UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 October 2024
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 October 2024 covers important current affairs of the day, their backward linkages, their relevance for Prelims exam and MCQs on main articles
InstaLinks : Insta Links help you think beyond the current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background.
Table of Contents
GS Paper 2: (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 October 2024)
• Casteism in Prison
Casteism in Prison
• India – Maldives
India – Maldives
GS Paper 3:
• MF Lite framework
MF Lite framework
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
• UGC report on PhD excellence
UGC report on PhD excellence
• Bride Bazaar
Bride Bazaar
• Agricultural Growth Data
Agricultural Growth Data
Facts for Prelims (FFP)
• “Free to Think 2024” report
“Free to Think 2024” report
• ISRO third launch pad
ISRO third launch pad
• Nobel Prize for Medicine, 2024
Nobel Prize for Medicine, 2024
• National Anubhav Award Scheme
National Anubhav Award Scheme
• Ni-Kshay Poshan Yojana
Ni-Kshay Poshan Yojana
Mapping:
• Gangaramchak and Gangaramchak-Bhadulia coal mine
Gangaramchak and Gangaramchak-Bhadulia coal mine
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 October 2024
#### GS Paper 2:
Casteism in Prison
Syllabus: Governance
- •Source: TH*
Context: The Supreme Court on October 3 declared caste-based labour assignments in prisons as “unconstitutional”, striking down provisions in State prison manuals across more than 10 states, including Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
• The court highlighted that assigning menial jobs like cleaning to marginalized castes while reserving cooking for higher castes violates Articles 14 (Right to Equality), 15 (Prohibition of discrimination), 17 (Abolition of untouchability), and 23 (Prohibition of forced labour) of the Constitution.
Key issues identified in prison manuals:
• Caste-based discrimination: Manuals still include discriminatory rules that segregate prisoners based on caste, assigning specific duties based on social hierarchies.
E.g. The separation of Thevars, Nadars, and Pallars in Tamil Nadu prisons.
• Colonial legacy: Prison rules continue to categorize members of denotified tribes as “habitual offenders” or “born criminals,” perpetuating colonial-era stereotypes.
• Labor segregation: Specific tasks are assigned based on caste, such as Brahmins being given cooking duties while marginalized castes are assigned cleaning and manual labor roles.
Current status of Indian prisons:
• Overcrowding: Indian prisons operate at 117% capacity, with a significant proportion of inmates being under-trial prisoners.
• Poor conditions: Lack of hygiene, inadequate medical facilities, especially for women, and reports of custodial torture persist.
• Judicial delays: Prolonged trials and a lack of access to legal aid hinder timely justice for inmates.
Legal framework governing prisons:
• Articles 14, 15, 17, and 23: These constitutional provisions prohibit discrimination, untouchability, and forced labor, ensuring equality and dignity for all.
• Model Prison Manual (2016) and Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act (2023): Criticized for retaining vague definitions of “habitual offenders” and failing to fully eliminate caste-based discrimination.
• Prisons Act, 1894: The primary legislation governing prison administration in India.
Consequences of caste-based discrimination in prisons:
• Violation of fundamental rights: Caste-based labor assignments undermine inmates’ dignity, equality, and human rights.
• Perpetuation of social inequality: Reinforces social hierarchies, stigmatizing marginalized communities even within prison walls.
• Obstruction to reformation: Caste-based assignments restrict personal growth and rehabilitation opportunities for marginalized inmates.
Way ahead for prison reforms:
• Amend prison manuals: Ensure that all states and Union Territories update prison rules to eliminate discriminatory practices within the next three months.
• Legal framework enhancement: Incorporate provisions from the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013 into the prison manual.
• Regular inspections: District legal services authorities and boards of visitors should conduct periodic inspections to identify and rectify any biases.
• Awareness and sensitization: Train prison staff on the principles of equality and non-discrimination to promote inclusive prison practices.
• Judicial oversight: Encourage adherence to guidelines laid out in landmark judgments like Arnesh Kumar Vs. State of Bihar (2014) for the protection of prisoners’ rights.
