24-May-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

POWERFUL, SYMBOLIC 

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: THE HINDU 

The recent announcements by Ireland, Norway, and Spain to formally recognize the state of Palestine mark a significant shift in international sentiment towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. 

Statements from Leaders: 

• Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris emphasizes the symbolic value of recognizing Palestine. 
• Norway’s Prime Minister supports moderate Palestinian forces. 
• Spain has taken actions like denying port facilities to ships with explosives destined for Israel. 

Israel’s Response: 

• Israel has recalled its envoys from these countries. 
• It has summoned the envoys of Ireland, Norway, and Spain for formal objections. 
• Broader Implications 

Immediate Goals: 

• The international community aims to influence Israel’s military actions in Rafah. 
• There is a push for minimizing civilian casualties and allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza. 

Long-Term Objectives: 

• There is global support for the two-state solution as the path to peace. 
• Ignoring these messages could lead to Israel’s increased international isolation. 
• By understanding these points, one can grasp the significance of recent international decisions regarding Palestine and their impact on Israel’s policies and global standing. 

Implications of More Countries Recognizing Palestine as a Country for Israel 

Political Isolation 

• Growing international recognition of Palestine highlights Israel’s isolation. 
• Countries that recognize Palestine are symbolically and politically distancing themselves from Israel’s policies. 

Diplomatic Strain: 

• Israel’s recall of envoys from countries recognizing Palestine indicates heightened diplomatic tensions. 
• Summoning foreign envoys for objections could lead to strained bilateral relations. 

Pressure on Policies 

Military Operations: 

• The recognition acts as a message to Israel to reconsider its military actions, particularly in Gaza. 
• There is increased pressure to minimize civilian casualties and allow humanitarian aid access. 

Two-State Solution: 

• Global support for Palestine underscores the international community’s commitment to a two-state solution. 
• Israel’s rejection of this solution could further alienate it from global consensus. 
• Legal and Human Rights Considerations 

International Legal Actions: 

• The ICC’s move to issue arrest warrants for Israeli leaders over Gaza operations emphasizes international legal scrutiny. 
• The ICJ’s pending verdict on genocide charges could lead to further legal challenges against Israel. 

Human Rights Criticism: 

• Increased recognition of Palestine brings greater attention to human rights issues in the conflict. 
• It amplifies calls for Israel to address allegations of war crimes and human rights abuses. 

INDIA AND PALESTINE 

India and Palestine have a long-standing relationship with India being a strong supporter of the Palestinian cause. Here’s some data to back that up: 

• Early Recognition: India was the first non-Arab country to recognize the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) as the legitimate representative of the Palestinian people in 1974.  
• Diplomatic Ties: Full diplomatic relations were established between India and the PLO in 1980, and India recognized the State of Palestine in 1988, soon after its declaration.  
• Support at UN: India has consistently supported Palestine at the UN. This includes co-sponsoring resolutions on Palestinian self-determination and opposing the Israeli separation wall. India also backed Palestine’s bid for full UN membership in 2011.  

Multiple Choice Question: 

1. The area known as the “Gaza Strip” is frequently in the news. Which one of the following is a correct statement about Gaza Strip?

1. It is a part of West Bank. 

1. It is in the northern part of Sinai Peninsula. 

1. It is a small area situated on the Mediterranean coast between Egypt and Israel. 

1. It is a disputed area between Israel and Saudi Arabia. 

Answer: C 

EXPLANATION 

The Gaza Strip is a small region located on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, bordering Egypt to the southwest and Israel to the east and north. It is a significant area of conflict between Israelis and Palestinians. 

A VISIT TO PRESERVE CHINA’S INTERESTS IN EUROPE 

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS 

Chinese President Xi Jinping’s recent visit to Europe, including France, Serbia, and Hungary, underscores China’s strategic efforts to navigate evolving global dynamics and maintain influence amidst heightened geopolitical tensions and economic challenges. 

World Events and Visit’s Goals 

Impact of COVID-19: 

• The pandemic closed China off from the world, leading to a re-adjustment of global investment goals. 
• Mr. Xi’s visit aimed to address economic challenges arising from this period. 

Geopolitical Shifts: 

• The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the US-China trade war have reshaped global geopolitics. 
• China faces intensified scrutiny and restrictions from the US and Europe. 

Goals of Xi’s Visit 

EU Relations: 

• Prevent EU from aligning too closely with the US. 
• Avert trade disputes with the EU. 
• Bolster China’s standing in Europe amidst geopolitical challenges. 

