February 07, 2024 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Biogeochemical | Explained
The words "bio" and "geo," which refer to the components of the geology, and "chemical," which denotes the elements that go through cycles, are the origins of the phrase biogeochemical.
Atoms are the form in which matter on Earth is present and conserved. Because matter cannot be generated or destroyed, it is recycled in a variety of ways throughout the earth's system.
Highlights of the Day
1.Public Examinations Bill, 2024 Passes in Lok Sabha: Targets Malpractices, Exempts Students
The Lok Sabha passed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024, targeting malpractices like question paper leaks. The bill imposes up to 10 years of jail and over Rs 1 crore fine on officials or organizations involved but exempts students. Minister Jitendra Singh mentioned a report on 41 exam leaks affecting 1.4 crore candidates. The bill faced queries on redundancy given existing laws, but Singh argued for its specificity. He hinted at a committee to address technology-driven malpractices, emphasized regional language exams, and asserted the need to protect meritorious students from unfair means[1].
2.Uttarakhand Introduces UCC 2024 Bill: Overhauls Marriage, Succession Laws for Muslims and Hindus
The Uttarakhand government introduced the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) 2024 Bill in the Assembly, proposing significant changes for Muslims and Hindus. For Muslims, the UCC aligns the minimum age of marriage with the Hindu Marriage Act and removes restrictions on testamentary succession. It criminalizes practices like Iddat and Nikah Halala, and outlaws bigamy and polygamy. Hindus experience changes in succession laws, as the UCC eliminates the distinction between ancestral and self-acquired property, making both parents Class I heirs in intestate succession. Coparcenary rights are omitted. The Bill also criminalizes certain Muslim marriage practices and sets conditions for remarriage after divorce[2].
3 Atmospheric River Threatens Los Angeles with Extreme Weather: Potential for Half a Year's Rainfall in 48 Hours
An atmospheric river is poised to bring extreme weather to Los Angeles, termed "one of the most dramatic weather days in recent memory" by the National Weather Service. The forecast predicts over 6 inches of rain in downtown LA and 5-10 inches in surrounding areas, potentially representing almost half a year's average rainfall in 48 hours. Concerns include landslides, flash flooding, falling trees, power outages, high waves, and rising river levels. Some higher-altitude locations may face heavy snow. Authorities advise residents to avoid roads, heed evacuation orders, and anticipate disruptions due to the intense weather system[3].
4.Resumption of Talks on India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor Expected During Greek PM's Visit
After a hiatus due to the Israel-Hamas conflict, India is set to resume talks on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) during Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis' visit. The IMEC, spanning 3,000 km from India to Europe via Israeli ports, aims to boost connectivity. Mitsotakis and Indian Prime Minister Modi initiated discussions in 2023, and this visit may reinvigorate the project. High-level meetings during the Raisina Dialogue, involving U.S. NSA Jake Sullivan and EU Secretary-General Stefano Sannino, could progress IMEC plans. The project involves eight parties, and although delayed by geopolitical challenges, its viability remains underlined by strong commitments[4].
5.Resumption of India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor Talks Expected During Greek PM's Visit
The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) is set to resume talks after a hiatus due to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Talks are expected during Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis' visit to India for the Raisina Dialogue. The IMEC, spanning 3,000 km from India to Europe via Greek and Israeli ports, aims to enhance connectivity. Initial discussions on Greece as a trade hub occurred during PM Modi's 2023 visit to Athens. The eight parties, including the EU, France, Germany, India, Italy, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and the U.S., plan to discuss the next steps and utilize Greek ports for the corridor. Despite delays due to geopolitical challenges, the commitment remains strong, with potential benefits for India and the Gulf region[5].
Source: The Hindu | TOI
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: Which of the following are types of electromagnetic waves?
I. X-rays
II. Sound Waves
III. Infrared Waves
IV. Gamma Rays
a) I and II
b) I, II and III
c) III and IIV
d) I, III and IV
Q4: The term "Microcredit" is associated with:
a) Large-scale industrial financing
b) Small loans given to entrepreneurs unable to access traditional banking systems
c) Government subsidies for agricultural development
d) Funding for scientific research and development
Q5: The Panchayati Raj system in India primarily aims to:
a) Strengthen the power of the central government
b) Decentralize political power to the grassroots level
c) Establish a monarchy in rural areas
d) Provide urban representation in governance
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Discuss the significance of biogeochemical cycles in maintaining ecological balance. Elaborate on the impact of human activities on these cycles and propose measures for sustainable management. Support your answer with relevant examples and solutions.
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