DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 22nd January 2024

Syllabus

• Prelims –POLITY/ GOVERNANCE

Context: The Post Office Act, 2023 was enacted recently.

Background:-

• On December 24, 2023, the President of India gave assent to the Post Office Bill, 2023 which will replace the colonial-era Indian Post Office Act, 1898, as and when a notification to this effect is issued by the central government.

About Post Office Act, 2023:-

• Enacted: December 2023.

Objectives:-

• To modernize and enhance the efficiency of the Postal Department.
• Addresses the evolving role of post offices, transforming them into service-delivery institutions and expanding their functions to include banking facilities.
• To adapt to the changing demands of the digital era, ensuring that postal services remain relevant and effective.
• To broaden the authority of the Director General of Postal Services beyond mail services.

Salient Features:-

• The Bill replaces the Indian Post Office Act, 1898.
• The Act regulates India Post, a departmental undertaking of the central government.
• The government will not have exclusive privilege over conveying letters.
• Services to be provided by India Post will be prescribed under the Rules.
• The Director General of Postal Services will be appointed to head India Post.
  • He will have powers to make regulations on various matters including tariffs for services and supply of postage stamps.
• The government may intercept an article transmitted through India Post on specified grounds, including security of the state and public order.
• India Post will not incur any liability with regard to its services, except any liability prescribed through Rules.

Key Issues:-

• The Bill does not specify procedural safeguards for interception of articles transmitted through India Post.
• Lack of safeguards may violate freedom of speech and expression, and right to privacy of individuals.
• The grounds for interception include ‘emergency’, which may be beyond reasonable restrictions under the Constitution.
• The Bill exempts India Post from liability for lapses in postal services.
• Liability may be prescribed through Rules by the central government, which also administers India Post.
• This may lead to a conflict of interest.
• The Bill does not specify any offences and penalties.
• For instance, there are no consequences for the unauthorised opening of postal articles by a postal officer.
  • This may have adverse implications for the right to privacy of consumers.

MUST READ: Small savings schemes

SOURCE: THE HINDU

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1) Consider the following statements in relation to Janani Suraksha Yojana : (2023)

1. It is a safe motherhood intervention of the State Health Departments.
2. Its objective is to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality among poor pregnant women.
3. It aims to promote institutional delivery among poor pregnant women.
4. Its objective includes providing public health facilities to sick infants up to one year of age.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

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

Q.2) Regarding Digi Locker’, sometimes seen in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2016)

1. It is a digital locker system offered by the Government under the Digital India Programme.
2. It allows you to access your e-documents irrespective of your physical location.

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

• Prelims –GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES

Context: Recently, Two Arogya Maitri Disaster Management Cube-BHISHM have been deployed in Ayodhya.

Background:-

• The revolutionary mobile hospitals equipped with cutting-edge technology, have been deployed in Ayodhya to bolster medical readiness and response capabilities during the upcoming ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony.
• This cube is a part of the broader initiative named “Project BHISHM” – Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita and Maitri, is tailored to treat up to 200 casualties, emphasizing rapid response and comprehensive care.

About Arogya Maitri Disaster Management Cube:-

• It is the world’s first portable hospital.
• It is designed indigenously under Project BHISHM (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita and Maitri).
• The modular trauma management and aid system is made up of 72 detachable mini-cubes, each being a specialized station for emergency response and humanitarian efforts.
• The Aid Cube is equipped with several innovative tools designed to enhance disaster response and medical support during emergencies.
• It contains medical equipment and supplies such as a mini-ICU, an operation theatre, a cooking station, food, water, a power generator, blood test equipment, an X-ray machine, and more.
• It integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics to facilitate effective coordination, real-time monitoring, and efficient management of medical services in the field.
• In the face of mass casualty incidents (MCIs), where requirements range from basic aid to advanced medical and surgical care, the Aid Cube stands out with its ability to be deployed within an astonishing 12 minutes.
• These cubes are robust, waterproof, and light, designed for various configurations, making them ideal for diverse emergency scenarios. (Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi Kendra (PMJK))
• From airdrops to ground transportation, the cube can be rapidly deployed anywhere, ensuring immediate response capability.
• Advanced medical equipment, RFID-tagged for efficient repacking and redeployment, is a key feature of the Cube.
• The state-of-the-art BHISHM software system integrated into a provided tablet allows operators to locate items quickly, monitor their usage and expiry, and ensure readiness for subsequent deployments.

