Daily Current Affairs for UPSC IAS: 23rd December 2024

Free Trade Agreement (FTA):

The External Affairs Minister stated that India is taking a cautious approach to FTAs to protect farmers and MSMEs, as discussed at the Bharat@100 Summit by ASSOCHAM.

• Free Trade Agreements are comprehensive trade deals between two or more countries, aimed at reducing or eliminating trade barriers such as tariffs and import/export restrictions.
• These agreements provide preferential access to markets by offering tariff concessions and lowering non-tariff barriers.
• FTAs cover trade in goods (agricultural and industrial products) and trade in services (banking, IT, construction).
  Advanced FTAs may include chapters on investment, intellectual property rights (IPRs), government procurement, and competition policy.
• Types of Trade Agreements:
  • Partial Scope Agreements (PSA): Focus on a limited number of goods.
  • Free Trade Agreements (FTA): Reduce tariffs between member countries while retaining individual tariff policies with non-members.
  • Customs Union: Includes a common external tariff for non-members.
  • Common Market: Facilitates free movement of goods, services, and factors of production.
  • Economic Union: Coordinates macroeconomic and exchange rate policies among member nations.

Automated & Intelligent Machine-aided Construction:

AIMC (Automated & Intelligent Machine-aided Construction) is an advanced system being implemented by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) for efficient National Highway construction.

• It integrates intelligent machines and real-time data sharing to expedite construction and enhance road quality.
• Objective of AIMC:
  • To increase productivity, ensure durable and long-lasting roads, and reduce dependency on traditional surveys post-construction.
  • To tackle challenges such as outdated technologies, uncoordinated data, and poor contractor performance that lead to project delays.
• Types of AIMC Machines:
  • GPS-Aided Motor Grader (3D Machine Control Technology): It uses Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) data and angle sensors to position the grader’s blade with precision.
  • Processes data in real-time to ensure alignment with digital design plans.
  • Intelligent Compaction Roller (IC Roller): It assists in minimizing post-construction consolidation.
  • Reduces air pockets or water voids in materials, preventing damage to roads.
  • Single Drum/Tandem Vibratory Roller: It ensures proper soil and base layer compaction for road stability.
• India’s National Highway network spans 46 lakh km, with 3,000 km of high-speed corridors.
• By 2047, the Ministry aims to expand the network by an additional 45,000 km, ensuring a robust and efficient infrastructure system.

Denali Fault:

The Denali Fault split apart the ancient connection of landmasses.

• Denali Fault, located in southern Alaska, has played a crucial role in shaping Earth’s geological history.
• A study reveals that three sites along the Denali Fault were once part of a single geologic feature, symbolizing the final joining of two landmasses millions of years ago.
• Over 483 km of horizontal movement along the fault tore apart this united feature due to millions of years of tectonic activity.
• These three locations once formed a terminal suture zone, indicating the last phase of tectonic plate integration into a larger mass.
• A fault line is the visible intersection of a geological fault with the Earth’s surface. It refers to a fracture or zone of fractures between two blocks of rock caused by stresses generated by tectonic plate movements.Faults are closely associated with the movement of Earth’s tectonic plates.
• The largest faults are found along plate boundaries.
• Movement along faults can occur rapidly, resulting in earthquakes, or gradually, in the form of creep.
• Faults vary in length from a few millimeters to thousands of kilometers, such as the San Andreas Fault in California or the Anatolian Fault in Turkey.
• Fault surfaces can be horizontal, vertical, or inclined at various angles.
• Earth scientists classify faults based on the angle of the fault relative to the surface (known as the dip) and the direction of movement along the fault.

Quantum Satellite:

India aims to launch a quantum satellite for quantum communications within 2-3 years.

• A quantum satellite is a communications satellite that uses quantum physics to secure its signals.
• Purpose is to Enhance Signal Security: Protect against threats from quantum computing.
• Facilitate Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): Enable unbreakable encryption through QKD.

