August 15, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
India's Voyage of Independence | Explained
Explore India's remarkable journey from colonial rule to a thriving global contender by 2047. Diverse cultures united in a constitutional democracy, overcoming challenges to forge a path of progress and unity. Witness the evolution of diversity from weakness to strength, guided by foresight and values. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for 2047 paves the way for global leadership, fueled by cultural heritage, technological prowess, and economic potential. Join India as it shapes a future of equality, eradicated poverty, and global influence. Experience the resilience, progress, and collective will that define India's voyage of transformation.
Highlights of the Day
1. July Sees Retail Inflation Surge to 7.44%, Food Prices Spiking by 11.5%
In July, retail inflation surged to 7.44% from June's 4.87%, driven by an 11.5% spike in food prices. This marks the highest retail inflation since April 2022 and the first time since September 2022 that prices rose over 7%. Vegetable prices skyrocketed by 37.3%, while cereals and pulses became over 13% more expensive. Urban consumers faced a 12.3% increase in their food bill, with rural consumers encountering 11% food inflation. This inflation surpassed economists' estimates, breaking a four-month streak below the central bank's 6% tolerance threshold. Wholesale prices remained in deflation but food and primary articles rose by 7.5%, narrowing the overall dip [1].
2. Kirti Chakra for CRPF Heroes, Shaurya Chakra for Brave Hearts: President Approves 76 Gallantry Awards
The Kirti Chakra, the second-highest peacetime gallantry award, will be conferred upon four CRPF personnel who died during an anti-Naxal operation in Chhattisgarh in April 2021. Eleven individuals, including Army and police personnel, will receive the Shaurya Chakra, the third-highest peacetime gallantry award, with five posthumously. President Droupadi Murmu approved 76 gallantry awards, encompassing Sena, Nao Sena, and Vayu Sena Medals. The honorees include those engaged in various military operations, such as Operation Rakshak and Operation Meghdoot. The President also sanctioned Tatrakshak Medals for Indian Coast Guard personnel, recognizing their gallant actions and meritorious service [2].
3. India's July Exports Shrink 15.9%, Imports Down 17% Amid Global Demand Slump
India's goods exports fell 15.9% to $32.25 billion in July, while imports declined 17% to $52.9 billion, primarily due to weakened demand in major markets like the U.S. and EU. This marks the eighth instance in ten months of merchandise export contraction, with key sectors like petroleum (-43.7%), gems and jewellery (-29.7%), and handicrafts (-21.2%) witnessing declines. Excluding petroleum and gems, the export value dip was 5.7%. The trade deficit was 18.7% lower at $20.67 billion. While import decline is seen positively, it impacted critical export sectors. The Commerce Ministry aims for a 5%-5.5% rise in exports for 2023-24 [3].
4. Devastating Wildfires Grip Hawaii's Maui Island Amid Growing Global Concerns Over Intense Blazes and Climate Change
Devastating wildfires in Hawaii's Maui island, intensified by Hurricane Dora's winds, have killed nearly 100 and left thousands homeless. Amid global concerns over intense blazes in Europe, Canada, and the US, Hawaii's fires were exacerbated by low humidity, dry vegetation, and invasive grasses. Changing climate, land use patterns, and inadequate policies contributed to the crisis. Intense wildfires, linked to climate change, release vast carbon emissions and worsen air pollution. To address the rising risk, communities must implement coherent mitigation measures. Experts emphasize the urgent need to adapt to the changing nature of these disasters and prioritize effective policies [4].
5. Madras High Court Orders Compensation and Relocation for Thengumarahada Village in Tiger Reserve to Ensure Animal Welfare
The Madras High Court has mandated the relocation of 495 families from Thengumarahada village within the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve's boundary, to ensure animals' right to live without fear and distress. Each family will receive ₹15 lakh compensation from the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA). The ₹74.25 crore total will be released to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), then transferred to Tamil Nadu Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) for disbursement. The village's human settlement led to man-animal conflicts in a rich biodiversity region. The court criticized authorities' reluctance and emphasized the state's duty to protect wildlife [5].
Source: The Hindu | Indian Express
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: The "Battle of Haldighati" in 1576 was a significant conflict between the Mughal Empire and which Rajput kingdom?
a) Mewar
b) Marwar
c) Jaipur
d) Bundi
Q2: Statement 1: The "One Belt One Road" (OBOR) initiative is a global infrastructure development strategy initiated by the United States.
Statement 2: OBOR aims to connect countries across Asia, Europe, and Africa through land and maritime routes to boost trade and economic development.
a) Both statements are true.
b) Both statements are false.
c) Only Statement 1 is true.
d) Only Statement 2 is true.
Q3: Consider the following statements related to the "Quit India Movement":
I. The movement was launched in 1942.
II. Mahatma Gandhi led the movement.
III. The movement called for immediate British withdrawal from India.
IV. The Quit India Resolution was passed by the Indian National Congress in the Nagpur Session.
Select the correct combination:
a) I and II
b) II and III
c) III and IV
d) I, II, and III
Q4: Evaluate the statements regarding the "Mughal Empire":
I. The empire reached its zenith during Akbar's reign.
II. Akbar established the Din-i Ilahi and promoted religious tolerance.
III. The Battle of Plassey in 1757 marked the end of Mughal rule in India.
IV. Aurangzeb is known for his policy of religious harmony and patronage of the arts.
Choose the correct combination:
a) I and II
b) II and III
c) III and IV
d) I, II, and III
Q5: Consider the statements regarding the "National Emergency" declared in India in 1975:
I. The emergency was declared due to a severe economic crisis.
II. Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister at the time of the emergency declaration.
III. Civil liberties were suspended, and censorship was imposed on the media.
IV. The emergency lasted for two years and was lifted in 1977.
Select the correct combination:
a) I and II
b) II and III
c) III and IV
d) I, III, and IV
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Assess the socio-economic and environmental challenges faced by coastal communities due to climate change. Highlight the vulnerabilities arising from sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and ocean acidification. Discuss adaptive strategies for these communities to enhance resilience while balancing economic development and environmental sustainability. (Word limit: 250 words)
Need help in writing or evaluation?
Note: For answer key and explanation of daily practice questions, join us at: t.me/tinkerchild
Comments