Daily Current Affairs – 20th November 2024

Here are the Daily Current Affairs – 20th November 2024:

1. A Thousand Days of Ukrainian Resilience

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• Ukraine marks 1,000 days since the beginning of the war with Russia, showcasing resilience despite immense challenges.
• Source: The Hindu

About Ukraine’s Resilience:

• Definition/Description:
  • The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia has significantly altered global geopolitics.
  • Ukraine’s resilience refers to its ability to withstand the military, economic, and humanitarian crises since the conflict began.
• Background:
  • Began in February 2022 when Russia launched a military invasion of Ukraine.
  • Rooted in geopolitical tensions over NATO expansion, territorial disputes like Crimea, and separatist movements in Eastern Ukraine.
• Key Aspects:
  • Military Efforts: Despite being outnumbered, Ukraine has received military aid from NATO countries, including advanced weapons and intelligence support.
  • Economic Impact: Ukrainian GDP fell sharply due to infrastructure destruction and trade disruptions.
  • Humanitarian Crisis: Over 8 million refugees, with significant displacement internally and across Europe.
• Global Context:
  • Intensified the East-West divide, leading to significant sanctions on Russia.
  • NATO and EU support for Ukraine reaffirmed their commitment to security in Europe.
• Future Prospects:
  • The conflict’s resolution depends on negotiations, potential ceasefires, or international mediation.
  • Reconstruction efforts in Ukraine will require global cooperation.

Source: The Hindu

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2. Tracking Devices May Be Used if They Aid Bail, Help Free Up Jail Space

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Governance
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS2 (Governance)

Why in News?:

• Discussions are ongoing to use tracking devices for undertrial prisoners to reduce overcrowding in jails.
• Source: The Hindu

About Tracking Devices in Judicial Reforms:

• Definition/Description:
  • Electronic tracking devices like ankle monitors allow authorities to monitor undertrial prisoners outside jail premises.
• Background:
  • India’s jails are operating at 130% capacity. A significant portion of inmates are undertrials awaiting bail or trial.
  • Supreme Court has repeatedly emphasized the need to address overcrowding and uphold prisoners’ rights.
• Key Aspects:
  • Cost Efficiency: Reduces the financial burden of maintaining overcrowded jails.
  • Better Resource Allocation: Allows authorities to focus on rehabilitation programs for convicts.
  • Technological Integration: Ensures real-time location tracking and compliance with bail conditions.
• Current Challenges:
  • Risk of misuse or tampering with devices.
  • Privacy concerns and lack of a robust legal framework for implementation.
• Future Prospects:
  • May pave the way for tech-enabled reforms in the criminal justice system, reducing dependency on custodial measures.

Source: The Hindu

3. How India Could Counter the CBAM

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Environment
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Environment)

Why in News?:

• The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), introduced by the European Union, poses challenges for India’s trade, particularly in sectors with high carbon footprints like steel and aluminum.
• Source: The Hindu

About CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism):

• Definition/Description:
  • CBAM is a proposed EU regulation aimed at reducing carbon leakage by imposing tariffs on imported goods based on their carbon footprint.
  • It targets imports from countries with less stringent climate policies.
• Background:
  • Announced as part of the EU Green Deal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
  • Initially focused on sectors like steel, cement, aluminum, fertilizers, and electricity.
• Key Aspects:
  • Impact on India:
    • India is a major exporter of steel and aluminum to the EU. CBAM could increase costs, making exports less competitive.
  • Compliance Challenges:
    • Indian industries face difficulties in transitioning to low-carbon technologies due to high costs and lack of infrastructure.
  • Global Trade Disputes:
    • CBAM is viewed as a protectionist measure by developing countries, potentially violating World Trade Organization (WTO) principles.
• India’s Current Approach:
  • Focus on renewable energy transition and energy efficiency initiatives.
  • Programs like Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) aim to reduce industrial emissions.
• Future Prospects:
  • Technological Upgradation: Encourage carbon capture and green hydrogen in energy-intensive industries.
  • Diplomatic Negotiations: Engage with the EU to mitigate trade barriers and advocate for technology transfer and financial aid.
  • Domestic Policy Alignment: Strengthen India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.

