Today's Brief 3/07/2024
- Smriti IASxp
- Jul 3, 2024
- 10 min read
Youtube English:
Youtube Hindi: https://youtu.be/Ih7jr4JLFGw?si=QIj6_YK4SUS5odrC
Hindi Current affairs: https://www.smritiias.in/post/%E0%A4%9C%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%BE-%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B7%E0%A4%A3-3-07-2024
1.CQMH Abdul Hamid: CQMH Abdul Hamid was serving in 4 GRENADIERS in Khem Karan Sector during the Indo-Pak War of 1965. On 10 September 1965, Pakistan forces launched an attack with Patton tanks in Khem Karan sector. CQMH Abdul Hamid, who was commander of a jeep-mounted RCL Gun Detachment, moved to a flanking position. Under intense enemy shelling and tank fire, he knocked out the leading enemy tank and then swiftly changing his position, destroyed another tank.
By this time, the enemy tanks in the area had spotted him and brought his jeep under heavy fire.
Undeterred, CQMH Abdul Hamid kept on firing and motivated his detachment to destroy seven Pakistan tanks before getting mortally wounded.
For his conspicuous bravery, inspiring leadership and supreme sacrifice, he was awarded the Param Vir Chakra (Posthumous).
The Param Vir Chakra (PVC) is India's highest military decoration, awarded for displaying distinguished acts of valour during wartime. It literally translates to "Supreme Wheel of Bravery," and the award is granted for "most conspicuous bravery in the presence of the enemy."
2.The Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary located in Madhya Pradesh, India.
Established in 1974, it covers an area of approximately 368.62 square kilometers.
The sanctuary is named after the Gandhi Sagar Dam, which is situated on the Chambal River and forms the Gandhi Sagar Lake within the sanctuary.
Key Features
Biodiversity: The sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna. It supports a range of wildlife including deer, wild boar, leopards, and numerous species of birds.
Vegetation: The vegetation is primarily dry deciduous, with species such as teak, tendu, and khair.
Bird Watching: It is an excellent location for bird watching,
3. Elections in UK, the Political System:
The UK political system is a complex one, but here's a breakdown of the key features:
Type of Government:
Parliamentary monarchy: The UK has a hereditary monarch (currently King Charles III) as the head of state, but their role is largely symbolic. Real power lies with the Prime Minister and Parliament.
Parliamentary system: The government is formed by members of the Parliament, and the party with the most seats in the House of Commons usually leads the government.
Legislative Branch:
Bicameral Parliament: There are two chambers - the House of Commons (lower house) and the House of Lords (upper house).
House of Commons: Holds more power, with elected Members of Parliament (MPs) who represent constituencies. They are responsible for passing laws and holding the government to account.
House of Lords: Less powerful, with a mix of hereditary peers, appointed peers, and bishops. They revise laws passed by the Commons and can offer expertise on certain issues.
Executive Branch:
Prime Minister: Leads the government and is the head of the majority party in the House of Commons. They choose other ministers to form the cabinet and oversee government departments.
Cabinet: Key decision-making body of the government, made up of senior ministers.
Devolved Governments:
Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have their own devolved governments with some legislative powers over local issues.
Political Parties:
Multi-party system: No single party usually wins a majority of seats in the House of Commons, leading to coalition governments or minority governments.
Main parties: Conservative Party (centre-right), Labour Party (centre-left), and Liberal Democrats (centre). Nationalist parties are also prominent in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Some of the major political parties in the UK:
Major National Parties
Conservative Party (Tories)
Leader: Rishi Sunak
Position: Centre-right
Key Policies: Economic liberalism, fiscal conservatism, strong national defense, Brexit implementation.
Labour Party
Leader: Keir Starmer
Position: Centre-left
Key Policies: Social democracy, public ownership, welfare state expansion, workers' rights.
Liberal Democrats
Leader: Ed Davey
Position: Centre to centre-left
Key Policies: Civil liberties, social liberalism, environmentalism, pro-European Union.
Scottish National Party (SNP)
Leader: Humza Yousaf
Position: Centre-left to left-wing
Key Policies: Scottish independence, social democracy, pro-European Union .
