UPSC Daily Current Affairs - 18th March 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS-I

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Subject: Geography

Why is it in the News?

Recent conflicts between the Congolese army and the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group have led to numerous casualties and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people.

Background

• Tensions between Congo and Rwanda have escalated, with Rwanda being accused of supporting rebel forces. This situation not only increases the risk of a full-scale conflict but also endangers food security for millions.

About the Democratic Republic of the Congo

• The DRC is a country located in Central Africa and is the second-largest country on the continent in terms of land area.
• While the DRC has a small coastline on the Atlantic Ocean, it is predominantly landlocked.
• Named after the Congo River, which traverses the country, the capital and largest city of the DRC is Kinshasa.
• Often referred to as the DRC or Congo (Kinshasa) to differentiate it from the Republic of the Congo, which is also known as Congo (Brazzaville).
• The country shares borders with several nations including the Republic of the Congo, Central African Republic, South Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Zambia, Angola, and the South Atlantic Ocean.
• Rich in natural resources like industrial diamonds, cobalt, and copper, the DRC has faced challenges such as political instability, lack of infrastructure, corruption, and a history of exploitation.

Congo River

• Formerly known as the Zaire River, the Congo River is the second-longest river in Africa after the Nile and the third-largest river globally in terms of discharge volume, following the Amazon and Ganges rivers.
• It holds the record as the world's deepest river, with depths reaching approximately 220 meters and is unique for crossing the Equator twice.
• Flowing through the Congo rainforest, the second largest rainforest in the world, the river ultimately empties into the Atlantic Ocean.

Source: The Hindu

Darien Gap

Subject: Geography

Why in News?

The Darien Gap, located between northern Colombia and southern Panama, has gained attention as a dangerous path for migrants seeking refuge in the US.

• Background: The Darien Gap poses significant challenges due to its difficult terrain of humid rainforests and the presence of criminal groups controlling the area, making it an exceptionally perilous route.

About Darien Gap:

• Location: Situated in the Isthmus of Darien, the Darien Gap, also known as "Tapón del Darién" in Spanish, connects the continents of Central America.
• Features:
  • Geography: The region encompasses a vast watershed, dense forests, and mountains in Panama's Darien Province and the northern part of Colombia's Chocó Department.
  • Significance: It serves as the sole land route linking Central and South America, attracting migrants such as Haitians and Venezuelans who trek through the jungle to reach the US border.
• Key Features:
  • Population: The Darien Gap is inhabited by the Embera-Wounaan and Guna communities, along with the extinct Cueva people who vanished post the Spanish invasion of Panama in 1535.
  • Geographical Contrast: The Colombian side features the expansive river delta of the Atrato River, creating a wide marshland, while the Panamanian side is characterized by mountainous rainforests.
  • Roads: No roads, not even basic ones, traverse the Darien Gap, causing a disruption in the Pan-American Highway's continuity.

Source: Down To Earth

Konark Sun Temple

Subject: Art and Culture

Why in News?

The Union government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has sanctioned a new 32 km railway line linking Puri and Konark.

• These towns are renowned for the Shree Jagannath Temple and the Sun Temple, respectively.
• About Konark Sun Temple:
  • Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is also known as Black Pagoda, Arka Kshetra, and Padma Kshetra.
  • Constructed during the 13th century under Eastern Ganga King Narasimhadeva-I's rule, it signifies a peak in Kalinga Architecture.
  • Devoted to the Sun God, these temples emphasize the Sun's celestial movements.
  • The temple's construction involved Chlorite, Laterite, and Khondalite rocks.
  • Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore praised the temple as a place where stone communicates surpassingly.
• Structure of the Temple:
  • The entrance features the Gajasimha, symbolizing pride and wealth through lions and elephants.
  • The Natya Mandapa showcases diverse dance styles, leading to the Jagamohan assembly hall.
  • Subsequently, the sanctum or deul houses the idol, followed by the Bhoga-mandira for deity offerings.
• Architectural Features:
  • Designed to capture the first rays of the rising sun, symbolizing the chariot of Surya, the Sun God.
  • The temple stands on 24 intricately carved wheels, resembling a chariot drawn by seven horses towards dawn.
  • Carvings depict various designs, including medallions with women in luxurious poses, symbolic of sacred verses and the rainbow's colors.
  • Impressive carvings of the Sun God at strategic locations capture different times of the day.
  • Carvings narrate daily life alongside depictions of mythical creatures, sensuous details, and animals.

Source: The Hindu

GS-II

Subject: International Relations

Why in News? 

Indian Army contingent departed for Seychelles to participate in the Tenth edition of Joint Military Exercise "LAMITIYE-2024".

About Exercise LAMITIYE:

• Joint military exercise between the Indian Army and Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF).
• 'LAMITIYE' translates to 'Friendship' in the Creole language.
• A biennial training event held in Seychelles since 2001.
• 45 personnel from the GORKHA RIFLES of the Indian Army and Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF) will participate in the 2024 exercise.
• Enhances cooperation and interoperability between both sides during Peace Keeping Operations.
• Builds and promotes bilateral military relations while exchanging skills, experiences, and good practices between both armies.
• Includes joint training, planning, and execution of tactical drills for neutralization of likely threats in a Semi-Urban environment.
• Focuses on showcasing new-generation equipment and technology.

Source: PIB

Nepal's Political Turmoil and India's Role

Subject: International Relations

Why in News?

Nepal's Prime Minister Prachanda recently secured a vote of confidence in Parliament.

• He won his third trust vote after forming a new alliance with the Communist Party of Nepal.