Conclusion
The SC’s judgment marks a significant step toward reforming India’s prison system by rooting out caste-based discrimination. Moving forward, strict adherence to constitutional principles and reforms in prison administration will be essential to safeguard the dignity and rights of all inmates.
Insta Links:
• Model-prisons-act-2023
• Prison-Reforms-in-India
• “Caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence caste system cannot be eradicated in India.” Comment. (UPSC-2018)
• What are the two major legal initiatives by the State since Independence addressing discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (STs)? (UPSC-2017)
India – Maldives
- •Syllabus: International relations*
- •Source: IE*
Context: As Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Muizzu in New Delhi, India decided to extend support in the form of INR 30 billion and USD 400 million as part of a bilateral currency swap agreement, instrumental in tackling the ongoing financial challenges faced by the Maldives.
Background on India-Maldives relations:
• Political Relations: India and Maldives share a history of close ties, with India often acting as a first responder during crises, such as the water crisis in Malé (2014) and the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Economic Cooperation: India has provided significant financial aid to Maldives, including budgetary support and currency swap agreements, to help stabilize the Maldivian economy.
• Security Partnership: Defense and maritime cooperation have been key areas, with joint efforts to counter terrorism, piracy, and drug trafficking in the Indian Ocean Region.
• Historic Ties: Diplomatic relations date back to 1965, with strong people-to-people and cultural connections that have been built over decades.
Recent agreements:
• Financial support: India extended a $400 million currency swap agreement and INR 30 billion to aid Maldives’ economic challenges.
• Free trade agreement: Discussions initiated to boost trade and economic ties between the two countries.
• Defense cooperation: Agreements on defense infrastructure upgrades, provision of radar systems, and enhancing MNDF’s surveillance and maritime capabilities.
• Development projects: Support for social housing, the Greater Malé Connectivity Project, and the development of ports and airports.
Significance of the pact:
• Strengthening bilateral ties: The agreements cement India’s role as a strategic partner in Maldives’ development and security.
• Maritime security: Enhances India’s influence in the Indian Ocean, contributing to regional stability and security.
• Economic stability: Financial aid and economic agreements aim to stabilize Maldives’ economy and boost bilateral trade.
• Defence collaboration: Upgrading defense capabilities in Maldives bolsters regional defense against common threats like terrorism and piracy.
Challenges:
• Political instability: The recent anti-India sentiment in Maldives and fluctuating political alliances could affect bilateral relations.
• China’s influence: Growing Chinese investments in Maldives could counterbalance India’s strategic interests in the region.
• Debt dependency: Maldives’ heavy reliance on external financial aid poses risks of economic instability and dependency.
• Environmental concerns: Rising sea levels and environmental issues could hinder long-term developmental projects in Maldives.
Way Ahead:
• Enhanced diplomatic engagement: Continued high-level political exchanges to address challenges and strengthen relations.
• Diversified investments: Focus on sustainable projects in renewable energy, tourism, and blue economy to reduce Maldives’ economic vulnerabilities.
• Maritime security framework: Collaborate on initiatives like the One Sun One World One Grid for energy security in the Indian Ocean Region.
• Public diplomacy: Strengthen people-to-people ties through cultural, educational, and medical cooperation to build goodwill.
Insta Links:
• India – Maldives
• Strategic-importance
Discuss the political developments in the Maldives in the last two years. Should they be of any cause for concern to India? (UPSC-2013)
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 October 2024 GS Paper 3:
MF Lite framework
Syllabus: Capital market
- •Source: TH*
Context: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) introduced the Mutual Funds Lite (MF Lite) framework on September 30 to promote passively managed mutual fund schemes.
• This initiative aims to attract new players to the mutual fund industry, offer diversified and less risky investment opportunities for retail investors, and enhance market liquidity.
Features of MF Lite framework:
• Relaxed regulations: Lower eligibility criteria for sponsors, including requirements related to net worth, track record, and profitability, to ease entry for new AMCs.
• Minimum net worth: Mandates a minimum net worth of ₹35 crore for AMCs operating passive funds, ensuring adequate liquidity.
• Simplified governance: Reduced oversight role for trustees in passive funds, with a focus on preventing conflicts of interest and market misconduct.
