UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Expansion of Digital India Program: Fortifying Cybersecurity and Digital Services

Aug 21, 2023

Enhancing Digital Accessibility and Cybersecurity The Union Cabinet has given the green light to a five-year extension and expansion of the Digital India program. This comprehensive program, now bolstered with a budget of ₹14,903 crore, aims to further digital accessibility, cybersecurity, and upskilling across various sectors. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the importance of affordable cybersecurity tools for small businesses, schools, hospitals, and individuals. The program focuses on ensuring easy access to cybersecurity resources and low-cost solutions. Key Elemen... Read More...

Vishwakarma Scheme: Empowering Artisans and Craftspersons

Aug 19, 2023

Supporting Traditional Skills and Craftsmanship In a bid to empower and uplift traditional craftspeople and artisans, the Indian government has introduced the "PM Vishwakarma" scheme. This scheme, with an impressive outlay of ₹13,000 crore, was officially approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA). Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled this initiative during his Independence Day speech, emphasizing its focus on preserving the "Guru-Shishya parampara" and enhancing traditional skills. The scheme aims to provide credit support at a concessional interest rate of 5%, skill enhancement, and ... Read More...

Interpol"s Notices and their Colours

Aug 19, 2023

Interpol, the International Criminal Police Organization, issues different types of notices to assist law enforcement agencies around the world in locating and apprehending individuals wanted for various reasons. These notices are color-coded based on the nature of the request. As of my last update in September 2021, the following are the colors of Interpol notices along with their meanings: 1. Red Notice: This is the most well-known Interpol notice. It's issued to seek the location and provisional arrest of a person pending extradition. It's used for individuals wanted for prosecution or to serve... Read More...

Land Subsidence in India: Causes, Effects, and Solutions

Aug 19, 2023

Defining Land Subsidence Contributing Factors to Land Subsidence 1. Groundwater Extraction: Over-pumping of groundwater for agricultural, industrial, and domestic purposes can lead to a drop in the water table. As underground sediments compact, the land's surface may sink. 2. Urbanization and Construction: Rapid urban development, construction projects, and infrastructure creation can disrupt weight distribution, contributing to subsidence. ... Read More...

Keeladi excavation site in Tamil Nadu

Aug 19, 2023

Q: What was discovered by archaeologists at the Keeladi excavation site in Tamil Nadu? A: Archaeologists at the Keeladi excavation site in Tamil Nadu discovered a crystal quartz weighing unit from the Sangam era. Q: How would you describe the design of the crystal unit? A: The crystal unit has a unique design and somewhat spherical shape. Q: What is the significance of this discovery? A: The discovery of the crystal quartz weighing unit is significant because i... Read More...

Windfall Taxes:Basics,Merits and Demerits

Aug 19, 2023

A windfall tax is a special type of levy that targets unexpectedly high profits earned by specific companies or industries due to external factors. Unlike regular taxes, windfall taxes are imposed during times of unusual profitability. These taxes aim to capture excess profits for public benefit and address income inequality during economic disparities. However, windfall taxes have sparked both support and criticism due to their potential impacts on businesses and the economy. This discussion will delve into the pros and cons of windfall taxes, shedding light on their effects on industries, economic behavior, and societal well-being. Read More...

Foxconn's Expansion Strategy in India: Challenges and Opportunities

Aug 19, 2023

1. "China Plus One" Strategy Drives Expansion: Amid supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions, global electronics manufacturer Foxconn is pushing to diversify its operations away from its heavy reliance on China. This approach, known as the "China plus one" strategy, aims to establish production bases in countries like India to mitigate risks and secure new markets. 2. Recent Moves in India: Foxconn, the manufacturer of iPhones and other electronics, is intensifying its efforts to invest in India. It has started co... Read More...

Social Stock Exchange (SSE): Understanding the Basics

Aug 19, 2023

1. What is the Social Stock Exchange (SSE)? The Social Stock Exchange (SSE) is a regulated platform established to facilitate organizations dedicated to social causes in raising funds and accessing capital through stock exchanges. 2. What is the purpose of SSE? The SSE serves as a meeting ground for donors and social enterprises, allowing organizations to raise funds for their social initiatives while providing investors with the opportunity to support impactful projects. 3. What benefits are sought ... Read More...

Gender Equality in India: Progress and Challenges

Aug 19, 2023

1. What is the status of women's education and employment in India? Government data analysis reveals that women in India are less likely to receive education and secure employment compared to men. Many women have never used the internet, and the gender gap persists as a significant issue in the country. 2. What did Prime Minister Narendra Modi mention in his Independence Day speech? In his Independence Day speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted areas of improvement in gender equality. He pointed out that India has a higher percen... Read More...

Income-based and Consumption-based Estimates of Poverty in India:

Aug 19, 2023

Pros and Cons Income-Based Estimates: Pros: 1. Widely Accepted: Using income as a measure of poverty is widely accepted and understood by policymakers, researchers, and the general public. It's a straightforward way to assess economic well-being. 2. Direct Measure: Income-based estimates directly reflect a household's economic resources. It provides an indication of a family's ability to meet basic needs and engage in economic activities. Read More...

CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute Introduces 'Namoh 108' Lotus Variety

Aug 19, 2023

The CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI) has unveiled an improved variety of the national flower Lotus, named 'Namoh 108,' as a dedication to the country on the occasion of the 77th Independence Day. This new variety features 108 petals and has undergone technological intervention by NBRI to enhance its characteristics. Key Features of 'Namoh 108' Lotus Variety: 1. Enhanced Resilience: The improvised 'Namoh 108' Lotus variety is more resilient to varying weather conditions, making it better e... Read More...

Government Health Schemes in India:Jan Aushadhi Kendras

Aug 19, 2023

1. What is the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana? The Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, also known as Ayushman Bharat, is a government health insurance scheme launched in September 2018. It provides cashless hospitalization services of up to ₹5 lakh to approximately 12.5 crore families, covering a wide range of medical treatments and procedures. 2. What is the second component of the scheme? The second component of the scheme involves the establishment of health and wellness centers. These centers aim to upgrade primary health centers to prov... Read More...

Understanding Green Hydrogen

Aug 19, 2023

1. What is Green Hydrogen? Green hydrogen, often referred to as renewable hydrogen, is produced through the process of electrolysis using renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power. It involves splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen, with the hydrogen being used as a clean and sustainable energy carrier. 2. How is Green Hydrogen Produced? Green hydrogen is produced through electrolysis, where an electric current is passed through water (H2O) to break it down into hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2). This process requires renewable energy... Read More...

NSE Emerge and BSE SME Platforms

Aug 19, 2023

1. What are NSE Emerge and BSE SME Platforms? NSE Emerge and BSE SME platforms are dedicated stock exchanges specifically designed for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to list their shares and raise capital through initial public offerings (IPOs). These platforms provide a regulated and organized marketplace for SMEs to access funding from the public. 2. Why has there been a surge in SME IPOs on NSE Emerge and BSE SME Platforms? There has been a notable increase in SME IPOs on these platforms due to various factors. The attractive val... Read More...

Core Inflation:July 2023

Aug 19, 2023

1. What is core inflation? Core inflation refers to the inflation rate calculated without considering the impact of food and energy prices. It provides insight into the underlying inflation trend and helps identify broader economic factors influencing inflation. 2. What was the core inflation rate in July? In July, core inflation stood at 4.9%, down from 5.1% in June. This decline in core inflation is seen as positive, but economists suggest that it may remain elevated in the upcoming months. 3. How ... Read More...