IMP Rank 268 1101257 AAKIP KHAN IMP & Website Initiatives Rank 271 0812226 ANJALI BHARDWAJ IMP Rank 272 0800296 DIVYA PANT PEP & IMP Rank 273 413479 MUKUND SINGH CHAHAR Website Initiatives Rank 275 0500625 LOVISH GARG TLP Rank 279 8007784 ABHINAV PRAKASH IMP Rank 288 1111246 HIMANSHU MANGAL IMP & Website Initiatives Rank 291 1217174 ESHANI ANAND IMP Rank 293 1033059 GRANDHE SAIKRISHNA IMP Rank 298 0904832 MOHAMMAD IDUL AHMED IMP & Website Initiatives Rank 299 6808268 SAKSHI MISHRA TLP Mains & IMP Rank 301 0840869 ADITYA PANDEY IMP Rank 304 0402290 BHUMI SHRIVASTAVA TLP Mains & IMP Rank 305 5407756 SANGI PATERIYA TLP Mains Rank 307 0859366 SHIVANG RASTOGI IMP Rank 309 5807260 SHIVAM KUMAR Website Initiatives Rank 313 0862622 K N CHANDANA JAHNAVI IMP Rank 316 3517442 SANDHYA PARTAP TLP Mains & IMP Rank 325 0810210 SHUBHAM SINHA Website Initiatives Rank 330 0841664 NISHANT IMP Rank 333 5914868 HIMANSHU TYAGI Website Initiatives Rank 334 702165 AYUSHI PRADHAN Website Initiatives Rank 338 0839657 AKASH GARG GURUKUL ADVANCED Rank 340 867711 TUSHAR SHARMA IMP Rank 345 0302292 DHAMINI M DAS IMP Rank 347 6504906 DIGVIJAY SINGH IMP Rank 348 1412986 HIMANSHU SAMANT TLP Mains & IMP Rank 350 1911282 ARSHAD MUHAMMED TLP Mains Rank 352 838982 SANSKRITI TRIVEDY IMP & Website Initiatives Rank 362 3903985 SHRUTI YARAGATTI S IMP Rank 369 859919 PRIYANKA GOEL Website Initiatives Rank 370 6628623 GARUD SANKET SUNIL GURUKUL ADVANCED Rank 371 0601515 AKANKSHA JHA IMP & Website Initiatives Rank 374 0600317 DIKSHA RAI GURUKUL ADVANCED Rank 379 2637036 RAJAT SINGH IMP Rank 384 1046218 EPPALAPALLY SUSMITHA TLP Mains & Website Initiatives Rank 389 6410609 ARCHITA MITTAL IMP Rank 390 7301367 POOJA M IMP Rank 391 7810983 SHIV MALVIYA Website Initiatives Rank 392 862616 VIRUPAKSH VS KACHWAHA IMP Rank 394 1908163 VISHNU SASIKUMAR Website Initiatives Rank 399 5916492 YASH PAL SINGH IMP & Website Initiatives Rank 410 1027693 DONGRE REVAIAH Website Initiatives Rank 411 0884820 SNEHA Website Initiatives Rank 413 0823091 SHREYANSH SURANA IMP Rank 418 0853588 HARSHVARDHAN SINGH TLP Mains & Website Initiatives Rank 419 1145499 AKASH SHARMA IMP Rank 422 2634794 DEWANSH MISHRA IMP & Website Initiatives Rank 423 4115814 KUMAR RAJAT Website Initiatives Rank 435 807698 DAMINI DIWAKAR Website Initiatives Rank 437 2103384 NAYAN GAUTAM ILP & IMP Rank 444 0871034 MEENAKSHI ARYA IMP Rank 448 0315595 BHANU PRAKASH J IMP Rank 450 4200709 ANJALI SHARMA Website Initiatives Rank 461 1224914 ARUNKUMAR S TLP Mains Rank 473 0849375 PARIHAR SHUBHALI LAXMIKANT IMP Rank 498 5810348 ANUPAM ANAND KISHORE IMP Rank 501 0305115 DHANUSH KUMAR B S IMP Rank 502 3600020 KUMARI SOMEYA Website Initiatives Rank 504 6610622 SWAPNIL BAGAL IMP Rank 514 0808888 SHIVIN IMP Rank 525 335499 SHRIDEVI B V IMP Rank 531 7914253 BHANUPRIYA GURJAR IMP Rank 549 5807858 ALOK KUMAR IMP Rank 582 1532237 RAHUL KUMAR IMP Rank 583 1000983 YERRAMSETTI U S L RAMANI IMP Rank 589 6304333 SHIDDALINGAPPA K PUJAR Gurukul Advanced & IMP Rank 590 6504183 JOSHI VIKRAM NARASINHA Website Initiatives Rank 591 6109229 SHIVAM IMP Rank 594 7302405 VARUN K GOWDA TLP Mains & IMP Rank 616 7004921 MANPREET SINGH IMP Rank 622 0876827 DEEPESH GAUR IMP Rank 632 5902242 SHLOK GAUTAM IMP Rank 640 1033494 THUMMALA SAIKRISHNA REDDY Website Initiatives Rank 646 0302095 APOORVA MANDA Website Initiatives & IMP Rank 647 0842511 YASH VISHEN IMP Rank 648 0833896 KARAN NARENDRA MORE Website Initiatives Rank 657 1306706 BURGHATE SHIVAM SUNIL TLP Mains Rank 659 7303714 NIMISHAMBA C P TLP+ & IMP Rank 664 0825387 DIKSHA LANGTHASA Website Initiatives Rank 670 0705517 PRATHAMA PRATEEKSHYA PRADHAN IMP Rank 678 0809155 MANSI BIBYAN Website Initiatives Rank 681 1904398 ARDRA ASOK Website Initiatives Rank 687 6608344 JADHAO SUMEDH MILIND IMP Rank 693 6624841 MORE SHIVHAR CHAKRADHAR TLP Mains Rank 694 6313440 PUSULURU RAVI KIRAN Website Initiatives Rank 696 7900300 RAHUL KUMAR YADAV Website Initiatives Rank 703 6405507 SHUMAILA CHOUDHARY Website Initiatives Rank 709 1509930 UTKARSH GAURAV Website Initiatives Rank 713 1128697 VIKAS MEENA IMP Rank 719 0807485 DESHMUKH RAJASHREE SHANTARAM Website Initiatives Rank 728 7905846 YASHVARDHAN SINGH IMP Rank 735 6205956 MUKIRI PRINCE KAMAL TEJA AIPTS Rank 737 0828138 ATUL NIVRUTTIRAO DHAKNE Website Rank 744 0807911 SHASHWAT IMP Rank 742 0836891 RAMDENI SAINATH Website Initiatives Rank 745 0334667 MOHAMMED SIDDIQ SHARIFF IMP Rank 750 806287 BHOR MAHARUDRA JAGANNATH Gurukul Advanced Rank 775 0504169 RAHUL KUMAR IMP Rank 782 0600894 DIA DUTTA IMP Rank 796 877194 SHIVAM Website Initiatives Rank 799 6705447 SAINDANE SWAPNILA ANIL IMP Rank 813 302161 ABHISHEK K H Gurukul Advanced Rank 817 1114577 SAHIL MEENA IMP Rank 821 6630495 PUJA MANORAMA DILIP KHEDKAR TLP Mains Rank 822 7917671 AYUSH AGRAWAL Website Initiatives Rank 840 2202142 POONAM VERMA IMP Rank 846 1034034 BENDUKURI MAURYA TEJ TLP Mains & IMP Rank 866 0307156 NAGULA KRUPAKAR TLP Connect, TLP+ & IMP Rank 873 883763 AVDHESH IMP Rank 894 0102928 MANGERA KAUSHIK BHANUBHAI TLP Mains, PEP & IMP Rank 904 0119547 BHAVANABEN VADHER IMP Rank 911 1145399 MANISH AGRAWAL IMP Rank 931 6500028 HARE KRISHNA MEHER Website Initiatives NOTE: We are fully aware that Toppers receive guidance from multiple institutes and sources, with the complete credit going to their dedication and hard work, we have carefully made a list of the Toppers along with the programmes/initiatives they were a part of. (Which made us take these many days to publish this list). If any Topper from the list has any objection to their name being included in the list, please drop us a mail at support@iasbaba.com. We will do the needful immediately. Thank You IASbaba Team For a dedicated peer group, Motivation & Quick updates, Join our official telegram channel – https://t.me/IASbabaOfficialAccount Subscribe to our YouTube Channel HERE to watch Explainer Videos, Strategy Sessions, Toppers Talks & many more…

May 25, 2023 Important Articles

Navigating the Tide of UPSC Results: A Journey of Triumphs and Tribulations

Dear UPSC Aspirants, Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that count Winston Churchill In the stillness of this moment, when the echoes of the recently announced UPSC results still resound, it’s important to take a step back and appreciate the path you have walked, be it strewn with success or paved with challenges yet to be overcome.To those whose names glitter on the merit list, IASbaba extends its heartfelt congratulations. Your hard work, tireless nights, and the sacrifices you made have fructified. Like a lighthouse amidst turbulent waves, you stood tall, relentless, and unwavering, lighting the way for others who sail the same sea. IASbaba honours and celebrates your determination and fortitude.However, let this not be the end of your voyage but rather, a resplendent milestone in a lifelong journey of learning, serving, and growing. As Winston Churchill beautifully articulated, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that count.” May you continue to carry this courage as you transition into roles where you can shape the destiny of our nation.To our friends who couldn’t find their names in the merit list this time, we empathize deeply with your feelings of disappointment and perhaps, uncertainty. In the wake of the results, it can feel as if you’re standing alone in the rain, watching others take shelter. However, please remember that this is not a reflection of your capabilities or worth. It’s merely a delayed victory. You never fail until you stop trying.You are much more than an exam or a rank. You are a human, complete with your dreams, struggles, strengths, and weaknesses. This moment of setback is just a chapter in your book of life, not the whole story. It’s these chapters that hold the power to turn an ordinary tale into an extraordinary saga.Believe in the inevitability of your success. It may not have been today, but tomorrow holds infinite possibilities. This result doesn’t signify an end, but a bend in the road. Let this bend be an opportunity for reflection and realignment, for understanding where improvements can be made and taking action to ensure your future success.As you navigate this journey, remember the poignant words of Haruki Murakami, “Once the storm is over, you won’t remember how you made it through, how you managed to survive. You won’t even be sure whether the storm is really over. But one thing is certain. When you come out of the storm, you won’t be the same person who walked in. That’s what this storm’s all about.”So, dear friends, whether you find yourself basking in the glory of success or nursing the wound of disappointment, remember that you are not alone. You are a part of a community, a family, that understands, supports, and walks with you, every step of the way.From all of us at IASbaba, we wish you courage, strength, and unwavering faith in your journey ahead. As you proceed, may you find solace in the knowledge that every dawn follows the darkest hour of the night. Your dawn is waiting.With sincere admiration and respect,IASbaba Team

May 25, 2023 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 24th May 2023

