December 29, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Aardvarks | Explained
In this article, get to know about Aardvarks, nocturnal diggers of sub-Saharan Africa. Delve into their habits, intricate ecosystems, evolutionary connections, and the challenges posed by a changing climate.
Highlights of the Day
1. Health Ministry Data Reveals Women Account for Nearly Half of Ayushman Card Holders
Approximately 49% of Ayushman cards and 48% of hospital admissions are by women, according to Health Ministry data. Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY covers 55 crore individuals and 6.11 crore hospital admissions totaling ₹78,188 crores. 26,901 hospitals, including 11,813 private ones, are empanelled. Over 55.66 crore screenings for hypertension and 48.44 crore for diabetes have been conducted. Additionally, screenings for oral, cervical, and breast cancer in women, along with 2.80 crore wellness sessions, have been undertaken through Ayushman Arogya Mandir [1].
2. RBI's Financial Stability Report Highlights Financial Resilience Amid Global Challenges
Indian financial institutions show strength, supporting robust credit growth per RBI's Financial Stability Report. The economy remains resilient with strong fundamentals, low NPA ratios, and improving NBFC sector resilience. Banks exhibit solid capital ratios (CRAR 16.8%, CET1 13.7%), while SCBs' GNPA ratio hit a multi-year low at 3.2%. Macro stress tests indicate compliance with minimum capital requirements. RBI's measures curb excessive retail lending, prioritizing financial stability. Governor Shaktikanta Das emphasizes sustainable growth, stability, and the need for policies promoting inclusivity and green initiatives to bolster India's financial health amid global challenges [2].
3. Bangladesh Weighs Geopolitical Impact of China's Teesta River Proposal Amid India's Concerns
Bangladesh weighs geopolitical concerns regarding China's proposal for Teesta River development, considering India's reservations. China awaits post-election discussions after Ambassador Yao Wen's mention. The Teesta water-sharing pact with India stalled in 2011 due to West Bengal's opposition. In 2020, China proposed Teesta River dredging and reservoirs exclusive of Indian involvement. Analysts foresee complications amid India-Bangladesh river disputes. Bangladesh navigates between China's and India's interests, aware of the strategic river's significance. Teesta, originating in Sikkim and flowing through West Bengal to Bangladesh, remains a focal point in regional dynamics [3].
4. Kerala Urges Supreme Court for Guidelines on Governor's Bill Handling Amidst Delay Concerns
Kerala petitions the Supreme Court for guidelines on the Governor's handling of Bills, citing delayed actions on eight Bills held for up to three years. Seeks clarity on the timeline for Bill's disposal. The state requests the Governor to promptly address pending Bills. Highlights nationwide issue of Governors stalling Bills, impacting State Legislatures. Supreme Court expected to address the case post-Christmas recess [4].
5. Supreme Court Collegium Proposes Chief Justices for Five High Courts
The Supreme Court Collegium, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, suggests Chief Justices for five High Courts. Justices proposed include Manindra Mohan Shrivastava (Rajasthan), Sheel Nagu (Punjab and Haryana), Vijay Bishnoi (Gauhati), Arun Bhansali (Allahabad), and B.R. Sarangi (Jharkhand). The recommendations aim to fill vacancies and ensure representation across High Courts, considering retirements and recent elevations [5].
Source: The Hindu | Indian Express
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Consider the following statements about Plate Tectonics:
1. Convergent boundaries involve the collision of tectonic plates, leading to the formation of mountains and earthquakes.
2. Divergent boundaries are characterized by the movement of plates away from each other, often creating rift valleys.
3. Transform boundaries involve plates sliding past each other horizontally, causing volcanic eruptions.
Which statements are true?
a) 1 and 2
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 3
d) All of the above
Q2: Consider the following statements related to Artificial Intelligence (AI):
1. Machine Learning is a subset of AI that enables systems to learn and improve from experience.
2. Natural Language Processing (NLP) focuses solely on the translation of languages.
3. AI-driven chatbots are incapable of understanding complex human emotions.
Which statements are true?
a) 1 and 2
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 3
d) All of the above
Q3: The phenomenon of 'Redshift' is primarily associated with:
a) Sound waves
b) Electromagnetic waves
c) Gravitational waves
d) Nuclear waves
Q4: Which of the following pairs of countries does NOT share a border with Afghanistan?
a) Tajikistan and China
b) Iran and Turkmenistan
c) Uzbekistan and Pakistan
d) Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan
Q5: The 'Horn of Africa' refers to the region comprising parts of:
a) Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Djibouti
b) Sudan, South Sudan, and Kenya
c) Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda
d) Madagascar, Comoros, and Mauritius
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has emerged as a potent tool in the hands of citizens for addressing socio-economic issues and ensuring accountability. Discuss the evolution, significance, challenges, and impact of PIL on the Indian judicial system.
Need help in writing or evaluation?
Note: For answer key and explanation of daily practice questions, join us at: t.me/tinkerchild
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