Green Party of England and Wales
Leaders: Carla Denyer and Adrian Ramsay
Position: Left-wing
Key Policies: Environmentalism, social justice, anti-austerity, renewable energy.
Brexit Party (Reform UK)
Leader: Richard Tice (as of 2023)
Position: Right-wing to far-right
Key Policies: Brexit implementation, reduction of immigration, economic nationalism.
4. Critical Mineral: are natural elements and compounds that are essential for the economy, national security, and technological advancement but are at risk of supply disruption.
These minerals are crucial for the production of a wide range of products and technologies, including electronics, renewable energy systems, defense applications, and advanced manufacturing.
The importance of critical minerals has grown due to their vital role in modern technologies and the potential geopolitical risks associated with their supply chains.
Key Characteristics of Critical Minerals
Economic Importance:
Critical minerals are integral to key industries and emerging technologies.
They are essential for manufacturing products like batteries, smartphones, electric vehicles, wind turbines, and solar panels.
Supply Risk:
Many critical minerals are sourced from a limited number of countries, creating potential supply bottlenecks.
Political instability, trade restrictions, or other geopolitical issues can disrupt their supply.
Substitutability:
For many critical minerals, there are few or no substitutes that provide similar functionality and performance.
This lack of substitutability heightens their critical nature.
Examples of Critical Minerals
Rare Earth Elements (REEs):
Includes elements like neodymium, dysprosium, and terbium.
Used in permanent magnets, electronics, renewable energy technologies, and defense systems.
Lithium:
Essential for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles, smartphones, and laptops.
Cobalt:
Used in batteries, aerospace components, and industrial applications.
Nickel:
Important for stainless steel production and battery technologies.
Graphite:
Critical for battery anodes, lubricants, and other industrial applications.
Platinum Group Metals (PGMs):
Includes platinum, palladium, and rhodium.
Used in catalytic converters, electronics, and fuel cells.
Importance of Critical Minerals
Technological Advancement: Critical minerals are foundational for the development and deployment of advanced technologies, including renewable energy solutions and next-generation electronics.
National Security: Many defense technologies rely on critical minerals, making their secure supply essential for national security.
Economic Growth: Industries dependent on critical minerals contribute significantly to economic growth and job creation.
Energy Transition: The transition to a low-carbon economy relies heavily on technologies that require critical minerals, such as wind turbines, solar panels, and electric vehicles.
Strategies to Mitigate Supply Risks
Diversification of Supply Sources:
Developing and securing alternative sources of critical minerals.
Encouraging domestic production and reducing reliance on a few countries.
Recycling and Reuse:
Enhancing recycling programs to recover critical minerals from end-of-life products.
Promoting the circular economy to extend the lifecycle of materials.
Research and Development:
Investing in research to find alternative materials and improve extraction and processing technologies.
Developing new technologies to reduce the dependence on critical minerals.
International Cooperation:
Collaborating with international partners to ensure a stable and secure supply chain.
Establishing strategic partnerships and trade agreements.
5.Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes for 14 critical sectors, with a financial commitment of Rs. 1.97 lakh crore (over US$26 billion). This initiative aims to boost India's manufacturing capabilities and export potential.
The 14 sectors covered under the PLI Schemes include:
(i) Mobile Manufacturing and Specified Electronic Components,
(ii) Critical Key Starting Materials/Drug Intermediaries & Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients,
(iii) Manufacturing of Medical Devices,
(iv) Automobiles and Auto Components,
(v) Pharmaceutical Drugs,
(vi) Specialty Steel, (vii) Telecom & Networking Products,
(viii) Electronic/Technology Products,
(ix) White Goods (ACs and LEDs), (x) Food Products,
(xi) Textile Products (MMF segment and technical textiles),
(xii) High-Efficiency Solar PV Modules,
(xiii) Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery, and
(xiv) Drones and Drone Components.
6.Water hyacinth :Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) is a free-floating perennial aquatic plant native to the Amazon Basin. Known for its beautiful, lavender flowers and rapid growth, water hyacinth can become a problematic invasive species in many parts of the world.