• Board-level operations: Daily operational control shifted to the AMC’s board to maintain transparency in fees, expenses, and tracking errors.
Need for a separate framework
• Lower risk profile: Passive funds mimic index performance, making the stringent requirements of active funds unnecessary.
• Predictable strategy: Tracking established indices means minimal discretion in asset allocation, lowering the need for tight regulations.
• Regulatory simplification: Current regulations focus on active funds; a separate framework tailors to the unique nature of passive funds.
• Enhanced market participation: Encourages new and smaller players to enter the mutual fund ecosystem, increasing diversity and competition.
Impact of the MF Lite framework:
• New market entrants: Lower financial barriers and governance changes are expected to attract more AMCs, increasing competition.
• Increased liquidity: More players in the market will improve overall liquidity, enhancing market stability.
• Cost-efficient options: Investors benefit from cost-effective passive funds, focusing on minimizing expenses and maximizing returns.
• Operational efficiency: Shifting oversight to the AMC’s board streamlines processes and boosts transparency.
Risks associated with MF Lite framework
• Tracking error: Deviation from the benchmark can lead to lower-than-expected returns, impacting investor profits.
• Expense management: Even with a low TER, unmanaged costs can reduce the returns of passive funds.
• Market volatility: Passive funds mirror market movements, making them vulnerable to downturns without active intervention.
• Limited flexibility: Lack of active management limits response to market shifts, potentially affecting performance during market instability.
Conclusion:
The MF Lite framework represents a significant step towards creating a robust, inclusive, and diversified mutual fund ecosystem in India. Adopting global best practices, focusing on investor education, and using technology for transparency will ensure sustainable growth and responsible investment opportunities in the passive mutual fund space.
Insta Links:
• SEBI-rules-to-curb-F&O
Which of the following is issued by registered foreign portfolio investors to overseas investors who want to be part of the Indian stock market without registering themselves directly? (UPSC-2019)
(a) Certificate of Deposit
(b) Commercial Paper
(c) Promissory Not
(d) Participatory Note
Answer: d)
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 October 2024 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
UGC report on PhD excellence
Context: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has initiated a Ph.D. excellence citation to recognize outstanding research work by scholars in Indian universities, aiming to promote original research and academic excellence across disciplines.
Data Information
• Study period: UGC analyzed Ph.D. admissions between 2011 and 2018.
• Admission growth rate: Ph.D. admissions grew by 10% annually during the period.
• Increase in admissions: The number of Ph.D. admissions doubled from 77,798 in 2010-11 to 1,61,412 in 2017-18.
• Discipline-wise distribution: Science: 30% of Ph.D. degrees awarded Engineering and Technology: 26% Social Sciences: 12%
• Science: 30% of Ph.D. degrees awarded
• Engineering and Technology: 26%
• Social Sciences: 12%
• Source: UGC report
Relevance to GS2 (Governance, Education, and Policy Implementation)
• Higher education reforms: Highlights efforts by UGC to promote quality research in Indian universities, aligning with policies to improve educational standards.
• Government initiatives: Reflects India’s focus on enhancing academic excellence and encouraging innovation through structured recognition.
• Human resource development: Emphasizes the importance of nurturing skilled researchers to contribute to national development and knowledge economy.
Bride Bazaar
Context: The “bride bazaar” in Hyderabad’s Old City has resurfaced online, facilitating marriages between young girls and wealthy Arab men, often much older than the brides. These marriages, brokered by agents, now occur via WhatsApp video calls instead of physical meetings. Despite earlier crackdowns, at least 20-30 such marriages happen monthly, with girls sent to their “husbands” on tourist visas, often facing exploitation. The process is hard to trace due to its online nature, requiring stricter monitoring of brokers and visa agents.
Usage in UPSC Syllabus:
• GS4 (Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude): This case highlights issues of human trafficking, exploitation, moral ethics, and violation of human rights. It emphasizes the need for a moral compass in policymaking and law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals.
• Essay paper: The topic can be used to discuss themes like human rights, social justice, gender equality, and moral responsibilities in society.