Significance:-

• This swift deployment capability is crucial, as it effectively bridges the crucial time gap from primary care to definitive care, potentially saving numerous lives in the golden hour of emergencies.

 MUST READ:  Ayushman Bharat PMJAY

SOURCE: PIB

 PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1) Consider the following statements in the context of interventions being undertaken under the Anaemia Mukt Bharat Strategy : (2023)

1. It provides prophylactic calcium supplementation for preschool children, adolescents and pregnant women.
2. It runs a campaign for delayed cord clamping at the time of childbirth.
3. It provides for periodic deworming to children and adolescents.
4. It addresses non-nutritional causes of anaemia in endemic pockets with a special focus on malaria, hemoglobinopathies and fluorosis.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

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

Q.2) 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

Syllabus

• Prelims –ECONOMY

Context: Recently, a shift in sentiment was seen when Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) turned cautious despite having started the year with a robust interest in Indian equities.

Background:-

• From being net buyers in December 2023 with a record inflow of ₹66,134 crore, FPIs have become net sellers in January 2024, offloading equities worth ₹13,047 crore in the first three weeks, data with depositories showed.

About Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs):-

• Foreign portfolio investors are those who invest funds in markets outside of their homes.
• Their investments typically include equities, bonds and mutual funds.
• It does not provide the investor with direct ownership of financial assets.
• It is relatively liquid depending on the volatility of the market.
• Examples of FPIs include stocks, bonds, mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), and Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs).
• FPI is part of a country’s capital account and is shown on its Balance of Payments (BOP).

Advantages:-

• Investors can gain substantially from exchange rate differences.
• Helps companies raise significant capital without incurring massive expense.
• FPIs help investors diversify their portfolios, which, in turn, boosts their confidence.
• FPIs inevitably move towards larger markets with lower competition. This combination is rather attractive to any investor.

Disadvantages:-

• Economic turmoil and political instability may have a negative impact on any investment via the FPI route.
• Despite the fluid nature of FPIs, losses may pile up if funds are not withdrawn hastily.

MUST READ: FPI and InvITs

SOURCE: FINANCIAL EXPRESS

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1)  With reference to the Indian economy, consider the following statements. (2022)

1. An increase in Nominal Effective Exchange Rate (NEER) indicates the appreciation of the rupee.
2. An increase in the Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER) indicates an improvement in trade competitiveness.
3. An increasing trend in domestic inflation relative to inflation in other countries is likely to cause an increasing divergence between NEER and REER.

Which of the above statements 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 Foreign Direct Investment in India, which one of the following is considered its major characteristic? (2020)

1. It is the investment through capital instruments essentially in a listed company.
2. It is a largely non-debt-creating capital flow.
3. It is the investment which involves debt-servicing.
4. It is the investment made by foreign institutional investors in Government securities

Syllabus

• Prelims –GEOGRAPHY

Context: Recently, two new mammalian species were added to Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve.

Background:-

• The recording of the elusive binturong and the small-clawed otter has taken the number of mammals in the rhino habitat to 37.

About Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve:-

IMAGE SOURCE: IASBABA

• Location: Assam.
• Kaziranga National Park is a prestigious national park of India situated in the northeastern part of the country in the district of Golaghat and Nagoan in the state of Assam.
• It was created in the year of 1904.
• It was declared a National Park in 1974.
• It was declared a tiger reserve in 2007.
• Kaziranga was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its unique natural environment in the year of 1985.
• The park has been identified as an Important Bird Area by the Birdlife International Society as it is home to various species of migrating and inhabitant birds.
• It is situated on the banks of the river Brahmaputra.
• It is majorly known for the ‘big four’ species— Rhino, Elephant, Royal Bengal tiger, and Asiatic water buffalo.
• The National Highway 37 passes through it.
•  The Diphlu River runs through it.
•  The landscape is marked by: Tropical moist mixed deciduous forests and tropical semi-evergreen forests, tall grasses, open jungle, and short grasses.

 MUST READ: Manas National Park

SOURCE: THE HINDU

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1) Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under “Critical Tiger Habitat”? (2020)

1. Corbett
2. Ranthambore
3. Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam
4. Sunderbans

Q.2) Which one of the following protected areas is well-known for the conservation of a sub-species of the Indian swamp deer (Barasingha) that thrives well on hard ground and is exclusively graminivorous? (2020)

1. Kanha National Park
2. Manas National Park
3. Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary

Syllabus

• Prelims –ART AND CULTURE

Context: Recently, Kuchipudi dancer Pendyala Lakshmi Priya received Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar by Prez Murmu.

