March 17, 2024 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Lakes: Types, Formation and Importance | Explained
Lakes are static bodies of water surrounded by land on all sides and are always located on the land surface. The size of lakes may vary as some lakes are as small as ponds having a meager aerial extent of a few square meters while some lakes are as large as the Great Lakes. It comprises Superior, Michigan, Huron, Ontario and Erie Lakes of North America. These are also called the Great Lakes. The water in the lakes is supplied from different sources. Either it is replenished by rainfall or precipitation or from the underground water table. There are different types of lakes which are classified based on their origin.
Highlights of the Day
1. India Bans Separatist Groups in Jammu and Kashmir Under UAPA
The Indian government, under the UAPA, banned the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Freedom League (JKPFL) and factions of the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples League associated with the Hurriyat Conference, along with extending the ban on the Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) led by Yasin Malik. Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that these groups promoted terrorism, threatened India's integrity, and incited secessionism in Jammu and Kashmir. The banned factions of JKPL hindered democratic processes by discouraging participation in elections. The ministry cited their involvement in violent activities. These measures reflect the government's commitment to combat terrorism and maintain national security[1].
2.Tensions Mount in Haiti's Capital Amid Political Uncertainty and Security Concerns
Residents in Haiti's capital, Port-au-Prince, faced another tense night amid ongoing attacks following Prime Minister Henry's resignation. With no clear replacement plan, locals expressed distress and called for political action. Vendors highlighted economic hardships, with soaring prices and dangerous working conditions. The UN warned of severe hunger and malnutrition, particularly affecting children. Satellite images revealed disruptions at the main cargo port and heightened security around the National Palace. Police clashed with gangs in Delmas, a G9 alliance stronghold. Reports indicated potential compromise talks on Saturday, underscoring the urgent need for stability amidst escalating turmoil[2].
3.Conservation Efforts for Kerala's Indigenous Dwarf Cow, Thenmala Kullan, Underway
The Kerala Animal Husbandry department plans to conserve the Thenmala Kullan, a dwarf cow with unique features like a small hump, reared by tribespeople. Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (KVASU) will conduct studies for breed registration. Though yielding nutrient-rich A2 milk, their quantity is low. Identified cows exhibit strong build and immunity. Evaluation involves considering population, breeding methods, and physical traits. Dr. G. Radhika from KVASU highlights the need for phenotypic and genotypic characterization. Subsequent phases include DNA isolation for genetic studies to meet National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources criteria for indigenous breed status[3].
4.Gulmarg's Bid for International Winter Sports Fame and Olympic Glory
Gulmarg, renowned for hosting national winter games, aims to become an international venue, eyeing the Asian Games and Olympics. Efforts include obtaining international certification for its slopes. Olympian Shiva Keshavan advocates grooming slopes to match global standards, crucial for hosting events. India's focus on winter sports intensifies, with Gulmarg poised to groom athletes for ski mountaineering, debuting in the 2026 Olympics. The Khelo India Winter Games have attracted over 5,000 athletes, promoting disciplines like snowboarding and Alpine skiing. Collaboration between the Sports Authority of India and J&K Sports Council aims to nurture elite athletes for global competitions, enhancing India's presence in winter sports[4].
5. India's MeiTY Retracts Controversial AI Advisory Amid Legal Scrutiny
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeiTY) retracts an advisory mandating government approval for AI products online, following backlash. Apar Gupta criticizes the replacement for lacking legal basis. Both versions caution against bias and electoral interference. The initial advisory followed Google Gemini chatbot controversy. Minister Chandrasekhar clarified it wouldn't affect startups. Rohit Kumar of The Quantum Hub appreciates the reversal, highlighting the need for procedural safeguards in policymaking to prevent hasty reactions. The move aims to balance accountability and innovation in India's AI sector[5].
Source: The Hindu | Indian Express | PIB |Pressreader
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1:Consider the following statements regarding National Mission for Edible Oils-Oil Palm (NMEO-OP):
1. It is a centrally sponsored scheme to promote oil palm cultivation and reduce import burden on edible oils.
2. It aims to increase the area of oil palm cultivation to 10 lakh hectares by 2025-26.
3. Around 90% of the world's oil palm trees are grown in Brazil.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
Q2:Consider the following statements:
Statement (i): The National Investigation Agency is empowered to deal with the investigation of terror related crimes across states with special permission from the state governments.
Statement (ii): The primary mandate of the National Investigation Agency is to investigate and prosecute crimes having national and cross-border implications, specifically focusing on terrorism, insurgency, and other related matters.
Which of the following is correct with respect to the above statements?
(a) Both Statement (i) and Statement (ii) are correct and Statement (ii) is the correct explanation for Statement (i)
(b) Both Statement (i) and Statement (ii) are correct but Statement (ii) is not the correct explanation for Statement (i)
(c) Statement (i) is correct but Statement (ii) is incorrect
(d) Statement (i) is incorrect but Statement (ii) is correct
Q3:Which one of the following reports is released by the United Nations Development Programme?
(a) Global Competitiveness Report
(b) Gender Inequality Index
(c) Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report
(d) Global Gender Gap Report
Q4: Consider the following:
1. Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA)
2. G20
3. International Solar Alliance
4. G4
How many of the above multilateral forums have India and Brazil both as members?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) Only three
(d) All four
Q5:Which of the following is not one of the species responsible for most of the lethal snake bites in India?
(a) Common Krait
(b) Russell's Viper
(c) Corn Snake
(d) Indian Cobra
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Discuss the ecological significance of lakes in the context of biodiversity conservation and sustainable development, highlighting the challenges faced in their preservation and management. Provide examples from different geographical regions to support your arguments.
Need help in writing or evaluation?
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