Best UPSC Academy in Hyderabad

Loading Events

« All Events

  • This event has passed.

17-January-2025-Daily-Current-Affairs

January 17 @ 7:00 am - 11:30 pm

ISRO’S PROGRESS IN DOCKING TECHNOLOGY

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

ISRO’s successful demonstration of docking technology with the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) marks a significant milestone in India’s space program, paving the way for long-duration space missions and advanced interplanetary projects.

PSLV-C60 Mission and SpaDeX Launch

  • On December 30, 2024, ISRO launched the PSLV-C60 mission carrying the SpaDeX satellites to test orbital docking capabilities.
  • After several adjustments and delays, the satellites docked successfully on January 16, 2025.
  • The docking process included multiple tests, including the exchange of electric power between satellites and payload evaluations over a two-year period.

Significance of Docking Technology

  • Docking enables assembling components in space, allowing spacecraft heavier than rocket capacities to be launched in parts.
  • It is essential for interplanetary missions, space-mining projects, and orbital satellite servicing.
  • The Chandrayaan-4 lunar sample return mission exemplifies future missions that will benefit from this technology.

Additional Achievements of the PSLV-C60 Mission

  • The mission also converted the fourth stage of the rocket into an orbital platform, hosting 24 payloads for various experiments.
  • A notable achievement included the germination of cowpea seeds in orbit by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre’s Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies.

Future Plans and Challenges

  • ISRO plans to develop the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) to support long-term space exploration.
  • There is a need for ISRO to define a clear vision and utility for the BAS to align with international advancements.
  • Cost-effective solutions for future crewed missions, like trips to Mars and orbital resupply platforms, will rely heavily on docking technology.

Conclusion

ISRO’s docking milestone signals India’s readiness for advanced space exploration and positions it to undertake ambitious projects like interplanetary missions and space station development.

Practice Question:

  1. Consider the following statements regarding space docking:
  1. Space docking refers to the process of joining two spacecraft together in orbit for collaborative operations or crew transfer.
  2. Space docking is typically carried out using a physical docking mechanism like a mechanical arm or a magnetic system to connect two spacecraft.
  3. India’s space agency, ISRO, has successfully carried out a space docking mission with the International Space Station (ISS).
  4. The key application of space docking technology is to enable the transfer of supplies, crew, and modules between spacecraft in orbit.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  1. 1, 2, and 4 only
  2. 1, 3, and 4 only
  3. 2 and 4 only
  4. 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer: A

Explanation:

  • Space docking is indeed the process where two spacecraft are physically joined in orbit, enabling various operations like crew exchange or module transfer.
  • Docking mechanisms typically use a mechanical arm or a magnetic system to physically join spacecraft.
  • ISRO has not yet docked with the ISS. The space agency has, however, been developing its own space docking technology, with plans for missions such as Gaganyaan and its own space station in the future.
  • Space docking plays a crucial role in transferring crew, supplies, and other modules between spacecraft, particularly for long-duration missions.

INDIA’S ROLE IN GLOBAL PEACE INITIATIVES

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

The 80th anniversary of the first nuclear weapon test and the Russell-Einstein Manifesto’s 70th anniversary remind us of humanity’s enduring struggle against the menace of mass destruction. India, with its historical peace-centric leadership, must renew its efforts to champion disarmament and peace.

Historical Context of Nuclear Weapons:

First Nuclear Test (1945):

  • Conducted on July 16, 1945, under the Manhattan Project in the U.S.
  • Marked the beginning of the nuclear era, followed by the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, killing over 2 lakh civilians.
  • Robert Oppenheimer famously referenced the Bhagavad Gita to describe the devastation.

Russell-Einstein Manifesto (1955):

  • Led by Bertrand Russell and Albert Einstein with nine other scientists.
  • Warned against nuclear disaster and emphasized “Remember your humanity, and forget the rest.”
  • Proposed a conference to address weapons of mass destruction.

India’s Historical Peace Initiatives:

Avadi Resolution (1955):

  • Passed by the Indian National Congress under Jawaharlal Nehru.
  • Called for total prohibition of atomic and hydrogen weapons.
  • Urged the UN Disarmament Commission to raise global awareness about the dangers of nuclear weapons.

Rajiv Gandhi’s 1988 Action Plan:

  • Advocated for a nuclear-free and non-violent world order.
  • Highlighted India’s commitment to peace and global security.

