December 31, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Ecological Succession | Explained
Dive into the intricate world of Ecological Succession, delving into seral communities, various successions, and the innovative Miyawaki technique. Uncover nature's evolving journey in this comprehensive exploration.
Highlights of the Day
1. Census and Women's Seat Reservation Delayed Until 2024
The deadline to finalize administrative boundaries has extended to June 30, 2024, delaying the Census and the implementation of the law reserving 33% seats for women in government bodies. This postponement affects the 2024 general election and continues due to undisclosed reasons, complicating policy-making reliant on 2011 Census data. Reports on births, deaths, and causes from 2021-2023 remain unreleased, impacting crucial health and planning initiatives. The delay, initially due to COVID-19, persists, hindering essential data collection and subsequent planning, while new codes for COVID-19 deaths have been introduced in 2020, underscoring the urgency for updated statistics [1].
2. INS Imphal: India's Swiftly Commissioned Naval Powerhouse Showcases Indigenous Technological Brilliance
The INS Imphal, part of India's P-15B 'Visakhapatnam' class, was swiftly commissioned, marking a milestone as the fastest-built indigenous destroyer. It showcases India's maritime strength and technological prowess with 75% indigenization. Equipped with BrahMos missiles, it bolsters India's naval capabilities in the Indo-Pacific. The Navy aims for self-reliance by 2047, constructing 66 of 68 ships in Indian shipyards. The vessel's construction underscores increased naval commitments, countering rising Chinese presence. INS Imphal's rapid completion, integrating advanced weaponry, reflects India's pursuit of a robust, self-sufficient naval force, as articulated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Navy Chief Admiral R. Hari Kumar [2].
3. Levy 20-30% Tax on High-Sugar, Salt, and Fat Products: Study
Health researchers propose a 20-30% tax, beyond GST, on sugar, sugary drinks, and high-fat, salt, and sugar foods (HFSS). Aimed at reducing consumption, the study, funded by UNICEF, suggests this tax to influence policies. India's Niti Aayog explores its impact on healthy eating. The tax targets bulk sugar consumers like confectionery makers rather than households. By applying 'Price Elasticity', a 10% price increase in sugar could reduce demand by 2%. Similar taxes globally led to reduced consumption and health benefits, prompting recommendations for India to combat rising obesity, diabetes, and related diseases [3].
4. Finance Ministry Directives to Strengthen PSB Performance
The Finance Ministry directed PSBs to expedite stressed account on-boarding via NARCL, focus on fraud prevention, enhance loan due diligence, bolster cybersecurity, and safeguard customer data. Sitharaman emphasized mobilizing deposits for credit extension, cautioning against fraud threats and urging responsible lending practices. Measures included adopting advanced fraud prevention, pursuing recovery from fraudulent accounts, and monitoring potential fraud signals. Enhanced due diligence, swift legal action against defaults, and stern action on internal connivance were emphasized. Cybersecurity readiness, proactive measures, and collaboration among banks for a resilient financial ecosystem were stressed [4].
5. Government spent Rs 13.50 Crore for Electoral Bond Management
The State Bank of India charged Rs 13.50 crore to the government for managing Electoral Bonds. Rs 11.60 crore was commission, and Rs 1.9 crore went towards printing costs. The scheme enables anonymous, tax-free funding to political parties, with donors not bearing service charges. The government covers these expenses, prompting concerns about taxpayer burden. As parties amassed Rs 15,946 crore since 2018, primarily through Rs 1 crore denomination bonds, transparency remains a concern, with corporates believed to be major donors. The scheme's anonymity and public sector bank involvement raise questions about undisclosed funding sources [5].
Source: The Hindu | Indian Express
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: The 'Pala School of Sculpture,' known for its distinctive style, flourished predominantly in which region of ancient India?
a) Kashmir
b) Bengal
c) Odisha
d) Rajasthan
Q2: Consider the following statements about Trade and Balance of Payments and choose the correct combination:
1. Balance of Payments (BoP) includes the trade balance, capital flows, and financial transfers between countries.
2. A trade surplus occurs when a country's exports exceed its imports in value.
3. A current account deficit is the excess of imports over exports.
Which statements are true?
a) 1 and 2
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 3
d) All of the above
Q3: Consider the following statements regarding Weathering and Erosion processes and select the correct combination:
1. Weathering is the breakdown of rocks into smaller particles by physical or chemical means.
2. Erosion involves the movement of weathered materials by natural agents like wind, water, or glaciers.
3. Abrasion is a chemical process contributing to the breakdown of rocks due to exposure to oxygen.
Which statements are true?
a) 1 and 2
b) 2 and 3
c) 1 and 3
d) All of the above
Q4: Which of the following factors is NOT a major determinant influencing the distribution of biomes on Earth?
a) Temperature
b) Precipitation
c) Altitude
d) Longitude
Q5: The 'Coriolis Effect' influences the direction of winds in which of the following ways in the Northern Hemisphere?
a) Causes winds to blow parallel to the equator
b) Deflects winds to the right
c) Causes winds to blow perpendicular to the equator
d) Deflects winds to the left
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Examine the socio-economic implications of a rapidly aging population in the context of a developing country. Assess the challenges and opportunities this demographic shift presents in terms of healthcare, pension systems, workforce dynamics, and overall economic growth.
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