DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 30th October 2023

Syllabus

• Prelims –ART AND CULTURE

Context: Prime Minister will offer prayers at the famous Ambaji temple in Banaskantha during his visit to Gujarat.

About Ambaji temple:-

• Location: Ambaji in Gujarat, India.
• Time period: 8th century A.D.
• Administration: The temple is under the administrative control of a temple trust.
• Shri Ambaji Mata Temple, is considered one of the major Shakti Peethas in Hinduism. (Kalika Mata temple)
• This temple honours Ambaji, an incarnation of Amba Mataji.
• It is one of the fifty-two Shakti Peeths.
• It is best known for its festivals like Navratri and Diwali, celebrated with joyous ceremonies and poojas.
• The main temple complex houses the revered Shree Visa Yantra, which many believe symbolizes divine power and grace.
• The whole of Ambaji town is surrounded by many temples near Ambaji temple and pilgrim spots, attracting thousands of tourists from around the country and even overseas annually.

MUST READ: Somnath Temple

SOURCE: AIR

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1) The Prime Minister recently inaugurated the new Circuit House near Somnath Temple Veraval. Which of the following statements are correct regarding Somnath Temple? (2022)

1. Somnath Temple is one of the Jyotirlinga shrines.
2. A description of the Somnath Temple was given by Al-Biruni.
3. Pran Pratishtha of Somnath Temple (installation of the present-day temple) was done by President S. Radhakrishnan.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1,2 and 3

Q.2) With reference  to Chausath Yogini Temple situated near Morena, consider the following statements: (2021)

1. It is a circular temple built during the reign of the Kachchhapaghata Dynasty.
2. It is the only circular temple built in India.
3. It was meant to promote the Vaishnava cult in the region.
4. Its design has given rise to a popular belief that it was the inspiration behind the Indian Parliament building.

Which of the statements given above is correct?

1. 1 and 2
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 4
4. 2, 3 and 4

Syllabus

• Prelims –SPORTS

Context: Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated India’s para-athletes for their outstanding achievements at the Asian Para Games 2023.

About Asian Para Games 2023:-

• Time period: 22 to 28 October 2023.
• Venue: Hangzhou, China.
• The last edition of the Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia in 2018.
• India dispatched its largest-ever contingent to the fourth edition of the Asian Para Games.
• It consisted of 303 athletes, including 191 men and 112 women.
• This marks a notable increase from the 190 athletes India sent to the 2018 Asian Para Games, where they delivered their best-ever performance, clinching 72 medals, including 15 gold. (Indian Olympic Association)
• India finished with 111 medals at the Asian Para Games:-
  • 29 gold
  • 31 silver and
  • 51 bronze
• The Asian Para rich haul is also a hat-tip to the parents, coaches and administrators who spotted and nurtured the sporting passion in the hearts and minds of children with physical disabilities.

MUST READ: Sports Code

SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1) Consider the following statements in respect of the 44th Chess Olympiad, 2022: (2023)

1. It was the first time that the Chess Olympiad was held in India.
2. The official mascot was named Thambi’.
3. The trophy for the winning team in the open section is the Vera Menchik Cup.
4. The trophy for the winning team in the women’s section is the Hamilton-Russell Cup. ·

How many of the statements given above are correct?

1. Only one
2. Only two
3. Only three
4. All four

Q.2) Consider the following statements in respect of the 32nd Summer Olympics: (2021)

1. The official motto for this Olympics is ‘A New World’.
2. Sports climbing, Surfing, Skateboarding, Karate, and Baseball are included in this Olympics.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 and 2

Syllabus

• Prelims – ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

Context: The air quality in Delhi continued to be hazardous as the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city stood at 322 recently.

About Air Quality Index (AQI):-

IMAGE SOURCE: aqi. in

• Air Quality Index (AQI) is a number used by government agencies to measure air pollution levels and communicate it to the population. (Air pollution)
• There are six AQI categories, namely Good, Satisfactory, Moderately polluted, Poor, Very Poor, and Severe.
• Each of these categories is decided based on ambient concentration values of air pollutants and their likely health impacts (known as health breakpoints).
• AQ sub-index and health breakpoints are evolved for eight pollutants (PM10, PM2.5, NO2, SO2, CO, O3, NH3, and Pb) for which short-term (up to 24-hours) National Ambient Air Quality Standards are prescribed.
• As the AQI increases, it means that a large percentage of the population will experience severe adverse health effects.
• The measurement of the AQI requires an air monitor and an air pollutant concentration over a specified averaging period.
• The results are grouped into ranges.
• Each range is assigned a descriptor, a colour code and a standardized public health advisory.
• The pollution sources in India and in most Asian countries are numerous and incompletely understood.
• In Delhi, for example, it comes mostly from light and heavy-duty vehicle traffic emissions, road dust, solid fuel combustion for heating and cooking, biomass, waste burning, thermal power plants, diesel generators, construction and small-scale local industries. ( Delhi and Air Pollution)

