UPSC Daily Current Affairs - 9th January 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Economy

Future of Jobs Report 2025

Source:India Today

Why in News?

The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025 has highlighted that in the next five years, the fastest-growing jobs will be in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and security management. 

About the Future of Jobs Report 2025

• The report is published by the World Economic Forum (WEF) and is based on data from over 1,000 global companies representing more than 14 million workers across 22 industry sectors and 55 economies. 
• Job Disruption: It is estimated that 22 percent of jobs will be disrupted by 2030. 
• Job Creation and Displacement: The report projects the creation of 170 million new jobs, while 92 million jobs will be displaced, resulting in a net increase of 78 million jobs by 2030. 
• Drivers of Change: Major factors expected to shape the global labor market include technological change, geoeconomic fragmentation, economic uncertainty, demographic shifts, and the green transition. 
• Fastest-Growing Jobs: AI and machine learning specialists, software and application developers, and FinTech engineers are expected to be among the fastest-growing jobs. 
• Frontline Job Growth: Roles such as farmworkers, delivery drivers, construction workers, salespersons, food processing workers, and care economy jobs like nursing and social work are predicted to see the largest growth in absolute terms. 
• Decline of Traditional Roles: Traditional roles like graphic designers and administrative assistants may decline significantly due to automation. 
• Skill Gap: The skill gap is identified as a major challenge for business transformation, with nearly 40% of the skills needed for future jobs being new or evolving. 
• Reskilling and Upskilling: The WEF emphasizes that 59% of the global workforce will need reskilling or upskilling by 2030 to remain competitive. 
• Fastest-Growing Skills by 2030: AI, big data, networks and cybersecurity, technological literacy, creativity, and resilience, flexibility, and agility are expected to be the fastest-growing skills. 
• AI-Driven Tools and Workforce Reductions: Companies are increasingly using AI-driven tools for routine tasks, leading to workforce reductions as automation becomes more widespread. 

GS3/Science and Technology

AnemiaPhone

Source:The Hindu

Why in News?

AnemiaPhone, a technology developed by Cornell University researchers, has been transferred to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for integration into its programmes.

AnemiaPhone: Overview

• AnemiaPhone is an innovative technology created by researchers at Cornell University in the United States. It is designed to assess iron deficiency quickly, accurately, and cost-effectively.
• This technology has been handed over to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for incorporation into its programs aimed at reducing anemia, improving women’s health, and enhancing maternal and child health.
• AnemiaPhone facilitates rapid screening and diagnosis of iron deficiency right at the point of need, making it a valuable tool in the fight against anemia.
• Iron deficiency is a major contributor to anemia, which impacts a significant portion of pregnant women in India, ranging from 50% to 70%.

How AnemiaPhone Works

• The AnemiaPhone technology involves a simple process that starts with a small finger prick to collect a drop of blood.
• This blood sample is then placed on a test strip, similar to those used in COVID-19 home tests.
• After a few minutes, the reader assesses the sample and the information is uploaded to a clinical database using a mobile phone, wireless tablet, or computer.
• Healthcare workers can then interpret the results on the spot and provide appropriate guidance, triage, referral, or intervention as needed.

GS3/Science and Technology

Gravitational Lensing

Source: New Indian Express

Why is it News? 

Physicists have discovered 44 new stars in a distant galaxy using a technique called "gravitational lensing." This method involves using the natural magnifying effect of a massive celestial body to observe faint objects in the universe. 

Understanding Gravitational Lensing 

• Definition: Gravitational lensing occurs when a massive object, like a galaxy cluster, bends the path of light around it due to the curvature of spacetime. This effect makes it look like the light is being bent by a lens, hence the term "gravitational lens." 
• Origin: The concept was first proposed by Albert Einstein in 1915 as part of his General Theory of Relativity. Einstein's theory suggests that time and space are interconnected in a framework called spacetime. Massive objects warp spacetime, and this curvature is what we perceive as gravity. 
• Light and Spacetime: According to Einstein, as light travels through this curved spacetime, its path is also curved by the mass of the object. Gravitational lensing is a striking demonstration of this principle in action. 

