DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 1st December 2023

Syllabus

• Prelims – SPACE

Context: Recently, for the first time, astronomers have glimpsed a young star HH 1177 system outside the Milky Way galaxy.

Background:-

• Newborn stars with these circumstellar disks had been observed by astronomers only in our Milky Way galaxy – until now

About HH 1177 system:-

• HH 1177 is a massive star, with a rotating disk that was spotted in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a neighbouring dwarf galaxy that’s about 160,000 light-years away. ( Map of Milky Way |)
• A colossal star such as HH 1177 lives fast and dies young, forming more quickly and only having a life span that’s a fraction of that of a star like our sun.
• This shortened timeline makes the early stages of a massive star hard to observe in our galaxy, as both the star and its disk are hidden from view by the dusty material from which it forms.
• HH 1177 is within a stellar nursery, called N180, that has less dust and lower metal abundance.
• The star isn’t obscured by a cocoon of gas and dust.
• A newborn star grows in size by pulling in matter from its surroundings.
• The gas and dust accumulate in a flat disk around the star, known as an accretion disk, as a result of strong gravitational forces.
• The spinning disk transports the matter onto the star, which gets increasingly larger.
• The greater the star’s mass, the more powerful its gravitational field becomes, thereby pulling more gas and dust into the disk.

MUST READ: Dark galaxy

SOURCE: CNN

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q1. Which one of the following countries has its own Satellite Navigation System? (2023)

1. Australia
2. Canada
3. Israel
4. Japan

Q2. 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 –SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY-HEALTH

Context: Recent studies show cases of rheumatoid arthritis in young adults.

Background:-

• According to health experts, youngsters with RA may find themselves navigating a world of chronic pain, fatigue and limited physical abilities.

About Rheumatoid arthritis:-

IMAGE SOURCE: CreakyJoints

• Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder.
• It is an autoimmune disorder, which occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks its own body’s tissues.

Causes:-

• In a healthy person, the immune system fights invaders, such as bacteria and viruses.
• But with an autoimmune disease like RA, the immune system mistakes the body’s cells for foreign invaders and releases inflammatory chemicals that attack those cells.
• Unlike the wear-and-tear damage of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis affects the lining of joints, causing a painful swelling that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity.

Symptoms:-

• Tender, warm, swollen joints.
• Joint stiffness that is usually worse in the mornings and after inactivity.
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Loss of appetite.

Risk factors:-

• Sex: Women are more likely than men to develop rheumatoid arthritis.
• Age: Rheumatoid arthritis can occur at any age, but it most commonly begins in middle age. ( National Centres for Disease Control (NCDC))
• Family history: If a member of your family has rheumatoid arthritis, you may have an increased risk of the disease.
• Smoking

Treatment:-

• Exercise
• Medication
• Surgery

MUST READ: Disease Surveillance System

SOURCE: HINDUSTAN TIMES

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1) Consider the following: (2022)

1. Aarogya Setu
2. COWIN
3. DigiLocker
4. DIKSHA

Which of the above are built on top of open-source digital platforms?

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

Q.2) In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent the COVID-19 pandemic, consider the following statements: (2022)

1. The Serum Institute of India produced a COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using an mRNA platform.
2. The Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using a vector-based platform.
3. COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen-based vaccine.

Which of the statements given above is correct?

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

Syllabus

• Prelims –ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY/ GEOGRAPHY

Context: Recent studies show that  Air pollution causes over 2 million deaths annually in India.

Background:-

• The research found that air pollution from using fossil fuels in industry, power generation, and transportation accounts for 5.1 million extra deaths a year worldwide.

About Air pollution:-

• Air pollution is the presence of substances in the atmosphere that are harmful to the health of humans and other living beings, or cause damage to the climate or materials. (Delhi and Air Pollution)
• Different types of air pollutants include–
  • Gases: such as ammonia, carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, nitrous oxides, methane, carbon dioxide and chlorofluorocarbons.
  • Particulates: both organic and inorganic.
  • Biological molecules.
• Air pollution may cause diseases, allergies, and even death to humans.
• Additionally, it may hurt other living things like animals and food crops, as well as impair the built environment or the natural environment (for instance, by causing climate change, ozone depletion, or habitat destruction) (for example, acid rain).

Harmful Impacts of Air Pollution:-

• It may cause diseases, allergies and even death in humans.
• It can cause harm to other living organisms such as animals and food crops.
• Can lead to climate change and may damage the natural environment
• Ozone depletion or habitat degradation
• Built hazardous environments (for example, acid rain).

