August 13, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
India's Historical and Religious Legislation | Explained
India, a land of myriad cultures and faiths, is adorned with a rich tapestry of historical and sacred sites. To safeguard this treasure trove of heritage, a series of significant legislations have been enacted over the years. In this article, we delve deep into the historical evolution and profound significance of these acts, exploring how they not only protect our past but also play a pivotal role in nurturing unity and harmony in the diverse mosaic of our nation.
Highlights of the Day
1. President Approves Key Laws: Data Protection and Delhi Governance in Focus
President Droupadi Murmu's approval of four key legislations on August 12 marks a significant step. Among them, the Digital Personal Data Protection Act addresses data misuse by online platforms. The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Act introduces a three-member authority for Group A officer transfers in the Delhi government. The Delhi services law's passage involves debates and divisions, with opposition parties challenging the Centre's actions against a Supreme Court order. The Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Act establishes digital birth certificates as conclusive age proof. The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act simplifies business processes by amending 183 provisions in 42 Acts [1].
2. UNFPA's Rajasthan Project Gains Expert Support to Combat Gender Bias and Promote Equality
The UNFPA's gender sensitivity project in Rajasthan gains backing from experts combating patriarchal customs. This four-month initiative, backed by Haridev Joshi University of Journalism, aims to foster gender equality and change societal perceptions to combat gender-based bias. A workshop attended by journalism students emphasizes creating a just society and urges youth participation. Experts highlight the negative impact of assumptions on women's status, with Rajasthan's customs perpetuating inequality. While urbanization and education drive change, the project aims to instill gender awareness in the curriculum to empower youth to challenge norms, fight discrimination, and contribute to women's empowerment [2].
3. Ladakh's Nyoma Airfield Expansion Begins Amidst Ongoing Border Infrastructure Development
Work has commenced on expanding the Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) at Nyoma in Ladakh as part of ongoing infrastructure development along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The expansion involves lengthening the runway beyond 9,000 feet to accommodate fighter jets. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is also modifying fighter jet engines for high-altitude starts in the region. Nyoma's stable weather conditions make it ideal for operations compared to other airfields. In 2020, the IAF deployed helicopters there during the standoff. Meanwhile, China has bolstered its LAC infrastructure with upgraded airfields, roads, and troop facilities, changing the regional status quo [3].
4. India's Forex Reserves Decline to $601.45 Billion as RBI Intervenes Amid Global Pressures
India's forex reserves dropped by $2.41 billion to $601.453 billion as of August 4, according to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Earlier, they fell by $3.2 billion to $603.87 billion by July 28. The Weekly Statistical Supplement by the RBI reported a $1.94 billion decline in Foreign currency assets (FCAs), settling at $533.4 billion, accounting for non-US currency fluctuations. Gold reserves decreased by $224 million to $44.7 billion, SDRs dipped by $171 million to $18.27 billion, and IMF reserve position fell by $86 million to $5.1 billion. Reserves have decreased due to global pressures, leading the RBI to intervene and stabilize the rupee's value [4].
5. India and China to Hold 19th Round of Military Talks to Ease Ladakh Standoff Ahead of BRICS Summit
Ahead of the BRICS leaders' summit in South Africa, Indian and Chinese military representatives will hold their 19th round of talks in an effort to defuse the four-year-long standoff along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh. The discussions, being held after almost four months, reflect urgency in addressing tensions. Focus areas include border protocols, sharing patrol information, and enhancing communication between ground troops. This meeting, before Chinese President Xi Jinping's G20 summit visit to India in September, holds potential for progress, as such high-level discussions have historically influenced resolution attempts during previous standoffs. Despite progress in certain areas, substantial troop presence remains [5].
Source: The Hindu | The Economic Times | DownToEarth
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: The phenomenon of 'corona' is commonly observed around the Sun during a solar eclipse. What causes the corona?
a) Reflection of sunlight from the Moon
b) Dispersion of sunlight by atmospheric gases
c) Scattering of sunlight by dust particles in the atmosphere
d) Ionization of gases in the Sun's outer atmosphere
Q2: The "Phillips Curve" illustrates the relationship between which two macroeconomic variables?
a) Inflation and unemployment
b) Interest rates and investment
c) GDP and fiscal deficit
d) Exchange rates and trade balance
Q3: Consider the following statements regarding the Preamble of the Indian Constitution:
I. The Preamble was amended in 1976 to include the words "Socialist" and "Secular."
II. The Preamble outlines the aspirations and objectives of the Constitution.
III. The Preamble is enforceable in a court of law.
Select the correct combination of statements:
a) I and II only
b) II and III only
c) I and III only
d) I, II, and III
Q4: Consider the following statements regarding the "Monetary Policy Committee" (MPC) in India:
I. The MPC is responsible for determining the policy interest rates to achieve the inflation target set by the government.
II. The MPC consists of five members, including the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor and Deputy Governor.
III. The decisions of the MPC are binding on the RBI.
Select the correct combination of statements:
a) I and II only
b) II and III only
c) I and III only
d) I, II, and III
Q5: Consider the following statements regarding the "Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code" (IBC) in India:
I. The IBC provides a time-bound framework for the resolution of insolvency and bankruptcy cases.
II. The IBC applies only to corporate entities and not to individuals.
III. The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) is the adjudicating authority for insolvency proceedings under the IBC.
Select the correct combination of statements:
a) I and II only
b) II and III only
c) I and III only
d) I, II, and III
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Discuss the environmental impact of fast fashion on sustainability. Examine its role in resource consumption, waste generation, and labor exploitation. Analyze potential solutions like ethical production, circular economy models, and consumer awareness in mitigating the negative effects of fast fashion on the environment. (Word limit: 250 words)
Need help in writing or evaluation?
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