February 19, 2024 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Indus Valley Civilization | Explained
Indus Valley Civilization, one of the most fascinating ancient civilizations that once thrived in the Indian subcontinent. This blog aims to delve into the rich history, culture, and achievements of this remarkable civilization that flourished around 2600-1900 BCE.
Highlights of the Day
1. Hopeful Beginnings: Seven Cheetah Cubs Born in India Boost Project Cheetah's Reintroduction Efforts
Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park celebrates the birth of seven cheetah cubs, a positive development for Project Cheetah's reintroduction initiative in India. The cubs, born to Namibian Cheetah Jwala and Asha, offer hope after losses last year. The Cheetah Conservation Fund outlines the cubs' stages, emphasizing the crucial role of the mother. Concerns arise about interventions, and experts debate raising cubs in enclosures. Survival challenges for first-time mothers and varying survival rates in different ecosystems are noted. The balance between protection and preserving genetic diversity sparks a debate between South African experts and Kuno officials[1].
2.Indian Government Gears Up for Financial Limit Revisions to Streamline Expenditure Approval Process
After 18 years, India's government plans to revise financial limits for "New Service" and "New Instruments of Service," gaining approval from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). The PAC supports raising reporting limits for new policy-related expenditure to above Rs 50 crore but not exceeding Rs 100 crore, with Parliament approval mandated for amounts exceeding Rs 100 crore. The move, the fourth since Independence, aims to minimize supplementary demands, previously hindered by low financial limits causing delays in project execution. The expected GDP growth and budget size increase necessitate the upward revision to encourage accurate budget estimation[2].
3. UK Advocates Economic Access in Ongoing FTA Talks with India Ahead of Elections
As India's general election announcement and the Model Code of Conduct approach, the UK continues to press for greater access to India's economy under the ongoing free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations. Although the deal may not be signed before the elections, negotiations are active, addressing contentious points. India seeks improved access for its service sector workforce, while the UK urges a reduction in Indian import tariffs, especially on cars and whisky. The FTA is crucial for deeper economic integration, serving as a template for future deals with Western partners like the European Union[3].
4.Aadhaar Date of Birth Controversy: UIDAI Likely to Clarify with a 'Risk-Based Assessment
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is likely to issue a clarification regarding the recent directive to cease using Aadhaar as proof of 'date of birth.' The directive, issued in December 2023, aims to avoid inconvenience but has caused anxiety. The clarification may suggest a "risk-based assessment" for those relying on Aadhaar for age verification. While UIDAI won't withdraw the directive, it emphasizes user agencies' responsibility to accept Aadhaar records or verify further. Finance Secretary T.V. Somanathan assures appropriate arrangements to prevent adverse effects on the public and scheme beneficiaries, suggesting alternative documents for age verification[4].
5.Senegal Faces Democratic Setback as President Sall Postpones Elections, Sparking Protests and Criticism
Senegal's President Macky Sall's decision to postpone the presidential elections, extending his term by 10 months, has led to widespread protests and accusations of a "Constitutional coup d'état." The move follows a history of political unrest, including violent clashes in 2021 and the conviction of leading opposition candidate Ousmane Sonko. Sall's attempt to secure a third term has disrupted Senegal's long-standing reputation for democratic stability in a region facing military takeovers. The situation raises concerns of a regression into authoritarianism, contrasting with Senegal's historical role in promoting democratic transitions in West Africa[5].
Source: The Hindu | TOI
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Consider the statements about classical dance forms in India:
I. Kuchipudi originated in the state of Odisha.
II. Manipuri dance is associated with the life of Lord Krishna.
III. Kathakali incorporates elements of both dance and martial arts.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
a) I and II are true.
b) II and III are true.
c) I and III are true.
d) All statements are true.
Q2: Consider the statements about fiscal policy:
I. Fiscal policy involves the use of government spending and taxation to influence the economy.
II. A contractionary fiscal policy aims to stimulate economic growth during a recession.
III. The term "crowding out" refers to the potential negative impact of government borrowing on private investment.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
a) I and II are true.
b) II and III are true.
c) I and III are true.
d) All statements are true.
Q3: Consider the statements about classical Indian music:
I. Raga is a melodic framework used in Hindustani classical music.
II. Tabla and Mridangam are percussion instruments associated with Carnatic classical music.
III. Dhrupad and Khayal are two prominent vocal forms in Hindustani classical music.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
a) I and II are true.
b) II and III are true.
c) I and III are true.
d) All statements are true.
Q4: ‘Broad-based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA)' is sometimes seen in the news in the context of negotiations held between India and
a) European Union
b) Gulf Cooperation Council
c) Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development
d) Shanghai Cooperation Organization
Q5: Consider the following countries:
1. Denmark
2. Japan
3. Russian Federation
4. United Kingdom
5. United States of America
Which of the above are the members of the 'Arctic Council '?
a) 1, 2 and 3
b) 2, 3 and 4
c) 1, 4 and 5
d) 1, 3 and 5
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Assess the role of trade in the Indus Valley Civilization (IVC). Examine archaeological evidence, trade routes, and commodities.
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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