UPSC Daily Current Affairs

THE CONSERVATION OF MANIPURI PONIES

May 18, 2024

What is the Manipuri pony? The Manipuri pony is a recognized equine breed, indigenous to the Indian state of Manipur. It is known for its significant role in the origin of the modern game of polo, called Sagol Kangjei locally. The breed is admired for its intelligence, stamina, and surefootedness. Why is the Manipuri pony important? Read More...

ECOLOGICAL STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE INDIAN FLYING FOX

May 18, 2024

The Indian flying fox (Pteropus medius) is a large bat species primarily found in the Indian subcontinent, including Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. It inhabits a variety of forest ecosystems, gardens, wetlands, and urban areas, particularly where fruiting trees are abundant. Ecological Role: The Indian flying fox plays a cr... Read More...

Frequently Asked: Ram-Mol Cropping

May 18, 2024

What is Ram-mol? Ram-mol is a traditional mixed-cropping system practiced in the arid Kachchh district of Gujarat, India. It is known for optimizing water usage, improving soil health, and ensuring food and income security through the cultivation of multiple crops. Ho... Read More...

IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA, AI, AND MISINFORMATION ON INDIAN DEMOCRACY

May 18, 2024

How are social media platforms used in Indian election campaigns? Social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and WhatsApp have become integral to Indian election campaigns. Political parties use these platforms to connect directly with voters, bypassing traditional news gatekeepers like journalists. What role does misinformation play in these campaigns? ... Read More...

India's Nuclear Journey: 50 Years of Self-Reliance

May 18, 2024

What is the significance of India's nuclear program? India's nuclear program, initiated in 1974, has marked the nation as a significant player in global nuclear capability. Over the past fifty years, it has underscored India's commitment to self-reliance in both civil and military nuclear technologies. How did India begin its nuclear journey? Read More...

ECONOMIC CRISIS IN PAKISTAN: IMPACT ON POK AND TRADER PROTESTS

May 18, 2024

Why are traders in PoK protesting? Traders in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) are protesting against high electricity and food prices, and the broader economic crisis in Pakistan. These protests were exacerbated by the stoppage of trade with India, which has significantly impacted the local economy. Read More...

GEOLOGICAL HERITAGE MONUMENTS IN INDIA: SIGNIFICANCE AND KEY SITES

May 18, 2024

Understanding Geological Monuments Definition and Importance: Geological monuments, also known as geo-heritage sites, are unique natural landmarks that offer insights into the Earth's geological history. These sites showcase the distinct layers of the Earth's crust and highlight various formations, compositions, and arrangements of rocks and minerals. They are crucial for understanding the planet's geological past, in... Read More...

INDIA'S ENGAGEMENT WITH AFRICA: EVOLUTION AND FUTURE PROSPECTS

May 18, 2024

Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit Renewed Diplomatic Efforts: India and the African Union are set to hold their fourth India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) later this year, after a nine-year gap. This summit, the primary political institutional mechanism between New Delhi and the 54 African countries, is expected to take place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The last IAFS was held in New Delhi in 2015. Significance of... Read More...

REDUCING CARBON FOOTPRINT THROUGH DIETARY CHOICES

May 18, 2024

Environmental Impact of Beef vs. Tofu Carbon Emissions Comparison: Beef production is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, emitting 31 times more CO₂ per calorie of food compared to tofu. This stark difference underscores the environmental cost of beef consumption. Greenhouse Gas Contributions: The high emissions from beef are primarily due to methane produced by ... Read More...

SATELLITE TECHNOLOGY REVOLUTIONIZES INDIAN AGRICULTURE

May 18, 2024

Leveraging Satellite Data for Agricultural Innovation Optimizing Farming Practices: Indian farmers, like Lokeswara Reddy, have significantly improved their crop yields and profits by utilizing satellite data. With the help of startups such as Cropin, farmers receive crucial information on optimal sowing times, weather warnings, and efficient irrigation and pesticide use. This technology has helped Reddy increase his net profit to... Read More...

JITNI ABADI, UTNA HAQ' :THE CONSTITUTIONAL CONTEXT

May 18, 2024

'Jitni abadi, utna haq' (As much right as the demographic strength) The slogan 'Jitni abadi, utna haq' calls for proportionate reservation in government jobs based on demographic strength. However, it is important to understand the constitutional, judicial, and historical aspects related to reservation in India. Constitutional Provisions Read More...

Sunil Chhetri: Khel Ratna Award Focus

May 18, 2024

The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award represents the pinnacle of sporting honor in India. Named after the legendary hockey player Dhyan Chand, this prestigious award recognizes outstanding achievements in the world of sports. It highlights the athletes who have not only excelled in their respective sports but have also brought pride to the nation through their performances on international stages. Sunil Chhetri and the Khel Ratna Award Sunil Chhetri, ... Read More...

INDIA'S RED PANDA

May 18, 2024

1. What is a Red Panda? The red panda (Ailurus fulgens) is a small mammal native to the Eastern Himalayas and Southwestern China. Despite its name, it is not closely related to the giant panda. It is slightly larger than a domestic cat, with reddish-brown fur and a long, shaggy tail. 2. Where can Red Pandas be found in India? In India, red pandas are primarily found in the northeastern states like Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh... Read More...

DNA-PAINT

May 18, 2024

DNA-PAINT is a special way scientists use to take pictures of very tiny things inside cells. It's like a super microscope that allows us to see details we couldn't see before. Imagine you're trying to see something very small, like a grain of sand, with just your eyes. It would be difficult, right? DNA-PAINT helps us see things even smaller than that, like the molecules that make up our cells. This technique uses special glowing molecules that stick to specific parts of cells. By taking lots of pictures and combining them, we can creat... Read More...

Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (KUSUM)

May 18, 2024

What is the KUSUM Scheme? The Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (KUSUM) scheme is an initiative by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) aimed at promoting the use of renewable energy in India's agricultural sector. It focuses on helping farmers to install solar power systems for irrigation and other agricultural operations, thus fostering sustainable agriculture and enhancing energy security in rural areas. What are the key components... Read More...