 MUST READ: National Clean Air Campaign

SOURCE: THE HINDU

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1) Which one of the following has been constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986? (2022)

1. Central Water Commission
2. Central Ground Water Board
3. Central Ground Water Authority
4. National Water Development Agency

Q.2) The “Common Carbon Metric” supported by UNEP, has been developed for (2021)

1. Assessing the carbon footprint of building operations around the world
2. Enabling commercial farming entities around the world to enter carbon emission trading
3. Enabling governments to assess the overall carbon footprint caused by their countries
4. Assessing the overall carbon footprint caused by the use of fossil fuels by the world in a unit of time

Syllabus

• Prelims –DEFENSE

Context: Recently, the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi conveyed his greetings on the occasion of BSF Raising Day.

Background:-

• The Prime Minister posted on X; “On BSF’s Raising Day, we laud this excellent force, which has made a mark as a guardian of our frontiers. Their valour and unwavering spirit in protecting our nation is a testament to their dedication. I would also like to appreciate the role of BSF during rescue and relief work in the wake of natural disasters.”

About BSF Raising Day:-

• The BSF was raised in 1965 after the India-Pakistan war.
• The Raising Day is the day the BSF unit was raised.
• It is under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
• It is one of the five Central Armed Police Forces of the Union of India.
• Other Central Armed Police Forces are Assam Rifles (AR), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), National Security Guards (NSG) and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).
• It was raised to ensure the security of the borders of India and for matters connected therewith.
• They are deployed on the Line of Control (LoC) along with the Indian Army and in Anti-Naxal Operations.
• The BSF has its own cadre of officers but its head, designated as a Director-General (DG), since its raising has been an officer from the Indian Police Service (IPS).
• BSF has been crusading against natural calamity to save precious human lives as and when warranted. (Self-reliance in defence)
• It contributes dedicated services to the UN peacekeeping Mission by sending a large contingent of its trained manpower every year.

MUST READ: Mobile app ‘Prahari

SOURCE: PIB

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1) Consider the following statements : (2023)

1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles
2. are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight.
3. 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

 Q.2) Which one of the following statements best reflects the idea behind the “Fractional Orbital Bombardment System” often talked about in media? (2022)

1. A hypersonic missile is launched into space to counter the asteroid approaching the Earth and explode it in space.
2. A spacecraft lands on another planet after making several orbital motions
3. A missile is put into a stable orbit around the Earth and deorbits over a target on the Earth.
4. A spacecraft moves along a comet with the same surface. speed and places a probe on its

Syllabus

• Prelims – SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Context: Irritable Male Syndrome has been observed recently in males.

Background:-

• Christie Saju, Counselling Psychologist at Lissun, explained that IMS is not medically recognized yet, although it could be an issue of irregularities in testosterone levels.

About Irritable Male Syndrome:-

• Irritable Male Syndrome is characterized by men experiencing frustration, anxiety, and anger.
• It can be due to many factors, such as hormonal changes and stress.
• The signs and symptoms can vary from person to person.

Some of the common manifestations, according to experts, include:-

• Mood swings: Men with IMS may experience rapid and intense changes in mood, ranging from irritability and anger to sadness and depression.
• Increased irritability: IMS can lead to heightened levels of irritability and sensitivity, causing individuals to become easily frustrated or angered by small things.
• Fatigue: IMS may cause feelings of persistent tiredness and lethargy, even with sufficient sleep and rest.
• Decreased libido: Men with IMS might notice a decline in their sexual desire and overall interest in sexual activities.
• Social withdrawal: IMS can contribute to a decreased desire for social interaction, leading affected individuals to isolate themselves from others.
• Poor concentration and memory: IMS may result in difficulties with focus, concentration, and memory retention.
• Irritable Male Syndrome can be diagnosed by:-
• Evaluation of symptoms: detailed information about the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and any underlying conditions that could contribute to their symptoms.
• Physical examination: A physical examination may be conducted to rule out any other possible causes for the symptoms and to assess general health.
• Hormone testing: In some cases, hormone levels, particularly testosterone, may be measured through blood tests. However, it’s important to note that hormone levels can vary throughout the day, so testing may not always provide a definitive diagnosis.
• Psychological assessment: Psychological assessment to evaluate mental health and identify any underlying psychological factors that could be contributing to the symptoms. (Mental Health)

Treatment:-

• Currently, there is limited research on specific treatments for Irritable Male Syndrome (IMS).
• However, it can be treated or managed by:-
• Lifestyle modifications: Adopting a healthy lifestyle.
• Counselling or therapy: Talk therapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), can be beneficial in managing mood swings, irritability, and other emotional symptoms associated with IMS.
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): In some cases, if low testosterone levels are identified through blood tests, a healthcare professional may recommend hormone replacement therapy.
• Symptom management: Addressing specific symptoms that may involve strategies such as stress management techniques.

