August 7, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Light Pollution | Explained
Discover the hidden environmental impact of light pollution on the night sky's beauty and its profound consequences on ecosystems and human health. Explore different forms of light pollution, such as glare, trespass, clutter, and skyglow, and understand how they disrupt circadian rhythms, disturb wildlife, and threaten biodiversity. Uncover the solution with the rise of dark sky reserves, like India's Hanle Dark Sky Reserve, that aim to protect natural darkness and offer a celestial haven for stargazers.
Highlights of the Day
1. PM Modi Unveils Ambitious Plan: Redevelopment of 508 Railway Stations and Net-Zero Emissions by 2030
Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually initiated the redevelopment of 508 railway stations at an estimated cost of ₹24,470 crores. These stations, spread across 27 states and union territories, are part of the Amrit Bharat Stations scheme, aiming to revamp around 1300 prime railway stations in India. The redevelopment includes modern passenger amenities, integrated urban development, and station designs inspired by local culture and heritage. Additionally, the railway network in Northeast India is expanding rapidly, with improved connectivity and electrification. The government's focus on green initiatives will result in net-zero emissions from the railway network by 2030, contributing to a sustainable future [1].
2. Madhya Pradesh's Tiger Population Surges by 50%: Balancing Predator and Prey Numbers Key to Success
Madhya Pradesh's tiger population saw a 50% increase, securing the top spot in the 2022 census, thanks to a strategy of balancing predator and prey numbers. The state's forest department actively moved tigers and prey to different regions to achieve this balance. Additionally, initiatives such as incentivized voluntary village relocations, prey supplementation, and reintroduction of species played a role in the population surge. Madhya Pradesh has demonstrated remarkable commitment to wildlife conservation, and its approach could also help in forming a viable cheetah population. The state currently faces challenges with translocating African cheetahs, but active prey management principles may aid their conservation [2].
3. 18th Century Tamil Palm Manuscripts Discovered in Armenian Monastery in Italy
Palm manuscripts dating back to the 18th Century titled "Gnanamuyarchi" were discovered in an Armenian monastery in Northern Italy. Tamil scholar Tamil Bharathan gained access to the manuscripts after persistent persuasion. The text is believed to be a copy of the first translation of Ignatius' Spiritual Exercise in Tamil, likely by Michele Bertoldi, known as Gnanaprakasasamy. The monastery had categorized the manuscripts as 'Indian Papyrus Lamulic Language–XIII Century,' unaware of their Tamil origins. Bharathan is currently cataloging the manuscripts and plans to compare them with a copy held at the Roja Muthiah Library in Chennai to gain more insights [3].
4. Zoological Survey of India Reveals 5% of India's Birds are Endemic: Critical Insights into 75 Endemic Species
The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) published "75 Endemic Birds of India," revealing that 5% of the country's bird species are unique to India and not found elsewhere. India is home to 1,353 bird species, with 78 (5%) being endemic. Notably, three endemic species, including the Manipur Bush Quail and Himalayan Quail, have not been sighted in recent decades and are critically endangered. The publication emphasizes the importance of conserving habitats for endemic birds and highlights the distribution patterns and conservation status of these species. The Western Ghats has the highest number of endemic species, while Andaman and Nicobar Islands show significant endemism [4].
5. Iconic Balladeer and Rights Activist Gaddar Passes Away, Leaves Void in Telangana's Social and Cultural Landscape
Gaddar, the iconic balladeer and activist for the rights of Dalits and marginalized communities, passed away in Hyderabad at the age of 77. He was a prominent face of the Telangana statehood movement, infusing it with his soulful songs and music. Despite his association with Maoists in the past, he disassociated himself from them in 2010. He later ventured into electoral politics and founded the Gaddar Praja Party but faced challenges finding firm footing in any party or forum. His death has led to an outpouring of tributes, acknowledging his significant contributions to the cause of Telangana [5].
Source: The Hindu | Indian Express
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Which of the following statements about the 'Civil Disobedience Movement' is correct?
a) The Civil Disobedience Movement was launched in 1932 by Subhash Chandra Bose to demand complete independence from British rule.
b) The movement was characterized by non-violent protests, such as the Salt March led by Mahatma Gandhi.
c) The Civil Disobedience Movement was limited to urban areas and did not gain support from rural masses.
d) The movement did not lead to any significant concessions from the British government.
Q2: Consider the following statements about 'Biodiversity Hotspots':
I. Biodiversity hotspots are areas with high levels of biodiversity that are threatened by human activities and habitat destruction.
II. The concept of biodiversity hotspots was introduced by conservation biologist Norman Myers in 1988.
III. To be considered a biodiversity hotspot, an area must have at least 30% of its original natural vegetation intact.
IV. India is not home to any biodiversity hotspots, as it does not have significant biodiversity-rich areas.
Select the correct statements:
a) I and II only
b) II and III only
c) I, III, and IV only
d) All of the above
Q3: Which of the following statements about the 'Indian Parliament' is incorrect?
a) The Parliament of India consists of two houses - the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.
b) The President of India is an integral part of the Indian Parliament and presides over its sessions.
c) The Rajya Sabha represents the states and union territories, while the Lok Sabha represents the people directly elected by them.
d) The Parliament can legislate on subjects included in the Union List, Concurrent List, and State List.
Q4: Which of the following classical dance forms is correctly matched with its respective state of origin?
a) Bharatanatyam - Odisha
b) Kuchipudi - Andhra Pradesh
c) Kathakali - Tamil Nadu
d) Manipuri - Assam
Q5: Which of the following is an example of "Monetary Policy" as implemented by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)?
a) Increasing the income tax rates for high-income earners
b) Reducing the import duties on electronic goods
c) Changing the repo rate to control inflation and stimulate economic growth
d) Providing subsidies to farmers for agricultural inputs
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Examine the impact of India's economic reforms since 1991 on the country's growth trajectory and socio-economic development. Assess the role of liberalization, privatization, and globalization in shaping India's economy and its implications for poverty alleviation and inequality. Discuss the challenges and future prospects for sustaining inclusive growth in the post-reform era. (Word limit: 250 words)
Need help in writing or evaluation?
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