Applications of Gravitational Lensing 

• Apparent Position Shift: Gravitational lensing can make an object appear to be in a different position in the sky from the perspective of observers on Earth. It can also create multiple images of the same object, resulting in stunning visual phenomena like rings and crosses formed by a single object. 
• Light Amplification: This phenomenon can amplify the light from a background object, making it brighter and easier to observe. Astronomers use gravitational lensing caused by galaxy clusters as natural cosmic magnifying glasses. 
• Early Universe Research: Gravitational lensing is a crucial tool for studying the early universe when light from the first galaxies was too faint to be detected by instruments like the James Webb Space Telescope and the Hubble Space Telescope. It helps make this distant light observable, allowing scientists to learn more about the formation and evolution of galaxies in the universe's infancy. 

GS 3/Environment

Garudakshi

Source:The Hindu

Why in News?

Recently, the Karnataka Forest Department has introduced the ‘Garudakshi’ online FIR system to combat issues like forest encroachments, illegal tree-felling, poaching, and unauthorized entry into forest areas. 

About Garudakshi

• Garudakshi is a software designed to tackle wildlife and forest crimes, based on the online FIR system.
• Pilot Implementation: The system will be tested in the Bengaluru Urban, Bhadravathi, Sirsi, and Male Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary divisions of Karnataka.
• Mandatory FIR Registration: Once operational, registering FIRs through the Garudakshi portal will be mandatory.
• Online Case Handling: The portal will facilitate the online management of forest crime cases under the Forest and Wildlife Protection Acts.
• Auto-Generated Reports: Garudakshi will automatically generate formats for various reports and complaints.

Features

• Legacy Case Registration Module
• Online Forest Offence Registration
• Investigation Module
• Reporting and Analytics Module
• Public Complaint Registration: The portal will enable the public to report forest offences via mobile phones or email.
• Collaboration: Garudakshi is developed in partnership with the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI).

GS 3/Economy

EmpowHER Biz Initiative

Source: TICE News

Why in News?

The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) of NITI Aayog, launched EmpowHER Biz – Sapno Ki Udaan in partnership with New Shop, India’s convenience retail chain under its Award to Reward (ATR) program.

About EmpowHER Biz Initiative

• The EmpowHER Biz Initiative is a component of the Women Entrepreneurship Platform by NITI Aayog. Its goal is to establish a strong retail ecosystem that empowers women entrepreneurs and promotes sustainable growth in the sector.
• This initiative will provide mentorship and extensive training in various areas such as retail management, digital tools, financial literacy, and business development to aspiring women entrepreneurs.
• Under the initiative, 50 participants aged between 18 to 35 years will be selected through an online application process based on specific criteria.
• Out of these, the top 20 participants will receive a 100% waiver on New Shop franchise fees, enabling them to own and operate their retail businesses with significantly reduced entry barriers.
• The program is being launched for women entrepreneurs from Delhi NCR, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat.

About Women Entrepreneurship Platform

• The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) was initiated by NITI Aayog in 2018 as an aggregator platform to support women entrepreneurs. In 2022, it transitioned into a public-private partnership to enhance its impact.
• WEP aims to empower women entrepreneurs by addressing information gaps and providing continuous support across various pillars, including Access to Finance, Market Linkages, Training and Skilling, Mentoring and Networking, Compliance and Legal Assistance, and Business Development Services.
• The platform collaborates with over 30 public and private sector partners to develop scalable and impactful programs that benefit women entrepreneurs.
• Since 2023, WEP has introduced the 'Award to Reward' initiative, offering a flexible framework for stakeholders to create impactful programs for women entrepreneurs.

GS3/Economics

Neuroptera Species

Source:The Hindu

Why is it News?