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC) Syllabus     Prelims: Geography Context: Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have signed an agreement to finalize the construction of the Rasht (Iranian city on Caspian Sea)-Astara (Azerbaijan) railway, which is expected to boost the International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC). About International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC): International North-South Transport Corridor is a multi modal transportation established in 2000 for promoting transportation and cooperation among the Member States. Russia, India and Iran signed preliminary agreements to develop the 7,200-km-long International North-South Transport Corridor (NSTC) in 2002. Three years later, Azerbaijan signed up for the project. This agreement was eventually ratified by 13 countries — India, Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bulgaria, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Oman, Tajikistan, Turkey and Ukraine. The ambitious trade corridor seeks to link Russia’s Baltic Sea coast to India’s western ports in the Arabian Sea through Azerbaijan and Iran. The corridor encompasses sea, road and rail routes. India’s Interest: India’s interest in the development of the INSTC is manifested by its $2.1 billion investments, including the construction of the port of Chabahar in Iran and the construction of a 500 km Chabahar-Zahedan railway line. Chabahar is now capable of processing ultra-large container ships. For India, the INSTC opens the way for trading with Iran and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. This, naturally, has implications in terms of reaching out to both Afghanistan and Central Asia, significant corners in our extended neighbourhood. The corridor will also provide access to potential markets in the wider Eurasia region. MUST READ: Chabahar Port (UPSC Prelims) SOURCE: The Hindu PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION Q1. What is the importance of developing Chabahar Port by India? (2017) India’s trade with African countries will enormously increase. India’s relations with oil-producing Arab countries will be strengthened. India will not depend on Pakistan for access to Afghanistan and Central Asia. Pakistan will facilitate and protect the installation of a gas pipeline between Iraq and India. Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary Syllabus     Prelims: Environment Context: The first-ever sighting of Barkudia limbless skink (Barkudiamelanostica), a small reptile has been reported at the Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary. About Barkudia limbless skink: Barkudia limbless skink is a small reptile. It is fossorial in nature, is characterised by its elongated body, muddy brown colouration, and absence of limbs, a unique adaptation to its environment. This species is listed as Critically Endangered in theIUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary: The Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary is an important protected area located near Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The sanctuary is named after the local hillock, Kambalakonda, and is home to a number of rare and endangered species, including the Indian leopard. The Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary is a dry deciduous forest with meadows and scrub. The forest is surrounded by the Gambheeram reservoir on the northeast and the Simhachalam hill range on the west. These unique physical features create a unique microclimate that supports the survival and growth of various species of plants and animals. SOURCE: The Hindu PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION Q1. From the ecological point of view, which one of the following assumes importance in being a good link between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats? (2017)  Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve  Nallamala Forest Nagarhole National Park Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve Thirukkural Syllabus      Prelims – Indian Culture Context: PM Modi releases Tamil classic ‘Thirukkural’ in Tok Pisin language. Tok Pisin is the official language of Papua New Guinea. About Thirukkural: Tirukkural, (Tamil: “Sacred Couplets”) also called Kural. It is the most celebrated of the Patiren-kirkkanakku (“Eighteen Ethical Works”) in Tamil literature and a work that has had an immense influence on Tamil culture and life. It is attributed to the poet Tiruvalluvar, who is thought to have lived in India in the 6th century. The traditional accounts describe it as the last work of the third Sangam, but linguistic analysis suggests a later date of 450 to 500 CE and that it was composed after the Sangam period. It has 133 sections of 10 couplets each are divided into three books: aram (virtue), porul (government and society), and kamam (love). Important Messages of Thirukural: It is considered one of the greatest works on ethics and morality, it is known for its universality and secular nature. The first section opens with praise of God, rain, renunciation, and a life of virtue. It then presents a world-affirming vision, the wisdom of human sympathy that expands from one’s family and friends to one’s clan, village, and country. The porul section projects a vision of an ideal state and relates good citizenship to virtuous private life. The kamam section addresses both “secret love” and married love; The section on married love is written as a dialogue between husband and wife. It emphasizes non-violence and moral vegetarianism as virtues for an individual. It highlights truthfulness, self-restraint, gratitude, hospitality, kindness, goodness of wife, duty, giving, and so forth. Besides covering a wide range of social and political topics such as king, ministers, taxes, justice, forts, war, greatness of army and soldier’s honor, death sentence for the wicked, agriculture, education, abstinence from alcohol and intoxicants. It also includes chapters on friendship, love, sexual union, and domestic life MUST READ: Sangam Age (UPSC Mains – Sangam Age) SOURCE: The Hindu PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q1. Which one of the following statements about Sangam literature in ancient South India is correct? (2022)  Sangam poems are devoid of any reference to material culture. The social classification of Varna was known to Sangam poets. Sangam poems have no reference to warrior ethic. Sangam literature refers to magical forces as irrational. Fortified Rice Syllabus     Prelims – Science and Technology Context: Government will supply 35 million tonne (MT) of iron fortified rice to the 800 million beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) by March 31, 2024. Additionally 3.4 MT of fortified rice will be supplied to 83 million beneficiaries under the social sector programme such as Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and PM Poshan by the end of current fiscal. Food Fortification: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) defines fortification as “deliberately increasing the content of essential micronutrients in a food so as to improve the nutritional quality of food and to provide public health benefit with minimal risk to health”. For example, adding iodine and iron to edible salt. During the rice fortification process, essential vitamins and minerals are added to the grain, enhancing its nutritious value. Essential components like vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin B1, iron, zinc, and folic acid are added during the fortification process. Need for Rice Fortification India has very high levels of malnutrition among women and children. According to the Food Ministry, every second woman in the country is anemic and every third child is stunted. Malnutrition costs India at least ₹77,000 crore annually in terms of lost productivity, illness and death. The country loses about 1 per cent of GDP (₹2.03 lakh crore) due to iron deficiency. One rupee spent on nutritional interventions in India could generate ₹34.1-Rs 38.6 in public economic returns. Rice is one of India’s staple foods, consumed by about two-thirds of the population. Per capita rice consumption in India is 6.8 kg per month. Therefore, fortifying rice with micronutrients is an option to supplement the diet of the poor. Integrated Child Development Scheme Background: Launched in 1975, it is one of the world’s largest programmes providing an integrated package of services for the holistic development of the child. Aim: It is providing for supplementary nutrition, immunization and pre-school education to the children is a popular flagship programme of the government. Funding: ICDS is a centrally sponsored scheme implemented by state governments and union territories. Coverage: The scheme is universal covering all the districts of the country. Objectives of ICDS To improve the nutritional and health status of children in the age-group 0-6 years. To lay the foundation for proper psychological, physical and social development of the child. To reduce the incidence of mortality, morbidity, malnutrition and school dropout. To achieve effective coordination of policy and implementation amongst the various departments to promote child development. To enhance the capability of the mother to look after the normal health and nutritional needs of the child through proper nutrition and health education. Beneficiaries of ICDS: Children in the age group of 0-6 years, pregnant women and Lactating mothers. Services under ICDS: Supplementary Nutrition, Pre-school non-formal education, Nutrition & health education, Immunization, Health check-up and Referral services POSHAN Abhiyaan POSHAN Abhiyaan is the flagship program to improve nutritional outcomes for children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers in India. It is also called the National Nutrition Mission. Salient Features of the POSHAN Abhiyan The POSHAN (Prime Minister’s Overarching Scheme for Holistic Nutrition) Abhiyaan spreads awareness towards the problems pertaining to malnutrition and brings viable solutions with it. Implementation status reports of the Abhiyaan are submitted by NITI Aayog every six months. The implementation of POSHAN Abhiyaan is carried out through the Technical Support Unit (TSU) established at NITI Aayog, which will also provide research, policy, and technical support for the program. As the mission is expected to eradicate malnutrition by 2022, it has been taken up by multiple ministries. This helps in expanding the outreach of the mission and thereby facilitating its implementation. Some specific targets of the program are reducing stunting, anemia, under-nutrition, and low birth weight. Specific Targets of the POSHAN Abhiyan The POSHAN Abhiyan aims to target the following specifically: Reduce stunting by 2% annually. Reduce under-nutrition by 2% annually. Reduce anemia by 3% annually. Reduce low birth weight by 2% annually. National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013 Must Read: National Food Security Act (NFSA) SOURCE: Financial Express PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q1. Genetically modified “golden rice” has been engineered to meet human nutritional requirements. Which one of the following statements best qualifies golden rice? (2010) The grains have been fortified with genes to provide three times higher grain yield per acre than other high yielding varieties. Its grains contain pro-vitamin A which upon ingestion is converted to vitamin A in the human body. Its modified genes cause the synthesis of all the nine essential amino acids. Its modified genes cause the fortification of its grains with vitamin D. World Meteorological Organization Syllabus        Prelims – Environment and Ecology Context: Every year since 2020, the WMO has been issuing forecasts for the following year and the average outlook for the next five years. About World Meteorological Organization (WMO). It is a specialized agency of the United Nations. It was established in 1950, WMO became the specialized agency of the UN for meteorology (weather and climate), operational hydrology and related geophysical sciences. Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland. WMO is dedicated to international cooperation and coordination on the state and behavior of the Earth’s atmosphere, its interaction with the land and oceans, the weather and climate it produces, and the resulting distribution of water resources. Currently it has a membership of 187 countries. India is a member of WMO since 1949. Governance Structure: Its supreme body is the World Meteorological Congress, which consists of representatives of all members. It meets at least every four years to set general policy and adopt regulations. A 36-member Executive Council meets annually and implements policies. The Secretariat, headed by a secretary-general appointed by the congress for a four-year term, serves as the administrative centre of the organization. Six regional associations address problems peculiar to their regions. It has eight technical commissions. Major Programmes: World Weather Watch: A system of satellites and telecommunication networks connecting land and sea sites for monitoring weather conditions. World Climate Programme: It monitors climate change, including global warming. Atmospheric Research and Environment Programme: Designed to promote research on issues such as ozone depletion. MUST READ: IPCC Climate Report SOURCE: The Hindu Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit 2023 Syllabus Prelims: International Relations Context: Recently, the Prime Minister of India attended Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit in Papua New Guinea. About Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit: Forum for India-Pacific Islands cooperation is a multinational grouping developed in 2014 for cooperation between India and 14 Pacific Island Nations. India established the Forum for FIPIC as a part of the Act East Policy. First summit of FIPIC was held in 2014, at Suva, Fiji’s capital city. Second summit was held in 2015 at It called for a “dedicated seat for Small Island Developing States in an expanded and reformed UN Security Council in both categories”.( https://iasbaba.com/2021/07/need-for-reforms-in-un-the-big-picture-rstv-ias-upsc/ ). Third summit of India-Pacific Islands Co-operation (FIPIC Summit 2023) Held at Port Moresby, was jointly hosted with Papua New Guinea. Prime Minister of India unveiled a comprehensive 12-step initiative aimed at advancing India’s collaborations with the countries in the Pacific region. Establishment of a super-specialty cardiology hospital in Fiji. The Indian government will bear the full cost of this mega Greenfield project. Sea ambulances will be provided to all the 14 Pacific island countries. In 2022, a Jaipur Foot Camp was conducted in Fiji where prosthetic limbs were provided free of cost to more than 600 people. Another similar camp will be set up in Papua New Guinea this year and starting from 2024, two such camps will be organized every year in the Pacific island countries. India has pledged to provide desalination units for the people of every Pacific Island country. Countries that are a part of FIPIC: Cook Islands Fiji Kiribati Marshall Islands Federated States of Micronesia Nauru Niue Samoa Solomon Islands Papua New Guinea Tonga Tuvalu Vanuatu Significance of FIPIC: Despite their relatively small size and considerable distance from India, many of these islands have large exclusive economic zones (EEZs). EEZs is the distance up to which a coastal nation has jurisdiction over the ocean, including both living and non-living resources. It generally goes to 200 nautical miles (around 370 km) beyond a nation’s territorial sea. India’s larger focus is on the Indian Ocean where it has sought to play a major role and protect its strategic and commercial interests. The FIPIC initiative then marks a serious effort to expand India’s engagement in the Pacific region as well. Being responsive to China’s increasing assertion in the region: Especially the references to “developments in the Indo-Pacific region” and a “vision for a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific”. Based on 2021-22 data, the total annual trade between India and Pacific Island countries is valued at $570 million. Main commodities: plastics, pharmaceuticals, sugar, mineral fuel and ores. Papua New Guinea is the biggest trade partner in terms of value. Must Read: Pacific Island Forum SOURCE: The Hindu PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION  Q1. With reference to the “Look East Policy” of India, consider the following statements India wants to establish itself as an important regional player in East Asian affairs. India wants to plug the vacuum created by the termination of the Cold War. India wants to restore the historical and cultural ties with its neighbours in Southeast and East Asia. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 1 and 3 only 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q1. With reference to International North-South Transport Corridor, consider the following statements: The ambitious trade corridor seeks to link Russia’s Baltic Sea coast to India’s eastern ports. The main purpose of the corridor was to reduce carriage costs and transit time between India and Russia. For India, the INSTC opens the way for trading with Iran and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. Which of the statements give above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only 2 and 3 1,2 and 3 Q2. Barkudiamelanostica, recently seen in news is a Bird Reptile Ant Plant Q3. The World Climate Programme is an initiative of World Bank. United Nations Development Program United Nations Environment Program. World Meteorological Organisation. Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’ 24th May 2023 – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs.st ANSWERS FOR 23rd May – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – b Q.2) – c Q.3) – a

May 25, 2023 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2023 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 25th May 2023

For Previous Daily Quiz (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE 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 solutionsTo take the Test Click Here

May 25, 2023 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 23rd May 2023

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit 2023 Syllabus Prelims : International Relations Context: Recently, Prime Minister of India attended Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit in Papua New Guinea. About Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC ) Summit Forum for India-Pacific Islands cooperation is a multinational grouping developed in 2014 for cooperation between India and 14 Pacific Islands nations. FIPIC consists of Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. India established the Forum for FIPIC as a part of the Act East Policy. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Fiji convened FIPIC’s inaugural gathering in 2014. All 14 countries actively participated in this landmark event. In 2015, the second meeting of the forum was held in Jaipur, with the participation of all 14 countries. Third summit of India-Pacific Islands Co-operation (FIPIC Summit 2023) held at Port Moresby was jointly hosted with Papua New Guinea. Prime minister of India co- chaired the summit with PM of Papua New Guinea. On this occasion, Prime Minister of India unveiled a comprehensive 12-step initiative aimed at advancing India’s collaborations with the countries in the Pacific region. India’s development partnership with Pacific Island Countries (PICs) encompasses various areas, such as infrastructure development, with a particular emphasis on education, health, and culture. Additionally, community development projects have involved initiatives such as refurbishing libraries and school buildings, renovating colleges, providing IT infrastructure to educational institutions, and establishing digital libraries. Act East Policy The Act East Policy launched in November 2014, is considered to be an upgrade of the Look East Policy. India’s Act East Policy focuses on the extended neighbourhood in the Asia-Pacific region. The Objective of ”Act East Policy” is to promote economic cooperation, cultural ties and develop strategic relationship with countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Act East Policy (AEP) provides an interface between North East India including the state of Arunachal Pradesh and the ASEAN region. Various plans at bilateral and regional levels include steady efforts to develop and strengthen connectivity of Northeast with the ASEAN region through trade, culture, people-to-people contacts and physical infrastructure (road, airport, telecommunication, power, etc.). Some of the major projects include Kaladan Multi-modal Transit Transport Project, the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway Project, Rhi-Tiddim Road Project, Border Haats, etc. MUST READ: ASEAN SOURCE: The Hindu https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/pm-modi-underlines-importance-of-free-and-open-indo-pacific-at-fipic-summit-in-papua-new-guinea/article66879690.ece. PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION  Q1. With reference to the “Look East Policy” of India, consider the following statements India wants to establish itself as an important regional player in East Asian affairs. India wants to plug the vacuum created by the termination of the Cold War. India wants to restore the historical and cultural ties with its neighbours in Southeast and East Asia. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 1 and 3 only 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary Syllabus Prelims : Environment Context:  A three-day Jumbo census in Seshachalam hills, Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary hints at sizeable presence of Jumbos in the region. About Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary and an elephant reserve situated in Andhra Pradesh, India. It is the only sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh with a population of Asian elephants, which migrated after 200 years from neighboring regions. This Sanctuary comes under Project elephant – a Country wide Elephant Conservation Project taken up by Government of India. The Sanctuary also has many places of attraction around it. Forest Type: Southern tropical dry deciduous forest, with patches of thorn, scrub and grassy plains. Flora: Plants like Albizzia amara, Ficus glomerata, Zizyphus xylocarpus, Gymnosporia Montana, etc; make this a green panoramic place with a breathtaking floral diversity. Fauna: Insects like Gongylus praying mantis, Painted grasshopper, Plain tiger butterfly, Common grass yellow butterfly, etc; abound this elephant land. Reptiles like Common cobra, Rat snake, Indian rock python, Forest calotes, Skinks, etc; make this place their abode. Birds like Partidges, quails, storks, Cotton teal, etc; make this Sanctuary their domicile. A further balance in the food-web is maintained by mammals like Indian Elephant, Panther, Sloth bear, Wild boar, Chowsingha, Nilgai, Hyena, Jackal, etc. MUST READ: Asian Elephants SOURCE : The Hinduhttps://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/jumbo-census-in-seshachalam-hills-koundinya-wildlife-sanctuary-hints-at-sizeable-presence/article66870607.ece. PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q1. Consider the following pairs: (2013) Nokrek Biosphere Reserve : Garo Hills Logtak (Loktak) Lake : Barail Range Namdapha National Park : Dafla Hills Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched? 1 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 None Q2.From the ecological point of view, which one of the following assumes importance in being a good link between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats? (2017)  Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve  Nallamala Forest Nagarhole National Park  Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve Deputy Chief Minister Syllabus Prelims – Polity Context: D K Shivakumar was sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister (CM) of Karnataka. About Post of Deputy CM Articles 163-164 deals with Council of Ministers (CoM) in states. Article 163(1) of the Constitution says, “There shall be a Council of Ministers with the Chief Minister at the head to aid and advice the Governor in the exercise of his functions”. Article 164 (1) says “there shall be a Council of Ministers with the Chief Minister at the head to aid and advise the Governor in the exercise of his functions.” Hence, neither Article 163 nor Article 164 mentions a Deputy Chief Minister. Therefore, the post of Deputy CM is understood as being equivalent in rank to that of Cabinet Minister (in the state). The Deputy CM enjoys the same pay and perks as a Cabinet Minister. Ten other states in the country (besides Karnataka) currently have Deputy CMs. Perhaps the first Deputy CM in India was Anugrah Narayan Sinha. He was served as the Deputy Chief Minister cum Finance Minister from the time of the first Congress Ministry of Bihar in 1937 till his death on 5 July 1957. SOURCE: The Indian Express https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-politics/dk-shivakumar-deputy-cm-post-explained-8621053/ PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q1. With reference to the Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha, consider the following statements: (2022) As per the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha, the election of Deputy Speaker shall be held on such date as the Speaker may fix. There is a mandatory provision that the election of a candidate as Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha shall be from either the principal opposition party or the ruling party. The Deputy Speaker has the same power as of the Speaker when presiding over the sitting of the House and no appeal lies against his rulings. The well-established parliamentary practice regarding the appointment of a Deputy Speaker is that the motion is moved by the Speaker and duly seconded by the Prime Minister. Which of the statements given above are correct? 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 3 and 4 only 2 and 4 only INSV Tarini Syllabus Prelims –Science and Technology Context: Indian naval sailing vessel,Tarini is on her return journey to India after a seven-month-long transoceanic intercontinental expedition. About INS Tarini: The Indian Navy is all set to receive the six-member crew of INSV Tarini, including 2 women officers at the “flag in” ceremony on May 23 at the Indian Naval Watermanship Training Centre (INWTC), INS Mandovi, Goa. INSV Tarini is returning home after successfully completing the 17000-nautical miles trans-ocean inter-continental voyage in seven months. The current sailing expedition of INSV Tarini is part of the run-up towards the Navy’s next big project to send a woman to circumnavigate the globe solo. The officers that participated in this expedition were shortlisted from volunteers after rigorous selection at the Ocean Sailing Node (OSN). Ocean Sailing Node was established on 24 Aug 2016 with the aim of promoting and undertaking ocean sailing activities and is located at INS Mandovi. INSV Tarini and INSV Mhadei INSV Tarini is almost identical to her illustrious predecessor, the iconic INSV Mhadei that has sailed over 115000 nautical miles in the past eight years. INSV Tarini is known for circumnavigating the globe with an all-women officer crew in the historic expedition titled ‘Navika Sagar Parikrama’ in 2017. The boat draws her origin from the famous Tara-Tarini temple of Orissa’s Ganjam district. The word Tarini means a Boat and is also a Sanskrit word for Saviour. Tara-Tarini is a patron deity for sailors and merchants and is worshipped for safety and success at sea. Tara-Tarini of Orissa is known to have historical linkages with the river Goddess Mhadei- the exclusive boat deity of the Mhadei river of Goa. Both the deities Tarini and Mhadei have sculptural similarities. MUST READ: Navika Sagar Parikrama SOURCE: The Economic Times  https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/navy-to-receive-insv-tarini-on-may-23-after-her-17000-nm-voyage/articleshow/100384162.cms PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q1. Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently? (2016) Amphibious warfare ship. Nuclear-powered submarine. Torpedo launch and recovery vessel. Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. India’s African Jumbos Syllabus Prelims – Environment and Ecology Context: Shankar, aged around 27, has been the Delhi zoo’s sole African elephant since 2001, when a female elephant brought with it died. Now the search for their prospective mates has run into a quagmire of monetary, legal, logistical and, importantly, ethical considerations. About Elephants Elephants occupy a wide range of habitats, including deserts, swamps, and highlands in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. They are found most often in savannas, grasslands, and forests The African savannah, or bush elephant (Loxodonta africana) weighs up to 8,000 kg and stands 3 to 4 metres at the shoulder. The African forest elephant, which lives in rainforests, was recognized as a separate species in 2000 and is smaller than the savannah elephant. The Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) weighs about 5,500 kg and has a shoulder height of up to 3.5 metres. The Asian elephant includes three subspecies: the Indian, or mainland (E. maximus indicus), the Sumatran (E. maximus sumatranus), and the Sri Lankan (E. maximus maximus). African elephants have much larger ears, which are used to dissipate body heat. About African Elephants: African Savanna (or bush) elephant – IUCN Red List: Endangered African Forest Elephants- IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered Previously, IUCN listed both African elephants as “vulnerable”. But now it has opted to list them separately. It is after genetic evidence has proved that both are different species. Habitat: The distribution of African elephants is throughout the savannas of sub-Saharan Africa and the rainforests of Central and West Africa. African Savanna (or bush) elephant are larger animals that roam the plains of sub-Saharan Africa. African Forest Elephants are smaller animals that live in the forests of Central and West Africa. Characteristics African elephants are the largest land animals on Earth. They are slightly larger than Asian Elephants and can be identified by their larger ears. Asian elephants have smaller, rounded ears. Elephants are matriarchal. It means they live in female-led groups. The matriarch is usually the biggest and oldest. Keystone Species: African elephants are keystone species, i.e., they play a critical role in their ecosystem. They are also known as “ecosystem engineers” as they shape their habitat in many ways. About Asian Elephants: The Asian elephant is the largest land mammal on the Asian continent. They inhabit dry to wet forest and grassland habitats in 13 range countries spanning South and Southeast Asia. IUCN Red List: Endangered CITES: Appendix I. Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I. Elephant Reserves in India: The Indian elephant Elephas maximus occurs in the central and southern Western Ghats, North-east India, eastern India, and northern India and in some parts of southern peninsular India. It occurs in 16 of the 28 states in the country and is showing an increasing trend across its distributional range. Its population in 2007 was estimated to be in the range from 27,657 to 27,682, whereas in 2012 the population was estimated to be between 27,785 and 31,368. Karnataka has highest elephant population followed by Kerala, according to recent report of MoEF&CC. Project Elephant The Project Elephant is being mainly implemented in 16 States / UTs , viz. Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change provides the financial and technical support to major elephant range states in the country through Project Elephant. Seasonal Migration: Elephants migrate seasonally according to the availability of food and water. Memory plays an important role during this time, as they remember locations of water supplies along migration routes. Growing human/animal populations overlap with established wildlife/human territory, creating a reduction of resources leading several cases man – elephant conflicts in several areas of India. MUST READ: Project Re-Hab SOURCE: The Indian Express https://indianexpress.com/article/india/finding-mates-for-indias-single-african-jumbos-its-complicated-8621814/ PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q1. With reference to Indian elephants, consider the following statements: (2020) The leader of an elephant group is female. The maximum gestation period can be 22 months. An elephant can normally go on calving till the age of 40 years only. Among the States in India, the highest elephant population is in Kerala. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 4 only 3 only 1, 3 and 4 only Q2.  Consider the following protected areas:  (2012) Bandipur Bhitarkanika Manas Sunderbans Which of the above are declared Tiger Reserves? 1 and 2 only 1, 3 and 4 only 2, 3 and 4 only 1, 2 3 and 4 Cold Blooded Animals Syllabus Prelims –Science and Technology Context: Scientists have called into question an idea that the bodies of cold-blooded marine animals, such as fish, will shrink in a warming world. https://i.ytimg.com/vi/NkOkkE9jVUg/maxresdefault.jpg About Cold-bloodeness: Cold-bloodedness, also called Poikilothermy, Ectothermy, or Heterothermy, It is the state of having a variable body temperature that is usually only slightly higher than the environmental temperature. This state distinguishes fishes, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrate animals from warm-blooded, or homoiothermic, animals (birds and mammals). Because of their dependence upon environmental warmth for metabolic functioning, the distribution of terrestrial cold-blooded animals is limited, with only a few exceptions, to areas with a temperature range of 5–10° to 35–40° C (41–50° to 95–104° F). For cold-blooded animals living in the arctic seas, temperatures may range from below 0° C to 10–15° C (below 32° F to 50–59° F). Cold-blooded animals do maintain a limited control over internal temperature by behavioral means, such as basking in sunlight to warm their bodies. About Warm-bloodeness Warm-bloodedness, also called Homoiothermy, also spelled Homeothermy, The term refers to the ability of certain animals to maintain a relatively constant internal temperature (about 37° C for mammals or about 40° C for birds), regardless of the environmental temperature. Warm-blooded animals are able to remain active in situations in which cold-blooded ones cannot. Body temperatures of warm blooded animals are kept at a constant value by regulatory mechanisms that counteract the effects of the external environment. In cold environments, regulatory mechanisms maintain body temperature by increasing heat production and decreasing heat loss. In hot environments, regulatory mechanisms maintain body temperatures by increasing heat loss. Shivering, a regulatory mechanism of many warm-blooded animals, increases heat production. Hibernation, another mechanism used by certain warm-blooded animals, decreases heat loss by means of a general slowing-down of bodily functions. Panting and perspiring are mechanisms for increasing heat loss. Aestivation or “summer sleep”, on the other hand, is the low metabolic process by the animals during summer. SOURCE: The Hindu https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/european-perch-larger-body-size-warm-water/article66873491.ece PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q1.  Which of the following statements are correct regarding the general difference between plant and animal cells? (2020) Plant cells have cellulose cell walls while animal cells do not. Plant cells do not have a plasma membrane, unlike animal cells which do. Mature plant cell has one large vacuole whilst animal cell has many small vacuoles. Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Asset Management Companies Syllabus Prelims – Economy Context: Capital markets regulator the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has proposed that asset management companies (AMCs) should set up surveillance and internal control systems for the deterrence of possible market abuse and fraudulent transactions. About Asset Management Company The term asset management is synonymous with wealth management. As a financial service provider, an asset manager manages the assets of his or her clients. The task includes not only providing advice, but also making investment decisions based on the client’s investment strategy, risk tolerance and financial situation Image Source: https://www.wallstreetmojo.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Asset-Management-Company-1.jpg Asset Management Companies (AMC), invest their client’s money in a variety of asset classes. AMC invests financial assets, such as funds and money from investors, companies, in companies that use those assets as a financial investment, operational investment, or any other type of investment to grow the investment. For example, a debt fund of an AMC would primarily invest in bonds and government securities and the investment objective is to generate moderate returns but at minimal risk. Investment and Returns While investing in an AMC, basically they are investing in a fund managed by the AMC. The returns of the funds are market-linked and therefore depend on the performance of the fund. A well-managed fund has the potential to deliver relatively higher returns. In return, the fund would charge a small fee called a fund management fee. It is a prime source of revenue generation for the AMC. A fund is expected to generate competitive returns in its category to maximize its subscribers and hence, the revenue. Regulator: The capital market regulator, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) regulates the AMCs in India. SOURCE: The Indian Express https://indianexpress.com/article/business/companies/sebi-proposes-surveillance-system-by-mfs-to-check-frauds-8620392/ PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q1.  Consider the following statements: (2022) In India, credit rating agencies are regulated by Reserve Bank of India. The rating agency popularly known as ICRA is a public limited company. Brickwork Ratings is an Indian credit rating agency. Which of the statements given above are correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q2. What does venture capital mean? (2014) A short-term capital provided to industries. A long-term start-up capital provided to new entrepreneurs. Funds provided to industries at times of incurring losses. Funds provided for replacement and renovation of industries. The International Pathogen Surveillance Network (IPSN) Syllabus Prelims : Science &Technology Context: WHO launched the International Pathogen Surveillance Network (IPSN) recently. About Pathogen Surveillance Network (IPSN) The International Pathogen Surveillance Network (IPSN) is a global network launched by the World Health Organization and partners. IPSN will help to protect people from infectious disease threats through the power of pathogen genomics. IPSN will provide a platform to connect countries and regions, improving systems for collecting and analyzing samples, using these data to drive public health decision-making, and sharing that information more broadly. Pathogen genomics analyzes the genetic code of viruses, bacteria and other disease-causing organisms to understand how infectious they are, how deadly they are, and how they spread. With this information, scientists and public health officials can identify and track diseases to prevent and respond to outbreaks as part of a broader disease surveillance system, and to develop treatments and vaccines. By connecting countries, regions, and wider stakeholders, the IPSN will help to increase critical capacity, amplify regional and country-level voices, and strengthen their priorities. SOURCE : WHO https://www.who.int/news/item/20-05-2023-who-launches-global-network-to–detect-and-prevent-infectious-disease-threats Mains: G-7, 2023 Meet Syllabus GS-2: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. GS-2: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests. In News: The meeting of the “G-7” was recently held in Hiroshima, sending out a message of global solidarity for peace. G7 Meet: What went well and what could have been better outcomes? On Russia: The G-7 members issued a separate statement on Ukraine, hitting Russia with more sanctions [UPSC Mains – Russia-Ukraine War] They would “starve Russia of G7 technology, industrial equipment and services that support its war machine” + Would step up efforts to prevent circumvention of their existing sanctions regime, “including targeting entities transporting material to the front” Criticism: Failed to highlight a path towards dialogue and ending the war. On wanting ‘stable’ China relations, warning on ‘militarisation’: United in voicing concerns about human rights in China, including in Tibet, in Hong Kong and in the far western region of Xinjiang, where the issue of forced labor is a perennial issue. The leaders expressed “serious concern” about the situation in the East and South China seas, where Beijing has been expanding its military presence and threatening to use force to exert its control over self-governed Taiwan. They called for a “peaceful resolution” of China’s claim to Taiwan, which has remained unresolved since the communists gained power on the Chinese mainland in 1949. To press Russia to end its war in Ukraine Cooperation