Source: The Hindu

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4. The Dangers of High-Altitude Sickness

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Health
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS2 (Health)

Why in News?:

• With increasing tourism in high-altitude regions like Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh, high-altitude sickness is emerging as a significant health concern.
• Source: The Hindu

About High-Altitude Sickness:

• Definition/Description:
  • A medical condition caused by low oxygen levels and reduced air pressure at high altitudes, typically above 8,000 feet.
  • Symptoms range from mild (headaches, nausea) to severe (pulmonary or cerebral edema).
• Background:
  • Often affects trekkers, soldiers, and travelers to mountainous regions.
  • Can lead to fatalities if not managed promptly.
• Key Aspects:
  • Types of Altitude Sickness:
    • Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): Common and mild symptoms.
    • High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): Fluid buildup in lungs, life-threatening.
    • High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): Swelling of the brain, requires immediate medical attention.
  • Prevention and Management:
    • Gradual acclimatization and adequate hydration.
    • Use of medications like acetazolamide for prevention.
    • Oxygen therapy and descent in severe cases.
• Current Challenges:
  • Lack of awareness among tourists and insufficient medical facilities in remote regions.
• Future Prospects:
  • Improved healthcare infrastructure in high-altitude areas.
  • Awareness campaigns targeting trekkers and adventure tourists.

Source: The Hindu

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5. Is Imposing Tariffs on Chinese Imports a Good Idea?

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• India is considering tariffs on Chinese imports to reduce dependency and address trade imbalances.
• Source: The Hindu

About Tariffs on Chinese Imports:

• Definition/Description:
  • Tariffs are taxes or duties imposed on imported goods to regulate trade and protect domestic industries.
• Background:
  • India has a significant trade deficit with China, with imports surpassing exports.
  • Post-Galwan clash, India adopted measures like banning Chinese apps and restricting investments in sensitive sectors.
• Key Aspects:
  • Economic Impact:
    • Reduces dependency on Chinese goods but risks increasing input costs for Indian manufacturers.
  • Strategic Importance:
    • Aims to boost Atmanirbhar Bharat and encourage domestic manufacturing.
  • Global Trade Implications:
    • Retaliatory measures by China could affect Indian exports.
• Current Challenges:
  • Dependence on Chinese imports for critical sectors like electronics and pharmaceuticals.
  • Limited capacity of domestic industries to fill the gap quickly.
• Future Prospects:
  • Incentivizing domestic production through schemes like PLI (Production-Linked Incentive).
  • Diversifying imports by strengthening trade ties with other nations.

Source: The Hindu

6. If Diamonds and Pencils Are Made Out of Carbon, How Is It That Pencils Can Write?

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Science and Technology
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Science and Technology)

Why in News?:

• The unique properties of carbon and its allotropes, such as diamonds and graphite, are often highlighted in science discussions.
• Source: The Hindu

About Carbon Allotropes and Their Properties:

• Definition/Description:
  • Carbon can exist in different structural forms called allotropes, such as diamond and graphite, due to variations in atomic bonding.
  • Graphite: The primary component of pencils, made of layers of carbon atoms in a hexagonal arrangement, allowing it to slide and leave a mark.
  • Diamond: Carbon atoms in a tetrahedral structure, making it the hardest natural material.
• Key Aspects:
  • Why Pencils Can Write:
    • Graphite’s layers are weakly bonded, allowing them to flake off onto paper.
  • Why Diamonds Cannot Write:
    • Diamond’s rigid structure prevents it from shedding particles.
• Applications of Carbon Allotropes:
  • Graphite: Used in lubricants, batteries, and pencils.
  • Diamond: Applied in cutting tools, jewelry, and high-pressure experiments.

Source: The Hindu

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7. At G-20 Summit, India and China Discuss Resumption of Flights, Visa Issuance

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• India and China held discussions on improving connectivity and easing visa restrictions during the G-20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro.
• Source: The Hindu

About India-China Relations at the G-20:

• Definition/Description:
  • Resumption of direct flights and streamlined visa processes were discussed to improve people-to-people ties and economic exchanges.
• Background:
  • India-China relations remain tense post-Galwan clash in 2020.
  • Bilateral trade continues, but connectivity has been hampered due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Key Aspects:
  • Importance of Connectivity:
    • Direct flights facilitate business, tourism, and academic exchanges.
  • Visa Relaxation:
    • Reduces bureaucratic hurdles, boosting bilateral cooperation.
• Current Challenges:
  • Persistent border disputes and trust deficit between the two nations.
  • Trade imbalance and strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific.
• Future Prospects:
  • Incremental steps like connectivity improvements could help rebuild trust.
  • Continued dialogue at multilateral forums like the G-20 remains essential.

Source: The Hindu

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8. ‘India’s Vision for Free, Open Maritime Network Is Finding Resonance Across the World’

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• India’s maritime strategy emphasizing a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific is gaining global recognition.
• Source: The Hindu

About India’s Maritime Vision:

• Definition/Description:
  • India’s vision aligns with international norms for maritime security, free trade, and open navigation.
• Key Aspects:
  • Indo-Pacific Focus:
    • Partnerships with the US, Japan, and Australia through the Quad framework.
    • Ensuring freedom of navigation in key maritime routes like the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean.
  • Infrastructure Development:
    • Initiatives like the Sagarmala project enhance port-led development.
• Global Context:
  • Supports smaller nations in maritime capacity-building.
  • Countering unilateral maritime claims, particularly in the South China Sea.