Government Initiatives:-

• The National Air Quality Index Standard (NAQI): It was launched by The Minister for Environment, Forests & Climate Change, Shri Prakash Javadekar, on 17 September 2014.
  • The initiative constitutes part of the Government’s mission to introduce the “culture of cleanliness”, as air pollution has been a huge concern in the country, especially in urban areas
• The National Air Monitoring Program (NAMP): it covers 240 cities in the country, has been operated by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and developed by the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (IIT), providing data in the public domain, on a real-time basis.
• System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) Portal.
• Graded Response Action Plan.
• Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)
• Reducing Vehicular Pollution: BS-VI Vehicles, Push for Electric Vehicles (EVs), Odd-Even Policy as an emergency measure.
• Subsidy to farmers for buying Turbo Happy Seeder (THS) Machine.

MUST READ: India’s uphill battle to bring down air pollution

SOURCE: AIR

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1) Consider the following: (2023)

1. Aerosols
2. Foam agents
3. Fire retardants
4. Lubricants

In the making of how many of the above are hydrofluorocarbons used?

1. Only one
2. Only two
3. Only three
4. All four

Q.2) In the context of WHO Air Quality Guidelines, consider the following statements: (2022)

1. The 24-hour mean of PM2.5 should not exceed 15 ug/m3 and annual mean of PM2.5 should not exceed 5 ug/m3.
2. In a year, the highest levels of ozone pollution occur during periods of inclement weather.
3. PM10 can penetrate the lung barrier and enter the bloodstream.
4. Excessive ozone in the air can trigger asthma.

Which of the statements given above is correct?

1. 1, 3 and 4
2. 1 and 4 only
3. 2, 3 and 4
4. 1 and 2 only

Syllabus

• Prelims –DEFENSE

Context: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will address the Goa Maritime Conclave 2023 recently.

Background:-

• A multinational platform for collaborating collective wisdom on maritime security, this Indian Navy initiative aims to Harness the Maritime Thoughts of Security partners in the Indian Ocean Region.

About Goa Maritime Conclave 2023:-

• Date:29 to 31 October 2023.
• Organized by: Indian Navy.
• Venue: Goa.
• Theme: Maritime Security in the Indian Ocean Region: Converting Common Maritime Priorities into Collaborative Mitigating Frameworks.
• Previous editions of the were held in 2017, 2019, and 2021.
• It is a biennial event.
• It is the 4th edition of Goa Maritime Conclave (GMC)
• It will be hosting representatives from 12 Indian Ocean littorals, including Bangladesh, Comoros, Indonesia, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mauritius, Myanmar, Seychelles, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
• It is the Indian Navy’s outreach Initiative providing a multinational platform to harness the collective wisdom of practitioners of maritime security and academia towards garnering outcome-oriented maritime thought.
• It provides a forum for the exchange of views by the Chiefs of the Navy/ Heads of Maritime Agencies on dealing with contemporary and future maritime challenges, as well as presenting cooperative strategies for enhancing interoperability amongst partner maritime agencies.
• Topic of discussion:-
  • Identifying Gaps in Regulatory and Legal Frameworks for Achieving Maritime Security in the IOR.
  • Formulation of a Common Multi-lateral Maritime Strategy and Operating Protocols for GMC Nations for Collective Mitigation of Maritime Threats and Challenges. (Indian Ocean Naval Symposium)
  • Identification and Establishment of Collaborative Training Programmes with Center of Excellence across the IOR.
  • Leveraging Activities Pursued Through Existing Multilateral Organizations in the IOR towards Generating Collective Maritime Competencies. (GREEN MARITIME SECTOR)
• As part of the conclave, visiting dignitaries would also be afforded an opportunity to witness India’s Indigenous shipbuilding industry at the “Make in India Exhibition” and witness the indigenous warships as also capabilities of the Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV).

MUST READ: Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI)

SOURCE: AIR

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1) With reference to Home Guards, consider the following statements: (2023)

1. Home Guards are raised under the Home Guards Act and Rules of the Central Government.
2. The role of the Home Guards is to serve as an auxiliary force to the police in the maintenance of internal security.
3. To prevent infiltration on the international border/ coastal areas, the Border Wing Home Guards Battalions have been raised in some states.

How many of the above statements are correct?

1. Only one
2. Only two
3. All three
4. None

Q.2) Consider the following statements: (2023)

1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight.
2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Syllabus

• Prelims –GOVERNANCE

Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the programme marking the culmination of the Meri Maati Mera Desh campaign’s Amrit Kalash Yatra at Kartavya Path.