Current Global Threats:

Rising Nuclear Risks:

  • Approximately 12,100 nuclear warheads exist globally (down from 60,000 during the Cold War).
  • Escalation of conflicts, such as in Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Palestine, increases nuclear risks.
  • Non-state actors and advancements in AI heighten the probability of misuse.

Decline in Arms Control:

  • Russia’s withdrawal from arms control agreements.
  • NATO’s actions perceived as provocative by Moscow.

India’s Role in Reviving Peace

Leadership in Disarmament:

  • India, as a nuclear state, must spearhead a new global initiative for arms control.
  • Convene an international conference to prevent mass annihilation.

Focus on Humanity:

  • Revisit the ideals of the Avadi resolution and Russell-Einstein Manifesto.
  • Develop a comprehensive action plan to promote negotiations and ensure global safety.

NUCLEAR WEAPONS

What Are Nuclear Weapons?

Weapons that release energy from nuclear reactions, causing massive destruction.

Types of Nuclear Weapons:

  • Fission Bombs (Atomic Bombs): Use nuclear fission reactions (e.g., Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombs).
  • Fusion Bombs (Hydrogen Bombs): Use nuclear fusion for greater explosive power.

Countries with Nuclear Weapons (2024 Estimates):

Recognized Nuclear States (Under the NPT):

  • United States: First nuclear test in 1945, currently about 3,700 warheads.
  • Russia: Largest stockpile with ~4,489 warheads.
  • United Kingdom: Around 225 warheads.
  • France: Approximately 290 warheads.
  • China: Estimated 410 warheads, with plans for expansion.

Non-NPT Recognized States:

  • India: First test in 1974, estimated ~164 warheads.
  • Pakistan: Developed in response to India, with ~170 warheads.
  • North Korea: Estimated 20-60 warheads, still testing missiles.
  • Israel: Estimated ~90 warheads, undeclared nuclear capability.

Global Stockpile of Nuclear Weapons:

Total Warheads Globally: Approximately 12,100 as of 2024.

  • Deployed Warheads: Around 9,576 ready for use.
  • Cold War Comparison: Down from ~60,000 warheads during the 1980s.

Conclusion:
India’s legacy of advocating peace and disarmament positions it uniquely to lead efforts in averting nuclear catastrophe. Renewed initiatives can preserve humanity and foster global harmony.

Practice Question:

  1. Consider the following statements regarding nuclear fusion and fission:
  1. Nuclear fission is the process in which a heavy atomic nucleus splits into smaller nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy.
  2. Nuclear fusion occurs when two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.
  3. Nuclear fusion is the energy process that powers stars, including the Sun.
  4. The primary challenge in harnessing nuclear fusion for energy production is the difficulty in achieving the extremely high temperatures and pressures needed to initiate the fusion reaction.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 1, 3, and 4 only
  3. 2, 3, and 4 only
  4. 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer: D

Explanation:

  • Nuclear fission involves the splitting of a heavy atomic nucleus into smaller parts, releasing significant energy, and is the process used in nuclear reactors.
  • Nuclear fusion is the process where two light nuclei (like hydrogen isotopes) combine to form a heavier nucleus, also releasing a large amount of energy.
  • The Sun and other stars generate energy through nuclear fusion, where hydrogen nuclei fuse to form helium under extremely high temperatures and pressures.
  • Achieving nuclear fusion for energy production is highly challenging due to the need for extremely high temperatures (millions of degrees) and pressures to overcome the repulsive forces between the positively charged atomic nuclei.

IMPACTS OF RUPEE WEAKENING

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The sharp depreciation of the Indian rupee against the dollar has raised concerns, driven by factors such as capital outflows, rising import costs, and changes in RBI policies. This situation has significant economic implications for India, influencing both exports and domestic prices.

Exchange Rate Basics

  • Nominal Exchange Rate: Reflects the price of foreign currency in terms of domestic currency.
  • Real Exchange Rate: Indicates the relative price of foreign goods compared to domestic goods, considering inflation.

Exchange Rate Regimes in India

  • Fixed: Central bank fixes the rate and intervenes using foreign reserves.
  • Floating: Rate changes as per market demand-supply, with no intervention.
  • Managed-Float: A mix of interventions and market-driven changes.
  • India’s Approach: Follows a managed-floating regime, balancing devaluation and reserve management.

