UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Jodhpur, Rajasthan: A Potential Geopark

May 06, 2024

Jodhpur, the vibrant "Blue City" of Rajasthan, holds hidden treasures beneath its architectural marvels. Its potential as a Geopark lies in the unique geological story it tells and the cultural tapestry woven into its landscape. Here are some FAQs exploring this concept: Read More...

Kurnool Geotourism

May 06, 2024

Unveiling Kurnool's Geological Gems Belum Caves: This extensive natural cave system showcases stunning limestone formations, including stalactites,stalagmites, and underground waterfalls. The unique geological proces... Read More...

Bagh Dinosaur Fossil Site

May 06, 2024

What is the Bagh Dinosaur Fossil Site? The Bagh Dinosaur Fossil Site is a national park situated in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh, India. It's considered one of Asia's oldest dinosaur fossil sites, preserving remains from the late Cretaceous period (around 100 to 66 million years ago). What can you find at the Bagh Dinosaur Fossil Site? Th... Read More...

Visakhapatnam: A Potential Geopark of India

May 06, 2024

Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, holds immense potential to become a designated Geopark due to its unique geological features, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some FAQs exploring this concept: Geological Wonders of Visakhapatna... Read More...

Impact of Climate Change on Caves

May 06, 2024

Climate change is significantly impacting biodiversity, with profound effects on ecosystems and the services they provide. This impact extends from the surface down to subterranean environments, such as caves, which are crucial for understanding the broader effects of global warming. Understanding the Impact of Climate Change on Caves and Biodiversity Caves are key to studying subterranean ecosystems, including the mesocavernous shallow environment (MS... Read More...

Ancient DNA (aDNA) and Its Impact on Understanding Human History

May 06, 2024

1. What is ancient DNA (aDNA)? Ancient DNA refers to DNA extracted from ancient specimens, such as bones, teeth, or mummified remains. Advances in genome sequencing technology now allow scientists to study the DNA of individuals who lived thousands of years ago, providing insights into the genetic history and evolution of human populations. 2. How is aDNA used to understand human history? Scientists use aDNA to compa... Read More...

Understanding Prions: FAQs

May 06, 2024

1. What are prions? Prions are infectious agents composed entirely of a protein material that can fold in multiple, structurally abnormal ways. This misfolding alters the protein's structure, causing it to become pathogenic. Unlike other infectious agents, prions contain no nucleic acids (DNA or RNA). 2. How do prions cause disease? Prions propagate by transmitting their misfolded protein state to normal variants... Read More...

Understanding Milankovitch Cycles

May 06, 2024

FAQ 1: What are Milankovitch cycles? Milankovitch cycles are the collective name for long-term, predictable changes in Earth's orbit and orientation that affect the amount and distribution of solar energy reaching our planet. FAQ 2: Name the three key components of Milankovitch cycles and what they affect. Eccentricity (Orbital Shape):... Read More...

Soil Carbon Sequestration

May 06, 2024

What is soil carbon sequestration? Soil carbon sequestration is the process where plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air and help store it in the soil. This happens mostly through the growth of plants, which use CO2 during photosynthesis. Sometimes, CO2 can also turn into inorganic forms like minerals in the soil, especially in dry areas. How have human activities affected soil carbon... Read More...

Zawar, Rajasthan - A Potential Global Geopark

May 06, 2024

Geological Importance of Zawar FAQ 1: What makes Zawar's geology globally significant? Read More...

Soil Carbon & Climate Change: Impact & Opportunities

May 06, 2024

⇒ The impact of human activities on the Earth's climate is becoming increasingly evident, with carbon dioxide (CO2) playing a significant role in climate change due to its substantial increase since the preindustrial era. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports that atmospheric CO2 levels have risen dramatically from about 280 parts per million (ppm) before 1850 to 381.2 ppm in 2006, continuing to rise at an annual rate of approximately 0.88 ppm. ⇒ The substantial increase in CO2 is primarily attributed to the burning of fossil fuels, accounting for about two-t... Read More...

Rarh Bengal in India:A Potential Geopark

May 06, 2024

Understanding Rarh Bengal FAQ 1: What is Rarh Bengal, and what geological significance does it hold? Read More...

Silvopasture in India

May 06, 2024

It is an integrated approach to land management that combines forestry and grazing of domesticated animals on a single piece of land. This sustainable agricultural practice enhances biodiversity, improves soil quality, and increases carbon sequestration, while providing economic benefits to farmers. Key Aspects of Silvopasture in India Diversity of Flora and Fauna: Silvopasture systems in India help preserve and enhance biodiversity by... Read More...

Bees, food security, and the health of our natural ecosystems

May 06, 2024

Why Bees are Keystone Species for Food Security? Pollination Powerhouse: Bees are responsible for pollinating a significant portion of our food crops. About one-third of the food we eat depends on their work! Read More...

Rangelands in India

May 06, 2024

In India, rangelands are defined as extensive areas of grasslands, shrublands, and open forests that are naturally suited for grazing by livestock. These lands typically receive less rainfall than cultivated areas and are not considered viable for growing crops. Here's a breakdown of key characteristics of rangelands in India: Vegetation: Predominantly grasses and shrubs, with variations depending on rainfall and soil conditions. Some common examples include Dichanthium annulatum (gamhar), Cenchrus cili... Read More...