Daily Current Affairs for UPSC – 19th November 2024

Daily Current Affairs for UPSC

Science and Technology

1. GSAT 20 Successfully Launched: A Boost to India’s Communication and Digital Infrastructure

---

Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Science and Technology
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Science and Technology – Developments and their Applications)

Why in News?

• ISRO successfully launched GSAT 20, India’s most advanced high-throughput communication satellite, aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from the United States.
• The satellite is expected to revolutionize broadband and satellite-based communication in India, bridging the digital divide in remote and rural areas.
• Source: The Hindu

About GSAT 20

• Definition/Description:
  • GSAT 20 is a high-throughput satellite (HTS) developed by ISRO to provide advanced broadband services and satellite-based communication across India.
  • It features Ka-band transponders, ensuring faster data transmission and greater efficiency compared to previous satellites.
• Background:
  • The GSAT series began with the goal of enhancing India’s satellite communication capabilities.
  • Preceding satellites like GSAT 11 and GSAT 19 laid the foundation for HTS technology, enabling better bandwidth and coverage.
  • GSAT 20 is the latest in the series, offering unprecedented data capacity and advanced features.

GSAT-20	Details

Mission Type

Communication

Operator

New Space India Limited

Mission Duration

Planned: 14 years Elapsed: 1 day

Spacecraft Properties

Bus

I-3K Bus

Manufacturer

ISRO Satellite Centre Space Applications Centre

Launch Mass

4700 kg

Power

2 solar array batteries

Start of Mission

Launch Date

18 November 2024, 18:30 UTC

Rocket

Falcon 9 Block 5

Launch Site

Cape Canaveral, SLC-40

Contractor

SpaceX

Orbital Parameters

Reference System

Geocentric

Regime

Geostationary

Longitude

68° East

• Key Aspects:
  • High Bandwidth: Provides over 100 Gbps data throughput, significantly enhancing internet connectivity.
  • Coverage: Ensures connectivity in remote and underserved regions, crucial for government schemes like BharatNet and Digital India.
  • Technology: Features advanced electric propulsion, increasing fuel efficiency and operational lifespan.
  • Applications: Supports high-speed internet, telemedicine, e-governance, education, and disaster management.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Governed by the Department of Space under India’s Space Policy 2023.
  • Commercial applications facilitated by Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe).
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Launch Dependency: Reliance on foreign launch vehicles like SpaceX due to limited indigenous heavy-lift capacity.
  • Infrastructure Needs: Requires robust ground infrastructure, such as earth stations, for optimal utilization.
  • Global Competition: Faces challenges from global HTS providers like SpaceX Starlink and Amazon Kuiper.
  • Security Concerns: Vulnerable to cyber threats and space debris.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Global Impact: Enhances India’s competitiveness in the global satellite market and supports international communication services.
  • Indian Impact: Aligns with government initiatives like Digital India, BharatNet, and Gaganyaan.
  • Improves national security communication and disaster management capabilities.
• Future Prospects:
  • Indigenous Development: Development of indigenous heavy-lift launch vehicles like GSLV Mk IV.
  • Commercialization: Expanding satellite services to neighboring countries and Africa.
  • Technology Integration: Supports next-generation technologies like 5G and Internet of Things (IoT) in rural areas.
  • Space Economy: Strengthens India’s ambition to become a $10 billion space economy by 2030.

Source: The Hindu, ISRO Official Website

Environment

2. Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Notified as India’s 56th Tiger Reserve

---

Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Environment and Ecology
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Conservation, Environmental Pollution, and Degradation)

Why in News?

• Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla in Chhattisgarh has been notified as the 56th Tiger Reserve of India.
• This designation plays a vital role in wildlife conservation and biodiversity protection in central India.
• Source: The Hindu

About Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve

• Definition/Description:
  • The reserve combines Guru Ghasidas National Park and Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary, covering approximately 2,000 square kilometers.
  • It lies in the Sarguja and Korba districts of Chhattisgarh and forms part of the Eastern Ghats ecosystem.
• Background:
  • Initially proposed in 2011, it became a key candidate under India’s Project Tiger initiative.
  • Serves as a crucial wildlife corridor connecting Kanha Tiger Reserve (Madhya Pradesh) and Palamau Tiger Reserve (Jharkhand).
  • Chhattisgarh’s second tiger reserve after Udanti-Sitanadi.
• Key Aspects:
  • Biodiversity: Home to tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and several endemic species of flora and fauna.
  • Tribal Coexistence: Involves the participation of local tribes, promoting sustainable conservation practices.
  • Critical Habitat: Supports conservation of endangered species while maintaining ecological balance.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Governed under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
  • Monitored by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Human-Wildlife Conflict: Encroachment and resource dependency by nearby tribal communities.
  • Funding Limitations: Lack of adequate financial resources for monitoring and anti-poaching measures.
  • Climate Change Impact: Altering habitat patterns, threatening long-term sustainability.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Global Context: Aligns with global conservation goals under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
  • Indian Context: Strengthens India’s leadership in tiger conservation, contributing to its status as home to 70% of the world’s wild tigers.
• Future Prospects:
  • Community Engagement: Greater involvement of indigenous communities in conservation efforts.
  • Ecotourism: Development of eco-friendly tourism projects to support local economies and conservation.
  • Technological Solutions: Use of GPS collars, drones, and AI for better wildlife monitoring.

Source: The Hindu, NTCA Reports

3. World Toilet Day 2024 Observed on 19th November

---

Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Environment and Sanitation
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Social Justice)

Why in News?

• World Toilet Day, observed on 19th November, emphasizes the importance of sanitation as a human right.
• The 2024 theme is “Accelerating Access to Safe Toilets to Achieve SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).”
• Source: The Hindu

About World Toilet Day

• Definition/Description:
  • A UN-designated observance aimed at addressing the global sanitation crisis and promoting hygiene awareness.
  • Focuses on reducing open defecation and improving waste management.
• Background:
  • Initiated in 2001 by the World Toilet Organization and adopted by the UN in 2013.
  • India’s Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) is a landmark initiative, achieving significant progress in eradicating open defecation.
• Key Aspects:
  • Global Scenario: Over 3.6 billion people globally lack access to safely managed sanitation facilities.
  • Impact in India: SBM has led to the construction of over 110 million household toilets, transforming sanitation behavior in rural areas.
  • Health Benefits: Reduces waterborne diseases, maternal mortality, and child malnutrition.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Maintenance of sanitation infrastructure remains a concern, with limited access to water in some areas.
  • Behavioral change to ensure sustained toilet usage.
  • Urban sanitation issues, such as untreated sewage affecting water bodies.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Global Context: SDG 6 targets universal access to clean water and sanitation by 2030.
  • Indian Context: SBM is recognized globally as a successful sanitation campaign, but the focus now shifts to sustainability under SBM Phase II.
• Future Prospects:
  • Adoption of eco-friendly sanitation technologies like bio-digester toilets.
  • Strengthening waste management infrastructure in urban and peri-urban areas.
  • Public-private partnerships to ensure scalability and sustainability.

Source: The Hindu, UN Reports

Economy

4. India Leads G20 with 7% GDP Growth Forecast for 2024

---

Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Economy
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Economic Development)

Why in News?

• India is projected to achieve a GDP growth rate of 7% in 2024, the highest among G20 nations.
• This growth highlights India’s resilience amid global economic challenges like inflation, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions.
• Source: The Economic Times