Characteristics
Appearance: Water hyacinth has rounded, glossy leaves, spongy and inflated leaf stalks, and striking purple to lavender flowers. It can form dense mats on the water surface.
Reproduction: This plant reproduces both sexually (through seeds) and vegetatively (by producing daughter plants). It can double its population in just two weeks under optimal conditions.
Ecological Impact
Invasive Nature:
Water hyacinth can quickly overtake water bodies, forming thick mats that block sunlight and reduce oxygen levels in the water.
It disrupts aquatic ecosystems, affecting fish populations and other aquatic life.
Water Quality:
It can deplete nutrients and oxygen in the water, leading to poor water quality.
The dense mats hinder water flow, which can increase sedimentation and lead to the accumulation of pollutants.
Biodiversity:
The plant can outcompete native species, reducing biodiversity.
It provides habitat for disease vectors such as mosquitoes and snails, potentially increasing the risk of diseases like malaria and schistosomiasis
7.Abhaya mudra: is a symbolic hand gesture used in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions. It represents protection, peace, and the dispelling of fear.
The term "Abhaya" comes from the Sanskrit words "a" (without) and "bhaya" (fear), translating to "fearlessness."
Characteristics
Hand Position: The right hand is held up to shoulder height with the palm facing outward and fingers extended. The left hand is typically kept in a natural, relaxed position, often resting on the lap or at the side.
Symbolism: The raised hand represents a divine or enlightened being's reassurance to devotees and followers, indicating that they need not fear. It is a gesture of benevolence and protection.
Historical and Religious Significance
Buddhism:
The Abhaya Mudra is often associated with the Buddha and is depicted in various statues and images.
It symbolizes the Buddha's protective nature and his victory over fear, often linked to the moment when he calmed a rampaging elephant with his gesture
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Hinduism:
The gesture is associated with various deities, particularly Vishnu and Shiva, symbolizing their protective and fear-dispelling qualities.
It is a sign of blessings and assurance to devotees.
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Jainism:
Abhaya Mudra is seen in the statues of Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers) and represents their role in providing protection and guidance to their followers.
Artistic Representation
Statues and Icons: Abhaya Mudra is a common feature in religious sculptures and paintings. It is often combined with other mudras to convey multiple messages.
Temples and Monasteries: The gesture can be seen in various religious artworks and temple carvings, signifying the protective presence of the deity or enlightened being.
Modern Usage
Meditation and Yoga: Abhaya Mudra is sometimes incorporated into meditation and yoga practices to invoke a sense of peace, protection, and fearlessness.
Cultural Influence: The gesture is used in modern spiritual contexts and is recognized globally as a symbol of peace and reassurance.
Abhaya Mudra continues to be a powerful symbol of protection, reassurance, and the dispelling of fear across various spiritual and cultural traditions.
Places in News
Iran, officially known as the Islamic Republic of Iran, is a country located in Western Asia. It is bordered by Armenia and Azerbaijan to the northwest, the Caspian Sea to the north, Turkmenistan to the northeast, Afghanistan and Pakistan to the east, the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman to the south, and Iraq and Turkey to the west.
General Information
Capital: Tehran
Official Language: Persian (Farsi)
Population: Approximately 83 million
Currency: Iranian Rial (IRR)
Government: Theocratic republic
History
Iran, historically known as Persia, has one of the world's oldest civilizations, dating back to the Elamite kingdoms of the fourth millennium BC. The Achaemenid Empire, founded by Cyrus the Great in the 6th century BC, was the first of a series of powerful Persian empires. Over centuries, Iran has been a significant cultural and political force in the region.
In the 20th century, Iran underwent significant changes, including the Constitutional Revolution in 1906 and the nationalization of the oil industry in 1951. In 1979, the Iranian Revolution led to the establishment of the Islamic Republic, replacing the Pahlavi dynasty under Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi with a theocratic government led by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.
The United Kingdom (UK), officially known as the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, is a sovereign country located off the northwestern coast of mainland Europe. It comprises four constituent countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
General Information
Capital: London
Official Language: English
Population: Approximately 67 million
Currency: British Pound Sterling (GBP)
Government: Parliamentary constitutional monarchy
Monarch: King Charles III (as of 2023)
Prime Minister: Rishi Sunak (as of 2023)
Geography
The UK consists of:
Great Britain: Includes England, Scotland, and Wales.
