December 24, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Gravitational Waves | Explained
Gravitational waves, predicted by Einstein's Theory of General Relativity, have unveiled a new dimension in our exploration of the universe. These elusive ripples in spacetime, offer a unique glimpse into celestial occurrences beyond the reach of traditional telescopes. The discovery has reshaped astrophysics, and the collaborative efforts of global observatories, including India's LIGO initiative, have propelled our understanding of the cosmos to unprecedented heights.
Highlights of the Day
1. India's Textile Industry Struggles Against Surging Imports
India's textile industry, worth $60 billion, faces a critical challenge from surging imports, notably of man-made fibre (MMF) fabrics, predominantly from China. This influx, often at lower prices, has led to unsold stocks and reduced production in key hubs like Ludhiana, Surat, and Erode. Additionally, under-invoicing of imports and stringent Quality Control Orders (QCOs) on raw materials have further hampered the industry. The impact cascades down the supply chain, affecting weavers, processors, and exporters, resulting in declining exports and financial strain on small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Financial reimbursements and policy reforms are crucial to revive this struggling sector [1].
2. Merchant Ship Hit by Suspected Drone Strike Off Gujarat Coast
A merchant ship carrying crude oil, with a primarily Indian crew, was hit by a suspected drone strike off Gujarat's coast. No casualties were reported. The ship, linked to Israel, sought Indian Navy and Coast Guard assistance. Despite damage, the crew contained the fire, and the vessel heads to Mumbai under escort. The incident occurred amid Houthi attacks in the region, prompting rerouting of cargo ships, increasing fuel costs [2].
3. Arunachal Pradesh Minister Curbs Hunting, Promotes Ancestral Methods to Protect Wildlife
Environment Minister Mama Natung of Arunachal Pradesh initiated an unconventional approach to curb hunting by encouraging a return to traditional methods. Facing cultural barriers, he advised against airguns, opting for ancestral weapons. This "reverse sermon" yielded results, leading to the surrender of 2,467 airguns, shotguns, and rifles. The movement highlighted the importance of wildlife, linking it to agricultural benefits. Villagers, now engaging in local airgun surrender ceremonies, have seen agricultural benefits with pest control and hope for wildlife resurgence, fostering a return to the sounds of nature [3].
4. India-U.S. Relations in 2023: Historic Highs Shadowed by Challenges and Setbacks
In 2023, India-U.S. relations marked historic highs with major initiatives, a successful G-20 Summit, and strengthened trade ties. However, the year ended on a somber note due to a US chargesheet implicating an Indian official. Despite efforts for a trusted partnership, unresolved issues, including alleged support for separatists and lack of action post attacks, strain the relationship. Both sides worked on economic and defense collaborations but faced setbacks, signaling progress with setbacks. Amidst elections in 2024, no major advancements are anticipated, likely resuming progress in 2025 [4].
5. Supreme Court: Tribunals Cannot Direct Government Policy-Making
The Supreme Court asserts that tribunals, operating within set legislation boundaries, lack the authority to dictate government policy. Ruling on an Armed Forces Tribunal case, the Court reaffirms the judiciary's limitations in directing policy-making, clarifying that neither tribunals nor High Courts hold such powers. The judgment emphasizes that policy creation remains solely within the government's jurisdiction, highlighting the separation between judiciary and policy formulation [5].
Source: The Hindu | Indian Express
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Match the following tribal or indigenous communities with their respective regions in India:
1. Bodo A. Assam
2. Reang B. Tripura
3. Santhal C. Maharashtra
4. Warli D. Odisha
a) 1-A, 2-C, 3-B, 4-D
b) 1-D, 2-A, 3-C, 4-B
c) 1-A, 2-B, 3-D, 4-C
d) 1-C, 2-D, 3-B, 4-A
Q2: Which of the following statements is/are true about the Panchayati Raj system in India?
I. The 73rd Amendment Act of 1992 provides for a three-tier system of Panchayati Raj.
II. The reservation for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in Panchayats is not mandatory as per the Constitution.
III. Gram Sabha does not have any decision-making powers in the functioning of Panchayats.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
a) I only
b) I and III only
c) II only
d) III only
Q3: Which among the following is NOT correctly matched with its founder?
a) Satya Shodhak Samaj - Jyotirao Phule
b) Brahmo Samaj - Raja Ram Mohan Roy
c) Arya Samaj - Swami Vivekananda
d) Theosophical Society - Helena Blavatsky
Q4: The 'HDI (Human Development Index)' is calculated by considering which of the following factors?
I. Life expectancy at birth
II. Gross National Income (GNI) per capita
III. Educational attainment (mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling)
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
a) I and II only
b) II and III only
c) I and III only
d) All of the above
Q5: The 'Montague-Chelmsford Reforms' in India were associated with:
a) The partition of Bengal
b) The introduction of the 'Dyarchy' in provinces
c) The establishment of the Indian National Congress
d) The creation of a separate electorate for Muslims
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
What are gravitational waves? Discuss the role of Indian observatories, like LIGO-India, in detecting gravitational waves and their contributions to advancing astrophysical knowledge.
Need help in writing or evaluation?
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