French Priorities: 

• Macron aimed to promote French trade interests and discourage China from supplying weapons components to Russia. 

EU Concerns: 

• European leaders urged China to ensure balanced trade and reduce dependence on Chinese imports and technology. 
• Focus on addressing cost advantages of Chinese electric vehicles over European counterparts. 

Focus on Hungary and Serbia 

• China’s growing investment in Serbia and Hungary includes projects like the Belgrade-Budapest high-speed railway. 
• Plans for further infrastructure development with Chinese investment, including roads, tunnels, and bridges. 

Hungary’s Role: 

• Hungary serves as a close ally of China within the EU, providing access to European markets. 
• Despite Eastern European concerns about Russian aggression, Hungary maintains strong ties with China. 
• Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Europe 

BRI Projects: 

• China’s BRI includes projects like railways linking China to Europe via Central Asia. 
• High-speed trains aim to shorten the distance between China and prosperous European markets. 

Defensive Strategy: 

• Xi’s visit aims to protect Chinese interests in Europe amidst adverse geopolitics. 

However, visits to Hungary and Serbia may not significantly improve relations with the rest of Europe, which is growing sceptical of China. 

Xi’s visit underscores China’s strategic efforts to maintain influence in Europe amidst evolving global dynamics and increasing scrutiny from Western powers. 

Multiple Choice Question: 

1. Consider the following pairs:

                 Country: Capital 

1. Cambodia: Manila 

1. Lebanon: Beirut 

1. Mongolia: Ulaanbaatar 

1. North Korea: Seoul 

Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? 

1. 1 and 2 only 

1. 3 and 4 only 

1. 1, 2, and 3 only 

1. 2, 3, and 4 only 

ANSWER: B  

EXPLANATION 

Mongolia’s capital is Ulaanbaatar. 

North Korea’s capital is Pyongyang. 

WAS THE STONE AGE ACTUALLY THE AGE OF WOOD?  

TOPIC: (GS1) ANCIENT HISTORY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS 

Recent research suggests that the Stone Age might be more accurately termed the “Wood Age” due to the discovery of advanced wooden tools. 

• Excavations in Schöningen, Germany revealed wooden artefacts dating back 300,000-400,000 years, challenging traditional perceptions of prehistoric technology. 

Periodising Human Prehistory 

• Danish archaeologist pioneered periodisation into Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age based on technological advancements. 
• The Stone Age, comprising 99% of human history, is divided into Palaeolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic periods. 

Preservation Bias 

• Archaeological evidence primarily consists of stone tools, leading to a bias towards perceiving the Stone Age as defined by stone technology. 
• Limited evidence of woodworking due to preservation bias distorts understanding of prehistoric technological capabilities. 

Importance of Schöningen Discoveries 

• Schöningen excavations revealed well-preserved wooden tools demonstrating advanced woodworking techniques. 
• The discovery challenges traditional views of prehistoric technology and human capabilities. 

Technological Complexity 

• Advanced analysis techniques like 3-D microscopy and micro-CT scanners revealed signs of sophisticated woodworking. 
• Evidence suggests the repair and recycling of wooden tools, indicating pre-modern humans’ advanced technological skills. 

Stone age in India  

Paleolithic Age (500,000-10,000 BCE) 

• This is the earliest period of the Stone Age, characterized by the use of basic stone tools made by chipping off flakes from larger stones. 
• Evidence suggests that early humans in India lived a nomadic lifestyle, hunting, gathering, and scavenging for food. 

• Important archaeological sites from this period include: 
• Bhimbetka Caves in Madhya Pradesh, famous for their rock paintings depicting hunting scenes and animal figures. 
• Attirampakkam near Chennai, known for its handaxe tools. 

Mesolithic Age (10,000-6,000 BCE) 

• This period saw the development of smaller, more sophisticated stone tools called microliths. 
• Humans likely began to adapt to changing climatic conditions and may have started exploiting plant resources more effectively. 
• Important archaeological sites from this period include: 
• Langhnaj near Ahmedabad, Gujarat, where evidence of microliths and blade tools has been found. 
• Adamgarh Hills in Madhya Pradesh, known for its rock paintings depicting geometric patterns and hunting scenes. 

Neolithic Age (6,000-2,000 BCE) 

• This is the final stage of the Stone Age, marked by the emergence of settled communities, agriculture, and domestication of animals. 
• People started using polished stone tools and pottery during this period. 
• Important archaeological sites from this period include: 
• Mehrgarh in Balochistan (now in Pakistan), one of the earliest Neolithic sites in South Asia, showcasing evidence of farming and herding practices. 
• Chirand in Bihar, known for its pit dwellings and bone tools. 

