December 30, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
The Silent Epidemic | Explained
In this article, get to know about the silent epidemic of loneliness. Uncover its health effects, cultural intricacies, and profound societal implications in this in-depth exploration of a pressing public health concern.
Highlights of the Day
1. Landmark Peace Accord Signed in Assam, Ending Decades of Conflict
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs, Assam government, and a faction of ULFA signed a significant peace deal, marking an end to decades of violence in Assam. Home Minister Amit Shah hailed it as a milestone, citing ULFA's agreement to lay down arms and embrace democracy. The accord, involving 700 cadres, promises a time-bound action plan and a monitoring committee. Assam's Chief Minister highlighted reserved assembly seats for indigenous people, substantial investments, and safeguards for land rights. While one ULFA faction engaged in talks, another remains out. This historic pact aims to usher in lasting peace and development in Assam [1].
2. ISRO Set to Kickstart 2024 with PSLV-C58 Mission Launching XPoSat and 10 Payloads
ISRO gears up for a groundbreaking start in 2024 with the PSLV-C58 mission launching XPoSat, India's premier X-ray Polarimeter Satellite. Scheduled for January 1st, this mission marks ISRO's foray into space-based polarisation research, analyzing X-ray emissions from celestial bodies. XPoSat carries two vital payloads—POLIX and XSPECT—to spearhead this scientific exploration. Alongside XPoSat, the PSLV will deploy 10 other payloads from various entities, including start-ups, educational institutions, and ISRO centers, signifying a collaborative stride in space innovation. This mission propels India's scientific ambitions, showcasing its prowess in advancing space research and technology [2].
3. India's Core Sector Growth Hits 6-Month Low at 7.8% in November
In November, India’s core sector output expanded at a 6-month low of 7.8%, down from 12% in October. Cement saw its first contraction, dragging overall production to a 13-month low. Refinery products and coal were the only sectors with month-on-month growth. However, economists foresee continued slowdown due to base effects, projecting a potential 7%-8% growth in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP). Factors like a delayed festive season and base effects from previous years are anticipated to hamper immediate recovery in core sectors, suggesting a likely slowdown in growth for the rest of the fiscal year [3].
4. Exports to Australia Dip Despite Duty-Concession Items Post Trade Pact
India's exports to Australia dipped marginally despite increased duty-concession items post the trade pact. Petroleum product export decline contributed to the drop from $7.62 billion to $7.23 billion between January and November. However, sectors like engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, and textiles saw upticks. Australian FDI in India surged to $300 million from an average of $30-40 million. Talks to expand the trade deal and negotiations on rules of origin are ongoing. Australia highlighted a 50% increase in agricultural exports to India since the agreement, aiming to further enhance the trade relationship [4].
5. India's Economy Set to Surpass 6.5% Growth in FY24
India's economy is poised for continued growth, likely surpassing 6.5% in 2023-24. The Finance Ministry's report indicates sustained momentum in high-frequency indicators for October-November, predicting robust economic activity through the fourth quarter. While global inflation and supply chain disruptions pose risks, domestic momentum, manageable input costs, and consistent policies are viewed as key buffers. Consumption remains resilient, supported by urban demand and rising rural activity. Despite global concerns, India's inflation appears to be stabilizing. The external sector shows promise, with a stable rupee, strong foreign investments, and optimistic market indices contributing to the growth outlook [5].
Source: The Hindu | Indian Express
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Consider the following statements about Vaccines and their function:
1. Vaccines work by introducing weakened or inactive forms of a pathogen to stimulate the immune system.
2. Herd immunity is achieved when a large portion of a community becomes immune to a disease, reducing its spread.
3. Vaccines can cause the disease they are designed to protect against.
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 regarding Ocean Currents:
1. The Gulf Stream is a warm ocean current that originates in the Gulf of Mexico and flows towards Europe.
2. The Humboldt Current is a cold ocean current that flows along the western coast of South America.
3. The Agulhas Current influences the Indian Ocean and flows along the western coast of India.
Which statements are true?
a) 1 and 2
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 3
d) All of the above
Q3: Which of the following diseases is caused by a protozoan parasite transmitted by the bite of female Anopheles mosquitoes?
a) Dengue fever
b) Chikungunya
c) Malaria
d) Zika virus
Q4: Which of the following architectural styles is characteristic of the Hoysala temples?
a) Dravidian
b) Nagara
c) Vesara
d) Mughal
Q5: Which of the following is a characteristic feature of a 'Flood Basalt Province'?
a) Shield volcano
b) Composite volcano
c) Stratovolcano
d) Caldera
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Analyzing the intersection of culture, stigma, and mental health, elucidate the role of education and community engagement in fostering a supportive environment for mental health awareness and acceptance.
Need help in writing or evaluation?
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