with China is needed given its global role and economic size, in appealing for working together on challenges such as climate change, biodiversity, debts and financing needs of of vulnerable countries, global health concerns and economic stability. G7 members vowed to take a stand against various types of “economic coercion,” saying they will counter malign practices, such as illegitimate technology transfer or data disclosure, while also avoiding unduly limiting trade and investment. China responded by accusing the U.S. and other members of hypocrisy. On Nuclear Status: Britain, France and the United States alone possess thousands of warheads, and the bloc’s remaining members — including Japan — are covered by Washington’s “nuclear umbrella”. There appears to be little appetite to reduce stockpiles elsewhere, with Moscow making thinly veiled threats to use the weapons, China expanding its arsenal and North Korea stoking fears of a new nuclear test with a barrage of missile launches. Climate Wishlist: The G7 stressed on the need for a global peak in emissions by 2025. The G7 — the US, the UK, Germany, Italy, Japan, France and Canada — claimed that their emissions had already “peaked”, and asked all “major economies” to ensure that their individual emissions do not continue to rise beyond 2025. “Major economies” is not defined, but in the context of climate change, it usually includes countries like India, China, Brazil, South Africa, and Russia, each of which is a significant emitter. China has said it would turn net-zero only in 2060, while India has set 2070 as the target. Some other countries, including big emitters like Russia and Saudi Arabia, have 2060 as their net-zero targets. If these countries do not become net-zero by 2050, it would mean that the other major emitters, mainly the US and the European Union, would have to reach there much earlier. As of now, only Germany has said it would attain net-zero status by 2045. The G7 reiterated its commitment to turn net-zero by 2050, and asked all ‘major economies’ to attain net-zero status by that year and to come up with detailed road maps to reach the target. Criticisms: The G7 countries put no deadline to ending the use of fossil fuels, only saying that they were committed to accelerating the phase-out of “unabated fossil fuels” in line with 1.5 degree Celsius trajectories. “Unabated” is not clearly defined. They also said they would eliminate “inefficient fossil fuel subsidies” by 2025 or earlier, without defining “inefficient subsidies”. The G7 also claimed they had stopped financing new fossil fuel-based energy projects “except in limited circumstances”. These circumstances include the need to end the dependence on Russian gas, because of which new investments in the gas sector would be considered legitimate. View of the world: Still polarised; despite presence of countries such as India, Brazil, Indonesia and Vietnam with a less black-and-white view of the world If the G-7 grouping wishes to broaden its prism, it must recognise that it is grossly unrepresentative of the world today. While members together represent more than half the world’s net wealth, the G-7 accounts for less than a third of the global GDP, and just over a tenth of the world’s population. Apart from Japan, the G-7 membership comprises an essentially Euro-American worldview. It is also hard to justify an economic grouping that does not include some of the world’s largest economies (China and India), the fastest-growing GDPs, or the biggest global energy providers. Points raised by India Rights of the transgender individuals: Raised the need to safeguard the rights of transgender individuals. Removal of hurdles in fertiliser supply chain: There is an urgent need to remove the political obstacles that have emerged in the global fertiliser supply chains. Should support natural farming as an alternative to fertilisers. An attempt to address the fallout of the crisis in Ukraine which has affected fertiliser supplies across the world. Building inclusive food system: Millets help in addressing nutrition requirements, climate change, water conservation and food security. Building an inclusive food system will focus on the welfare of the most vulnerable people and marginal farmers. Called for raising voice against “unilateral attempts to change the status quo”. On UN: The institutions created in the last century are not in line with the system of the twenty-first century. They do not reflect the realities of the present. That is why it is necessary that reforms should be given concrete shape in big institutions like the UN. It will also have to become the voice of the Global South. Conclusion While some efforts were made in Hiroshima to recognise the G-7’s role in, for example, promoting transparent financing and debt sustainability for the developing world, or in compensating for the developed world’s contribution to global warming and greenhouse gas emissions, the summit failed to propose concrete measures to help defray these responsibilities. There is a need for the grouping to work towards a more inclusive outlook and help in building a more comprehensive global consensus on some of the bigger challenges the world faces today. Value-addition What is G7? G7 (UPSC Mains – G7) stands for “Group of Seven” industrialized nations. It is an intergovernmental organisation that was formed in 1975. The bloc meets annually to discuss issues of common interest like global economic governance, international security and energy policy. The G-7 does not have a formal constitution or a fixed headquarters. The decisions taken by leaders during annual summits are non-binding. G-7 countries include United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United Kingdom. Members share common values like democracy, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, free markets, and respect for international law. Together the member countries represent 31% of global GDP, 10% of the world’s population and 21% of global carbon dioxide emissions, according to the Summit website. When the group was created in 1975, they represented 70% of global GDP. China has never been a member, despite its large economy and having the world’s biggest population. Its relatively low level of wealth per person means it’s not seen as an advanced economy in the way the G7 members are. Nuclear Bombs: A nuclear bomb is an explosive device that derives its destructive force from nuclear reactions, either fission (fission bomb) or a combination of fission and fusion reactions (thermonuclear bomb), producing a nuclear explosion. Both bomb types release large quantities of energy from relatively small amounts of matter. They are weapons of mass destruction as they can devastate an entire city by blast, fire, and radiation. In 1942, under the Manhattan Project, the first nuclear bombs were dropped on Japan in Hiroshima and Nagasaki by U.S. during the Second World War. The Nuclear Proliferation Treaty (NPT) aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology, to foster the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, and to further the goal of disarmament. The Treaty establishes a safeguards system under the responsibility of the IAEA, which also plays a central role under the Treaty in areas of technology transfer for peaceful purposes. The UN Treaty on the Prohibition of nuclear weapons (TPNW) Prohibits activities like not developing, testing, producing, acquiring, possessing, stockpiling, using or threatening to use nuclear weapons. Not to deploy nuclear weapons on national territory News Source: The Hindu Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q1 With reference to Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), consider the following statements: India established the Forum for FIPIC as a part of the Act East Policy. FIPIC’s inaugural gathering was convened by the Prime Minister of India in Marshall Islands. India’s development partnership with Pacific Island Countries is also includes community development programmes. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 1 and 3 only 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q2. Consider the following Wildlife Sanctuaries: Rajiv Gandhi Wild Life Sanctuary Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary Pulicat Wild Life Sanctuary Sri Lnkamalleswara Wild Life Sanctuary Srivilliputhur Wild Life Sanctuary Which of the above are located in the state of Andhra Pradesh? 1,2 and 3 1,3,4 and 5 1,2,3 and 4 1,2,3,4 and 5 Q3. Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INSV Tarini’, that was in the news recently? (2016) Sailboat of the Indian Navy. Private registered sail boat used for Navika Sagar Parikrama. Torpedo launch and recovery vessel. First Indian sailboat that circumnavigated the globe. Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’ 23rd May 2023 – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs.st ANSWERS FOR 22nd May – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – c Q.2) – b Q.3) – b

May 24, 2023 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2023 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 24th May 2023

For Previous Daily Quiz (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE 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 solutionsTo take the Test Click Here

May 23, 2023 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 22nd May 2023

