August 26, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2 | Explained
Embark on a journey through India's pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger. Explore the challenges and triumphs in the battle against hunger and malnutrition, as India strives to create a hunger-free nation. Discover the innovative initiatives, from the National Food Security Act to grassroots efforts like the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, shaping a sustainable future.
Highlights of the Day
1. World's Tallest Nataraja Statue Embarks on Epic Journey from Tamil Nadu to G20 Summit in Delhi
A monumental journey unfolds as a 28-feet Nataraja statue, possibly the world’s tallest, commences its voyage from Swamimalai, Tamil Nadu, to grace the G20 Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi. Forged from a blend of eight metals, this 19-tonne masterpiece embodies artistic heritage. Crafted by the skilled hands of the Stapathi brothers, disciples of the renowned sculptor Devasenapathy Stapathi, the statue echoes Chola period designs. Utilizing the 'lost-wax' casting method, artists encase wax in alluvial clay, later replaced with molten bronze. A six-month endeavor, delayed by rains, culminates in a ₹10 crore marvel representing Lord Shiva's cosmic dance [1].
2. India and Greece Forge Strategic Partnership, Focus on Defense and Mobility
India and Greece have elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership, focusing on defense industry collaboration and migration mobility. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and counterpart Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasized freedom of navigation and expressed shared concerns in the Eastern Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific. Both leaders pledged to strengthen cooperation in defense, security, infrastructure, agriculture, education, technology, and skill development. Institutional platforms for dialogue were proposed, alongside cultural exchanges and increased people-to-people contact. Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou honored Modi with the Grand Cross of the Order of Honor. Modi's visit highlights India's interest in Greece as an economic and strategic gateway to Europe [2].
3. India and Iran Clear Path for Chabahar Port Deal, Drop Foreign Court Arbitration
India and Iran have made a significant move to enhance their commercial ties by removing the arbitration clause in foreign courts related to the Chabahar port. This decision paves the way for a long-term agreement between the two countries. Disputes regarding the port will now be resolved through investment arbitration or other dispute settlement methods, under rules established by the UN Commission on International Trade Law. This development not only benefits Iran's Ebrahim Raisi government but also aligns with India's interest in bolstering ties and ensuring Chabahar's connectivity potential. This strategic maneuver also positions India ahead of China in the Iranian port sector [3].
4. Indore Named Best Smart City, Madhya Pradesh Tops State Category in India Smart Cities Award Contest
Indore claims top spot as the best Smart City, and Madhya Pradesh secures the leading State position in the India Smart Cities Award Contest 2022. Surat and Agra rank second and third among cities, while Tamil Nadu is the second-best State, followed by Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. Chandigarh wins the award for the best Union Territory. These awards, organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs under the Smart Cities Mission, acknowledge sustainable development, inclusivity, and innovation. The event marks the fourth edition, aiming to improve citizens' quality of life. President Droupadi Murmu will present the awards on September 27 [4].
5. State of India's Birds 2023: General Decline in Bird Species, Some Positive Trends, and Conservation Insights
The 'State of India's Birds 2023' report reveals a concerning decline in most bird species across the country, with raptors, migratory shorebirds, and ducks being the hardest hit. However, there are pockets of hope as certain species like the Indian Peafowl, Rock Pigeon, Asian Koel, and House Crow exhibit increasing trends. The report, based on extensive data from birdwatchers, highlights conservation priorities and threats. The decline in vultures due to diclofenac contamination, vulnerability of ducks, and declining woodpeckers are among the concerns, while positive trends are observed in Glossy Ibis and Black-headed Ibis populations [5].
Source: The Hindu | Indian Express
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Consider the following statements about "Vitamin D":
I. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in calcium absorption and bone health.
II. The primary source of vitamin D for humans is through dietary intake of fortified foods.
III. Overexposure to sunlight can lead to excessive levels of vitamin D in the body.
Choose the correct combination:
a) I and II
b) II and III
c) I and III
d) None of the above
Q2: Examine the following statements about "International Monetary Fund (IMF)":
I. IMF is an international organization that aims to promote global monetary cooperation, secure financial stability, facilitate international trade, and reduce poverty.
II. The headquarters of IMF is located in New York.
III. IMF provides financial assistance to member countries facing balance of payments problems.
Choose the correct combination:
a) I and II
b) II and III
c) I and III
d) None of the above
Q3: Consider the following statements about the "Preamble of the Constitution of India":
I. The Preamble is an integral part of the Constitution and outlines the objectives and ideals of the Constitution makers.
II. The term "Socialist" was added to the Preamble by the 42nd Amendment Act of 1976.
III. The Preamble cannot be amended as it is the essence of the Constitution.
Choose the correct combination:
a) I and II
b) II and III
c) I and III
d) None of the above
Q4: Who was the first woman President of the Indian National Congress?
a) Indira Gandhi
b) Sarojini Naidu
c) Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit
d) Annie Besant
Q5: The "Hornbill Festival," a major cultural festival, is celebrated annually in which Indian state?
a) Nagaland
b) Manipur
c) Mizoram
d) Meghalaya
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Discuss the significance of cultural diplomacy in fostering international relations. Provide examples of how cultural exchange can contribute to global harmony. (Word limit: 250 words)
Need help in writing or evaluation?
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