Causes of Rupee Weakening

  • Current Account Deficit: Increased imports and lower exports raise demand for foreign currency.
  • Capital Outflows: Withdrawal of foreign investments reduces foreign currency inflow.
  • Policy Shifts: RBI moved from fixed to managed-float exchange rate policy.

Impacts of Rupee Depreciation

Positive:

  • Boost to Exports: Makes domestic goods cheaper globally, encouraging exports.

Negative:

  • Rising Domestic Prices: Higher import costs raise production expenses, leading to inflation.
  • Real Exchange Rate Issues: Despite nominal depreciation, rising domestic prices hinder export competitiveness.

Challenges in Policy

  • Delinking of nominal and real exchange rates reduces export recovery benefits.
  • Need for a clear and consistent RBI exchange rate policy to stabilize the economy.

Currency Appreciation:

  • Definition: When a currency’s value increases relative to another currency, it is called appreciation.
  • Effect: It makes imports cheaper and exports costlier.
  • Example: If the Indian rupee strengthens from ₹85 to ₹80 per US dollar, the rupee has appreciated.

Currency Depreciation:

  • Definition: When a currency’s value decreases relative to another currency, it is called depreciation.
  • Effect: It makes imports expensive and exports cheaper, which can boost export competitiveness.
  • Example: If the Indian rupee weakens from ₹80 to ₹85 per US dollar, the rupee has depreciated.

Conclusion
A well-defined exchange rate framework is essential to manage rupee volatility and support long-term economic stability.

Practice Question:

  1. Which of the following factors influence the exchange rate of the Indian Rupee (INR)?
  1. Interest rates set by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
  2. Inflation rates in India relative to other countries
  3. India’s balance of payments (BoP) position
  4. The strength of India’s fiscal deficit
  5. Foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows to India

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  1. 1, 2, and 3 only
  2. 2, 3, 4, and 5 only
  3. 1, 3, 4, and 5 only
  4. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5

Answer: D

Explanation:

The exchange rate of the Indian Rupee (INR) is influenced by a variety of domestic and international factors:

  • The RBI’s interest rate policies influence capital flows into and out of India, which directly impacts the exchange rate. Higher interest rates attract foreign capital, appreciating the Rupee.
  • When inflation in India is higher than that in other countries, the purchasing power of the Rupee declines, leading to depreciation. Conversely, lower inflation can result in currency appreciation.
  • A country with a positive BoP (more exports than imports) will generally see an appreciation in its currency, while a negative BoP can lead to depreciation.
  • A high fiscal deficit may signal weak economic management, leading to depreciation of the Rupee due to loss of investor confidence.
  • Strong FDI inflows can increase demand for the Rupee, leading to appreciation. These inflows also reflect investor confidence in India’s economic prospects.

PHASED CEASEFIRE IN GAZA: PROGRESS AND CHALLENGES

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

A phased ceasefire deal was brokered in Doha, Qatar, to de-escalate the Gaza conflict through prisoner swaps, military withdrawals, and steps toward stability. While it aims to address humanitarian concerns, the agreement reflects fragile progress.

Key Highlights of the Ceasefire Agreement

Phased Structure: The first phase of 42 days includes:

  • Release of 33 hostages by Hamas.
  • Release of 900-1,650 Palestinian detainees by Israel, including those detained after October 7, 2023.

Israel’s withdrawal from key areas like the Netzarim and Philadelphi Corridors depends on further negotiations.

Building Trust: The phased approach seeks to foster trust while addressing humanitarian concerns, serving as a foundation for broader talks.

Factors Driving the Ceasefire

  • Changes in Israel’s political coalition, such as Gideon Sa’ar’s inclusion, reduced the influence of far-right leaders.
  • International pressure, particularly from the U.S. under President Biden, played a significant role in facilitating the agreement.
  • Netanyahu’s focus on strengthening U.S. relations during President-elect Trump’s upcoming term influenced the acceptance of the deal.

Key Aspects of the Agreement

  • Philadelphi Corridor Withdrawal: Israel’s pledge to vacate this critical buffer zone meets longstanding demands from Egypt and Hamas. However, security concerns could lead to renegotiations.
  • Prisoner Exchange: Israel agreed to release 250 life-sentenced detainees, a move that risks political backlash and challenges its 2014 law restricting prisoner swaps.

Implications

  • For Hamas: Gains time to rebuild resources and consolidate control in Gaza. Aims to establish a governance model similar to Hezbollah in Lebanon.
  • For Israel: Achieved hostage release but failed to fully eliminate Hamas. Netanyahu faces domestic criticism for perceived concessions, risking political stability.