MUST READ: DENGUE

SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1) In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent the COVID-19 pandemic, consider the following statements: (2022)

1. The Serum Institute of India produced a COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using an mRNA platform.
2. The Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using a vector-based platform.
3. COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen-based vaccine.

Which of the statements given above is correct?

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 recent developments regarding ‘Recombinant vector Vaccines’, consider the following statements: (2021)

1. Genetic engineering is applied in the development of these vaccines.
2. Bacteria and viruses are used as vectors.

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 –GEOGRAPHY

Context: Recently, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a wet spell with thunderstorm activity over Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.

Background:-

• It has also predicted isolated heavy rainfall over coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal and Kerala.

About India Meteorological Department (IMD):-

• Established: 1875.
• Ministry: Ministry of Earth Sciences.
• IMD Headquarters: New Delhi.
• It is the National Meteorological Service of the country.
• It is the principal government agency in all matters relating to meteorology and allied subjects.

Objectives:-

• To take meteorological observations and provide current and forecast meteorological information for optimum operation of weather-sensitive activities like agriculture, irrigation, shipping, etc.
• To warn against severe weather phenomena tropical cyclones, duststorms, heavy rains and snow, cold and heat waves,, which cause the destruction of life and property.
• To conduct and promote research in meteorology and allied disciplines.
• To provide meteorological statistics required for agriculture, water resource management, industries, oil exploration and other nation-building activities.

The IMD uses 4 colour codes:-

• Green (All is well): No advisory is issued. (Colour Coded Weather Warning)
• Yellow (Be Aware): Yellow indicates severely bad weather spanning several days.
• Orange/Amber (Be prepared): The orange alert is issued as a warning of extremely bad weather with the potential of disruption in commute with road and rail closures, and interruption of power supply.
• Red (Take Action): When extremely bad weather conditions are certainly going to disrupt travel and power and pose significant risk to life, the red alert is issued.

MUST READ: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) may introduce new monsoon models

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) Consider the following statements: (2022)

1. High clouds primarily reflect solar radiation and cool the surface of the Earth.
2. Low clouds have a high absorption of infrared radiation emanating from the Earth’s surface and thus cause a warming effect.

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 – ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

Context: A recent publication by scientists and researchers has revealed that 19 Gangetic river dolphins were rescued from the irrigation canals of the Ganga-Ghagra basin in Uttar Pradesh between 2013 and 2020.

Background:-

• The development of dams and barrages has severely affected this habitat as dolphins move into irrigation canals, studies show

About Gangetic river dolphins:-

• Common Name: Susu
• Scientific Name : Platanista gangetica gangetica (Dolphins)
• Status: Endangered (IUCN).
• Habitat: Ganges river dolphins prefer deep waters, in and around the confluence of rivers.
• Distribution: India covers seven states namely, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal.
• The upper Ganga River (in Uttar Pradesh), Chambal River (Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh), Ghaghra and Gandak Rivers (Bihar and Uttar Pradesh), Ganga River, from Varanasi to Patna (Uttar Pradesh and Bihar), Son and Kosi rivers (Bihar), Brahmaputra from Sadia (foothills of Arunachal Pradesh) upto Dhubri (on the Bangladesh border) and Kulsi River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra River, form ideal habitats for the Ganges river dolphin.
• The Ganges river dolphin has a sturdy, yet flexible, body with large flippers and a low triangular dorsal fin.
• Females are larger than males.
• They are among the oldest creatures in the world along with some species of turtles, crocodiles, and sharks.
• The Gangetic Dolphins are generally blind.
• They emit an ultrasonic sound that reaches the prey.

Threats:-

• Direct killing
• habitat fragmentation by dams and barrages
• Indiscriminate fishing

MUST READ: Irrawaddy dolphins

SOURCE: THE HINDU

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q1. Which one of the following makes a tool with a stick to scrape insects from a hole in a tree or a log of wood? (2023)

1. Fishing cat
2. Orangutan
3. Otter
4. Sloth bear

Q2. Which of the following is not a bird? (2022)

1. Golden Mahseer
2. Indian Nightjar
3. Spoonbill
4. White Ibis

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 :

Irritable Male Syndrome is characterized by men experiencing frustration, anxiety, and anger.

Statement-II :

The signs and symptoms are the same in all.

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 Gangetic Dolphins, consider the following statements:

1. They are among the oldest creatures in the world along with some species of turtles, crocodiles, and sharks.
2. The Gangetic Dolphins are generally blind.
3. They emit an ultrasonic sound that reaches the prey.

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

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

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

ANSWERS FOR ’  1st December 2023 – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs.st

Q.1) – b

Q.2) – d

Q.3) – c