About India’s GDP Growth

• Definition/Description:
  • Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is the total monetary value of goods and services produced within a country.
  • A 7% growth rate reflects strong domestic demand and robust policy frameworks.
• Background:
  • India emerged as one of the fastest-growing major economies after 2014, with significant reforms such as GST, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), and the PLI Scheme.
  • The economy rebounded quickly post-pandemic, driven by policy interventions like Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• Key Aspects:
  • Sectoral Growth:
    • Services: IT, fintech, and healthcare saw high growth.
    • Manufacturing: Boosted by initiatives like Make in India and PLI schemes.
    • Agriculture: Improved productivity through government schemes like PM-KISAN and focus on agri-tech.
  • Export Growth: Robust exports in IT services, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural commodities.
  • Public Investment: Major infrastructure projects under PM Gati Shakti and National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP).
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Inflationary Pressures: Rising global oil prices affecting energy costs and inflation.
  • Unemployment: Need for job creation in semi-urban and rural areas.
  • Global Risks: Impact of geopolitical tensions like the Russia-Ukraine war and tightening global financial conditions.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Global Context: India’s growth contributes significantly to the global economic recovery and highlights its importance in the G20 framework.
  • Indian Context:
    • Helps reduce poverty levels and supports the government’s target of a $5 trillion economy by 2025.
    • Bolsters investor confidence and attracts FDI.
• Future Prospects:
  • Digital and Green Economy: Focus on renewable energy and digital infrastructure to sustain long-term growth.
  • Private Sector Growth: Increased participation in innovation-led sectors like AI, semiconductors, and clean tech.
  • Global Partnerships: Strengthening economic ties with countries through FTAs and multilateral frameworks.

Source: The Economic Times, RBI Reports

---

5. Vision Next Program Introduced to Boost India’s Textile Manufacturing Industry

---

Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Economy
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Economic Development)

Why in News?

• The central government launched the Vision Next program to revitalize India’s textile sector, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and competitiveness.
• The initiative aligns with India’s goal of increasing textile exports and enhancing employment in rural areas.
• Source: Business Standard

About Vision Next Program

• Definition/Description:
  • Vision Next is a strategic initiative to modernize India’s textile manufacturing sector.
  • Promotes sustainable production practices, adoption of advanced technologies, and workforce skilling.
• Background:
  • India is the world’s second-largest textile exporter but faces competition from countries like China, Bangladesh, and Vietnam.
  • Existing schemes like the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for textiles laid the groundwork for this initiative.
• Key Aspects:
  • Sustainability: Focus on eco-friendly materials, organic cotton, and reducing carbon emissions.
  • Technological Integration: Use of AI, blockchain, and IoT for better supply chain management.
  • Employment Generation: Aims to create 3 million new jobs, especially in rural areas.
  • Skill Development: Training programs to equip workers with skills for high-tech manufacturing processes.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Raw Material Volatility: Dependence on imports for synthetic fibers and fluctuating cotton prices.
  • Infrastructure Gaps: Limited access to modern facilities in smaller towns and villages.
  • Global Competition: Competitors offer lower production costs and faster delivery timelines.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Global Context: Enhances India’s position in global textile markets and supports FTAs like the Indo-EU Free Trade Agreement.
  • Indian Context: Strengthens the handloom and handicraft sectors, vital for rural employment and preserving cultural heritage.
• Future Prospects:
  • Export Growth: Aims to achieve $100 billion in textile exports by 2030.
  • Technology Hubs: Establishment of textile innovation hubs to improve quality and efficiency.
  • Global Leadership: Potential to position India as a sustainable and reliable supplier in the global textile value chain.

Source: Business Standard, Ministry of Textiles

---

International Relations

6. Rio de Janeiro Declaration Adopted at the 19th G20 Summit

---

Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: International Relations
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS2 (International Relations)

Why in News?

• The Rio de Janeiro Declaration was adopted at the 19th G20 Summit in Brazil.
• The declaration addresses critical global challenges, including climate change, digital economy, sustainable development, and equitable global economic policies.
• Source: The Hindu