Quantum Cryptography and Quantum Key Distribution (QKD):

• Quantum Cryptography: Uses the principles of quantum physics to secure messages.
• Function: Securely share encryption keys such that any eavesdropping can be detected, aborting the transmission if compromised.
• Mechanisms:
  • Quantum Measurement: Measuring a photon changes its state, thus revealing any eavesdropping.
  • Quantum Entanglement: Entangled photons instantly reflect changes in one another, ensuring secure key distribution.

National Quantum Mission (NQM):

• The NQM is a program by the Department of Science & Technology designed to accelerate the use of quantum physics in developing advanced communication and sensing systems.
• The Union Cabinet approved it in April 2023, with a budget of ₹6,000 crore, to be implemented from 2023 to 2031.
• The world’s first quantum communications satellite was launched by China in 2016.
• Acts as the source of pairs of entangled photons, whose properties remain intertwined regardless of the distance.
• This entanglement forms the basis of the most secure forms of quantum cryptography.

Dinga Disease:

A mysterious illness locally referred to as “Dinga Dinga”, has wrecked havoc in Uganda.

• It is locally called ‘Dinga Dinga’, meaning ‘shaking like dancing’.
• It is predominantly impacting women and girls, is characterized by fever and excessive body shaking. It is severely impairing mobility and in severe cases people are also experiencing paralysis.
• The cause of Dinga Dinga remains a mystery. Despite efforts to identify the virus responsible, health experts have yet to pinpoint its source.
• The symptoms of Dinga Dinga are as unusual as they are distressing:
  • Uncontrollable body shaking: The most striking feature of the illness is violent, involuntary movements that resemble dancing.
  • Fever and extreme weakness: Patients often report high fever and overwhelming fatigue.
  • Paralysis-like immobility: Some experience a sensation of paralysis, with even basic movements like walking becoming impossible.
  • Treatment: The illness is currently being treated with antibiotics.

Next Generation DNA Sequencing:

The Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change inaugurated the Advanced Facility for Pashmina Certification and Next Generation DNA Sequencing Facility at the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun.It is a revolutionary technology that enables the rapid and high-throughput decoding of entire genomes, analyzing millions of DNA sequences simultaneously.

• This allows researchers to gain deeper insights into genetic diversity, evolutionary relationships, and population health.
• In wildlife conservation, NGS plays a pivotal role in identifying population genetic health with respect to genetic diversity, information on genetic barriers and their effect on populations, unique adaptations and species with unique evolutionary histories, understanding disease outbreaks, detecting illegal wildlife trade, and studying the effects of climate change on biodiversity.
• This cutting-edge NGS facility positions the Wildlife Institute of India as a leading centre for molecular and genetic research in wildlife conservation.

SMILE Programme:

The Indian government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a landmark $350 million policy-based loan under the second subprogramme of the Strengthening Multimodal and Integrated Logistics Ecosystem (SMILE) programm

• The Strengthening Multimodal and Integrated Logistics Ecosystem (SMILE) is a programmatic policy-based loan (PBL) to support the government in undertaking wide-ranging reforms in the logistics sector in India.
• The programmatic approach comprises two subprograms, which aim to expand India’s manufacturing sector and improve the resilience of its supply chains.
• This initiative is in collaboration with the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) under the Ministry of Finance, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and ADB.
• Key pillars of the programme:
  • Strengthening institutional frameworks: Developing capacities at national, state, and city levels for the seamless integration of multimodal logistics infrastructure.
  • Standardising warehousing: Establishing uniform standards to streamline supply chains and attract private investment.
  • Improving trade logistics: Enhancing the efficiency of India’s external trade operations.
  • Promoting smart, low-emission systems: Leveraging advanced technologies to boost efficiency while reducing environmental impact.

India State of Forest Report:

The Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change released the ‘India State of Forest Report 2023 (ISFR 2023) at Forest Research Institute, Dehradun.

India State of Forest Report:

• It is published by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) on a biennial basis since 1987.
• It carries out in-depth assessment of the forest and tree resources of the country based on interpretation of Remote Sensing satellite data and field based National Forest Inventory (NFI).
• The India State of Forest Report 2023 is 18th such report in the series.
• The report contains information on forest cover, tree cover, mangrove cover, growing stock, carbon stock in India’s forests, instances of forest fire, Agroforestry, etc.

