UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Biopesticides: Indian Agriculture

May 04, 2024

What are biopesticides? Biopesticides are pesticides derived from natural sources such as plants, bacteria, fungi, and minerals. They are used to control pests and diseases in agriculture through mechanisms that are often specific to the target pest, reducing the impact on non-target species and the environment. How are biopesticides produced? Biopesticide... Read More...

Locust threat to Agriculture

May 04, 2024

The Basics: Locusts and Agriculture FAQ 1: What are locusts, and how do they differ from ordinary grasshoppers? Locusts are specific grasshopper species that can shift between solitary and swarming phases. The gregarious (swarming) phase is triggered by specific environmental conditions and is responsible for major crop damage. ... Read More...

Energy Storage Obligation (ESO) in India

May 04, 2024

What is the Energy Storage Obligation (ESO)? The Energy Storage Obligation (ESO) in India is a regulatory framework that mandates a gradual increase in the proportion of energy consumed from solar and/or wind sources, incorporating energy stora... Read More...

Agave Cultivation in India: Opportunities and Impacts

May 04, 2024

What is the current status of Agave cultivation in India? Agave cultivation in India is currently in the early stages, primarily focused on small-scale experimental plantations and research facilities. Despite its nascent stage, the plant's resilience to challenging climates and low water requirements signal strong growth potential, particularly in arid and drought-prone areas. What are th... Read More...

Biofuels: From First-Generation to Third-Generation Technologies

May 04, 2024

What are first-generation (1G) biofuels? First-generation biofuels are derived from food crops such as corn, sugarcane, rapeseed, and soybean. They are primarily produced through fermentation to produce bioethanol and transesterification for biodiesel. These biofuels can be used in pure form or mixed with traditional fuels like gasoline and diesel. What are the main concerns associated with 1G biofuels? The main conc... Read More...

Food Storage and Processing Yards in Rural India

May 04, 2024

What is the importance of establishing food storage and processing yards in rural India? Food storage and processing yards are crucial for reducing post-harvest losses, enhancing food security, and increasing the shelf life of agricultural products. In rural India, these facilities help stabilize prices by managing supply fluctuations and ensuring that surplus produce is stored and processed efficiently. How does the proposed plan aim to implement these storage and ... Read More...

Understanding Hydroponics

May 04, 2024

FAQ 1: Define hydroponics and explain its fundamental principles. Hydroponics is a soilless cultivation technique where plants receive essential nutrients directly through a nutrient-rich aqueous solution. It offers precise control over the root zone environment for optimal growth. FAQ 2: Outline the historical development of hydroponics. While its roots lie in ancient practices like the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, m... Read More...

India's VGF Scheme for Battery Energy Storage Systems

May 04, 2024

Geothermal Energy in India

May 04, 2024

What is geothermal energy? Geothermal energy is the heat derived from the sub-surface of the earth. This heat can be sourced from shallow ground to hot water and hot rock found a few miles beneath the Earth's surface, and even farther down to the extremely high temperatures of molten rock called magma. It can be harnessed to generate electricity or for heating purposes. What is the current status of geothermal energy in India? As of now, geothermal e... Read More...

Far side of the Moon

May 04, 2024

Why the Far Side Matters Unexplored Territory: Landing on the lunar far side (also called the dark side, though it does receive sunlight!) represents a major milestone in space exploration. This side of the moon is less-explored than the near side, making each mission a chance for novel discoveries. Unique Composition: The far side's surface composition is thought to be different from the familiar near side. Sample... Read More...

Public Rapid Transportation (PRT) in India

May 04, 2024

What is Public Rapid Transportation (PRT)? Public Rapid Transportation (PRT) in India refers to modern transit solutions designed to decrease travel time and enhance connectivity between urban and suburban areas. These include metro systems, monorails, and high-speed rail projects. Which cities in India currently have PRT systems? Cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad have operational metro systems, which are part of the broader PRT infrastr... Read More...

The Lesser Florican: India's Endangered Grassland Bird

May 04, 2024

What is the Lesser Florican? The Lesser Florican (Sypheotides indicus) is a bird species belonging to the Bustard family, and is the smallest bustard in India. It is a characteristic bird of grasslands, endemic to the Indian subcontinent. What is its habitat? The Lesser Florican inhabits grasslands and grassland-like habitats, including certain croplands. It prefers areas with tall grasses and good ground cover, and ... Read More...

India's Circular Economy: Waste Management Innovations

May 04, 2024

What is a circular economy? A circular economy is an economic system focused on minimizing waste and making the most of resources. This model involves redesigning product life cycles to maximize reuse and recycling, reducing the environmental impact of production and consumption. What are major government programs promoting a circular economy in India? 1. Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM... Read More...

Understanding Biochar

May 04, 2024

FAQ 1: What is biochar, and how is it produced through pyrolysis? Biochar is a charcoal-like material created by heating organic matter (wood waste, crop residues) in an oxygen-limited environment (pyrolysis). This process breaks down organic material, leaving behind a stable carbon-rich structure called biochar. FAQ 2: What makes biochar beneficial for soil and ... Read More...

Challenges of the Jal Jeevan Mission

May 04, 2024

_India's Drinking Water Issue_ 1. What are the historical context and evolution of India's drinking water challenges? Answer: India's drinking water challenges have evolved over time, with traditional water management systems like stepwells and community ponds playing a crucial role in ensuring water availability for centuries. However, rapid population growth, urbanization, and industrialization have strained these systems, leading ... Read More...