About the Rio de Janeiro Declaration

• Definition/Description:
  • The declaration is a multilateral agreement outlining commitments by G20 nations to address pressing global issues.
  • Focuses on promoting sustainable development, climate resilience, and digital inclusivity.
• Background:
  • G20, established in 1999, serves as a platform for major economies to collaborate on global financial and economic issues.
  • Previous declarations, such as the Bali Declaration, laid emphasis on post-pandemic recovery and equitable vaccine distribution.
• Key Aspects:
  • Climate Action: Commitment to achieving net-zero emissions and financing renewable energy transitions.
  • Digital Economy: Enhancing global cooperation on digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and AI governance.
  • Debt Sustainability: Support for developing nations facing debt crises, promoting inclusive growth.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war hinder global cooperation.
  • Resource Inequality: Lack of equitable funding for developing nations’ climate and digital projects.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Global Context: Reinforces the role of multilateralism in addressing shared global challenges.
  • Indian Context:
    • Strengthens India’s position as a leader advocating for equitable global policies.
    • Supports India’s initiatives like International Solar Alliance (ISA) and OSOWOG (One Sun, One World, One Grid).
• Future Prospects:
  • Enhanced cooperation on technology transfer and climate financing.
  • Role of India in shaping global policy dialogues on sustainability and digital inclusion.

Source: The Hindu, Ministry of External Affairs

7. Raksha Mantri to Attend 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus)

---

Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: International Relations and Defence
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS2 (India and its Neighborhood – Relations)

Why in News?

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is attending the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Lao PDR.
• The meeting aims to strengthen regional security collaboration among ASEAN nations and dialogue partners like India, the US, Russia, and China.
• Source: Indian Express

About ADMM-Plus

• Definition/Description:
  • ADMM-Plus is a platform for ASEAN countries and their dialogue partners to collaborate on defence and security issues.
  • Established in 2010, it covers areas like maritime security, counter-terrorism, and disaster relief.
• Background:
  • ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) was founded in 1967 to promote economic, political, and security cooperation in Southeast Asia.
  • ADMM-Plus extends ASEAN’s security dialogue to external partners, including India, China, and the US.
• Key Aspects:
  • Maritime Security: Focus on freedom of navigation and combatting piracy.
  • Counter-Terrorism: Enhanced cooperation in intelligence sharing and capacity building.
  • Humanitarian Assistance: Coordination for disaster response and emergency relief operations.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Guided by the ASEAN Charter and international norms like UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea).
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • South China Sea Disputes: Territorial conflicts involving China and ASEAN nations threaten regional stability.
  • Cybersecurity Threats: Increasing risks of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure.
  • Balancing Power Dynamics: Managing relations between major powers like the US and China in the region.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Global Context: Strengthens regional security frameworks and promotes multilateralism.
  • Indian Context:
    • Advances India’s Act East Policy by deepening ties with Southeast Asian nations.
    • Enhances India’s maritime and strategic influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Future Prospects:
  • Expansion of joint military exercises, including naval drills.
  • Collaboration on emerging threats like hybrid warfare and cybersecurity.
  • Strengthened partnerships with ASEAN countries for peace and stability in the region.

Source: Indian Express, Ministry of Defence

8. Global Freight Summit 2024 Started in Dubai

---

Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: International Relations and Economy
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Infrastructure, Economic Development)

Why in News?

• The Global Freight Summit 2024 commenced in Dubai, bringing together global stakeholders in logistics and supply chain management.
• The summit focuses on innovations in freight transportation, sustainability, and technology integration.
• Source: Economic Times

About the Global Freight Summit

• Definition/Description:
  • A global forum for policymakers, industry leaders, and logistics professionals to discuss emerging trends in freight and logistics.
  • Covers areas like digital transformation, green logistics, and supply chain resilience.
• Background:
  • Logistics is a crucial component of global trade, contributing significantly to GDP in many countries.
  • India’s National Logistics Policy (NLP) and initiatives like PM Gati Shakti aim to modernize infrastructure and reduce logistics costs.
• Key Aspects:
  • Digital Transformation: Focus on blockchain and AI for transparent and efficient supply chains.
  • Sustainability: Emphasis on green freight corridors and reducing carbon emissions.
  • Supply Chain Resilience: Strategies to mitigate disruptions caused by geopolitical conflicts and pandemics.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • High Costs: Freight transportation remains expensive due to fuel prices and inefficiencies.
  • Geopolitical Risks: Supply chain disruptions from conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war.
  • Technological Barriers: Limited adoption of advanced technologies in developing nations.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Global Context: Promotes international cooperation to ensure efficient and sustainable global trade.
  • Indian Context:
    • Aligns with India’s logistics goals under the PM Gati Shakti initiative.
    • Strengthens India’s position as a global logistics hub, leveraging its geographic location.
• Future Prospects:
  • Increased investment in multimodal transport systems, including rail, road, and waterways.
  • Development of digital trade platforms to streamline freight operations.
  • Enhanced collaboration among nations for carbon-neutral logistics practices.

