January 21, 2024 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
India-ASEAN Relations | Explained
The governments of Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Singapore established the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN, in 1967 with the goal of advancing social progress, economic expansion, peace, security, and cultural advancement throughout the Southeast Asian area.
Highlights of the Day
1. PM Modi Champions Decade of Sporting Reforms, Envisions India's Global Sports Hub
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the transformative reforms undertaken by the government over the past decade, emphasizing the support provided to athletes. Initiatives like Khelo India and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme were cited as examples. He expressed confidence in India's success at the 2028 Summer Olympics and revealed ambitions for hosting the Youth Olympics in 2029 and the Olympic Games in 2036. Stressing the economic potential of sports, he projected a sports-related industry worth ₹1 lakh crore. Modi assured a promising future for youth pursuing sports careers, citing Tamil Nadu's significant contributions to India's sporting success[1].
2. Andhra Pradesh Launches Comprehensive Caste Census for Inclusive Welfare
The Andhra Pradesh government initiated a 10-day comprehensive caste census from January 19, aiming to enumerate all communities. Volunteers will visit households to collect caste details, which will be verified and corrected by village secretariat officials. This move, following Bihar, is seen as crucial by the YSRCP government for targeted welfare programs, addressing the needs of castes yet to benefit from government schemes. The census, a major goal for the government, is expected to be completed before the February 15 election notification, potentially transforming living standards based on accurate caste data[2].
3.Warm Winter Woes: Ladakh's Ice Hockey and Chadar Trek Hit by Unusual Temperatures
Unusually warm winter in Ladakh has impacted extreme sports like ice hockey and the Chadar trek. Electric fans were used to freeze ice hockey rinks in Kargil for safety, affecting practice availability. The Chadar trek, normally 105 km, was shortened due to late ice formation. Warmer temperatures in November and December, deviating 4-8 degrees from normal, have affected Ladakh's economy and reduced snowfall. The region's extreme sports and preparation for national and international events are hindered, with concerns about declining participation. The impact extends to tourism, as trekkers face safety restrictions on the shortened Chadar trek[3].
4.Monsoon Dynamics: Unraveling India's Changing Rainfall Patterns Over 150 Years
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) celebrates its 150th year, originally focused on understanding the southwest monsoon for colonial revenue concerns. Recent analysis by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water reveals increasing monsoon rainfall in 55% of India's tehsils, with 11% experiencing a decrease. Changes in the northeast monsoon and variations in dry regions highlight the complexity of evolving rainfall patterns. The study underscores the need for region-specific climate resilience plans and resource allocation, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing local forecasts over national ones for effective governance in the face of climate change[4].
5.Reforming India's Science Establishment: Separating Scientists and Administrators for Progress
India's scientific progress is hindered by low research funding (0.7% of GDP), mismanagement, and the dominant role of senior scientists in administration. The current model, where scientists also hold administrative roles, proves faulty as scientists lack administrative skills and may have conflicts of interest. A suggested solution involves a separation, adopting a model similar to the U.S., where administrators and scientists are distinct roles. Training a pool of science administrators through an all-India service could enhance efficiency and address core issues, ensuring India's science establishment aligns with economic and strategic goals[5].
Source: The Hindu | TOI
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Which of the following statements about the Green Climate Fund (GCF) is correct?
I. GCF is a financial mechanism of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).
II. It supports developing countries in their efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change.
III. India is not a participant in the Green Climate Fund.
A. Only I
B. Only II
C. Only III
D. I, II, and III
Q2: Consider the following statements about the Delhi Sultanate:
I. Qutub-ud-din Aibak was the founder of the Delhi Sultanate.
II. The Slave Dynasty was the first dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate.
III. Iltutmish was the first Sultan to introduce the silver tanka and copper jital as the standard currency.
a) Only I
b) I and II
c) I and III
d) I, II, and III
Q3: Which of the following statements about the Western Disturbances is correct?
I. Western Disturbances bring rainfall to the Indian subcontinent during the winter months.
II. They are low-pressure systems originating in the Pacific Ocean.
III. Western Disturbances have a significant impact on the summer monsoon in India.
a) Only I
b) I and II
c) I and III
d) I, II, and III
Q4: The Battle of Wandiwash in 1760 was a significant conflict in the context of:
a) Anglo-Mysore Wars
b) Anglo-Maratha Wars
c) Anglo-French Wars
d) Anglo-Sikh Wars
Q5: What does the term "Hedging" refer to in financial markets?
a) Speculative trading in commodities
b) Reducing the risk of price movements in an asset
c) Investing in high-risk securities
d) Government intervention in currency markets
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Examine the evolving dynamics of India's relations with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Evaluate the challenges and opportunities in deepening these ties, taking into account geopolitical shifts and economic considerations.
Need help in writing or evaluation?
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