Ethical issues involved:
• Exploitation: Young girls are exploited financially due to their poverty.
• Human trafficking: Marriages are used to traffic women for potential abuse abroad.
• Violation of consent: These marriages undermine the girls’ autonomy and true consent.
• Corruption: Agents and some authorities prioritize profit over ethical responsibilities.
Agricultural Growth Data
Context: India’s agricultural sector has seen improved growth over the last two decades, with a notable acceleration during the tenure of the Modi-led NDA government, according to a NITI Aayog paper.
Agricultural growth data: (Source: NITI Aayog, Ramesh Chand and Jaspal Singh)
Period | Average Annual Growth in Agri GVA | Primary Drivers of Growth
1984-85 to 1993-94 | 2.90% | Traditional crops
1994-95 to 2003-04 | 2.90% | Traditional crops
2004-05 to 2013-14 | 3.50% | Diversification begins; livestock
2014-15 to 2023-24 | 3.70% | Livestock, fisheries, horticulture
Key highlights of Sub – sectors:
Subsector | Growth Rate (2014-15 to 2022-23)
Poultry Meat | 9.20%
Fishing & Aquaculture | 9.10%
Eggs | 6.60%
Milk | 5.80%
Horticulture | 3.90%
Crops (Field) | 1.60%
NOTE: Try to memorise data table and its trend. In case of difficulty in memorising go for graph which can fetch you same value addition to your answer.
State-wise Performance (2014-15 to 2022-23)
• Top Performers (4%+ Annual Growth): Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, and 11 other states.
• Lagging States: Punjab (2% growth), Haryana (3.4%), West Bengal (2.8%).
Policy Implications
• Market-led Diversification: Emphasis on livestock, fisheries, and horticulture has driven agricultural growth.
• Uneven Distribution: Benefits of growth are not equally distributed, with field crops still lagging despite minimum support price interventions.
• Need for Technology and Demand-Side Focus: Improved production technologies and demand factors are more crucial than government price interventions for sustained growth.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 October 2024 Facts for Prelims (FFP)
“Free to Think 2024” report
Source: TH
Context: India’s academic freedom has significantly declined over the past decade, with growing concerns over political influence and restrictions on student protests at universities. This trend has been highlighted in the “Free to Think 2024” report, which examines global academic freedom.
More about the report:
• Published by: Scholars at Risk (SAR) Academic Freedom Monitoring Project, a network of 665 universities worldwide.
• India’s Rank: Slipped from 0.6 points to 0.2 points on the Academic Freedom Index from 2013 to 2023, now classified as “completely restricted,” its lowest level since the mid-1940s.
• Key Findings: The report covers 391 attacks on higher education in 51 countries between July 2023 and June 2024. Highlights political control and a Hindu nationalist agenda influencing India’s universities. Restrictions on student protests noted in institutions like Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and South Asian University (SAU).
• The report covers 391 attacks on higher education in 51 countries between July 2023 and June 2024.
• Highlights political control and a Hindu nationalist agenda influencing India’s universities.
• Restrictions on student protests noted in institutions like Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and South Asian University (SAU).
The report indicates growing tensions between the Indian central and state governments over higher education control, affecting institutions in states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Punjab.
Insta links:
• India-rankings-2024
ISRO third launch pad
Source: TOI
Context: ISRO is expanding its space capabilities by establishing a third launch pad at Sriharikota, aiming to support new technologies like the New Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV), while enhancing redundancy for critical missions and future space endeavors.
Existing launch pads in India:
• First launch pad (FLP): Designed for PSLV missions; located at Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
• Second launch pad (SLP): Supports GSLV and LVM-3 missions; also situated at Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
Key features of the third launch pad
• Redundancy: Acts as a backup to ensure uninterrupted GSLV launches if issues arise with the second launch pad.
• Horizontal integration for NGLV: Designed for horizontal assembly of the NGLV, focusing on liquid engine boosters, enhancing assembly efficiency.
• Increased payload capacity: Supports NGLV’s higher payloads — 20 tonnes to LEO and 9 tonnes to GTO, up from current vehicle capabilities.
• Integrated stage testing: Will include stage testing facilities directly at the pad, unlike previous setups at Mahendragiri, streamlining operations.