Source: Economic Times, Ministry of Commerce

Internal Security

9. Golden Jubilee Edition of All India Police Science Congress Inaugurated by Amit Shah

---

Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Internal Security and Disaster Management
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Internal Security)

Why in News?

• Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the 50th edition of the All India Police Science Congress in Gujarat.
• The event focuses on addressing modern challenges in internal security and police modernization.
• Source: The Indian Express

About All India Police Science Congress

• Definition/Description:
  • An annual forum organized by the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) to address security challenges and police reforms.
  • Brings together police officials, researchers, and policymakers to discuss innovations in policing.
• Background:
  • First held in 1970, the Congress has evolved to focus on areas like community policing, technology integration, and combating organized crime.
  • Past initiatives included the introduction of SMART policing (Sensitive, Modern, Accountable, Responsive, Tech-savvy).
• Key Aspects:
  • Focus Areas: Cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and AI in policing.
  • Workshops and Discussions: Address emerging threats such as hybrid warfare and drone technology misuse.
  • Collaboration: Promotes inter-state coordination to tackle organized crime and trafficking.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Linked to the Police Modernization Scheme under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
  • Operates in collaboration with BPR&D and state police forces.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Cyber Threats: Increasing digital crimes and the need for advanced technology to counter them.
  • Manpower Shortages: Lack of adequately trained personnel, especially in specialized units.
  • Inter-State Coordination: Difficulty in addressing crimes that cross state boundaries.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Global Context: Aligns with international practices for combating organized crime and cyber threats.
  • Indian Context:
    • Focuses on enhancing the efficiency and accountability of police forces.
    • Supports national security goals by improving response mechanisms to internal threats.
• Future Prospects:
  • Integration of AI and big data for predictive policing.
  • Development of national crime databases for efficient information sharing.
  • Enhanced training programs for officers in advanced security techniques.

Source: Indian Express, Ministry of Home Affairs

---

Geography

10. Typhoon Man-yi Hits the Philippines’ Bicol Region

---

Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Geography
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS1 (Physical Geography – Climatic Phenomena)

Why in News?

• Typhoon Man-yi made landfall in the Bicol region of Luzon, Philippines, causing widespread destruction.
• The event highlights the increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change.
• Source: The Hindu

About Typhoon Man-yi

• Definition/Description:
  • A tropical cyclone that developed over the Pacific Ocean, categorized as a severe typhoon.
  • Caused heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides in affected areas.
• Background:
  • The Philippines experiences an average of 20 tropical cyclones annually due to its location along the Pacific typhoon belt.
  • Typhoons like Haiyan (2013) have previously caused significant damage.
• Key Aspects:
  • Impact on the Philippines:
    • Displacement of thousands of people.
    • Damage to crops, infrastructure, and homes.
  • Meteorological Aspects: Caused by warm ocean temperatures and low wind shear in the Pacific.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Disaster Preparedness: Limited infrastructure and resources to handle large-scale evacuations.
  • Climate Change: Intensification of typhoons due to rising sea surface temperatures.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Global Context: Highlights the need for international cooperation on disaster management and climate adaptation.
  • Indian Context: India can draw parallels for disaster preparedness along its eastern coast, which faces cyclones regularly.
• Future Prospects:
  • Improved forecasting using advanced satellite technologies.
  • Increased focus on resilient infrastructure in vulnerable regions.
  • Strengthened global climate action to mitigate extreme weather events.

Source: The Hindu, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA)