February 18, 2024 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Mangroves | Explained
Mangroves are a unique and vital ecosystem found in the intertidal regions of tropical and subtropical coastlines. These halophytic trees and shrubs have adapted to thrive in harsh conditions, such as salty water and muddy soil. Mangroves serve as a natural barrier between land and sea, providing numerous benefits to both humans and the environment.
Highlights of the Day
1. ISRO's GSLV Rockets to Success with Flawless INSAT-3DS Weather Satellite Launch
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant success as its GSLV rocket, dubbed the "naughty boy" for past setbacks, flawlessly launched the INSAT-3DS weather satellite. This marked GSLV's second consecutive success after a setback in August 2021. The successful launch boosted ISRO's confidence for its upcoming joint Earth-observing mission with NASA called NISAR. The GSLV not only executed a textbook launch but also carried an additional 50 kg payload, extending the satellite's operational life. The INSAT-3DS satellite will enhance short-range weather forecasting and provide valuable data on various environmental factors[1].
2.Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to Headline India's Raisina Dialogue Amid International Dignitaries
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is set to be the chief guest at India's Raisina Dialogue, hosted by the Ministry of External Affairs. The conference, scheduled from February 21 to 23, will feature international dignitaries, including Foreign Ministers from European countries and others worldwide. The dialogue aligns with the G20 Foreign Ministers' meeting in Brazil. U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan is unable to attend due to domestic and international considerations, with U.S. officials Richard Verma and Admiral John Aquilino expected to address the conference. Mitsotakis, on a State visit, will also visit Mumbai to strengthen India-Greece ties[2].
3. Indian Air Force Showcases Offensive Power with Rafale, Apache, and Prachand at Vayu Shakti Exercise
The Indian Air Force (IAF) showcased its offensive capabilities at the Vayu Shakti exercise in Rajasthan, featuring the Rafale jet, Apache attack helicopter, and indigenous Prachand light combat helicopter. Approximately 50 tonnes of ordnance were dropped over a 2-square-km area, demonstrating the IAF's precision targeting and offensive lethality. The exercise included the first-ever demonstration of the Apache attack helicopter's firepower with Hellfire missiles. Over 121 aircraft participated, and highlights included the rapid deployment of combat assets by Chinook helicopters and joint operations with the Army, showcasing India's military prowess[3].
4.Jagadguru Rambhadracharya and Gulzar to Receive 58th Jnanpith Award for 2023
Renowned scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya and celebrated poet-lyricist Gulzar will receive the 58th Jnanpith Award for 2023. Rambhadracharya, a polyglot and founder-president of Tulsi Peeth, is recognized for Sanskrit contributions. Despite losing his sight at a young age, he authored over 240 books. Gulzar, known for works in Urdu, Punjabi, and Hindi, is a distinguished poet, lyricist, and filmmaker. He invented the poetic genre 'Triveni' and received numerous accolades, including the Sahitya Akademi award, Padma Bhushan, Oscar, Grammy, and Dadasaheb Phalke award. The Jnanpith award is among the highest literary honors in India[4].
5.Government Boosts Food Corporation of India's Capital to Rs 21,000 Crore for Agricultural Sector Enhancement
The Indian government has raised the authorized capital of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) from Rs 10,000 crore to Rs 21,000 crore. This move aims to strengthen the agricultural sector by supporting FCI in its role within the country's food security system. The increased capital will help reduce the interest burden on FCI, allowing for modernization of storage facilities, improved transportation networks, and adoption of advanced technologies. These measures are vital for minimizing post-harvest losses, ensuring efficient food distribution, and empowering farmers while reinforcing the nation's food security[5].
Source: The Hindu | TOI
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: The term "Ecotone" refers to:
a) A region with a high level of biodiversity
b) The boundary between two distinct ecosystems
c) A large-scale geological fault line
d) An area affected by extreme weather events
Q2: Consider the following statements about the Ramsar Convention:
I. The Ramsar Convention aims to conserve wetlands and promote their sustainable use.
II. The Montreux Record is a register of wetland sites under the Ramsar Convention where changes in ecological character have occurred.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
a) I is true, but II is false.
b) II is true, but I is false.
c) Both I and II are true.
d) Both I and II are false.
Q3: The "Paradox of Thrift" suggests that:
a) Increased saving can lead to a decrease in overall spending and economic growth
b) Consumer spending is the key driver of economic growth
c) Government spending should be reduced during economic downturns
d) Inflation is positively correlated with savings rates
Q4: Consider the following statements about the Green Climate Fund (GCF):
I. The Green Climate Fund supports projects and programs to address climate change in developing countries.
II. It was established under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
a) I is true, but II is false.
b) II is true, but I is false.
c) Both I and II are true.
d) Both I and II are false.
Q5: Consider the following statements regarding 'Earth Hour':
1. It is an initiative of UNEP and UNESCO.
2. It is a movement in which the participants switch off the lights for one hour on a certain day every year.
3. It is a movement to raise awareness about climate change and the need to save the planet.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 and 3 only
b) 2 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Examine the role of mangroves in climate change mitigation and adaptation, emphasizing their contribution to carbon sequestration and coastal resilience.
Need help in writing or evaluation?
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