August 31, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 | Explained
Exploring India's Path to Achieve SDG 6: Discover how India, as the world's most populous nation, addresses water scarcity and sanitation challenges. From the Swachh Bharat Mission to the Namami Gange Mission, delve into the key policies, schemes, and initiatives propelling India towards universal access to clean water and sanitation.
Highlights of the Day
1. Karnataka Begins Water Release to Tamil Nadu in Accordance with CWMA Directives
Karnataka initiates water release to Tamil Nadu, following Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) orders. Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS) reservoir's outflow is now at 4,398 cusecs versus 2,300 cusecs inflow. Kabini reservoir releases 2,000 cusecs. CWMA mandated 5,000 cusecs at Biligundulu border till September 12, leading to farmer concerns. State complies, avoiding Supreme Court scrutiny. KRS water level at 101.58 ft, well below full level. With combined KRS-Kabini 5,000 cusecs release over 15 days, Tamil Nadu to receive nearly 6.8 tmc ft. Low rain contributes to reduced reservoir levels [1].
2. WCS-India Report Reveals 172 Incidents of Red Sand Boa Seizures in Illegal Trade 2016-2021
A recent report by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)-India highlights 172 instances of illegal red sand boa trade between 2016 and 2021. The study compiles media-recorded seizures and underscores the species' plight, classified as 'Near Threatened' by IUCN. Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest occurrences, revealing the species' widespread trade, driven by the pet industry and black magic practices. The report emphasizes the role of social media in facilitating trade, urging enhanced awareness, media training, and collaborative research for effective conservation efforts [2].
3. IMSc Commemorates Alladi Ramakrishnan's Birth Centenary with Scientific Conference
The Institute of Mathematical Sciences (IMSc) is set to honor its visionary founder-director, Alladi Ramakrishnan, through the Alladi Ramakrishnan Centenary Conference, taking place from December 16 to 18. The conference will showcase scientific talks by global researchers, interactions with industry leaders and science policymakers, and the unveiling of a bust of Ramakrishnan. Ramakrishnan's influence led to the establishment of IMSc in 1962 with Jawaharlal Nehru's support. His legacy endures through IMSc's growth into a premier research institution over six decades. The conference marks his birth centenary, celebrating his contributions to the scientific community [3].
4. Mutiny in Gabon: Soldiers Seize Power, Installing New Leader Amid Allegations of Betrayal and Embezzlement
Mutinous soldiers in Gabon have installed Gen. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema as president, placing President Ali Bongo Ondimba under house arrest. Alleging betrayal and embezzlement during Bongo's rule, the coup leaders declared Oligui as head of a transitional committee. The capital city celebrated the coup against a dynasty criticized for exploiting the country's resources while citizens suffer. The 64-year-old Bongo, who succeeded his father's 41-year rule, faced widespread discontent. Gabon's oil wealth remains concentrated, and unemployment among the youth is high. The coup followed a pattern of instability across West and Central Africa, risking economic disruption and drawing international concern [4].
5. India's Offshore Wind Energy Initiative Gains Momentum: Multi-Model Approach Targets 37 GW by 2030
India's 2015 National Offshore Wind Energy Policy aimed to expand offshore wind energy within the nation, with regulatory structures spanning up to 200 nautical miles from the coast. A recent multi-model approach by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and the National Institute of Wind Energy seeks to advance offshore wind initiatives, marking significant progress after years of slow development. By pinpointing high-potential zones, including Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, India plans to auction 37 GW of offshore site leases by 2030. Challenges and uncertainties exist in models, construction timelines, and infrastructure support, yet India's commitment to technology-driven growth remains evident [5].
Source: The Hindu | Indian Express | DownToEarth
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Examine the following statements about "Economic Planning in India":
I. The Planning Commission of India was established in 1951 to formulate and implement economic plans for the country's development.
II. The planning process in India is entirely centralized, with the central government making all economic decisions.
III. The Five-Year Plans in India focus on various sectors, including agriculture, industry, infrastructure, and social welfare.
Choose the correct combination:
a) I and II only
b) II and III only
c) I and III only
d) I, II, and III
Q2: Examine the following statements about "Biological Diversity Act, 2002":
I. The Biological Diversity Act, 2002 aims to regulate access to biological resources and associated traditional knowledge for research and commercial purposes.
II. The Act provides for the establishment of State Biodiversity Boards and the National Biodiversity Authority.
III. The Biological Diversity Act does not cover the protection of indigenous and local communities' rights over biological resources and knowledge.
Choose the correct combination:
a) I and II only
b) II and III only
c) I and III only
d) I, II, and III
Q3: Examine the following statements about "Universal Declaration of Human Rights":
I. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948.
II. The UDHR outlines a set of fundamental rights and freedoms that are inherent to all human beings, regardless of their nationality or background.
III. The UDHR does not emphasize the importance of international cooperation and the role of individuals in promoting and respecting human rights.
Choose the correct combination:
a) I and II only
b) II and III only
c) I and III only
d) I, II, and III
Q4: Examine the following statements about "Nuclear Energy":
I. Nuclear energy is generated through nuclear reactions, either by nuclear fission or nuclear fusion.
II. Nuclear fission involves the splitting of atomic nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy in the form of heat.
III. Nuclear fusion involves the combining of atomic nuclei, and it is the process that powers the sun and other stars.
Choose the correct combination:
a) I and II only
b) II and III only
c) I and III only
d) I, II, and III
Q5: Examine the following statements about "Plate Tectonics":
I. Plate tectonics is a scientific theory that explains the movement of the Earth's lithospheric plates and the geological processes associated with it.
II. The lithospheric plates move due to the convection currents in the Earth's mantle, causing phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and the formation of mountain ranges.
III. Plate tectonics is only relevant to the Earth and has no implications for the study of other planets and celestial bodies.
Choose the correct combination:
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 impact of globalization on traditional Indian art forms and cultural practices. How has globalization led to both opportunities and challenges in preserving and promoting India's cultural heritage? (Word limit: 250 words)
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