Political Crisis and Floor Tests

• Prachanda faced multiple floor tests in 2023 and 2024 due to shifting alliances and support withdrawals.
• Nepal has witnessed 13 governments since 2008, impacting political stability.

Impact of Political Instability

• Nepal's political instability has led to economic repercussions, prompting many Nepalis to seek work abroad.
• Thousands of Nepalis migrate to countries like the Middle East, South Korea, and Malaysia for employment.

India's Concern and Relations with Nepal

• India closely monitors Nepal's political situation, especially Prachanda's actions.
• Bilateral trade between India and Nepal exceeds $7 billion, with significant Indian assistance during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Nepal's Relations with India and China

• Nepal balances relations between India and China, utilizing aid and investments from both countries.
• Chinese aid to Nepal has increased significantly, impacting trade dynamics in the region.

India's Stance and Future Outlook

• India's approach towards Nepal should prioritize mutual respect and equal partnership.
• New Delhi must maintain a nuanced stance to prevent external influences from affecting bilateral relations.

Source: The Hindu

GS-III

Predictive AI: Its Use Cases and Benefits

Why in News?

Predictive AI emerges as a transformative force, reshaping how businesses analyse data, make decisions, and stay ahead in their respective industries.

Introduction to Predictive AI

• Predictive AI, a form of artificial intelligence, utilizes machine learning to analyze past events and forecast future occurrences.
• Unlike traditional AI, Predictive AI focuses on making predictions by recognizing patterns within extensive datasets.

Functionality of Predictive AI

• Predictive AI goes beyond data analysis to anticipate outcomes, market shifts, and aid in making strategic decisions.
• By learning from historical data and adjusting to emerging trends, Predictive AI assists organizations in navigating uncertainties.

Working of Predictive AI

• Predictive AI relies on big data and machine learning to process vast datasets without human intervention.
• It identifies patterns by associating different data types or occurrences, enabling it to predict future events accurately.

Distinguishing Predictive AI from Generative AI

• Predictive AI extrapolates future outcomes, while Generative AI creates content using machine learning.
• Predictive AI focuses on forecasting, whereas Generative AI generates new content based on existing data.

Use Cases of Predictive AI

• Impact of Extreme Weather Events
  • Predictive AI can analyze data patterns to predict the impact of events like volcanic eruptions on air travel.
  • For example, Yandex developed a map for monitoring ash clouds in real-time after volcanic eruptions.
• Oil and Gas Exploration
  • Companies can use Predictive AI to predict ideal locations for new oil wells based on historical geological data.
  • Saudi Aramco utilizes generative AI for analyzing drilling plans and geological data to enhance forecasting accuracy.
• Medicine Research
  • Predictive AI models are valuable in drug discovery, aiding pharmaceutical companies in research collaborations.
  • Initiatives like the 'MELLODDY Project' facilitate data sharing among pharmaceutical firms for enhanced research outcomes.

Source: Forbes

The Challenge of Equity in IPCC Reports

Subject: Environment

Why in News?

The recent analysis of over 500 future emissions scenarios from the IPCC reports highlights persistent disparities in income, energy use, and emissions between developed and developing nations until 2050.

Understanding the IPCC

• The IPCC, a United Nations body formed in 1988, aims to provide governments with scientific insights for shaping climate policies.
• It relies on contributions from experts worldwide to compile Assessment Reports detailing climate change knowledge, causes, impacts, and response options.

Assessment Reports Overview

• Since its inception, the IPCC has produced six Assessment Reports, with the latest being the 6th Assessment Report released in segments.
• The most recent Synthesis Report from the 6th Assessment was published in March 2023.

Future Scenario Assessment Methodology

• The IPCC uses 'modelled pathways' based on Integrated Assessment Models to predict strategies for limiting global warming.
• Integrated Assessment Models consider various factors like economic growth, energy consumption, land use changes, and climate evolution to offer policy guidelines.

Study Findings and Inequities

• An investigation by experts revealed that regions like Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia are projected to have below-average GDP per capita by 2050.
• Inequities in consumption patterns and energy usage between the Global North and South persist, impacting climate change responses.

Significance of Equity

• The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change emphasizes equity and differentiated responsibilities, urging developed nations to lead in climate action due to their greater capabilities.
• Equitable distribution of climate responsibilities is crucial for addressing global climate challenges effectively.

Call for Equitable and Sustainable Scenarios

• The study underscores the necessity for IPCC scenarios to prioritize equity and environmental sustainability, highlighting a current deficiency in emissions modeling practices.
• There is a growing need for modeling techniques that foreground questions of equity and climate justice in scenario building processes.

Source: Times of India

Indigenous Drug for Sickle Cell Disease

Subject: Science and Technology

Why in News?

Akmus Drugs and Pharmaceutical Limited, based in Delhi, has introduced a groundbreaking medication for sickle cell disease on March 16. This new drug is the first of its kind in India, offering a stable solution at room temperature, and is priced significantly lower than the global market.

Akmus Sickle Cell Drug Overview

• The drug consists of an oral suspension of Hydroxyurea as its primary ingredient.
• Priced at less than ₹600, this medication is set to transform the landscape of sickle cell disease treatment in the country.
• Designed to cater to patients of all age groups, it provides ease and accuracy in dosage administration with the help of oral syringes.

Key Features of the Drug

• Room Temperature Stability

  Unlike imported alternatives that demand storage at 2-8 degrees Celsius, Akmus Pharmaceuticals' formulation ensures easy accessibility without the need for stringent storage conditions.

• Cost-Efficiency

  While the global brand is priced at around ₹77,000, Akmus' solution represents a significant shift towards more affordable medication, making treatment more accessible to a larger population. 

Source: The Hindu