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Right to Assembly Syllabus Prelims: Indian Constitution  Context: The Andhra Pradesh High Court has set aside a Government Order (GO) issued by the Andhra Pradesh government that sought to regulate public meetings, processions, and assemblies on roads, highways, and streets. About Right to Assembly -Article 19(1) (b) The right to assemble peaceably and without arms is provided under Article 19(1) (b) of the Indian Constitution. Every citizen has the right to assemble peaceably and without arms. It includes the right to hold public meetings, demonstrations and take out processions. This freedom can be exercised only on public land and the assembly must be peaceful and unarmed. This provision does not protect violent, disorderly, riotous assemblies, or one that causes breach of public peace or one that involves arms. The purpose of organising a gathering or meeting is to spread ideas and educate the public. As a result, the right to peaceful assembly follows naturally from the right to free speech and expression. Restrictions: Article 19(3) impose restrictions on the exercise of the right to freedom of assembly. According to Article 19(3), the state can impose reasonable restrictions on the exercise of right of assembly on two grounds, namely, Sovereignty and integrity of India and Public order including the maintenance of traffic in the area concerned. Apart from this, section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code empowers a magistrate to impose restrictions on assembly, meeting, or procession if there is a possibility of obstruction, annoyance, or danger to human life, health, and safety, or a disturbance of public tranquillity or riot or an affray. MUST READ: Fundamental Rights (https://iasbaba.com/2020/05/mind-maps-fundamental-rights-part-1-general-studies-2/) SOURCE: Indian Express https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-law/andhra-hc-government-order-struck-down-processions-8616123/ PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION Q1. Right to Privacy is protected as an intrinsic part of Right to Life and Personal Liberty. Which of the following in the Constitution of India correctly and appropriately imply the above statement? (2018) Article 14 and the provisions under the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution Article 17 and the Directive Principles of State Policy in Part IV Article 21 and the freedoms guaranteed in Part III Article 24 and the provisions under the 44th Amendment to the Constitution Corporate Debt Market Development Fund Syllabus Prelims – Economy Context: SEBI has introduced the Corporate Debt Market Development Fund, a backstop facility for specified debt funds during market dislocations. About Corporate Debt Market Development Fund Corporate Debt Market Development Fund is a form of an Alternative Investment Fund (AIF). It will be backstop facility for the purchase of investment grade corporate debt securities in times of stress or in case of market dislocation. The purpose of this fund is to bring about confidence in corporate bond market and boost secondary market liquidity. The fund will have a corpus of ₹3,000 crore, of which ₹2,700 crore will come from mutual fund debt schemes. The corporate bond backstop fund will have 10x leverage and a sovereign guarantee. The contribution will also be made by the specified debt-oriented mutual fund schemes and asset management companies of mutual funds towards building the initial corpus of the CDMDF. Access to the fund will be limited to specified mutual fund schemes in proportion to the contribution made to the fund at a mutual fund level. The SEBI board has approved the framework for triggering CDMDF’s asset purchases during market dislocation. CDMDF, based on a guarantee to be provided by the National Credit Guarantee Trust Company (NCGTC) may raise funds, for the purchase of corporate debt securities during market dislocation. The move will instill confidence among corporate bond market participants and generally enhance secondary market liquidity. Backstop facility A backstop is an act of providing last-resort support or security in a securities offering for the unsubscribed portion of shares. When a company is trying to raise capital through an issuance, it may get a backstop from an underwriter or a major shareholder, such as an investment bank, to buy any of its unsubscribed shares. MUST READ: Alternate Investment Fund (https://iasbaba.com/2023/01/alternate-investment-fund-and-credit-default-swap/) SOURCE: The Hindu Business line https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/markets/new-backstop-fund-mooted-to-bail-out-mf-debt-schemes-in-distress/article66676446.ece PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q1. With reference to ‘National Investment and Infrastructure Fund’, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2017) It is an organ of NITI Aayog. It has a corpus of Rs 4,00,000 crore at present. Select the correct answer using the code given below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Institute Of Cost Accountants of India Syllabus Prelims – Economy Context: The Delhi High Court has restrained the Institute of Cost Accountants of India from using the acronym ICAI after the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India moved a trademark infringement lawsuit. About Institute of Cost Accountants of India. The Institute of Cost Accountants of India was established by an Act of Parliament, the Cost and Works Accountant Act, 1959. The institute was formed with the objectives of promoting, regulating and developing profession of cost accountancy in India It is under the administrative control of Ministry of Cooperate Affairs. The Institute is a founder member of International Federation of Accountants, Confederation of Asian and Pacific Accountants and South Asian Federation of Accountants. About Institute of Chartered Accountants of India It is a statutory body established under the Chartered Accountants Act, 1949 for the regulation of the profession of Chartered Accountancy in India. It is the only licensing cum regulating body of the financial audit and accountancy profession in India. It recommends the accounting standards to be followed by companies in India to National Advisory Committee on Accounting Standards (NACAS). The institute has achieved recognition as a premier accounting body in the fields of education, professional development, maintenance of high accounting, auditing and ethical standards. In India, accounting standards and auditing standards are recommended by the National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) to the Government of India which sets the Standards on Auditing (SAs) to be followed in the audit of financial statements in India. Membership: Members of the Institute are known as Chartered Accountants (CA). Becoming a member requires passing the prescribed examinations, three years of practical training and meeting other requirements under the Act and Regulations. About Trademark It is a symbol, design, word or phrase that is identified with a business. When a trademark is registered, its owner can claim “exclusive rights” on its use. A trademark is a sign capable of distinguishing the goods or services of one enterprise from those of other enterprises. The Trademark Act, of 1999, governs the regime on trademarks and their registration. The Act guarantees protection for a trademark that is registered with the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks, also known as the trademark registry. A trademark is valid for 10 years, and can be renewed by the owner indefinitely every 10 years. Using a registered trademark without authorization of the entity that owns the trademark is a violation or infringement of the trademark. Using a substantially similar mark for similar goods or services could also amount to infringement. In such cases, courts have to determine whether this can cause confusion for consumers between the two. MUST READ: Intellectual Property Rights https://iasbaba.com/2020/05/mind-maps-intellectual-rights-property-general-studies-3/ SOURCE: The Indian Express https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/delhi-hc-restrains-institute-cost-accountants-india-icai-acronym-8523151/ PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q1.  Consider the following statements: National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) helps in promoting the financial inclusion in the country. NPCI has launched RuPay, a card payment scheme which of the statements given above is/are correct. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q2. With reference to the ‘National Intellectual Property Rights Policy’, consider the following statements: (2017) It reiterates India’s commitment to the Doha Development Agenda and the TRIPS Agreement. Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion of the nodal agency for regulating intellectual property rights in India. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q3) With reference to the “Tea Board” in India, consider the following statements: (2022) The Tea Board is a statutory body. It is a regulatory body attached to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. The Tea Board’s Head Office is situated in Bengaluru. The Board has overseas offices at Dubai and Moscow. Which of the statements given above are correct? 1 and 3 2 and 4 3 and 4 1 and 4 Green Hydrogen Syllabus Prelims – Environment and Ecology Context: Gujarat has set the ball rolling to become the country’s green hydrogen manufacturing hub and retain its dominance over the industrial sector. Types of Hydrogen Fuels The sources and processes by which hydrogen is derived, are categorized by colour tabs Grey Hydrogen – Hydrogen produced from fossil fuels is called grey hydrogen; this constitutes the bulk of the hydrogen produced today. Brown Hydrogen – Brown hydrogen is produced using coal where the emissions are released to the air. Blue Hydrogen – Hydrogen generated from fossil fuels with carbon capture and storage options is called blue hydrogen. Green Hydrogen – Hydrogen generated entirely from renewable power sources is called green hydrogen. In the last process, electricity generated from renewable energy is used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. Significance of Green Hydrogen in India’s Energy Transition India has set its sight on becoming energy independent by 2047 and achieving Net Zero by 2070. To achieve this target, increasing renewable energy use across all economic spheres is central to India’s Energy Transition. Green Hydrogen is considered a promising alternative for enabling this transition National Hydrogen Mission On August 15, 2021, Prime Minister Modi announced a National Hydrogen Mission to make India a Global Hub for Green Hydrogen Production and Export. Government is targeting production of 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030. The policy allows free inter-state wheeling of renewable energy used in the production of green hydrogen and ammonia as it seeks to boost usage of the carbon-free fuel, and make India an export hub. It offers 25 years of free power transmission for any new renewable energy plants set up to supply power for green hydrogen production before July 2025. This means that a green hydrogen producer will be able to set up a solar power plant in Rajasthan to supply renewable energy to a green hydrogen plant in Assam and would not be required to pay any inter-state transmission charges. There will also be a single portal for all clearances required for setting up green hydrogen production as well as a facility for producers to bank any surplus renewable energy generated with discoms for upto 30 days and use it as required. Energy plants set up to produce green hydrogen/ammonia would be given connectivity to the grid on a priority basis. Power distribution companies may also procure renewable energy to supply green hydrogen producers but will be required to do so at a concessional rate. Such procurement would also count towards a state’s Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) under which it is required to procure a certain proportion of its requirements from renewable energy sources. Under the policy, port authorities will also provide land at applicable charges to green hydrogen and green ammonia producers to set up bunkers near ports for storage prior to export. Germany and Japan could be key markets for green hydrogen produced in India The move is likely going to make it more economical for key users of hydrogen and ammonia such as the oil refining, fertilizer and steel sectors to produce green hydrogen for their own use. These sectors currently use grey hydrogen or grey ammonia produced using natural gas or naphtha. MUST READ: https://iasbaba.com/2021/10/indias-renewable-energy/ SOURCE: The Hindu https://www.google.com/search?q=Gujarat+green+hydrogen+hub&oq=Gujarat+green+hydrogen+hub&aqs=chrome..69i57j69i60.11798j0j4&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8 PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS Q1.  With reference to ‘fuel cells’ in which hydrogen-rich fuel and oxygen are used to generate electricity, consider the following statements: (2015) If pure hydrogen is used as a fuel, the fuel cell emits heat and water as by-products. Fuel cells can be used for powering buildings and not for small devices like laptop computers. Fuel cells produce electricity in the form of Alternating Current (AC) Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Tibetan Buddhism Syllabus Prelims : History Context: The long-awaited Hindi translations of five classical Tibetan Buddhist texts, first obtained from Tibet by famous author Rahul Sankrityayan (1893-1963) for India, are now set for printing, according to Bhutan Live. About Tibetan Buddhism Buddhism became a major presence in Tibet towards the end of the 8th century CE. It was brought from India at the invitation of the Tibetan king, Trisong Detsen, who invited two Buddhist masters to Tibet and had important Buddhist texts translated into Tibetan. First to come was Shantarakshita, abbot of Nalanda in India, who built the first monastery in Tibet. He was followed by Padmasambhava. Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, is honored and revered throughout the Tibetan cultural world, and even considered a second Buddha by followers of the Nyingma-pa sect. Tibetan Buddhism inherited many of the traditions of late Indian Buddhism, including a strong emphasis on monasticism, a sophisticated scholastic philosophy, and elaborate forms of tantric practice. Unique to Tibetan Buddhism is the institution of the tulku (incarnate lama): Tibetan Buddhists believe that compassionate teachers are reborn again and again, in each lifetime identified when they are children and invested with the office and prestige of their previous rebirths. Tibet has had many such lamas, the most famous of whom is the Dalai Lama. Special features of Tibetan Buddhism thus includes: the status of the teacher or “Lama”, preoccupation with the relationship between life and death, important role of rituals and initiations, rich visual symbolism, elements of earlier Tibetan faiths, mantras and meditation practice Groups within Tibetan Buddhism Nyingmapa: Founded by Padmasambhava, this is oldest sect, noted in the West for the teachings of the Tibetan Book of the Dead. Kagyupa: Founded by Tilopa (988-1069), the Kagyupa tradition is headed by the Karmapa Lama. Important Kagyupa teachers include Naropa, Marpa, and Milarepa. Sakyapa: Created by Gonchok Gyelpo (1034-1102) and his son Gunga Nyingpo (1092-1158). Gelugpa: (The Virtuous School) Founded by Tsong Khapa Lobsang Drakpa (also called Je Rinpoche) (1357 – 1419), this tradition is headed by the Dalai Lama. MUST READ: Buddhist Art https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000068910 SOURCE: The Print https://theprint.in/world/indias-pledge-to-revive-forgotten-buddhist-folklore-across-borders/1587170/ PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION Q1. With reference to Indian history, who among the following is a future Buddha, yet to come to save the world? (2018) Avalokiteshvara  Lokesvara  Maitreya Padmapani Q.2) With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements: (2016) The concept of Bodhisattva is central to the Hinayana sect of Buddhism. Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to enlightenment. Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their path to it. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only  2 and 3 only 2 only  1, 2 and 3 Generative AI Syllabus Prelims : Current events of international importance, general science Context: ChatGPT, Stable Diffusion, MidJourney and Google Bard are rapidly changing the way we live, work and engage with each other. Those platforms are themselves evolving at an exponential rate based on what they learn from users. The costs involved are enormous, as are the stakes. About Generative AI Generative AI is a set of algorithms, capable of generating seemingly new, realistic content—such as text, images, or audio—from the training data. Generative AI models can take inputs such as text, image, audio, video, and code and generate new content into any of the modalities mentioned. For example, it can turn text inputs into an image , turn an image into a song, or turn video into text. The most powerful generative AI algorithms are built on top of foundation models that are trained on a vast quantity of unlabeled data in a self-supervised way to identify underlying patterns for a wide range of tasks. For example, GPT-3.5, a foundation model trained on large volumes of text, can be adapted for answering questions, text summarization, or sentiment analysis. DALL-E, a multimodal (text-to-image) foundation model, can be adapted to create images, expand images beyond their original size, or create variations of existing paintings. The capabilities that generative AI supports can be summarized into three categories: (a)Generating Content and Ideas : Creating new, unique outputs across a range of modalities, such as a video advertisement or even a new protein with antimicrobial properties (b) Improving Efficiency : Accelerating manual or repetitive tasks, such as writing emails, coding, or summarizing large documents (c) Personalizing Experiences : Creating content and information tailored to a specific audience, such as chatbots for a personalized customer experiences or targeted advertisements based on patterns in a specific customer’s behavior. Today, some generative AI models have been trained on large of amounts of data found on the internet, including copyrighted materials. For this reason, responsible AI practices have become an organizational imperative. Generative AI systems are democratizing AI capabilities that were previously inaccessible due to the lack of training data and computing power required to make them work in each organization’s context. The wider adoption of AI is a good thing, but it can become problematic when organizations don’t have appropriate governance structures in place. MUST READ: Risks and dangers of Artificial Intelligence https://builtin.com/artificial-intelligence/risks-of-artificial-intelligence SOURCE: Economic Times https://m.economictimes.com/tech/technology/ai-at-warp-speed-disruption-innovation-and-whats-at-stake/articleshow/100381948.cms PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION Q.1) With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following? (2020) Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units Create meaningful short stories and songs Disease diagnosis Text-to-Speech Conversion Wireless transmission of electrical energy Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1, 2, 3 and 5 only  1, 3 and 4 only 2, 4 and 5 only  1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q1. Right to Assembly is protected as an intrinsic part of which of the following in the constitution of India? Article 31 and the provisions under the 44th Amendment to the Constitution Article 37 and the Directive Principles of State Policy in Part IV Article 19 and the freedoms guaranteed in Part III Article 21 and the provisions under the 86th Amendment to the Constitution Q2. Consider the following statements: The Corporate Debt Market Development Fund is introduced by the Reserve Bank of India. It will be backstop facility for the purchase of investment grade corporate debt securities in times of stress or in case of market dislocation. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q3. Consider the following pairs: Green Hydrogen – Hydrogen generated from fossil fuels with carbon capture and storage options. Grey Hydrogen – Hydrogen produced from fossil fuels. Brown Hydrogen – hydrogen produced using coal. Blue Hydrogen – Hydrogen generated entirely from renewable power sources. How many pairs given above is/ are correctly matched? Only one pair Only two pairs Only three pairs All four pairs Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’ 22nd May 2023 – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs.st ANSWERS FOR 20th May – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – d Q.2) – d Q.3) – b