Source: The Hindu

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9. Paying ‘Huge Costs’ for Climate Action, Says India at COP29

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Environment
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Environment)

Why in News?:

• At the COP29 conference, India highlighted the financial challenges of implementing climate action in developing economies.
• Source: The Hindu

About India’s Climate Action Challenges:

• Key Aspects:
  • Financial Burden:
    • Transition to renewable energy and implementing mitigation strategies are costly for developing nations.
  • Global Assistance:
    • India emphasized the need for developed nations to fulfill their climate finance commitments under the Paris Agreement.
• India’s Current Approach:
  • Expanding renewable energy capacity (targeting 500 GW by 2030).
  • National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) includes missions on solar energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable agriculture.

Source: The Hindu

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10. Supreme Court Questions Delay in Delimitation for Northeastern States

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Governance
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS2 (Governance)

Why in News?:

• The Supreme Court sought an explanation for the delay in delimitation exercises in northeastern states like Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland.
• Source: Indian Express

About Delimitation Issues in Northeast:

• Definition/Description:
  • Delimitation is the process of redrawing the boundaries of electoral constituencies to reflect population changes.
• Key Challenges:
  • Political resistance and ethnic sensitivities in the northeastern states.
  • Security concerns due to insurgent activities in some areas.
• Significance:
  • Ensures fair representation in legislative bodies.
  • Helps address regional imbalances in resource allocation and governance.

Source: Indian Express

11. Act Fast to Mitigate a Disaster in Teesta Valley, Groups Urge PM, CMs

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Disaster Management
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Disaster Management)

Why in News?:

• Advocacy groups have raised concerns about the potential disaster risks in the Teesta Valley following recent landslides and flooding events.
• Source: The Hindu

About Teesta Valley Disaster Risks:

• Definition/Description:
  • The Teesta Valley, a critical region in Sikkim and West Bengal, is prone to natural disasters like landslides, glacial lake outbursts, and floods due to its fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
• Key Issues Highlighted:
  • Hydropower Projects: Large-scale dam construction has exacerbated ecological fragility.
  • Unplanned Development: Roads, urban expansion, and deforestation increase vulnerability to disasters.
  • Climate Change: Accelerates glacial melting, leading to more frequent glacial lake outbursts.
• Recommendations from Advocacy Groups:
  • Immediate assessment of hydropower dam safety.
  • Implementation of sustainable development practices in the region.
  • Creation of an early warning system for floods and landslides.
• Future Prospects:
  • Collaborative disaster management policies involving central and state governments.
  • Community-based disaster preparedness initiatives to reduce casualties and property damage.

Source: The Hindu

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12. Guidelines for Incentives Worth ₹2,000 Crore for EV Charging Stations to Be Out Soon

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Environment
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Environment)

Why in News?:

• The government plans to release detailed guidelines for allocating ₹2,000 crore to boost electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across India.
• Source: Indian Express

About EV Charging Infrastructure Incentives:

• Definition/Description:
  • Electric Vehicle (EV) infrastructure refers to charging stations and networks that enable the widespread use of EVs, crucial for India’s carbon neutrality goals.
• Key Features of the Guidelines:
  • Support public-private partnerships for establishing EV charging stations.
  • Focus on Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities to ensure equitable access.
  • Incentives to promote renewable energy integration in charging stations.
• Current Challenges:
  • Limited availability of charging stations, especially in rural areas.
  • High initial setup costs for private operators.
  • Slow adoption of EVs due to “range anxiety.”
• Future Prospects:
  • The incentive scheme aligns with India’s target to achieve 30% EV penetration in the automobile sector by 2030.
  • Boosting EV infrastructure can create jobs and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Source: Indian Express

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13. SEBI’s New F&O Rules Kick In

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) implemented new rules for futures and options (F&O) trading to curb speculative activity and protect retail investors.
• Source: Indian Express

About SEBI’s F&O Rules:

• Key Aspects of the New Rules:
  • Increased margin requirements for F&O trades.
  • Mandatory risk disclosures for retail investors.
  • Restrictions on the use of leveraged trading in derivatives markets.
• Objectives:
  • Reduce systemic risks arising from excessive speculation.
  • Ensure investor protection, particularly for those with limited financial literacy.
• Impact on Markets:
  • Likely to moderate speculative activity, leading to more stable price discovery.
  • Could reduce participation in F&O by small retail investors.
• Future Implications:
  • Encourages responsible trading practices in India’s financial markets.
  • May pave the way for similar regulatory reforms in other segments.