Background:-

• The Fifteen-year-old 10th-grade student from Kazipet in Telangana is being awarded for excellence in the field of art and culture.

About Kuchipudi:-

IMAGE SOURCE: IASBABA

• Kuchipudi originated from Andhra Pradesh.
• It grew largely as a product of Bhakti movement beginning in the 7th Century AD.
• It derives its name from the village Kuchelapuram.
• Siddhendra Yogi first developed a unique and particular style based on the Natyashastra, Bharatamuniand Nandikeshwara’s Abhinaya Darpana.
• It is known for its impressive, quick footwork, dramatic characterization, expressive eye movements and spirited narrative.
• This dance is a combination of Tandava (the majestic, masculine) and and Lasya (lyrical graceful and feminine energy).
• A distinctive feature of this dance is the execution on a brass plate and moving the plate to the accompaniment of Carnatic music.
• Kuchipudi today is performed either as a solo, duet or a group presentation, but historically it was performed as a dance drama, with several dancers taking different roles.

The Classical dances recognized by the Government of India are:

• Bharatnatyam (Tamil Nadu)
• Kathak (North India)
• Kathakali (Kerala)
• Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh)
• Odissi (Odisha)
• Sattriya (Assam)
• Manipuri (Manipur)

MUST READ: Mohiniyattam

SOURCE: PIB

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1) With reference to Manipuri Sankirtana, consider the following statements: (2017)

1. It is a song and dance performance
2. Cymbals are the only musical instruments used in the performance
3. It is performed to narrate the life and deeds of Lord Krishna

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Q.2) With reference to the famous Sattriya dance, consider the following statements: (2014)

1. Sattriya is a combination of music, dance and drama
2. It is a centuries-old living tradition of Vaishnavites of Assam
3. It is based on classical Ragas and Talas of devotional songs composed by Tulsidas, Kabir and Mirabai

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Syllabus

• Prelims –SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Context: Recently, a NASA spacecraft has successfully pinged India’s Chandrayaan-3 lander on the moon.

Background:-

• According to NASA, a laser beam was transmitted and reflected between its Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) and the Vikram lander for the first time on the lunar surface.

About Chandrayaan-3:-

• Chandrayaan-3 is the successor to the Chandrayaan-2 mission. (CHANDRAYAAN-2)
• Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM3).
• Launched from: Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
• It consists of an indigenous Lander module (LM), a Propulsion module (PM) and a Rover.
  • Lander: a spacecraft that descends towards and comes to rest on, the surface of an astronomical body.
  • Propulsion module: a box-like structure, mounted with a large solar panel on one side and a large cylinder on top.
  • Rover: a small vehicle that can move over rough ground, often used on the surface of other planets, sometimes controlled from the earth.
• The Lander and the Rover have scientific payloads to carry out experiments on the lunar surface.
• There will not be any orbiters like Chandrayaan 2 in it.

Objectives of Chandrayaan-3 mission:-

• To demonstrate a Safe and Soft Landing on Lunar Surface
• To demonstrate Rover roving on the moon and
• To conduct in-situ scientific experiments.

Lander payloads:–

• Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE): to measure the thermal conductivity and temperature
• Instrument for Lunar Seismic Activity (ILSA) for measuring the seismicity around the landing site
• Langmuir Probe (LP): to estimate the plasma density and its variations.
• A passive Laser Retroreflector Array from NASA is accommodated for lunar laser ranging studies.

Rover payloads:-

• Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) and Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscope (LIBS) for deriving the elemental composition near the landing site.

Propulsion Module Payload:-

• Spectro-polarimetry of Habitable Planet Earth (SHAPE): Future discoveries of smaller planets in reflected light would allow us to probe into a variety of Exo-planets which would qualify for habitability or for the presence of life.

 MUST READ: Gaganyaan

SOURCE: THE HINDU

 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 are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight.

1. 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 countries has its own Satellite Navigation System? (2023)

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

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 :

Kaziranga National Park is a prestigious national park was declared a National Park in 1974.

Statement-II :

It was declared a tiger reserve in 2007.

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 Kuchipudi, consider the following statements:

1. Kuchipudi originated from Tamil Nadu.
2. It grew largely as a product of Bhakti movement beginning in the 4th Century AD.
3. It derives its name from the village Kuchelapuram.

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. 3 only

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

ANSWERS FOR ’  13th January 2024 – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs.st

Q.1) – a

Q.2) – c

Q.3) – c