July 20, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
India-Sri Lanka Relations | Explained
Explore the deep-rooted historical ties between India and Sri Lanka, dating back over 2,500 years. From the spread of Buddhism to vibrant trade on the maritime Silk Route, their shared past is a tapestry of cultural exchange and spiritual connections. In modern times, their diplomatic relations have flourished with high-level visits, robust economic cooperation, and developmental projects. However, challenges like fishing disputes and external influences pose occasional strains. Looking ahead, both nations seek sustainable development, enhanced scientific collaboration, and stronger people-to-people bonds through cultural exchanges. The future of India-Sri Lanka relations holds great promise as they build upon their enduring friendship for mutual prosperity and regional stability.
Highlights of the Day
1. India Supports UN's Black Sea Grain Initiative India supports the UN's Black Sea Grain initiative and seeks a resolution to the impasse after Russia's termination of the deal allowing Ukrainian grain exports. India remains concerned about the conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing a people-centric approach and providing humanitarian and economic support. UN Secretary-General regrets Russia's decision, as the initiative facilitated safe food passage and helped alleviate hunger globally. India calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and advocates for dialogue to settle disputes. Upholding international law and respecting sovereignty is crucial. The conflict's impact on the Global South must be addressed, and India actively engages in seeking peace [1].
2. India Climbs Seven Places on Henley Passport Index 2023 India has improved its ranking on the Henley Passport Index 2023, moving seven places to 80th from 87 last year. However, the number of countries granting visa-free access to Indian passport holders remains unchanged. Singapore now holds the top spot, offering its citizens visa-free access to 192 destinations out of 227. Japan dropped to the third position. India ranks 94th on the Henley Openness Index, allowing visa-free access to only four countries. Small island nations and African states dominate the top 20 "most open" countries. Gulf Cooperation Council countries show increased openness, with the UAE and Oman making significant improvements [2].
3. Airbus to Set Up Factory in Vadodara, Gujarat, for Indian-Made C295 Aircraft Production Airbus plans to establish a fully operational factory in Vadodara, Gujarat, by November 2024, where the first Indian-made C295 military transport aircraft will be produced from 2026 onward. The factory will be similar to Airbus's facility in Seville, Spain. The C295 aircraft will be manufactured under India's 'Make in India' Aerospace program in partnership with Tata Advanced Systems. India has formalized the acquisition of 56 Airbus C295 aircraft to replace the IAF's legacy Avro fleet. The first 16 aircraft will be delivered from Spain, while the remaining 40 will be produced in Vadodara, bolstering India's aerospace sector and creating skilled job opportunities [3].
4. 40% of Indian Districts Lack Nursing Colleges, Government Plans New Initiatives Health Ministry data reveals that 40% of Indian districts lack nursing colleges, with 42% of nursing institutions concentrated in five southern states, while three western states have only 17%. To address this disparity, the government plans to establish 157 new nursing colleges co-located with medical colleges by April 2025 and provide short-term training for nurses. However, some states have failed to utilize these schemes effectively. India currently has a nurse-to-population ratio of 2.06:1000, below the global benchmark of 3:1000. The World Health Organization highlights the global shortage of health workers, particularly nurses, and midwives, with significant needs-based shortages in Southeast Asia and Africa [4].
5. Western Ghats Researchers Discover 62 Desiccation-Tolerant Plant Species with Potential Agricultural Applications Researchers in the Western Ghats have identified 62 species of desiccation-tolerant (DT) vascular plants that can withstand extreme dehydration, losing up to 95% of their water content. These DT plants have potential applications in agriculture, particularly in water-scarce regions. Some species were found to withstand increasing temperatures, making them valuable in climate resilience efforts. The discovery opens avenues for research and the use of DT plant genes to create high-temperature tolerant crop varieties, improving food security. The Western Ghats, with 16 endemic species, emerges as a global desiccation-tolerant hotspot. Understanding DT plants is essential, as they play a crucial role in harsh environments [5].
Source: IThe Hindu | Indian Express | DownToEarth
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Consider the following statements about the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India:
I. NHRC is a constitutional body established under Article 315 of the Indian Constitution.
II. It is responsible for the protection and promotion of human rights in the country.
Which of the statements above is correct?
a) I only
b) II only
c) Both I and II
d) Neither I nor II
Q2: Statement 1: The "Gulf Stream" is a warm ocean current that originates in the Gulf of Mexico and flows towards the North Atlantic Ocean.
Statement 2: The Gulf Stream has a significant impact on the climate of North America and Western Europe.
Select the correct option:
a) Only Statement 1 is true
b) Only Statement 2 is true
c) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are true
d) Neither Statement 1 nor Statement 2 is true
Q3: Statement 1: The "Kakatiya Dynasty" was a medieval dynasty that ruled over parts of present-day Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
Statement 2: The Kakatiya rulers were known for their patronage of art, literature, and architecture, as seen in the construction of the Warangal Fort.
Select the correct option:
a) Only Statement 1 is true
b) Only Statement 2 is true
c) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are true
d) Neither Statement 1 nor Statement 2 is true
Q4: Statement 1: The "Battle of Plassey" in 1757 was a decisive victory for the British East India Company against the Marathas.
Statement 2: The Battle of Plassey marked the beginning of British rule in India.
Select the correct option:
a) Only Statement 1 is true
b) Only Statement 2 is true
c) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are true
d) Neither Statement 1 nor Statement 2 is true
Q5: Statement 1: "Gini Coefficient" is a measure of income inequality within a country, where a value of 0 represents perfect equality, and a value of 1 indicates perfect inequality.
Statement 2: India's Gini Coefficient has been steadily decreasing over the past decade, indicating a reduction in income inequality.
Select the correct option:
a) Only Statement 1 is true
b) Only Statement 2 is true
c) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are true
d) Neither Statement 1 nor Statement 2 is true
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
What is the current state of education in India, and how can it be improved to enhance skill development and employability? Propose specific reforms and measures to bridge the gap between education and industry requirements, ensuring better opportunities for the workforce in India. (Word limit: 250 words).
Need help in writing or evaluation?
What we see matters
Some insightful observations from past UPSC papers:
Recently map based questions, specifically from ancient history, have been asked. Students are advised to create maps of civilizations and dynasties for better learning.
Note: For answer key and explanation of daily practice questions, join us at: t.me/tinkerchild
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