February 20, 2024 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Commission for Air Quality Management | Explained
In August 2021, the government formed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) as a statutory agency to serve as the primary authority for managing air quality in Delhi NCR. The body has been in the headlines a lot because air pollution is a common concern in Delhi and the surrounding areas.
Highlights of the Day
1. U.S. Proposes UN Ceasefire Resolution Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict Tensions
The United States has proposed a rival UN Security Council resolution, calling for a temporary ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict. This comes after signaling a veto on an Algerian-drafted resolution, aiming to avoid jeopardizing ongoing talks. The U.S. draft supports a temporary Gaza ceasefire, linking it to the release of hostages, opposing a major Israeli ground offensive in Rafah. It emphasizes potential harm to civilians and regional security. The move signals a shift, cautioning Israel against relying on indefinite U.S. diplomatic protection. The resolution also rejects demographic or territorial changes in Gaza and actions reducing its territory. The war began with Hamas attacking Israel on Oct 7, resulting in casualties and hostages[1].
2.Indian Government Gears Up for Financial Limit Revisions to Streamline Expenditure Approval Process
The Indian government has increased the allocation for the sustainable development of the natural rubber sector by 23%, from Rs 576.41 crore to Rs 708.69 crore for the next two financial years (2024-26). The move aims to address a shortfall in natural rubber availability, leading to increased imports. Over 13 lakh rubber growers are impacted, with Kerala being a major contributor to the 8.39 lakh tonnes production in FY23. The funds will support rubber plantation, generate planting material, enhance productivity, form rubber producer societies, and facilitate research and training. The assistance rate has increased to Rs 40,000 per hectare to cover production costs and incentivize growers[2].
3. Indian Government Proposes Crop Diversification in Punjab Amid Farmer Protests
During the fourth round of talks with protesting farmers, the Indian government proposed crop diversification in Punjab, suggesting cooperatives procure tur, urad dal, masur, maize, and cotton at MSP. This addresses Punjab's heavy reliance on water-intensive crops like rice and wheat, causing groundwater depletion. The farmers, seeking a legally guaranteed MSP, rejected the offer. Punjab's predominant rice and wheat cultivation contributes to water scarcity. The government aims to diversify crops, but farmers insist on MSP for all crops. Importantly, the proposal is seen as addressing environmental concerns and promoting self-sufficiency in pulses and cotton[3].
4.Supreme Court Upholds Broad Definition of Forest, Rejects Amendments to Conservation Act
The Supreme Court upheld the broad definition of "forest," encompassing 1.97 lakh sq km of undeclared forest lands, rejecting amendments to the Forest Conservation Act. The 2023 amendments narrowed the definition to declared forests and lands recorded as "forests" after 1980. The court directed a return to the 1996 dictionary meaning, aligning with the Forest Conservation Act's intent. It mandated States to prepare a consolidated record of forest lands, following the 1996 ruling, within a year. The Environment Ministry must issue a circular, and States submit comprehensive records by March 31, 2024. Establishment of zoos or safaris requires final court approval[4].
5. AI Surveillance Cameras Capture Live Images of Wild Elephants in Idukki's Anakkulam
The Forest department in Idukki, India, has installed an AI-enabled surveillance camera system at Anakkulam to capture live images of wild elephants at a waterhole. Tourists can access the images through a Telegram channel named 'Anakkulam Elephant Oru.' The initiative, in collaboration with the Government Engineering College, aims to provide real-time visuals of elephants at the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The AI camera, set up near the waterhole, allows users to request images by typing "Nowa" on the Telegram channel. The system enhances tourist experiences and facilitates monitoring of wild elephants in the Mankulam forest division[5].
Source: The Hindu | TOI
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: In the cities of our country, which among the following atmospheric gases are normally considered in calculating the value of Air Quality Index?
1. Carbon dioxide
2. Carbon monoxide
3. Nitrogen dioxide
4. Sulphur dioxide
5. Methane
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
a) 1, 2 and 3 only
b) 2, 3 and 4 only
c) 1, 4 and 5 only
d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Q2: Consider the following statements regarding La Niña:
I. La Niña is characterized by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean.
II. It is the cold phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) climate pattern.
III. La Niña tends to bring drier and warmer conditions to South America.
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 following statements:
Statement 1: Periyar and Pamba Rivers originate in the forests of the Periyar National Park.
Statement 2: Periyar Lake was formed by the construction of the Sardar Sarovar Dam in 1895.
a) True - True
b) True - False
c) False - True
d) False - False
Q4: Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Monetary Policy Committee?
1. It decides the RBI's benchmark interest rates.
2. It is a 12 member body including the Governor of RBI and is reconstituted every year.
3. It function under the Chairmanship of the Union Finance Minister.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
a) 1 only
b) 1 and 2 only
c) 3 only
d) 2 and 3 only
Q5: Tides occur in the oceans and seas due to which among the following?
1. Gravitational force of the Sun
2. Gravitational force of the Moon
3. Centrifugal force of the Earth
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
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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