July 11, 2024 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
World Population Day 2024 | Explained
World Population Day, celebrated on July 11th, is an opportunity to reflect on the complexities of global population dynamics. With a global population now exceeding 8 billion, the need for accurate, inclusive data has never been more crucial. This article explores the current state of the global population, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and the need for comprehensive data systems that capture the full spectrum of human diversity.
Highlights of the Day
1. India’s mission to drill a 6-km deep hole in Koyna, Maharashtra
Earthquakes, especially those above 7.5 on the Richter scale, occur at tectonic plate boundaries, causing significant damage and triggering tsunamis. Predicting them is challenging, especially for smaller quakes within plates, impacting densely populated areas unexpectedly. Scientific deep-drilling, exemplified by India's efforts in Koyna, Maharashtra, plays a crucial role. It involves drilling deep into the Earth's crust to study fault zones and seismic behavior, offering insights into earthquake triggers. This method also aids in understanding the Earth's composition, history, and geohazards, crucial for global scientific advancement and societal safety despite its technical and logistical challenges [1].
2. Supreme Court Upholds Maintenance Rights for Divorced Muslim Women
The Supreme Court affirmed that divorced Muslim women have the right to maintenance under Section 125 of the CrPC, alongside provisions of the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986. This decision allows them to seek maintenance beyond the iddat period, contrasting with the Act's limited provisions. The ruling emphasizes equality under Article 15(1) of the Constitution, rejecting arguments against the dual applicability of these laws. It underscores that Section 125 provides broader and continuous maintenance benefits, ensuring women's rights across faiths, and reinforcing the constitutional commitment to gender equality and dignity [2].
3. Piyush Goyal Travels to Switzerland to Advance $100 Billion Investment Pledge from EFTA Countries
Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal heads to Switzerland to meet investors from EFTA countries (Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein). Discussions will focus on kickstarting their $100-billion investment commitment under the India-EFTA Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Goyal emphasizes the potential for exceeding commitments through partnerships with Indian investors. The visit also includes talks on FTA ratification and boosting investments to achieve long-term economic goals. India-EFTA FTA, signed in March, aims to eliminate tariffs on products like chocolates, watches, and smartphones, facilitating job creation. Goyal also highlights progress on India-UK FTA negotiations, aiming to double bilateral trade by 2030 [3].
4. Hamas Raid Prompts Controversial 'Hannibal Directive' Activation by IDF
On October 7 last year, Hamas attacked southern Israel, prompting the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) to activate the "Hannibal Directive," aiming to prevent soldier capture even at the cost of civilian lives. The directive, an operational policy not officially confirmed by IDF, involves using maximum force to thwart abductions, potentially resulting in significant casualties. Named after Hannibal, it parallels historical military strategies to avoid prisoner swaps. The incident intensified conflict in Gaza, with contentious implications about military ethics and responses to hostage situations [4].
5. NGT Scrutinizes CPCB's Use of Green Funds for Road Repairs Amid Air Pollution Concerns
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) is deliberating the use of green funds intended for air pollution control, questioned due to their diversion for road repairs. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) defended this use, citing dust pollution mitigation. NGT expressed concerns over potential misuse and directed CPCB to justify fund allocation for road works, which includes a portion of EPC and EC funds collected for air quality improvement. The issue is part of broader hearings on air pollution impacts across cities, highlighting discrepancies in fund utilization and environmental compliance [5].
Source: The Hindu | Indian Express
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Child Nutrition Report 2024, recently in the news, is released by which one of the following?
a) United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund
b) Food and Agriculture Organization
c) International Fund for Agricultural Development
d) World Health Organization
Q2: Consider the following statements regarding Large Action Models:
1. Their architecture is based on the simulation of applications and human actions they are intended to replicate.
2. These integrate the linguistic proficiency of Large Language Models with the ability to autonomously perform tasks and make decisions.
3. These can be utilized in investment portfolio optimization.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
a) Only one
b) Only two
c) All three
d) None
Q3: Consider the following statements with regard to the NaturAfrica initiative:
1. It is a European Union program.
2. It is aimed at combating terrorism in the Sahel region of Africa.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) Only 1
b) Only 2
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Q4: Consider the following statements regarding Antlions:
1. They are herbivorous.
2. They have morphological resemblance with damselflies.
3. Their predation strategy involves pit building.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
a) Only one
b) Only two
c) All three
d) None
Q5: Consider the following statements regarding the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India:
1. Its headquarters are located in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
2. It functions under the Ministry of Finance.
3. It has regulatory oversight over the service providers in the insolvency ecosystem.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
a) Only one
b) Only two
c) All three
d) None
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Examine the significance of the India-EFTA Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in the context of India's economic diplomacy and trade strategy. Discuss the potential benefits and challenges of the FTA, particularly in attracting investments from European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries. (250 words)
Need help in writing or evaluation?
Note: For answer key and explanation of daily practice questions, join us at: t.me/tinkerchild
Comments