Source: Indian Express

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14. Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS)

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Defense
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Defense)

Why in News?:

• The Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) has been in the spotlight due to its advanced capabilities and relevance in modern warfare.
• Source: Indian Express

About ATACMS:

• Definition/Description:
  • ATACMS is a surface-to-surface missile system capable of delivering precise strikes over long distances, used primarily by the U.S. Army.
• Key Features:
  • Range: Up to 300 km.
  • Payload: Can carry high-explosive warheads or cluster munitions.
  • Guidance: Equipped with GPS for precision targeting.
• Applications:
  • Used in high-intensity conflicts for destroying enemy fortifications, logistics hubs, and air defense systems.
• Significance for India:
  • Potential acquisition of similar missile systems could bolster India’s long-range strike capabilities.
  • Relevant in countering threats along the western and northern borders.

Source: Indian Express

15. 2nd India-Australia Annual Summit

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• The second India-Australia Annual Summit emphasized strengthening bilateral relations, focusing on trade, defense, and technology cooperation.
• Source: PIB

About the India-Australia Annual Summit:

• Definition/Description:
  • A platform to enhance strategic ties between India and Australia, part of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in 2020.
• Key Highlights:
  • Trade and Economy: Finalization of the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) to boost bilateral trade.
  • Defense Cooperation: Focus on joint naval exercises and defense technology transfers.
  • Technology Collaboration: Emphasis on space technology, AI, and cybersecurity.
• Global Context:
  • Both countries are key players in the Indo-Pacific and partners in the Quad framework.
  • Shared concerns over China’s assertive behavior in the region.
• Future Prospects:
  • Enhanced cooperation in renewable energy and critical minerals.
  • Greater collaboration in education and skill development.

Source: PIB

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16. DPIIT Celebrates 8th Anniversary of Industrial Corridors

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) marked the 8th anniversary of India’s industrial corridors initiative.
• Source: PIB

About Industrial Corridors:

• Definition/Description:
  • Industrial corridors are large infrastructure projects designed to connect industrial hubs with transportation and logistics facilities, boosting economic growth.
• Key Features:
  • Major Corridors: Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC), Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor (AKIC), and others.
  • Objectives: Promote manufacturing, attract investments, and create job opportunities.
• Current Challenges:
  • Delays in land acquisition and regulatory approvals.
  • Funding constraints and environmental concerns.
• Future Prospects:
  • Expansion of corridors into new regions.
  • Integration with smart cities and sustainable infrastructure.

Source: PIB

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17. ‘SANYUKT VIMOCHAN 2024’

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Defense
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Defense)

Why in News?:

• The Indian Armed Forces announced “Sanyukt Vimochan 2024,” a multi-domain military exercise to enhance joint operational capabilities.
• Source: PIB

About Sanyukt Vimochan 2024:

• Definition/Description:
  • A tri-service exercise involving the Army, Navy, and Air Force to test coordination and preparedness in multi-theater warfare.
• Key Features:
  • Objective: Enhance interoperability and readiness for combined operations in air, land, sea, and cyberspace.
  • Components: Includes live-fire drills, cyber defense simulations, and logistical exercises.
• Strategic Significance:
  • Strengthens India’s military capabilities amid evolving regional security challenges.
  • Aligns with the government’s focus on defense modernization and self-reliance.

Future Prospects:

• Lessons from the exercise will guide future policy and equipment procurement decisions.

Source: PIB

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18. Zero Case: India’s Polio Eradication Saga

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Health
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS2 (Health)

Why in News?:

• India commemorates its success in achieving zero polio cases, emphasizing the importance of vaccination and public health campaigns.
• Source: PIB

About Polio Eradication in India:

• Definition/Description:
  • Polio is a highly infectious viral disease affecting children. India was declared polio-free in 2014 by WHO.
• Key Aspects:
  • Universal Immunization Program (UIP): Played a pivotal role in vaccinating children across rural and urban areas.
  • Pulse Polio Campaigns: Mass immunization drives involving millions of healthcare workers and volunteers.
  • Community Involvement: Awareness campaigns ensured high participation rates.
• Global Context:
  • India’s success is considered a model for other nations battling polio.
  • The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) continues efforts in remaining polio-endemic countries like Pakistan and Afghanistan.
• Future Prospects:
  • Strengthening routine immunization programs to prevent resurgence.
  • Expanding lessons learned to tackle other communicable diseases.

Source: PIB

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