January 9, 2024 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
New India 2023| Explained
As the year 2023 unfolded, India embarked on a journey filled with remarkable achievements, setting new standards and leaving an indelible mark on the global stage. From technological advancements to diplomatic triumphs, the nation witnessed an array of accomplishments that defined the spirit of a resurgent India. In this blog, we delve into the highlights from the pages of the "New India 2023" magazine, showcasing the myriad milestones achieved throughout the year.
Highlights of the Day
1.Maldives-India Tensions Surge: President Muizzu Faces Backlash Over Officials' Comments
Maldivian President Muizzu faced criticism for officials' remarks against India, deemed "reprehensible and odious." Former leaders Nasheed and Solih condemned the comments, urging a government rebuke. Tensions escalated after Muizzu's request for India's military withdrawal. Despite meeting PM Modi, Muizzu's initial foreign visit to Turkey and upcoming China visit fueled the dispute. Chinese media praised Muizzu's approach, framing it as a move towards a normalized state-state relationship with India[1].
2. Karnataka High Court Suspends Stone Quarrying Licenses Near Krishna Raja Sagar Dam for Dam Safety
The Karnataka High Court suspended all stone quarrying mining licenses within a 20km radius of the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam under the Dam Safety Act, 2021. The decision, prompted by safety concerns, affects licenses issued before December 30, 2021. The court emphasized the need to protect the dam and authorized enforcement against violators. The Karnataka government estimated a six-month scientific study on potential damage, and the court prioritized expediting it. Despite acknowledging the impact on mining industries, the court deemed the restrictions necessary for larger public interest and highlighted its responsibility as the custodian of public property[2].
3.DRDO Advances Anti-Drone System with Orders Placed and Technology Transfer
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has completed the development of an anti-drone system, demonstrated it to armed services, and received orders. The system includes detection, identification, and neutralization of drones, with 23 orders placed by the armed services. DRDO is now focusing on high-endurance Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and has transferred technology to private industries like BEL, Adani, Larsen & Toubro, and Icom. The technology is versatile, capable of countering various drone types, including micro drones, and is suitable for land border defense[3].
4.Income Inequality Decline and Economic Dynamics: Insights from State Bank of India's Report
The State Bank of India's Economic Research Department reports a decline in income inequality in India, attributing it to a higher tax base and a shift of taxpayers to higher income brackets. The study dismisses claims of a K-shaped recovery, highlighting increased income for various classes. The report notes a rise in taxpayers' income and a transition of small firms to larger ones. It challenges the notion that declining two-wheeler sales indicate rural distress, emphasizing a preference for four-wheelers. The analysis showcases a significant decrease in the Gini coefficient and emphasizes changing consumption patterns, notably on platforms like Zomato.[4].
5.Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024: Focused on Smart Cities, Emerging Sectors, and Global Partnerships
The 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit (VGGS) will showcase three smart city projects, including GIFT City, with talks of Tesla CEO Elon Musk's potential participation. The summit shifts focus to emerging sectors like semiconductors, aircraft manufacturing, green hydrogen, and space-related manufacturing. GIFT City aims for a 'GIFT Eye' and social infrastructure. The summit, after a five-year gap due to COVID, attracts partner countries like Australia and Japan. This edition spans various districts, emphasizing 'Vibrant Gujarat, Vibrant District,' promoting opportunities and industry growth statewide. The 'MoU Plus' approach aims to boost MoU implementation ratios[5].
Source: The Hindu | TOI
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Which of the following is considered an example of a regulating ecosystem service?
a) Pollination of crops by bees
b) Production of oxygen by forests
c) Control of pests by natural predators
d) Provision of raw materials like wood from forests
Q2: The "Paris Club" is primarily associated with:
a) Cultural exchange programs among European nations.
b) Debt relief and restructuring for indebted countries.
c) A diplomatic forum for environmental negotiations.
d) An alliance for the promotion of global peace.
Q3: The term "Giffen goods" refers to products:
a) Whose demand decreases as income increases
b) Whose demand increases as income increases
c) That are always inelastic in demand
d) That have perfectly elastic demand
Q4: Which of the following statements about the Government of India Act, 1935, are correct?
I. It introduced provincial autonomy in British India.
II. The Act established a federal structure for India.
III. Jawaharlal Nehru chaired the committee that drafted this Act.
a) Only I
b) I and II
c) II and III
d) I and III
Q5: Which of the following statements about the Nehru Report are accurate?
I. The Nehru Report was a reaction to the Simon Commission.
II. Motilal Nehru was the chairman of the committee that prepared the report.
III. It recommended the creation of dominion status for India within the British Commonwealth.
a) Only I
b) I and II
c) II and III
d) I and III
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Assess the impact of the Government of India Act, 1935, on the trajectory of Indian constitutional development. Discuss its provisions and challenges encountered in its implementation.
Need help in writing or evaluation?
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