Conclusion 

The findings from Schöningen highlight the significance of wood as a raw material in prehistoric technology. 

They offer insights into pre-modern humans’ sophisticated woodworking capabilities, reshaping our understanding of the Stone Age. 

Multiple Choice Question: 

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Stone Age cultures in India:

1. The main tool types of the Lower Palaeolithic culture were handaxes and cleavers. 

1. Microliths, characteristic tools of the Mesolithic Age, were primarily used for hunting. 

1. Evidence of the earliest agriculture in India comes from the Neolithic sites. 

Which of the above statements are correct? 

1. 1 and 2 only 

1. 2 and 3 only 

1. 1 and 3 only 

1. 1, 2 and 3 

ANSWER – C 

EXPLANATION 

The main tool types of the Lower Palaeolithic culture were indeed handaxes and cleavers. Lower Palaeolithic cultures in India, such as the Soanian culture, are known for the widespread use of these large, bifacially flaked stone tools, which were likely used for various purposes including butchering animals and processing plant materials. 

Microliths, characteristic tools of the Mesolithic Age, were not primarily used for hunting. Instead, microliths were small, geometrically shaped stone tools that were utilized for a variety of purposes such as cutting, scraping, and piercing. They were often hafted onto wooden or bone handles to create composite tools, indicating their versatility in different tasks including woodworking, hide processing, and possibly even hunting. Therefore, this statement is incorrect. 

INTEGRATED THEATRE COMMANDS 

TOPIC: (GS3) INTERNAL SECURITY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS 

Integrated Theatre Commands represent a significant evolution in military strategy, aiming to streamline operational effectiveness and enhance jointness among the armed forces.  

This transformative concept involves pooling resources from the Army, Navy, and Air Force under unified commands, both geographically and thematically, to address diverse security challenges. 

Definition and Purpose: 

• Unified commands where resources of the Army, Navy, and Air Force are pooled based on threat perception. 
• Designed to enhance jointness among the armed forces and reduce duplication of resources. 

Global Presence: 

• Several countries, including the United States and China, have implemented theatre commands. 

Historical Context in India: 

• Idea proposed after the Kargil conflict but gained traction with the appointment of General Bipin Rawat as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) in 2020. 

Proposal Under Discussion: 

• Model includes four to five integrated tri-Services theatre commands, each headed by a three-star officer. 
• Proposed commands include Maritime Theatre Command, Air Defence Command, and land-based commands for India’s borders with China, Pakistan, and Jammu and Kashmir/Ladakh. 

Operational Structure: 

• Theatre commanders will report to the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC), chaired by the CDS, shifting operational control from Service chiefs to COSC. 
• Each command will have assets from all three forces, with operational control lying with the theatre commander. 

Additional Functional Commands: 

• Logistics Command and Training and Doctrine Command proposed for logistical coordination and common training, respectively. 

Role of Service Chiefs: 

• While Service chiefs lose direct operational control, they retain responsibilities for raising, training, and sustaining their forces. 
• Service chiefs’ expertise will be crucial in advising on operational decisions within the COSC. 

Positive Aspects of Theatre Commands: 

• Enhanced Operational Efficiency: Integration of resources from the Army, Navy, and Air Force under unified commands allows for better coordination and utilization of assets, leading to more efficient and effective military operations. 
• Improved Jointness: Theatre commands promote collaboration and interoperability among different branches of the armed forces, fostering a cohesive approach to addressing complex security challenges. 
• Streamlined Command Structure: By centralizing operational control under theatre commanders, decision-making processes become more streamlined, enabling faster response times and greater agility in combat situations. 
• Optimized Resource Allocation: Pooling resources within theatre commands reduces duplication of efforts and resources, maximizing the utilization of available assets and minimizing logistical constraints. 

Challenges and Concerns: 

• Air Force expresses reservations about losing operational control and potential asset division within integrated theatres. 
• Committee formed to address concerns and ensure smooth implementation of the proposed transformation. 

eVTOL AIRCRAFT 

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS 

The ePlane Company, incubated by IIT Madras, plans to launch e-flying taxis in Bengaluru this year. 

The Indian government has yet to establish clear policies for eVTOL flying taxis, which is crucial for the deployment and regulation of this new technology. 

eVTOL Aircraft Overview: 

Definition: eVTOL stands for electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, which uses electric power to hover, take off, and land vertically. 