Highlights of India State of Forest Report 2023:

• The Forest and Tree cover of India is 17 percent of the geographical area and in that 21.76% is forest cover and 3.41% is tree cover.
• As compared to assessment of 2021, there is an increase in the forest and tree cover of the country.
• Top four states showing maximum increase in forest and tree cover are Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha and
• Top three states showing maximum increase in forest cover are Mizoram, Gujarat and Odisha.
• Area wise top three states having largest forest and tree cover are Madhya Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh and Maharashtra
• Area wise top three states having largest forest cover are Madhya Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh and
• In terms of percentage of forest cover with respect to total geographical area, Lakshadweep (91.33 percent) has the highest forest cover followed by Mizoram and Andaman & Nicobar Island
• The present assessment also reveals that 19 states/UTs have above 33 percent of the geographical area under forest cover.
• Out of these, eight states/UTs namely Mizoram, Lakshadweep, A & N Island, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur have forest cover above 75 percent.
• The total mangrove cover is 4,992 sq km in the country.
• The extent of bamboo bearing area for the country has been increased as compared to the last assessment done in 2021.
• There is an increase in the carbon stock of country as compared to the last assessment.
• India’s carbon stock has reached 30.43 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent; which indicates that as compared to the base year of 2005, India has already reached 2.29 billion tonnes of additional carbon sink as against the target of 2.5 to 3.0 billion tonnes by 2030.

Pangolin Trafficking:

Authorities seized 2.18 tonnes of pangolin scales in Nigeria, equivalent to approximately 1,100 pangolins.

• Pangolins also called scaly anteaters because of their preferred diet, pangolins are the most trafficked mammal in the world for their meat, scales and leather.
• These solitary, primarily nocturnal animals, are easily recognized by their full armor of scales.
• A startled pangolin will cover its head with its front legs, exposing its scales to any potential predator.
• If touched or grabbed it will roll up completely into a ball, while the sharp scales on the tail can be used to lash out.

Indian Pangolin:

• Distribution: Found in India, Bangladesh, Southern Nepal, Sri Lanka, and parts of Pakistan.
• Habitat: Adapted to various environments including deserts, tropical forests, and near human settlements.
• Physical traits: The Indian pangolin has 13 rows of sharp, overlapping scales that vary in colour depending on its surroundings.
• Conservation status:
• IUCN Red List: Endangered
• Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Listed under Schedule I
• CITES: Appendix I

India Maritime Heritage Conclave:

The 1st India Maritime Heritage Conclave (IMHC 2024), organized by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, celebrated India’s maritime legacy and contributions to global trade while discussing future innovations.

Key Highlights of IMHC 2024:

• The theme of the conclave was “Towards Understanding India’s Position in Global Maritime History” focusing on India’s contributions to global maritime trade, culture, and innovation.
• It showcased ancient shipbuilding techniques, navigational tools, and historical trade routes through 20+ stalls.
• Nations such as Greece, Italy, and the UK joined the conclave, emphasizing the global significance of India’s maritime history.
• A vibrant cultural program was celebrated India’s coastal traditions, blending scholarship with festivity.
• It explored India’s maritime history and its future aspirations, including the role of youth, skill development, and sustainable practices in the maritime sector.

Bordoibam-Bilmukh Bird Sanctuary:

Assam bird sanctuary records 72% decline in bird species count in 27 years.

• The Bordoibam-Bilmukh Bird Sanctuary (BBBS) in Assam, once a thriving habitat for diverse avian species, has experienced a 72% decline in bird species count over the past 27 years.
• This alarming biodiversity crisis has been attributed to anthropogenic pressures such as fishing, poaching, egg collection, and land-use changes.

