March 03, 2024 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
World Wildlife Day 2024 | Explained
World Wildlife Day is an annual event celebrated on March 3rd to raise awareness about wildlife conservation and biodiversity. The theme for World Wildlife Day 2024 is "Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation," emphasizing the importance of digital solutions in addressing environmental challenges.
Highlights of the Day
1.Indian Authorities Detain Ship Suspected of Smuggling Dual-Use Equipment for Pakistan's Nuclear Program
Indian security agencies have detained a Karachi-bound ship, CMA CGM Attila, at Mumbai’s Nhava Sheva port over suspicions of a dual-use consignment for Pakistan's nuclear and ballistic missile program. The ship, originating from China's Shekou port, was stopped on January 23 based on specific intelligence. A Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine from an Italian company was seized, weighing over 22,000 kg. Officials suspect its intended use in Pakistan’s nuclear initiatives. The consignment, allegedly shipped by "Taiyuan Mining Import and Export Co Ltd" for "Cosmos Engineering" in Pakistan, raised concerns over potential evasion tactics. The ongoing probe aims to establish links with Pakistan's defence research organization[1].
2. Strategic Upgrades: Indian Air Force Enhances Nyoma ALG for Fighter Jet Operations near Ladakh
The Indian Air Force's Nyoma Advanced Landing Ground (ALG), near the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh, is undergoing upgrades, including blacktopping the runway and extending it for fighter jet operations. About 15% of the work is complete, temporarily halted due to winter and set to resume in April, with a two-year completion timeline. Positioned 30 km from the Line of Actual Control, officials argue the ALG is strategically advantageous. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh sees it as a "gamechanger," and the cost of development is around ₹200 crore. Nyoma provides stable weather compared to other nearby airfields[2].
3. Tripartite Accord: India Addresses Indigenous Issues in Tripura, Aims for a Dispute-Free State
The Indian government, Tripura administration, and Indigenous Progressive Regional Alliance (Tipra Motha) signed a tripartite agreement addressing issues concerning Tripura's indigenous people. The pact covers history, land and political rights, economic development, identity, culture, and language. A joint working group/committee will implement agreed points within a time-bound framework. Tipra Motha had initiated a "fast-unto-death" in February, demanding solutions. The accord, signed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Tripura CM Manik Saha, aims for a dispute-free Tripura. Tipra Motha's demands include "Greater Tipraland" and enhanced powers for the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council[3].
4.Hope for Hangul: Kashmir's Endangered Deer Witnesses Healthy Rutting Season
Kashmir's critically endangered hangul deer, known for its shyness, experienced a robust rutting season, indicating a potentially increased population crossing 300 for the first time in over three decades. The Dachigam National Park, hangul's habitat, was closed during the rutting season to facilitate the mating process. The hangul population, which sharply declined since 1947, reached a low of 183 in 2015 but has steadily increased to 261 in 2021. Conservation efforts include securing habitat corridors and ensuring safe movement on highways. Challenges include disturbances in habitat due to human intervention and a lower-than-ideal male-female ratio[4].
5. Indian Government Issues Advisory to AI Companies Ahead of Elections
The Indian Ministry of Information Technology has issued an advisory to generative artificial intelligence (AI) companies, including Google and OpenAI, ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. The advisory emphasizes that AI platforms should not generate responses violating Indian laws or threatening the electoral process integrity. Platforms offering "under-testing/unreliable" AI systems must seek explicit permission and label potential fallibility. A traceability requirement urges adding identifiable markers to generated content. The move follows concerns over Google's AI platform Gemini and aims to set the course for future legislative action, emphasizing the need for rigor and guardrails in the deployment of AI products[5].
Source: The Hindu | Indian Express | PIB |Pressreader
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Consider the statements about blockchain technology:
I. Blockchain is a decentralized and distributed ledger technology that ensures transparency and security in transactions.
II. Smart contracts, self-executing contracts with the terms written directly into code, are a key application of blockchain technology.
III. Blockchain technology relies on centralized servers for data storage and validation.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
a) I and II are true.
b) II and III are true.
c) I and III are true.
d) All statements are true.
Q2: Consider the statements about the Global Hunger Index:
I. The Global Hunger Index is an annual report published by the World Food Programme.
II. GHI ranks countries based on four indicators: undernourishment, child wasting, child stunting, and child mortality.
III. A lower GHI score indicates better progress in addressing hunger-related issues.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
a) I and II are true.
b) II and III are true.
c) I and III are true.
d) All statements are true.
Q3: Consider the statements about 5G technology:
I. 5G is the fifth generation of mobile networks, offering significantly higher data speeds and reduced latency.
II. Millimeter-wave spectrum is a key component of 5G networks, enabling faster data transmission.
III. 5G technology is designed for cellular communication with applications limited to smartphones.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
a) I and II are true.
b) II and III are true.
c) I and III are true.
d) All statements are true.
Q4: In the context of renewable energy, what does the acronym PV stand for?
a) Photoelectric Voltage
b) Photon Volume
c) Photovoltaic
d) Power Variation
Q5: Which of the following is not a part of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) in India?
a) National Water Mission
b) National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture
c) National Mission on Education for Sustainable Development
d) National Mission on Enhanced Energy Efficiency
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Discuss the significance of community-based conservation initiatives in mitigating the challenges faced in wildlife conservation efforts in India.
Need help in writing or evaluation?
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