Northern Ireland: Located on the island of Ireland, sharing a border with the Republic of Ireland.
History
Early History: The UK has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with notable periods including Roman Britain, Anglo-Saxon England, and the Norman Conquest in 1066.
Formation: The UK was formed through the union of England and Scotland in 1707, followed by the inclusion of Ireland in 1801. In 1922, the Irish Free State gained independence, leading to the current structure.
Modern Era: The UK played a significant role in global history, particularly during the British Empire, which was the largest empire in history. The 20th century saw two World Wars and the subsequent decolonization process.
Politics and Government
Monarchy: The UK is a constitutional monarchy with the monarch serving as the ceremonial head of state.
Parliament: The UK Parliament is bicameral, consisting of the House of Commons (elected) and the House of Lords (appointed).
Devolved Administrations: Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have their own parliaments/assemblies with varying degrees of legislative power.
Madhya Pradesh, located in central India, is known for its rich biodiversity and numerous wildlife sanctuaries. These sanctuaries play a crucial role in the conservation of wildlife and their habitats.
1. Bandhavgarh National Park
Location: Umaria district
Key Attractions: Famous for its high density of Bengal tigers, Bandhavgarh also has a rich variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, deer, and a wide range of bird species.
Unique Feature: Historical fort and ancient caves with inscriptions.
2. Kanha National Park
Location: Mandla and Balaghat districts
Key Attractions: Known for the Barasingha (swamp deer) and significant tiger population. Other wildlife includes leopards, wild dogs, and various bird species.
Unique Feature: Inspiration for Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book."
3. Pench National Park
Location: Seoni and Chhindwara districts
Key Attractions: Home to tigers, leopards, wild boar, and numerous species of birds and reptiles.
Unique Feature: The Pench River flows through the park, providing a vital water source for the wildlife.
4. Satpura National Park
Location: Hoshangabad district
Key Attractions: Rich in biodiversity with tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species.
Unique Feature: Offers activities like jeep safaris, walking safaris, and boat safaris.
5. Panna National Park
Location: Panna and Chhatarpur districts
Key Attractions: Known for its tigers, the park also hosts species like gharials, leopards, and several bird species.
Unique Feature: The Ken River runs through the park, adding to its scenic beauty.
6. Madhav National Park
Location: Shivpuri district
Key Attractions: Home to species like leopards, deer, and various bird species.
Unique Feature: The park includes the ancient George Castle and the Sakhya Sagar Lake.
7. Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve
Location: Sidhi and Singrauli districts
Key Attractions: Known for its tiger population, the reserve also hosts leopards, sloth bears, and numerous bird species.
Unique Feature: The reserve is part of the larger Sanjay National Park.
8. Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: Sagar, Damoh, and Narsinghpur districts
Key Attractions: Hosts a variety of wildlife including tigers, leopards, and chinkaras.
Unique Feature: It is one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh.
9. Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: Sheopur district
Key Attractions: Known for its diverse wildlife including leopards, wild dogs, and deer species.
Unique Feature: Kuno is being developed as a habitat for the Asiatic lion reintroduction project.
10. Bori Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: Hoshangabad district
Key Attractions: Rich in biodiversity with tigers, leopards, and numerous bird species.
Unique Feature: Part of the Satpura Biosphere Reserve, offering a diverse landscape of hills and valleys.
11. Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: Tikamgarh district
Key Attractions: Hosts a variety of wildlife including deer, peacocks, and other bird species.
Unique Feature: Located near the historical town of Orchha, known for its architectural heritage.
12. Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: Mandsaur and Neemuch districts
Key Attractions: Rich in avian fauna and other wildlife including leopards and deer.
Unique Feature: The sanctuary surrounds the Gandhi Sagar Dam on the Chambal River.
These wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh offer a glimpse into the state's rich natural heritage and play a crucial role in the conservation of India's wildlife.
Refrence:
Indian Express
The Hindu
PIB
And major News papers and media
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