About Meri Maati Mera Desh campaign:-

• Amrit Kalash Yatra: 1st September to 31stOctober 2023.
• The Union government has launched the ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ campaign as a grand culmination of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav,’ celebrating 75 years of Indian Independence.
• Under this campaign soil collected from different parts of the country in August will be used to develop a garden along the Kartavya Path in Delhi.
• The ‘Mitti Kalash’ are to be brought ceremoniously to the larger municipalities/corporations and transported to Kartavya Path
• This initiative aims to honour and commemorate the sacrifices of martyrs.
• It includes freedom fighters, defence personnel, and members of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and State Police, who laid down their lives in the line of duty. (Self-reliance in defence)

Five-Point Agenda:-

• Shilaphalakam Installation: Memorials will be erected, adorned with the names of those who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation.
• Pledge of Commitment: A solemn pledge will be taken by people at the memorial sites.
• Vasudha Vandhan: Every gram panchayat or village will participate in ‘Vasudha Vandhan’ by planting 75 saplings of indigenous species.
• Veeron Ka Vandan: Freedom fighters and the families of deceased freedom fighters will be honoured and felicitated.
• National Flag Hoisting: The National Flag will be proudly hoisted, and the National Anthem will resonate in unison.

 MUST READ: Defence Acquisition Council

SOURCE: AIR

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1) Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Maternity Benefit Amendment Act, 2017? (2019)

1. Pregnant women are entitled to three months of pre-delivery and three months of post-delivery paid leave.
2. Enterprises with creches must allow the mother a minimum of six creche visits daily.
3. Women with two children get reduced entitlements.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 only
3. 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

Q.2) With reference to the ‘stand up India scheme’, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2016)

1. Its purpose is to promote entrepreneurship among SC/ST and women entrepreneurs.
2. It provides for refinancing through SIDBI.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Syllabus

• GS III – AGRICULTURE

Context: Recently, the union cabinet has approved Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for the various nutrients of Rabi and Kharif Season for 2022-23.

ABOUT NUTRIENT BASED SUBSIDY REGIME

• Under the NBS regime – fertilizers are provided to the farmers at the subsidized rates based on the nutrients (N, P, K & S) contained in these fertilizers.
• For Rabi Season 2022-23: NBS approved for various nutrients i.e. Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potash (K) and Sulphur (S).
• For Kharif Season 2023: NBS rates approved for Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) Fertilizers.
• Fertilizers containing secondary and micronutrients, like molybdenum (Mo) and zinc, receive extra subsidies.
• The government announces subsidy rates for Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers annually, considering factors like international and domestic prices, exchange rates, and inventory levels.
• NBS aims to achieve an optimal balance (N:P:K = 4:2:1) in fertilization, improving soil health and crop yields.
• Administered by the Department of Fertilizers, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers since April 2010.

ADVANTAGES OF NUTRIENT BASED SUBSIDY

• Increased Agricultural Productivity: Nutrient-based subsidies encourage farmers to use fertilizers that provide essential nutrients to crops. This can lead to increased crop yields and improved agricultural productivity. By targeting specific nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, these subsidies can help address nutrient deficiencies in the soil, which can limit crop growth.
• Balanced Nutrient Use: Nutrient-based subsidies promote the balanced use of fertilizers. By providing incentives for the use of fertilizers containing multiple nutrients, they discourage overreliance on a single nutrient. This helps maintain soil fertility and prevents nutrient imbalances that can harm crops and the environment.
• Affordability for Farmers: Fertilizers can be a significant cost for farmers, especially smallholder farmers. Nutrient-based subsidies reduce the financial burden on farmers by making fertilizers more affordable. This enables a wider range of farmers to access and use fertilizers to improve their yields.
• Enhanced Food Security: Higher crop yields resulting from nutrient-based subsidies contribute to increased food production. This can help enhance food security at the national and household levels, ensuring a stable and sufficient food supply.
• Reduced Import Dependency: Improved agricultural productivity through nutrient-based subsidies can reduce a country’s dependence on food imports. This can have economic benefits by saving foreign exchange and promoting self-sufficiency in food production.

ISSUES RELATED TO NBS

• Economic and Environmental Costs: High subsidy burden strains the economy, leading to imbalanced fertilizer use and environmental issues.
• Black Marketing and Diversion: Subsidized urea faces illegal sale and smuggling to non-agricultural users.
• Leakage and Misuse: Inefficient distribution can lead to fertilizer misuse or non-delivery to intended farmers.
• Regional Disparities: Uniform policy may not cater to diverse regional needs, impacting nutrient application and productivity.