Technology: Utilizes distributed electric propulsion, integrating multiple motors with the airframe for efficiency and safety. Advances in motors, batteries, fuel cells, and electronic controllers have driven this technology. 

Capacity: Designed for low-altitude urban air mobility, typically carrying six to eight passengers. 

Applications: 

• Air Taxis 
• Delivery Services 
• Medical Assistance (EMS) 
• Cargo Transport 
• Recreational Use 

Significance: 

• Expected to enhance “on-demand” mobility for intra- and intercity transportation. 
• Improves connectivity between city centers and airports. 

• Represents a new frontier in urban air mobility, addressing the need for efficient and sustainable transportation solutions in metropolitan areas. 

PLANETARY ALIGNMENT ON JUNE 3 

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: LIVEMINT 

Planetary alignment occurs when planets in the solar system appear to line up from a specific viewpoint on Earth. This is an illusion of perspective, not a perfect line in space. 

Aligning Planets: On June 3, Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune will form a near-straight line. 

Visibility: 

• Visible Planets: Mars and Saturn will be visible to the naked eye, though they will appear dim. 
• Tricky to See: Mercury and Jupiter will be difficult to spot due to their proximity to the Sun. 

Need for Telescopes: 

• Uranus and Neptune will require telescopes or high-powered binoculars to be seen. 
• Moon’s Effect: The Moon may interfere with the visibility of some planets due to its brightness. 
• Viewing Tip: To see the alignment, observers may need to find a dark location away from city lights and use optical aids for the best view of distant planets. 

UJANI DAM AND BHIMA RIVER  

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY – SOURCE: DOWN TO EARTH 

Ujani Dam: 

• Ujani Dam Situated on the Bhima River near Ujjani village in Solapur district, Maharashtra. 
• Constructed between 1977 and 1980, it is an earth-fill cum masonry gravity dam. 

Dimensions: 

• Length: 2,534 meters, with a 602-meter spillway. 
• Height: 63 meters. 

Capacity: 

• Total storage: 117 TMC (thousand million cubic feet). 
• Live storage: 54 TMC. 
• Dead storage: 63 TMC. 
• Power Generation: 12 MW. 

Pollution: The water quality is poor due to pollutants from Pune and nearby areas. 

Bhima River: 

• Also Known As: Chandrabagha River. 
• Significance: Major tributary of the Krishna River. 

Course: 

• Originates: Bhimashankar hills near Karjat in Pune District, Maharashtra. 
• Flows: Southeast through Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana. 
• Confluence: Joins Krishna River at Kadlur (Raichur), Karnataka. 
• Length: 861 km. 

Geography: 

• Western Ghats to the west. 
• Balaghat Range to the north. 

• Mahadeo Hills to the south. 

Basin Area: 48,631 sq. km (75% in Maharashtra). 

Tributaries: Sina and Nira rivers. 

Pandharpur: Key pilgrimage center on its right bank. 

BUDDHA PURNIMA 

TOPIC: (GS1) ANCIRENT HISTORY – SOURCE: THE HINDU 

The President of India extends greetings, emphasizing the significance of Lord Buddha’s teachings in promoting peace, compassion, and non-violence. 

Buddha Purnima (Vesak) Overview: 

• Significance: Celebrates the birth of Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who later became Gautama Buddha and founded Buddhism. 
• Date: Falls on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Vaisakha, usually in April or May. 
• Triple-Blessed Day: Commemorates Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and Maha Parnirvana (passing away). 
• Global Celebration: Primarily observed in South, Southeast, and East Asia. 
• UN Recognition: Designated as the ‘UN Day of Vesak’ by the United Nations since 1999. 

MATUA COMMUNITY 

TOPIC: (GS1) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS 

The Matua community has been demanding the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019, which offers citizenship to persecuted minorities from neighboring countries, including Hindu refugees from Bangladesh. 

Matua Community and Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA): 

• Identity: Matuas are Bengali Hindus belonging to the Scheduled Caste group in West Bengal. 
• Migration: Millions migrated to India before and after the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War to escape religious persecution. 

• Population: Namasudras (Matuas) represent 17.4% of the total Scheduled Caste population in West Bengal, making them the second-largest group after Rajbanshis. 
• Founder: Harichand Thakur, a social reformer, established the Matua Mahasangha to fight caste oppression and promote education and social upliftment. 
• Significance: Implementation of CAA is seen as a means to provide legal recognition and rights to Matuas who migrated due to religious persecution.