August 20, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
India's Sustainable Energy Journey | Explained
Explore India's remarkable strides in sustainable energy on Akshay Urja Day. Discover the nation's efforts, plans, and campaigns to harness renewable resources, from solar and wind power to hydropower and beyond. Dive into India's goals, challenges, and initiatives driving the transition to a greener future.
Highlights of the Day
1. Megalithic Marvel: Unearthing Hemispherical 'Hat Stones' Sheds Light on Ancient Burial Rituals near Tirunavaya
A recent archaeological excavation near Tirunavaya unveiled a treasure trove of megalithic history. Hemispherical laterite "hat stones," also known as Thoppikkallu in Malayalam, were discovered in Nagaparamba. These stones once served as lids for burial urns during the megalithic era. This could possibly be the largest assemblage of unprotected hat stones in the region, with many inadvertently destroyed by locals during land clearing. Archaeologists salvaged an array of earthen urns and unique iron tools from a rock-cut burial chamber, shedding light on a culture over 2,000 years old. Advocates now call for Tirunavaya's recognition as a heritage village, highlighting its historical significance along the Bharathapuzha river [1].
2. India Launches 'Global Initiative on Digital Health' Under G-20 Presidency to Foster Equitable Access and Progress
India's Health Minister, Mansukh Mandaviya, launched the 'Global Initiative on Digital Health' (GIDH), a World Health Organization-led network, during India's G-20 Presidency. GIDH aims to enhance global digital health progress, address challenges like duplication, and promote equitable access to digital health. Managed by WHO, it aligns with the 'Global Strategy on Digital Health 2020–2025,' promoting quality-assured technical assistance and interoperable systems. The initiative seeks to facilitate nations' digital health transformations using trusted tools. India's Health Secretary highlighted India's digital health efforts, emphasizing the country's commitment to global knowledge sharing. WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, stressed GIDH's inclusive and ethical approach [2].
3. Science Minister Unveils 'Namoh 108' Lotus
Science Minister Jitendra Singh introduced the 'Namoh 108' lotus, a gift celebrating Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ten years in office. This unique variety, discovered years ago in Manipur, boasts 108 petals—a number of religious significance in Hinduism. CSIR-NBRI conducted a comprehensive study, including genome sequencing, after recognizing its importance. While initially ordinary, efforts were made to improve its traits for wider cultivation. The CSIR-NBRI plans to register it as India's official lotus variety and create an entrepreneurial ecosystem around it. At the unveiling, Minister Singh showcased fiber-based apparel and a perfume named 'Frotus’ [3].
4. India Sets Emission Standards for 'Green Hydrogen,' Establishing Clarity and Leadership
India defines 'green hydrogen' emissions standards, setting a milestone as one of the few countries with such clarity. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy stipulates that 'green hydrogen' must not exceed 2 kg of carbon dioxide equivalent per kg of hydrogen, covering its complete lifecycle emissions. The definition encompasses electrolysis-based and biomass-based production methods. A detailed methodology for measurement, verification, and certification will be provided by the ministry. The Bureau of Energy Efficiency will oversee accreditation. This definition aligns with India's National Green Hydrogen Mission, targeting 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen and 125 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 [4].
5. World Bank Report Urges Increased Utilization of Health Data Through Digital Solutions for Improved Outcomes
A recent World Bank report indicates that less than 5% of available health data is effectively utilized for enhancing patient outcomes globally. The study titled 'Digital-in-Health: Unlocking the Value for Everyone' was launched during the G20 Health Ministers' meeting. The report highlights the potential of digital technology and data to address challenges, such as chronic disease management, population health, and climate-induced health risks. India's Ayushman Bharat initiative is commended as a model for integrating digital health solutions. The report emphasizes evidence-based digital investments, transparent governance, capacity building, and strong country leadership to unlock the value of digital technologies in healthcare [5].
Source: The Hindu | Indian Express
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Examine the following statements about "United Nations Security Council (UNSC)":
I. The UNSC has 10 non-permanent members and 5 permanent members with veto power.
II. The permanent members of the UNSC are China, India, Russia, France, and Germany.
III. The primary responsibility of the UNSC is to maintain international peace and security.
Choose the correct combination:
a) I and II
b) II and III
c) I and III
d) I, II, and III
Q2: Consider the following statements about "Cryptocurrency":
I. Cryptocurrency is a form of digital or virtual currency that uses cryptography for secure transactions.
II. Bitcoin is the only existing cryptocurrency, and all others are derivatives of it.
III. Cryptocurrencies are not regulated by any central authority or government.
Choose the correct combination:
a) I and II
b) II and III
c) I and III
d) I, II, and III
Q3: Examine the following statements about "Paris Agreement":
I. The Paris Agreement is an international treaty on climate change that aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
II. All countries that signed the Paris Agreement are legally bound to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
III. The United States is not a signatory to the Paris Agreement.
Choose the correct combination:
a) I and II
b) II and III
c) I and III
d) I, II, and III
Q4: Examine the following statements about "Universal Basic Income (UBI)":
I. Universal Basic Income is a social welfare program where every citizen or resident of a country receives a fixed amount of money from the government.
II. UBI is primarily intended to address poverty and income inequality.
III. Universal Basic Income has been implemented in many countries globally and has consistently led to the complete elimination of poverty.
Choose the correct combination:
a) I and II
b) II and III
c) I and III
d) I, II, and III
Q5: Consider the following statements about "Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)":
I. GMOs are organisms whose genetic material has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally through mating or natural recombination.
II. GMOs are primarily used in agriculture to enhance crop yields, improve resistance to pests, and increase nutritional value.
III. The use of GMOs in agriculture has raised concerns about potential risks to human health and the environment.
Choose the correct combination:
a) I and II
b) II and III
c) I and III
d) I, II, and III
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Examine the role of social media in modern democratic societies. Discuss its influence on political communication, information dissemination, and potential effects on electoral processes. Suggest measures to address misinformation and uphold the integrity of online political discourse. (Word limit: 250 words)
Need help in writing or evaluation?
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