February 14, 2024 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Brumation | Explained
It is the term used to characterize a dormant or slowed-down period of activity in reptiles, akin to mammal hibernation.
It usually happens in the winter, when it gets colder outside and food gets scarce.
Reptiles may withdraw to underground burrows, rock crevices, or other protected locations during brumation when temperatures are comparatively more steady.
They can go for weeks or even months without eating because of the considerable slowdown in their metabolism.
Reptiles are able to minimize their resource requirements and conserve energy during this phase of decreased activity.
Highlights of the Day
1. Farmers' Protests Escalate as Government Rejects MSP, Tensions Rise at Haryana-Punjab Border
Protests by farmers' groups turned into a conflict with security forces on the Haryana-Punjab boundary. The Union government rejected the demand for a guaranteed minimum support price (MSP) but offered a third round of talks. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha – NonPolitical (SKMNP) led the protests, urging PM Modi's intervention. Opposition, including Congress, pledged MSP if in power. Farmers, injured in clashes, were invited for another round of talks. Delhi remained heavily barricaded in anticipation of their march. Opposition criticized the government, while the SKM urged unity among protesting groups. Talks are crucial to preventing further escalation[1].
2.Draft of India-EFTA Agreement Sparks Concerns Over Drug Access and Patent Monopoly
The draft of the India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) agreement reveals a controversial clause on "data exclusivity," potentially limiting access to undisclosed test data for pharmaceuticals. The clause may extend monopoly rights over patented drugs, affecting India's thriving generics industry. It covers not only new chemical drugs but also complex biologics drugs, including monoclonal antibodies and vaccine formulations. India, a major global supplier of affordable generic drugs, has historically resisted such measures. The EFTA negotiations have moved closer to a deal, with intellectual property concerns remaining a key point of contention[2].
3. PM Modi lauds Strong India-UAE Partnership at 'Ahlan Modi' Event in Abu Dhabi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the strong partnership between India and the UAE, highlighting their achievements in talent, innovation, and culture. Speaking at the 'Ahlan Modi' event in Abu Dhabi, he expressed pride in the Indian community's accomplishments, stating that India and the UAE serve as a model for the world in terms of community and culture. Modi, overwhelmed by the affection from the audience, emphasized the enduring friendship between the two nations. He recalled his previous visits, expressed confidence in India becoming the world's third-largest economy, and mentioned the forthcoming inauguration of the largest Hindu temple in the UAE[3].
4.India Revises Community Radio Guidelines, Allows Multiple Stations for Eligible Organizations
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has revised guidelines for starting Community Radio Stations (CRSs) in India. Eligible organizations operating in multiple districts can now set up a maximum of six stations in their operational areas. Advertising time has increased from 7 to 12 minutes per hour, with a revised rate of Rs 74 per 10 seconds. The amendments aim to ensure financial sustainability and foster growth in the radio sector. Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur released the revised guidelines on World Radio Day, emphasizing the importance of community radio in disseminating localized content and addressing local issues[4].
5. India's Retail Inflation Dips to 5.1%, but Food Prices Remain Elevated
India's retail inflation has eased slightly to a three-month low of 5.1% in January, attributed to a modest decrease in food price inflation. However, economists anticipate that the pace of price rise is unlikely to drop significantly in the near term due to elevated prices of vegetables, cereals, and pulses. Consumer Food Price Inflation stood at 8.3%, slightly lower than December's 9.5%, but still higher than October's 6.6%. While cereals inflation has moderated, it remains high at 7.8%. Analysts express concerns about sustained high food inflation, impacting core inflation and inflation expectations. The RBI projects average inflation at 5% for this quarter[5].
Source: The Hindu | TOI
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Consider the following statements
1. In the case of all cereals, pulses, and oil-seeds the procurements at minimum support price (MSP) are unlimited in any State UT of India
2. In the case of cereals and pulses the MSP is fixed in any State UT at a level to which the market price will never rise
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Q2: Consider the following statements:
1. As per a recent amendment to the Indian Forest Act, 1927, forest dwellers have the right to fell the bamboos grown on forest areas.
2. As per the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, bamboo is a minor forest produce.
3. The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forrest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 allows ownership of minor forest produce to forest dwellers.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Q3: The term "sirocco" is commonly associated with:
a) A hot, dry wind in the Sahara Desert
b) A cold, damp wind in the Arctic region
c) A monsoon wind in Southeast Asia
d) A humid wind in the Amazon rainforest
Q4: The concept of "urban heat island" refers to:
a) A natural hot spring in an urban area
b) Elevated temperatures in urban areas compared to their rural surroundings
c) A type of heatwave occurring in densely populated cities
d) The excessive heat generated by industrial activities in urban centers
Q5: In the context of inflation, what does the term "core inflation" refer to?
a) Inflation excluding the costs of energy and food items
b) Inflation only in the manufacturing sector
c) Inflation adjusted for seasonal variations
d) Inflation in the service sector
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Evaluate the geopolitical and economic aspects of India-UAE relations, highlighting key factors influencing the bilateral ties.
Need help in writing or evaluation?
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