About the Gaza Strip

  • Location: A Palestinian territory along the Mediterranean Sea, bordered by Israel and Egypt.
  • Administration: Governed by Hamas since 2006.
  • Conflict: Described as the “world’s largest open-air prison” due to strict movement restrictions imposed by Israel and Egypt.

Conclusion:
The ceasefire represents a temporary pause in hostilities, with potential pathways for broader negotiations on Gaza’s reconstruction and governance. However, unresolved political and security challenges underline the agreement’s fragility, leaving the region’s stability uncertain.

SVAMITVA SCHEME: EMPOWERING RURAL INDIA

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will distribute over 65 lakh property cards under the SVAMITVA Scheme on January 18, 2025. This initiative aims to provide property ownership rights, reduce disputes, and promote rural economic development.

About the SVAMITVA Scheme

Launch and Purpose:

  • Introduced by PM Narendra Modi to empower rural areas by granting property ownership rights.
  • Utilizes drone technology to map inhabited village areas for accurate property records.

Key Features:

  • Provides legal ownership of properties through property cards.
  • Aims for comprehensive village planning and sustainable rural development.

Objectives of the Scheme

  • Grant property ownership rights to rural residents using technology.
  • Create official property records to boost economic progress in rural areas.
  • Facilitate better planning and governance at the village level.

Benefits of the SVAMITVA Scheme

  • Economic Opportunities: Enables property owners to access bank loans using their property as collateral. Facilitates property monetization and tax collection.
  • Dispute Resolution: Reduces conflicts related to property ownership and boundaries.
  • Improved Village Planning: Supports effective planning for infrastructure, utilities, and development projects.

Progress Achieved

  • Drone surveys completed in 3.17 lakh villages, achieving 92% of the target.
  • Over 2.25 crore property cards issued for 1.53 lakh villages.

Implementation Success

  • Fully implemented in Puducherry, Goa, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and Tripura.
  • Significant advancements in states like Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.

Conclusion:
The SVAMITVA Scheme is a landmark initiative empowering rural communities by providing ownership rights, reducing disputes, and fostering economic opportunities. Its widespread implementation is a step forward in achieving sustainable rural development.

SRIHARIKOTA TO GET THIRD LAUNCH PAD

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

The Union Cabinet has approved the construction of a third launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota, with an investment of ₹3,984.86 crore. This initiative aims to enhance India’s space infrastructure and support future space missions.

Key Highlights of the Third Launch Pad

Approval and Objective

  • Approved by the Union Cabinet to strengthen India’s space capabilities.
  • Allocated a budget of ₹3,984.86 crore for the project.

Planned Completion Timeline

  • Expected to be operational by early 2029, paving the way for advanced space missions.

Supporting Advanced Launch Vehicles

  • Next-Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLVs): Designed to accommodate NGLVs that are set to be operational by 2031. Enables launches of advanced and heavier-class vehicles.
  • Human Spaceflight Missions: Plays a critical role in India’s manned space program, with the first mission targeted for 2026.

Design Features

  • Universal Configuration: Supports multiple launch vehicle types, including NGLVs and enhanced configurations of Launch Vehicle Mark 3 (LVM3).
  • Equipped for future advancements in launch vehicle technology.

Enhancing ISRO’s Capabilities

  • Expanded Capacity: Acts as a standby to the existing second launch pad, operational for two decades. Boosts India’s launch frequency and capacity.
  • Strategic Importance: Strengthens India’s position in global space exploration by catering to diverse mission needs.

Long-Term Benefits

  • Future Space Transportation: Designed to meet India’s space transport demands for the next 25-30 years.
  • Advancing Space Exploration: Supports heavier-class vehicles and cutting-edge mission profiles.

Conclusion:
The third launch pad at SDSC, Sriharikota, will significantly bolster India’s space infrastructure. Supporting advanced launch vehicles and human space missions, it positions ISRO for long-term growth and global leadership in space exploration.

ODISHA TO OVERHAUL MANAGEMENT OF MULTIPURPOSE SHELTERS

TOPIC: (GS3) DISASTER MANAGEMENT: THE HINDU

In the aftermath of Cyclone Dana (October 2024), deficiencies in the management of multipurpose shelters were exposed in Odisha. The state government has decided to revamp the management system to ensure these shelters are better prepared for future disasters.

