October 12, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
India-Israel Relations | Explained
Explore the fascinating journey of India-Israel relations, from diplomatic recognition to a thriving strategic partnership. Discover the milestones, economic collaborations, and cultural exchanges that have shaped this dynamic relationship. Read the full story of a growing alliance in politics, economics, and culture.
Highlights of the Day
1. India Launches Operation Ajay to Evacuate Citizens from Conflict-Hit Israel
India has initiated Operation Ajay to evacuate its citizens from conflict-hit Israel. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced the effort, which involves special chartered flights. This marks the second major evacuation this year after Operation Kaveri, which brought back Indian citizens from Sudan. The Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv has begun the process by emailing registered citizens for a special flight. The situation in Israel escalated due to attacks by Hamas and Israeli military strikes. India has set up a 24-hour control room to manage the evacuation operation. This initiative aims to ensure the safety and well-being of Indian nationals abroad [1].
2. Government Launches MY Bharat Initiative to Empower 40-Crore Youth Population
The Indian government has created an autonomous body called Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) to empower the 40-crore youth population. With a focus on youth-led development, MY Bharat aims to provide equitable opportunities for the 15-29 age group. The platform, set to launch on October 31, will offer voluntary work opportunities and act as a centralized hub connecting youth with various central government ministries. While there will be no financial compensation, the initiative seeks to unleash the potential of India's youth and make them agents of community change and nation-building. It emphasizes leadership, experiential learning, and social innovation [2].
3. Government Approves Royalty Rates for Critical Minerals: 3% for Lithium and Niobium, 1% for REEs
The Indian government has approved royalty rates for critical minerals, setting them at 3% each for lithium and niobium, and 1% for Rare Earth Elements (REEs). The decision allows the Centre to auction these minerals for the first time in the country and has financial implications for bidders. The move amends the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, aiming to specify reasonable royalty rates that are competitive with other mineral-producing nations. This decision supports India's energy transition goals and is expected to boost employment in the mining sector. The auction of various critical minerals is set to begin soon [3].
4. Global Warming, Not El Nino, Drives South America’s Devastating Heatwaves and Wildfires, Study Finds
Global warming and climate change, rather than El Nino, were responsible for South America's severe heatwaves and wildfires. A study by the World Weather Attribution (WWA) group revealed that climate change made the heatwaves 100 times more likely and raised temperatures by 1.4 to 4.3 degrees Celsius. Unusual heatwaves hit South America following record-breaking September heat worldwide. These extreme temperatures triggered wildfires in Bolivia, Paraguay, and Brazil. The impact of these heatwaves will become more evident over time. The study emphasized the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and invest in weather stations to prepare for future climate extremes [4].
5. Conflict and Climate Change Threaten Iconic Wildlife in the Holy Land: Arabian Leopard and Wolf at Risk
Global conflicts have taken a toll on the wildlife of the Holy Land, particularly the Arabian leopard and wolf. A recent study reveals that the Arabian leopard has lost 98% of its historical range, with isolated populations in Oman, Yemen, and possibly Saudi Arabia. In contrast, the Arabian wolf remains the top predator in the Negev desert, Israel, where it plays a crucial role in the ecosystem. However, wolf acceptance varies between crop-growing and pastoral areas. Conservation efforts should focus on promoting coexistence and reducing hunting rates. Although human conflicts can affect wildlife conservation, shared natural heritage can bridge divides between conflicting human groups [5].
Source: The Hindu | Indian Express | DownToEarth
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Which of the following is a significant factor contributing to biodiversity loss?
I. Habitat destruction and fragmentation
II. Climate change
III. Overfishing and hunting
IV. Genetic diversity
Which of these statements are accurate?
A) I and II
B) I and III
C) II and IV
D) I, II and III
Q2: Which of the following mountain ranges is not part of the “Ring of Fire” in the Pacific Ocean?
I. Andes
II. Himalayas
III. Rockies
IV. Alps
Which of these statements are correct?
A) I only
B) I and II
C) II and III
D) II, III and IV
Q3: The “Coriolis effect” is responsible for which of the following phenomena?
I. The deflection of ocean currents in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
II. The direction of cloud movement in tropical cyclones.
III. The rotation of the Earth on its axis.
IV. The creation of high and low-pressure systems in the atmosphere.
Which of these statements are accurate?
A) I and II
B) I and III
C) II and IV
D) III and IV
Q4: The “Greenhouse Effect” is primarily associated with the trapping of heat in Earth’s atmosphere due to:
I. Increased concentrations of greenhouse gases.
II. Deforestation and land use changes.
III. The release of volcanic gases.
IV. A decrease in solar radiation.
Which of these statements are true?
A) I and II
B) I and III
C) II and IV
D) III and IV
Q5: The concept of “keystone species” in biodiversity refers to species that:
I. Are the most abundant in an ecosystem.
II. Play a critical role in maintaining the structure and function of their ecosystem.
III. Are only found in tropical rainforests.
IV. Are always predators at the top of the food chain.
Which of these statements are accurate?
A) I and II
B) II only
C) II and III
D) II, III and IV
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Explain the role of international agreements in mitigating climate change. Assess the successes and challenges of such agreements and suggest measures for enhancing global cooperation in addressing climate-related issues.
Need help in writing or evaluation?
Note: For answer key and explanation of daily practice questions, join us at: t.me/tinkerchild
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