Insta links:
• Kulasekarapattinam
Nobel Prize for Medicine, 2024
- •Source: TH*
Context: The Nobel Prize for Medicine in 2024 has been awarded to Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun for their groundbreaking work in discovering microRNA and its role in gene regulation.
Nobel Prize in Medicine 2024:
• Laureates: Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun.
• Work recognized: Discovery of microRNA and its role in post-transcriptional gene regulation.
• Research focus: They studied the roundworm C. Elegans and identified how the lin-4 microRNA regulates the lin-14 gene by inhibiting its protein production.
Significance of their work:
• Gene regulation: Understanding microRNA’s role in gene regulation is crucial for biological processes as it helps control protein production in cells.
E.g. Disruption in this regulation can lead to diseases like cancer or diabetes.
• Medical implications: Their work has highlighted the role of microRNA in preventing or contributing to several diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.
E.g. Mutations in microRNA-related genes can cause congenital hearing loss or skeletal disorders.
• Therapeutic potential: MicroRNA-based treatments are being explored for developing targeted therapies for genetic disorders.
E.g. Therapeutic approaches may involve altering microRNA activity to treat specific cancers.
• Evolutionary importance: MicroRNAs have been crucial in genetic evolution for millions of years, influencing how cells and tissues develop in multi-celled organisms.
E.g. Abnormal microRNA activity has been linked to various developmental disorders.
Nobel prize overview:
• Established: 1901, based on Alfred Nobel’s will to recognize contributions in Physics, Chemistry, Medicine, Literature, and Peace.
• Award process: Recipients are chosen by committees based on rigorous assessments of their work’s impact on their respective fields.
• Significance: It is one of the highest honors in the scientific community, promoting advancements that contribute to humanity’s well-being.
• Selection criteria: The Nobel Prize recognizes those whose discoveries have had the most significant benefit to humanity, with an emphasis on innovation and progress.
Insta links:
• 2023 Noble Prize for medicine
National Anubhav Award Scheme
Source: PIB
Context: For the first time, Anubhav me covers employees of Central Public Sector Undertakings, including Public Sector Banks.
About National Anubhav Award Scheme:
• Origin and Aim: Launched in March 2015 by the Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare. Objective: To encourage and incentivize retiring and retired government employees to share their experiences and contributions towards nation-building through the Anubhav Portal.
• Launched in March 2015 by the Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare.
• Objective: To encourage and incentivize retiring and retired government employees to share their experiences and contributions towards nation-building through the Anubhav Portal.
• Ministry Involved: Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare (DOPPW) under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.
• Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare (DOPPW) under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.
• Key Features: Eligibility: Extended to employees of Central Government, CPSUs, and Public Sector Banks for the first time. Write-Up Submission: Submissions can now be made up to three years after retirement, instead of the previous one-year limit. Award Categories: Five Anubhav Awards and ten Jury Certificates will be conferred based on the assessment of published write-ups. New Marking System: Introduced for evaluating submissions based on different pay levels to ensure a streamlined assessment process.
• Eligibility: Extended to employees of Central Government, CPSUs, and Public Sector Banks for the first time.
• Write-Up Submission: Submissions can now be made up to three years after retirement, instead of the previous one-year limit.
• Award Categories: Five Anubhav Awards and ten Jury Certificates will be conferred based on the assessment of published write-ups.
• New Marking System: Introduced for evaluating submissions based on different pay levels to ensure a streamlined assessment process.
Insta Links:
• Good governance
Ni-Kshay Poshan Yojana
Source: PIB
Context: Union Health Minister unveils key initiatives to boost Nutrition Support for TB Patients and their Families. Monthly support under Ni-Kshay Poshan Yojana increased from the existing ₹500 per month to ₹1000 per month for all TB patients.
Recent Changes in Ni-Kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY)
• Increased monthly support: Nutritional support under Ni-Kshay Poshan Yojana has been raised from ₹500 to ₹1,000 per month for all TB patients throughout the treatment duration.
• Additional funding: The government approved an additional allocation of ₹1,040 crores to support the increased nutritional needs.