Background of Multipurpose Shelters

  • The multipurpose cyclone and flood shelters (MCS & MFS) were constructed after the 1999 Super Cyclone, which caused massive loss of lives.
  • These shelters were designed to serve as safe spaces during disasters, but many were found lacking in basic amenities like toilets and electricity during Cyclone Dana.

Plan for Revamping Shelter Management

  • Rural Areas: Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department will manage and maintain rural shelters.
  • Urban Areas: Housing and Urban Development Department will oversee shelters in urban regions.
  • Inclusion of Accessibility: Shelters will be made accessible to persons with disabilities to ensure universal usability.
  • Repair of Older Shelters: Shelters built by other states, agencies, and corporates after the 1999 Super Cyclone will also be repaired.

Funding and Resource Allocation

  • Funds from the State Disaster Risk Management Fund (SDRMF) will be used to supplement budgets for maintenance and energy costs.
  • Electricity connections and energy expenses will be managed by panchayati raj institutions and urban local bodies.

Construction of New Shelters

  • The state plans to construct 500 new multipurpose shelters in vulnerable areas based on assessments by the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA).
  • Land for these shelters will be earmarked on or near school premises.

Improved Management Practices

  • Cyclone Shelter Management and Maintenance Committees will handle upkeep, personnel training, and emergency equipment maintenance.
  • Field-level officials will be actively involved to ensure smooth operations.

Conclusion

Odisha’s initiative to overhaul its shelter management system reflects its commitment to improving disaster preparedness and ensuring the safety of its residents during emergencies.

INDIA RANKS SECOND IN FUTURE JOB SKILLS

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: INDIAN EXPRESS

India has ranked second globally for preparedness in future job skills according to the QS World Future Skills Index 2025. While the country excels in areas like AI and green competencies, it faces challenges in skills fit and innovation.

QS World Future Skills Index 2025

Purpose and Scope of the Index

  • The QS World Future Skills Index assesses how well countries are positioned to meet the evolving demands of the global job market.
  • It aims to guide governments in aligning education and skills with future workforce needs, encouraging innovation, sustainable global competition, and talent development.

India’s Global Position

  • India secured the second position globally in terms of preparedness for future job skills, specifically in AI and green skills, just behind the United States.
  • This indicates India’s growing readiness to meet the demands of emerging industries, including digital, AI, and sustainability.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s acknowledgment of India’s commitment to equipping youth with the necessary skills highlights the government’s focus on youth empowerment and technological innovation.

India’s Strengths in Future Job Skills

Future of Work Readiness

  • India ranked second in the ‘future of work’ category, which evaluates a country’s ability to meet the increasing demand for digital, AI, and green competencies in job markets.
  • This strong performance reflects India’s potential to adapt its workforce to the technological and sustainable sectors that are critical for future economic growth.

Preparedness for Technological Advancements

  • India’s ranking is supported by its emphasis on digital skills, AI, and green competencies, which are vital for the evolving job market and sustainable industries.
  • The evaluation, based on data from over 280 million job postings globally, shows India’s robust positioning for the next wave of technological developments in the workforce.

Areas of Weakness

Skills Fit

  • India scored low in the ‘skills fit’ category, which measures how well the workforce is adapted to meet changing economic demands.
  • This gap highlights the challenge of aligning India’s education system with fast-evolving industry needs.

Innovation and Sustainability

  • India’s performance in fostering innovation for sustainability was also concerning, scoring only 15.6 out of 100.
  • This indicates that India needs to enhance its efforts in promoting sustainable innovation to support long-term economic growth.

Recommendations for Education Reform

  • The report stresses the importance of aligning India’s educational system with the future needs of the workforce.
  • Universities should focus on enhancing creativity, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship within their curricula to prepare students for future challenges.
  • Collaboration between academia and industries should be strengthened to ensure that the skills imparted to students align with the demands of the global job market.

Investing in Innovation and Sustainability

  • India must prioritize investment in innovation, especially in sustainable industries, to ensure it remains competitive in the global economy.

Conclusion:
India’s second-place ranking in the QS World Future Skills Index reflects its strong potential in future job skills but highlights critical gaps in skills fit and innovation. Addressing these gaps through education reforms and investment in sustainable innovation will be key to maintaining India’s competitive edge in the global economy.

Details

Date:
January 17
Time:
7:00 am - 11:30 pm
Event Category:
error: Content is protected !!