Bordoibam-Bilmukh Bird Sanctuary:

• It is a large freshwater lake situated on the boundary of Dhemaji and Lakhimpur districts in Assam and covers an area of approximately 11.25 sq. km.
• It was originally part of the River Subansiri (a tributary of the Brahmaputra), which now flows 7 km away from the lake.
• Experiences a moist tropical climate with an average annual rainfall of about 2,000 mm.
• Dominated by flooded valley grasslands and wetland vegetation.
• Avian Biodiversity: Hosts a variety of migratory waterfowl in winter.
  Home to globally threatened species such as the Spot-billed Pelican (Pelecanus philippensis) and Lesser Adjutant (Leptoptilos javanicus).

Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme:

The Minister of State for Home Affairs informed the Rajya Sabha about the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme.

• Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme was launched on 15th August 1972 by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• It provides the grant of pension to living freedom fighters and their families; if they are no more alive, and to the families or martyrs.
• Eligibility:
  • A person who had suffered a minimum imprisonment of six months in the mainland jails before Independence.
  • A person who remained underground for more than six months.
  • A person interned in his home or externed from his district provided the period of internment/externment was six months or more.
  • A person whose property was confiscated or attached and sold due to participation in the freedom struggle.
  • A person who became permanently incapacitated during firing or lathi charge.
  • A person who lost his job (Central or State Government) and thus means of livelihood for participation in the national movement.

National Tansen Samman:

Renowned tabla player of Indian classical music Pt. Swapan Choudhary of Kolkata has been honoured with the “National Tansen Samman” for the year 2023.

• National Tansen Samman was established in the year 1980 by the Madhya Pradesh Government in the name of Music Emperor Tansen.
• It is the highest national music award in the field of Indian classical music.
• Awardees get an honorarium of five lakh rupees, citation plaque and a shawl-shriphal.
• Tansen was a prominent Indian classical music composer, vocalist and instrumentalist.
• He first stayed under the shelter of Daulat Khan, son of Sher Shah Suri and then was appointed as the court singer of King Ramchandra of Bandhavgarh.
• Later, he became one of the Navaratnas (nine jewels) at the court of Akbar.
• Akbar gave him the title Mian, an honorific, meaning learned man.
• He is given credit for introducing some famous ragas viz. Malhar, Todi and Darbari.

Rising Drug Abuse Among Youth:

The Supreme Court of India has expressed concern over the rising drug abuse among youth, calling it a generational threat.This concern emerged during a verdict supporting the National Investigation Agency’s (NIA) probe into a heroin smuggling case linked to Pakistan.The court emphasized the need for urgent collective action from families, society, and state authorities to address the growing menace of drug abuse.

Nanoplastics Causing Antibiotic Resistance:

A study revealed that nanoplastics derived from single-use plastic bottles (SUPBs) contribute to the spread of antibiotic resistance (AR), presenting an overlooked public health risk.Antibiotic resistance, a type of antimicrobial resistance, occurs when bacteria evolve to resist the effects of drugs that once killed them or inhibited their growth. Nanoplastics could transform Lactobacillus acidophilus (gut microbiota) into a carrier of AR genes, which may then be transferred to pathogenic bacteria during infections, thus worsening the AR crisis.

Underwater Cable:

India is strengthening its digital connectivity with the launch of two new undersea cables, India Asia Xpress (IAX) and India Europe Xpress (IEX).Fiber-optic cables laid under the ocean to transmit data at high speeds globally.
New Cables:IAX: Connects Chennai and Mumbai with Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia,IEX: Connects Chennai and Mumbai with France, Greece, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Djibouti.

Declining Legislative Productivity:

The recent Winter Session of Parliament was marked by significant disruptions, leading to a substantial reduction in legislative productivity. Lok Sabha functioned for only 52% of its scheduled time, while Rajya Sabha operated at 39%, with both houses frequently disrupted.Question Hour did not function for 15 out of 19 days in Rajya Sabha and for more than 10 minutes on 12 out of 20 days in Lok Sabha, undermining legislative scrutiny.

Protected Area Pemit:

The Indian government has reinstated the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime in Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland due to security concerns stemming from the influx of people from neighbouring countries.An official document required for foreign nationals to visit certain “protected” areas in India under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958.