July 14, 2024 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Mangal Pandey and the Revolt of 1857 | Explained
Delve into the pivotal role of Mangal Pandey in the Revolt of 1857, India's first major uprising against British rule. Understand his actions and their impact on the freedom struggle. Essential reading for UPSC aspirants to grasp the roots of India's independence movement.
Highlights of the Day
1. Personal Income Tax Collections Surge 20%, Outpacing Corporate Tax in FY 2024-25
Personal income tax collections have outpaced corporate tax collections, with net direct tax collections rising nearly 20% to ₹5.74 lakh crore from April 1 to July 11, 2024-25. Personal income tax accounted for 60% of total direct tax, driven by a sharp increase in Securities Transaction Tax (STT) due to increased stock market activity. Personal income tax collections, adjusted for refunds, grew by 21.41%, while net corporate tax collections rose 12.47%. Gross direct tax collections increased by 23.2%, with refunds up by 64.5% [1].
2. Kerala Forest Department Launches ₹645 Crore Plan to Tackle Human-Wildlife Conflict
The Kerala Forest Department plans to integrate advanced technologies with traditional knowledge to manage human-wildlife conflict, with a ₹645 crore master plan over three years. The plan includes AI-based alert systems, drones, camera traps, solar lights, and various barriers. Beehive fencing and bio-fences will be trialled, while habitat management will provide adequate fodder and water. The initiative also increases Rapid Response Teams and strategically places watch towers. Funding sources include Central-State allocations, MGNREGS, NABARD, and other schemes [2].
3. SC Demands Reports on Gram Nyayalayas to Address Rural Justice and Court De-clogging
The Supreme Court has asked States and High Courts for a detailed report on the establishment and functioning of gram nyayalayas, which are intended to provide affordable and quick justice in rural areas. Despite the Gram Nyayalayas Act of 2008, only around 450 of the required 16,000 have been set up, with just 300 operational. The court emphasized the need for these rural courts to de-clog local courts and enhance access to justice and directed new affidavits on their status to be filed within six weeks, scheduling the next hearing for September 11 [3].
4. Study Finds Air Pollution Severely Harms Bees and Beneficial Insects, Disrupting Ecosystem Services
A study by the University of Reading reveals that air pollution disproportionately harms bees and other beneficial insects compared to crop-destroying pests. Analyzing 120 scientific papers, researchers found pollinators experience a 39% decline in foraging efficiency due to pollutants like ozone and nitrogen oxides. Beneficial insects are more affected because air pollution disrupts their scent-based communication, unlike pests that rely on visual cues. The study highlights the severe impact of even low ozone levels, suggesting significant ecological consequences from predicted increases in air pollutants [4].
5. Visakhapatnam Residents Embrace Injection Borewells to Tackle Water Scarcity
Visakhapatnam residents combat water scarcity with advanced rainwater harvesting methods like injection borewells, boosting groundwater levels significantly. This approach, costing more than traditional borewells, uses innovative technology to capture, filter, and recharge rainwater into deeper aquifers. With the city's growing population and expanding infrastructure, such initiatives are crucial to sustainably manage water resources amidst declining natural recharge rates [5].
Source: The Hindu | Indian Express
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Consider the following statements regarding NOTA:
1. It allows voters to indicate disapproval of all contesting candidates without choosing any of them.
2. It gives them the right to reject while maintaining the secrecy of their decision.
3. Votes made to NOTA do not change the outcome of an election.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
a) Only one
b) Only two
c) All three
d) None
Q2: Consider the following statements regarding the Rhine River:
1. It is the longest river in the entire Europe.
2. It forms a natural border between Spain and France.
3. Rotterdam is located on the banks of this river.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
a) Only one
b) Only two
c) All three
d) None
Q3: Which of the following countries are part of the Five Eyes alliance:
1. Belgium
2. Poland
3. Ukraine
Select the correct option given below.
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) None
Q4: Consider the following water bodies:
1. Pacific Ocean
2. Gulf of Mexico
3. Caribbean Sea
How many of the above border Mexico?
a) Only one
b) Only two
c) All three
d) None
Q5: Consider the following statements regarding the PI-CheCK Project:
1. It aims to assess risk factors in cardio-metabolic diseases within the Indian population.
2. It is launched by the Defense Research and Development Organization.
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
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Discuss the significance of Gram Nyayalayas in enhancing access to justice in rural India. Highlight the challenges faced by these institutions and suggest measures to strengthen their effectiveness. (250 words)
Need help in writing or evaluation?
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