February 06, 2024 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Ecosystems | Explained
Ecosystems are complex, interconnected systems where living organisms interact with each other and their physical environment. These dynamic networks of life play a crucial role in sustaining biodiversity, maintaining ecological balance, and providing essential services to human societies. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of ecosystems, exploring their components, functions, and the various types that exist on our planet.
Highlights of the Day
1.Challenges and Complexities: Myanmar's Evolving Conflict, Ethnic Dynamics, and Geopolitical Implications for India's Connectivity Projects
The article discusses the evolving conflict in Myanmar since the military coup in February 2021. The resistance against military rule has gained strength, with Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs) and People’s Defence Forces controlling several towns. The recent capture of Paletwa by the Arakan Army has intensified ethnic tensions between the Chin and Arakan groups. The conflict in Paletwa also impacts India's Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project, facing delays due to security challenges. China's investments in the region, including support for the Arakan Army, raise concerns in India about potential disruptions to its connectivity projects in Myanmar. The article emphasizes the need for expert coordination to navigate complex ethnic relations and geopolitical challenges for successful project implementation[1].
2.India Introduces Bill to Combat Exam Cheating: Measures, Offenses, and Penalties
The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024, introduced in Lok Sabha, aims to curb "unfair means" in public exams for transparency. "Unfair means" includes question paper leaks, tampering with answer sheets, and creating fake websites. The bill covers exams conducted by authorities like UPSC, SSC, RRBs, IBPS, and NTA. Offenders face imprisonment of 3-5 years and fines up to Rs 10 lakh. For organized crimes like paper leaks, the punishment is a minimum 5-year imprisonment and a fine of at least Rs 1 crore. The bill addresses rising cases of exam malpractices affecting millions of aspirants[2].
3.India's Snow Leopard Population: Insights, Challenges, and Conservation Imperatives
The Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India estimates there are 718 snow leopards in India, providing crucial insights into the elusive species. Conducted between 2019 and 2023, the study faced challenges due to the rugged terrain and the need for manual evaluation of camera trap images. The findings reveal a stable population, but the study is the beginning of understanding the species, its habitat threats, and interactions with human activities. The snow leopard's habitat, spanning Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh, holds significance for major Himalayan rivers vital for Indian life[3].
4.Gauhati High Court Acts on PETA India's Plea, Directs Administration to Regulate Buffalo Fights in Assam
The Gauhati High Court has directed district administrations to prevent buffalo fights outside the stipulated time period in Assam, responding to a plea by People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India. PETA India has filed petitions seeking a ban on buffalo and bulbuli (songbird) fighting during Magh Bihu, despite the Assam government's efforts to revive these traditions. Buffalo fights, locally called "moh juj," and bulbuli fights are part of Assamese folk culture associated with the winter harvest festival. The court's directive aims to ensure compliance with guidelines and prevent such events beyond the specified period[4].
5.RBI Expected to Maintain Status Quo on Repo Rate Amid Inflation Concerns
The Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee is expected to maintain the repo rate at 6.5% for the sixth consecutive time in its upcoming meeting from February 6 to 8. The committee is likely to retain the monetary policy stance as 'withdrawal of accommodation.' The decision comes amid efforts to control consumer price-based inflation and maintain economic stability. Tight liquidity conditions in the banking system may prompt the RBI to announce liquidity measures. The central bank aims to achieve sustainable CPI inflation of 4%, with the December 2023 inflation standing at 5.69%. Economic growth is projected at 7% for FY24[5].
Source: The Hindu | TOI
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: The Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important waterway, is situated between:
a) Oman and Iran
b) Saudi Arabia and Yemen
c) Bahrain and Qatar
d) Iran and the United Arab Emirates
Q2: Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Monetary Policy Committee?
1. It decides the RBI's benchmark interest rates.
2. It is a 12 member body including the Governor of RBI and is reconstituted every year.
3. It function under the Chairmanship of the Union Finance Minister.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
a) 1 only
b) 1 and 2 only
c) 3 only
d) 2 and 3 only
Q3: Which of the following is not a member of `Gulf Cooperation Council'?
a) Iran
b) Saudi Arabia
c) Oman
d) Kuwait
Q4: Which of the following countries does NOT have direct access to the Mediterranean Sea?
I. Romania
II. Blugaria
III. Lebanon
IV. Tunisia
Choose the correct option:
a) I and II
b) I and III
c) II and IV
d) III and IV
Q5: What is the primary purpose of the International Monetary Fund (IMF)?
I. Promotion of global trade agreements among member countries.
II. Providing financial assistance to member countries facing balance of payments problems.
III. Regulating and controlling global commodity prices.
IV. Facilitating cultural exchange programs between member nations.
Choose the correct option:
a) Only one of these are correct
b) Only two of these are correct
c) All are correct
d) None of them is correct
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
How does the Indian Ocean region shape India's foreign policy? Discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with maritime security, economic interests, and diplomatic relations in the region.
Need help in writing or evaluation?
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