WAY FORWARD

• A uniform policy for all fertilizers is necessary, as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) are crucial for crop yields and quality.
• In the long term, NBS could be replaced by a flat per-acre cash subsidy that allows farmers to purchase any fertilizer.
• This subsidy should encompass value-added and customized products that provide efficient nitrogen delivery and other essential nutrients.
• It is crucial to strike a balance between price control, affordability, and sustainable nutrient management to achieve the desired outcomes of the NBS regime.

Syllabus

• GS II – INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Context: In Beijing, the 25th round of Bhutan-China Border Talks culminated with the signing of a significant Cooperation Agreement. This historic agreement reflects the progress made in their quest for border resolution, carrying forward the 3-Step Roadmap initiated in 2021. Amid the backdrop of a seven-year gap in talks, these recent developments bear immense significance.

OVERVIEW OF BOUNDARY DISPUTE BETWEEN CHINA AND BHUTAN

• The boundary dispute between Bhutan and China has its roots in historical claims and traditions. Both countries have historically maintained different perceptions of their border in the Doklam Plateau.
• The dispute has its origins in the 19th century when British India and China signed the 1890 Convention, known as the Sikkim-Tibet Convention. This agreement delineated the border between Sikkim (then a British protectorate) and Tibet (which was under Chinese influence), passing through the Doklam Plateau.
• Bhutan claims the Doklam Plateau as part of its territory.
• China, on the other hand, claims that the Doklam Plateau falls within its territory based on its interpretation of the 1890 Convention.
• The dispute gained international attention in 2017 when a border standoff occurred between Indian and Chinese troops in the Doklam area. This standoff was triggered when Chinese troops attempted to construct a road in the region.
• India intervened in support of Bhutan’s territorial claims, as it has a special relationship with Bhutan and is responsible for its defense and foreign affairs.

BHUTAN- CHINA BORDER TALKS

• Bhutan and the Tibetan Autonomous Region share an extensive contiguous border, spanning approximately 470 km. prior to 2016, the two nations engaged in 24 rounds of talks to address border disputes.
• Talks had been stalled due to the Doklam Standoff in 2017 and the subsequent COVID-19 pandemic. However, this interlude witnessed discussions at other levels, especially after China raised concerns about a border dispute to Bhutan’s east.
• After a prolonged pause in boundary talks lasting seven years, the resumption of discussions signals substantial headway.
• The 3-Step roadmap, established through a MoU in 2021 and facilitated by the Joint Technical Team (JTT), aims to delineate the Bhutanese and Chinese territories conclusively. Despite the absence of diplomatic ties, Bhutan and China seek to formalize their border.
• Steps in the Roadmap
  • Agreement on the border “on the table.”
  • On-ground inspections of the border.
• Formal demarcation of the boundary.

INDIA’S CONCERNS

• India’s Security Concerns: The India-Bhutan-China border issue is directly linked to India’s national security. India is concerned about Chinese encroachments in the region, which could alter the strategic balance and threaten Indian security interests.
• Strategic Importance: Doklam is strategically significant for India as it overlooks the narrow Siliguri Corridor, also known as the “Chicken’s Neck.” The corridor is a narrow strip of land that connects mainland India with the northeastern states. Any Chinese presence in Doklam could potentially pose a security threat to India’s northeastern region.
• Strained Sino-Indian Relations: In the context of deteriorating relations between India and China since the 2020 Line of Actual Control standoff, any warming of ties between China and one of India’s closest neighbors` raises concerns in New Delhi.
• Implications for the Region: The outcome of the border dispute between Bhutan and China has broader regional implications, especially in the context of India-China relations. A peaceful resolution is in the interest of stability and peace in the region

CONCLUSION

The Bhutan-China boundary dispute is a complex issue with historical, political, and strategic implications. It remains unresolved, and the parties involved continue to engage in diplomatic negotiations to find a mutually acceptable solution. The resolution of this dispute is important not only for Bhutan and China but also for the broader regional stability in South Asia.

Q1) Consider the following pairs:

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

1. Only one
2. Only two
3. All three
4. None

Q2) Consider the following statements

Statement-I:

Goa Maritime Conclave 2023 will host Seychelles, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Thailand only.

Statement-II:

It is a biennial event.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

1. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
2. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
3. Statement-I is correct but Statement II is incorrect
4. Statement-I is incorrect but Statement II is correct

Q3) With reference to the Ambaji temple, consider the following statements:

1. The main temple complex houses the revered Shree Visa Yantra.
2. This temple honours Ambaji, an incarnation of Amba Mataji.
3. It is not one of the fifty-two Shakti Peeths.

How many of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 1 and 2 only
3. 1, 2 and 3 only
4. 2 only

Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!!

ANSWERS FOR ’  30th October 2023 – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs.st

Q.1) – c

Q.2) – d

Q.3) – a