January 15, 2024 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Tides | Explained
Tides, the rhythmic rise and fall of sea levels, are a mesmerizing dance orchestrated by the gravitational forces of the moon and the sun. This celestial ballet influences the Earth's vast oceans, creating a dynamic ebb and flow that has fascinated humanity for centuries.
Highlights of the Day
1.Maldives Sets March 15 Deadline for India to Withdraw Troops Amid Diplomatic Tensions
Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has set a March 15 deadline for India to withdraw its military personnel, following a diplomatic row. The demand was made during the first meeting of the India-Maldives high-level core group. Muizzu, who took office in November, had earlier requested the withdrawal and is seeking to reduce dependency on India. The move comes amid tensions, including derogatory comments by Maldivian ministers about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Muizzu, during a recent visit to China, expressed his intent to align closer with Beijing, stating, "We may be small, but that doesn't give you the license to bully us."[1].
2. Global Surgery: A Neglected Challenge and the Path Forward
Global surgery, emphasizing equitable access to essential procedures, is neglected, especially in South Asia, where the largest global population lacks such access. Despite 2015 being a pivotal year for recognizing the importance of surgical care globally, challenges persist, with over 70% of the world lacking timely access. The neglect is evident in policies, funding, and research. The magnitude of the problem includes inaccessibility, disease burden, and economic loss. Solutions involve political commitment, research, policy focus, and sustained financing, with examples of progress in certain countries. Addressing these challenges is crucial for improving global surgical care.[2].
3.Farewell to Renowned Urdu Poet Munawwar Rana at 71
Renowned poet Munawwar Rana, aged 71, passed away on January 14 at the Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences in Lucknow after battling throat cancer. Survived by his wife, four daughters, and a son, Rana had been hospitalized for 14 to 15 days. Born in 1952 in Rae Bareli, he received the Gyanpeeth Award in 2014 for his popular works that resonated with the common people, notably his celebrated poem "Maa." Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav expressed condolences, noting Rana's significant contribution to Urdu literature. Rana's funeral is scheduled for January 15[3].
4.Danes Celebrate Historic Abdication: Queen Margrethe II Passes Throne to Son Frederik X
Denmark witnessed a historic royal transition as Queen Margrethe II abdicated, making way for her popular son, Frederik X, who was proclaimed king by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. The joyous event drew massive crowds in Copenhagen. Queen Margrethe, at 83, is the first Danish monarch in almost 900 years to voluntarily relinquish the throne. King Frederik, alongside his wife Queen Mary and their children, expressed a commitment to unifying the nation. The unexpected abdication, attributed to health reasons, marks a significant shift in Denmark's monarchy, with the Australian-born Queen Mary becoming the new queen[4].
5.Navigating Healthcare Challenges: Indian Railways' Quest for Improved On-Board Medical Services
The Indian Railways, responsible for the safety of over 2.3 crore daily passengers, faces challenges in addressing medical emergencies. Despite evolving provisions since 1995, including an updated 88-item first aid kit, recent incidents reveal inadequacies in on-board medical supplies. The need for portable diagnostic devices, awareness campaigns, periodic inspections, and data-driven policy decisions are crucial steps to enhance healthcare on trains. The Railways' commitment to implementing recommendations, including an integrated helpline (139), requires continuous scrutiny to ensure effective medical care for passengers nationwide[5].
Source: The Hindu | TOI
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Consider the following statements about the Chief Justice of India (CJI):
I. The Chief Justice of India is appointed by the President of India.
II. The term of the Chief Justice of India is fixed at five years.
III. The CJI is the patron-in-chief of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).
a). Only I
b). I and III
c). II and III
d). I, II, and III
Q2: Which of the following statements about the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is correct?
I. CBD is an international treaty that aims to promote the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity.
II. The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety is a supplementary agreement to the CBD.
III. India is not a party to the Convention on Biological Diversity.
a). Only I
b). I and II
c). II and III
d). I, II, and III
Q3: Which of the following statements about the Gondwana coal fields in India is correct?
I. Gondwana coal fields are located in the peninsular region of India.
II. These coal fields are known for the production of high-quality bituminous coal.
III. The Damodar Valley is a significant Gondwana coal-producing region.
a). Only I
b). I and II
c). II and III
d). I, II, and III
Q4: The term "Quantitative Easing" is commonly associated with:
a) Monetary policy
b) Fiscal policy
c) Trade policy
d) Industrial policy
Q5: The Tigris and Euphrates rivers are associated with which ancient civilization?
a) Indus Valley Civilization
b) Mesopotamian Civilization
c) Egyptian Civilization
d) Greek Civilization
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Examine the impact of tidal patterns on coastal ecosystems and human activities. Discuss two major factors influencing tidal behavior and their significance in coastal management.
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