February 11, 2024 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Kalaripayattu | Explained
Kalaripayattu, often hailed as the mother of all martial arts, is an ancient Indian martial art form that encompasses a rich blend of physical, mental, and spiritual elements. Rooted in the historical state of Kerala, Kalaripayattu has evolved over thousands of years, earning a reputation as a comprehensive system that integrates combat techniques, physical fitness, and traditional medicine. In this blog, we delve into the fascinating world of Kalaripayattu, exploring its history, training methods, philosophy, and its enduring significance in the contemporary world.
Highlights of the Day
1. Parliament Passes Bills for Inclusion of Tribal Communities in Scheduled Tribes Lists of J&K, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha
The Parliament has passed three bills to address the long-standing demands of tribal communities in Jammu & Kashmir, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. The amendments include the inclusion of various communities, particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs), in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list. The bills aim to ensure justice for vulnerable tribal communities, and the government emphasizes its commitment to the development of tribal communities while preserving their socio-cultural heritage. The revised ST lists will enable the newly included communities to access government schemes and benefits, including reservations in services and educational institutions[1].
2.Highlights of the Concluded Interim Budget Session 2024: Productive Legislation, Repeal of Redundant Laws, and Parliamentary Achievements
The Interim Budget Session, 2024 of the Indian Parliament, which began on January 31, concluded on February 10, with a total of 9 sittings over 11 days. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi announced that 10 bills were introduced, and both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha collectively passed 12 bills. The productivity of Lok Sabha was approximately 148%, and Rajya Sabha's was around 137%. The session included discussions on the President's Address, General Discussions on the Interim Union Budget, and key legislative achievements. Notably, 1562 old and redundant laws have been repealed by the government since 2014
[2].
3.CSIR-NAL Successfully Tests High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) Prototype with Solar Endurance
Scientists at CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) have successfully tested a scaled-down High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) in Karnataka. These unmanned aerial vehicles, operating in the stratosphere powered by solar cells and batteries, can hover for days. The prototype, with a 5-meter length and 11-meter wingspan, reached 3 km altitude and stayed airborne for eight hours. Plans include a full-scale HAPS by 2027, with a 30-meter wingspan, capable of reaching 23 km and staying aloft for 90 days. The HAPS has various applications, such as surveillance and 5G communication, and requires advanced engineering for solar-powered endurance[3].
4. US Touts Success of Indo-Pacific Strategy, Emphasizes Strengthened Alliances and Expanded Partnership with India
The United States has highlighted the success of its Indo-Pacific Strategy in 2022, asserting that it has strengthened the region amidst strategic competition with China. Adrienne Watson, a spokesperson for the National Security Council of the White House, stated that the U.S. has never been in a stronger position in the Indo-Pacific. Over the past two years, the U.S. has deepened alliances with countries such as Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, the Philippines, and Thailand, and elevated partnerships with Vietnam, Indonesia, and ASEAN. The partnership with India has also been expanded in unprecedented ways, contributing to a more secure and prosperous region[4].
5.India Explores Overseas Acquisition of Critical Minerals Through US-led Partnership
The Union Mines Ministry in India has proposed circulating critical mineral block proposals received through the US-led Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) to central public sector undertakings (PSUs) for acquiring overseas critical mineral assets. PSUs like Coal India, NLC India, and NTPC have expressed interest in acquiring lithium, cobalt, and graphite assets abroad. India joined the MSP in June 2023, and the partnership aims to foster global investment in critical mineral supply chains. The ministry recommended financial empowerment of relevant subsidiaries to expedite acquisition and suggested engaging international consultants for in-depth studies on prospective projects[5].
Source: The Hindu | TOI
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: The Parliament of India exercises control over the functions of the Council of Ministers through
1. Adjournment motion
2. Question hour
3. Supplementary questions
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Q2: Examine the key elements of ‘Security and Growth for All in the Region’ (SAGAR) initiative:
a) SAGAR primarily focuses on territorial disputes in the South China Sea, aiming to establish India as a mediator between conflicting nations.
b) The SAGAR initiative emphasizes economic collaboration and maritime security to foster regional development and counter piracy in the Indian Ocean.
c) India's SAGAR initiative is exclusively centered around military alliances to counterbalance the rising influence of China in the Indo-Pacific.
d) SAGAR is a cultural exchange program with Southeast Asian nations, aiming to promote people-to-people ties and soft power diplomacy.
Q3: Consider the following statements regarding the 'Westerlies':
1. The Westerlies blow from east to west.
2. They are most prominent at the polar latitudes.
Which of the statements is/are correct?
a) Only 1
b) Only 2
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Q4: Which of the following is a quantum computing concept where a quantum system exists simultaneously in multiple states until observed?
a) Quantum Entanglement
b) Quantum Superposition
c) Quantum Tunneling
d) Quantum Teleportation
Q5: Consider the following statements about 'Bioindicators':
1. Bioindicators are organisms that can provide information about the health of an ecosystem.
2. Lichens are commonly used as bioindicators for air quality.
Which of the statements is/are correct?
a) Only 1
b) Only 2
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Discuss how the revitalization of traditional art forms contributes to cultural enrichment, community well-being, and the preservation of historical identity.
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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