• Energy dense nutritional supplementation (EDNS): EDNS introduced for underweight patients (BMI <18.5 kg/m2), covering approximately 12 lakh patients for the first two months of treatment.
• Expansion to household contacts: The Ni-Kshay Mitra initiative under Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan will now also support household contacts of TB patients with food baskets to boost immunity and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
About Ni-Kshay portal:
• Ministry: Managed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
• Origin: Launched in 2018 to digitally track and manage TB patients’ treatment, improve data collection, and facilitate targeted interventions.
• Aim: To achieve a TB-free India by 2025 by providing comprehensive support to patients, including nutritional and financial aid.
• Targets: Focuses on tracking TB cases, ensuring compliance with treatment, and reducing transmission rates through Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT) and other support measures.
Schemes to counter TB in India
• Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (PMTBMBA): Focuses on community support for TB patients, involving “Ni-kshay Mitras” to provide nutritional and social support to patients and their families.
• Ni-Kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY): Provides nutritional support of ₹1,000 per month to all TB patients throughout the treatment period to enhance recovery and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
• Energy dense nutritional supplementation (EDNS): Specifically targets underweight TB patients (BMI <18.5 kg/m2) with supplementary nutrition to aid faster recovery.
• Direct benefit transfers (DBT): Ensures financial assistance directly to beneficiaries’ bank accounts to cover treatment and nutritional costs, aiming to improve adherence to TB treatment.
Insta links:
• TB elimination
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 October 2024 Mapping:
Gangaramchak and Gangaramchak-Bhadulia coal mine
Source: HT
Context: At least five people were killed in an explosion at a coal mine in West Bengal’s Birbhum district.
Places in news:
• Birbhum District, West Bengal:
• Location: Birbhum is located in the western part of the state of West Bengal, India. Mineral extracted: Known for coal mining, with several mines operating in the region, including the Gangaramchak and Gangaramchak-Bhadulia coal mines.
• Location: Birbhum is located in the western part of the state of West Bengal, India.
• Mineral extracted: Known for coal mining, with several mines operating in the region, including the Gangaramchak and Gangaramchak-Bhadulia coal mines.
• Gangaramchak and Gangaramchak-Bhadulia coal mine:
• Location: These coal mines are situated in the Khoyrasole block of Birbhum district, West Bengal. Mineral extracted: Primarily coal, used for energy production by the West Bengal Power Development Corporation Ltd. (WBPDCL).
• Location: These coal mines are situated in the Khoyrasole block of Birbhum district, West Bengal.
• Mineral extracted: Primarily coal, used for energy production by the West Bengal Power Development Corporation Ltd. (WBPDCL).
• Khoyrasole Block:
• Location: A block under Lokpur police station in Birbhum district, West Bengal. Mineral extracted: Coal mining activities are prominent in this area.
• Location: A block under Lokpur police station in Birbhum district, West Bengal.
• Mineral extracted: Coal mining activities are prominent in this area.
• Mohammad Bazar Area, Birbhum district:
• Location: A locality in Birbhum district, West Bengal, India.
• Mineral extracted: Known for stone quarrying and mining activities, including the presence of explosive materials used for mining operations.
Insta links:
• Coal-sector-reforms
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 October 2024 Insight Short:
Insight Short:
Topic | Why in news? | Source
iDEX (ADITI 2.0) challenge | Offers 19 challenges in AI, Quantum Tech, anti-drone systems, with grants up to ₹25 crore for iDEX winners. | PIB
DISC 12 challenge | Presents 41 challenges in UAVs, AI, and communication, including MIRA initiative, with grants up to ₹1.50 crore for start-ups/MSMEs. | PIB
Indian Institute of Foreign Trade | The iconic India Pavilion at the Expo City in Dubai will host the first overseas campus of Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT). | PIB
Nepal and India | Both nations have reached the B2B Framework Agreement regarding the development of petroleum infrastructure in Nepal. | News on Air
France and India | Both nations jointly will be setting up an aeronautics cluster as well as developing an Indo-French campus for professional training in aeronautics and space. | PTI News
Daily Current Affairs + PIB Summary 8 Oct 2024
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