Researchers in Kerala have discovered two rare species belonging to the Order Neuroptera: Glenochrysa zeylanica and Indophanes barbara.

About Neuroptera

• Neuroptera, commonly known as lacewings, is an insect group characterized by intricate vein patterns in their wings, which give them a lacy appearance.
• Adult neuropterans are terrestrial and primarily associated with the aerial parts of plants, where they settle or hunt for prey.

Ecological Importance

• Neuropterans are ecologically significant due to their predatory behavior and are utilized in agriculture.
• The larvae of families such as Chrysopidae, Hemerobiidae, and Coniopterygidae are active biological control agents, known for their voracious feeding and mobile prey-searching abilities.

About Indophanes barbara

• Indophanes barbara is a type of antlion belonging to the Myrmeleontidae family.
• Unlike common antlion species, the larva of Indophanes barbara does not build pits; instead, they live under the surface in loose soils, protected from direct sunlight, wind, and rain.
• Adults of this species are often misidentified as damselflies due to their morphological resemblance, but they can be distinguished by their long, distinct antennae.
• Indophanes barbara falls under the Order Neuroptera, which includes holometabolous insects, while damselflies belong to the Order Odonata, which includes hemimetabolous insects.

About Glenochrysa zeylanica

• Glenochrysa zeylanica is a green lacewing species from the Chrysopidae family within the Order Neuroptera.
• This species was rediscovered after 111 years in the Wayanad district, specifically in Mananthavady and Thirunelly.
• Previously believed to be endemic to Sri Lanka, Glenochrysa zeylanica has now been reported for the first time in India.

GS1/Geography

Soapstone

Source:Indian Express

Why is it in the News?

The Uttarakhand High Court recently criticized authorities for the unregulated mining of soapstone in Bageshwar district, which currently has over 160 active mines. 

About Soapstone

• Soapstone, also known as Steatite, is a metamorphic rock primarily composed of talc, a naturally occurring mineral.
• Depending on the quarry, soapstone may contain varying amounts of other minerals such as micas, chlorite, amphiboles, quartz, magnesite, and carbonates.

Formation of Soapstone

• Soapstone typically forms at convergent plate boundaries where large areas of the Earth's crust are subjected to heat and directed pressure. In this environment, rocks like peridotites, dunites, and serpentinites can be metamorphosed into soapstone.
• On a smaller scale, soapstone can also form through a process called metasomatism, where siliceous dolostones are altered by hot, chemically active fluids.

Properties of Soapstone

• Soapstone is a relatively soft rock, but it is very dense and highly resistant to heat. These properties make it suitable for various applications in construction and design.

Major Producing Countries

• The leading countries in soapstone production include China, India, Brazil, the USA, and Finland.

Reserves in India

• In India, significant reserves of soapstone are found in the states of Rajasthan (57% of reserves) and Uttarakhand (25% of reserves), according to the Indian Bureau of Mines.

Applications of Soapstone

• Soapstone in powdered form, often mixed with corn starch, is commonly used as baby powder.
• It serves as a thickening agent and lubricant in various products and is an ingredient in ceramics, paint, and roofing materials.
• Soapstone is also a main ingredient in many cosmetics, and its mineral talc is used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and other industries.

GS2/ Polity and Governance

What is Section 479 of the BNSS, 2023?

Source: Times of India

Why is it News?

The Central Government has instructed all States and Union Territories (UTs) to put into action Section 479 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS). This section aims to assist undertrial prisoners (UTPs) by tackling issues of lengthy detention and reducing overcrowding in prisons. 

What is Section 479 of the BNSS?

• Section 479 outlines the maximum duration for which an undertrial prisoner (UTP) can be held during the investigation, inquiry, or trial phase.
• It is derived from Section 436-A of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (CrPC).
• The section aims to tackle the issue of prolonged detention of UTPs, ensuring their timely release on bail or bond, and upholding fairness and accountability in the judicial process.
• It applies to cases where the punishment does not involve death or life imprisonment and introduces clear mechanisms for review and action, thereby helping to alleviate problems like prison overcrowding.

Key Provisions under Section 479 of BNSS:

• Eligibility for Bail: Undertrials (UTPs) who have served half of their maximum possible sentence may be released on bail; the court must provide written reasons if they decide to extend detention after hearing the Public Prosecutor. 
• First-Time Offenders: UTPs with no prior convictions who have served one-third of their maximum sentence are eligible for release on bond, aligning with the principle of reformative justice. 
• Superintendent’s Responsibility: Jail superintendents must submit a written application to the court for the release of UTPs upon completion of the applicable detention period (one-third or one-half, depending on eligibility). 
• Exclusions: The provision does not apply to offences punishable by death or life imprisonment, and any delay caused by the accused is excluded from the detention period calculation. 
• Limitations for Multiple Offences: Accused individuals facing multiple offences or multiple charges are not covered, ensuring the provision is not misused in complex or repeated criminal cases. 
• Absolute Ceiling on Detention: Detention cannot exceed the maximum imprisonment term prescribed for the offence, preventing indefinite incarceration. 
• Judicial Oversight: Courts must ensure extended detention serves public safety and justice, requiring input from the Public Prosecutor for any continued confinement. 
• Mandatory Review Mechanism:. statutory review process is in place to prevent prolonged undertrial detention and address potential oversights or delays. 
• Safeguard against Misuse: Time delays caused by the accused do not count towards the detention period, ensuring fair application of the law. 
• Focus on Reform and Decongestion: By expediting bail and bond processes for eligible UTPs, the law aims to reduce overcrowding in prisons and uphold reformative objectives. 

GS3/Science and Technology

What is Selective Gene Silencing?

Source: Nature

Why is it News?

 Researchers at Columbia University have made a significant discovery about how cells can selectively turn off one parent's copy of a gene. This finding could help explain why some individuals with harmful genetic mutations do not show any symptoms and might lead to new ways of diagnosing and treating genetic disorders. 

 What is Selective Gene Silencing? 

 Selective gene silencing is when a cell turns off one copy of a gene from either the mother or the father. This means that only one copy of the gene is active, which can affect how the gene works in the cell. 

Key Points:

• Common Phenomenon:
•  It was previously believed to be rare, but recent studies show that selective gene silencing is quite common in our cells. 
• Role in Health:
•  This process contributes to genetic diversity, how diseases progress, and individual health differences. 

Variability:

• Cell Type Differences: Inactivation of a gene copy can differ between various types of cells, such as immune cells and kidney cells. 
• Dynamic Process: The selective silencing of a gene can change over time, adding complexity to how genes function in the body. 

Prevalence:

• Immune Cells: In some immune cells, about 1 in 20 active genes show this selective bias, where one copy is preferentially silenced. 

 Implications for Health 

• Symptom Variability: This mechanism helps to understand why people with the same harmful mutation can have very different severity of symptoms. 
• Dynamic Gene Activity: It highlights the importance of how genes are actively expressed in addition to the static genetic code in genetic diseases. 
• Diagnostic and Therapeutic Opportunities: The discovery opens up new possibilities for diagnosing and treating genetic disorders by focusing on gene expression patterns. 

 Significant Applications 

• Selective Gene Manipulation: Developing therapies that activate healthy gene copies while suppressing diseased ones, providing a less invasive option compared to traditional genetic editing. 
• Understanding Diseases: Using selective gene silencing to explain variability in diseases like lupus and cancer, helping to understand why some individuals do not show symptoms. 
• Precision Medicine: Identifying individual gene expression patterns to create personalized treatment plans, moving away from one-size-fits-all approaches. 
• Early Interventions: Identifying at-risk individuals who are asymptomatic allows for preventive measures to be taken, potentially delaying the onset of diseases. 
• Protein-Based Therapies: Focusing on selective gene activity to distinguish disease-related proteins from healthy ones, leading to targeted drug development based on specific proteins.