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UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 28th January 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Science and Technology

Discovery of Supersonic Winds on WASP-127b

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

Scientists have recently made a groundbreaking discovery of supersonic winds traveling at a staggering speed of 33,000 km per hour on the exoplanet WASP-127b, a gaseous giant located in our Milky Way galaxy.

  • WASP-127b is approximately 520 light-years away from Earth.
  • The planet completes an orbit around its star every four days, situated at about 5% of the distance from the Earth to the Sun.
  • WASP-127b features a permanent day side and a night side, similar to the Moon's relationship with Earth.

Additional Details

  • Atmospheric Conditions: The atmosphere of WASP-127b reaches around 1,127 degrees Celsius, with variations in temperature, particularly cooler polar regions.
  • Size and Composition: With a diameter about 30% larger than that of Jupiter but only 16% of its mass, WASP-127b is classified as one of the puffiest planets ever identified. It is primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, with traces of more complex molecules such as carbon monoxide and water.
  • Surface Characteristics: As a gas giant, WASP-127b lacks a solid or rocky surface beneath its thick atmospheric layers.
  • Wind Speeds: The planet's equatorial supersonic jet streams represent the fastest winds recorded on any known planetary body.

This discovery not only enhances our understanding of exoplanets but also challenges previous notions about atmospheric dynamics in extreme environments. The presence of such powerful winds on WASP-127b may have significant implications for our comprehension of planetary atmospheres and their evolution.


GS3/Environment

Wetland Accredited Cities

Source: NDTV

Why in News?

Indore and Udaipur have recently achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first two cities in India to be recognized as Wetland Accredited Cities (WCA) on a global scale. This recognition highlights their commitment to the conservation and sustainable management of urban wetlands.

  • The Wetland Accredited Cities (WCA) is a voluntary accreditation scheme.
  • It was approved during the Ramsar Convention COP12 in 2015.
  • Indore and Udaipur are the first Indian cities to receive this accreditation.
  • The accreditation is valid for six years and requires renewal based on continued compliance with criteria.

Additional Details

  • Wetland Accredited Cities (WCA): This scheme offers an opportunity for cities that prioritize their natural or human-made wetlands to gain international recognition and positive publicity for their conservation efforts.
  • The WCA aims to enhance the conservation and wise use of urban and peri-urban wetlands, ensuring sustainable socio-economic benefits for local populations.
  • Since the Ramsar COP13, a total of 74 cities from 17 countries have been officially acknowledged as "Wetland Cities."

In summary, the recognition of Indore and Udaipur as Wetland Accredited Cities marks a progressive step towards the conservation of urban wetlands in India, setting a precedent for other cities to follow in safeguarding their natural resources.


GS3/Environment

The Union Budget as a Turning Point for Climate Action

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's upcoming presentation of the FY26 Budget on February 1 is highly anticipated, as it is expected to prioritize climate issues, aiding India's pursuit of its Net-Zero goal by 2030.

  • The proposed climate finance taxonomy aims to standardize definitions of green finance.
  • Standardization is crucial for attracting the necessary $2.5 trillion for India's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by 2030.
  • Institutional infrastructure and capacity building for financial institutions are essential for market readiness.
  • The Budget may consider differential tax treatments to encourage green investments.

Additional Details

  • Green Finance Taxonomy: This classification system identifies activities and projects deemed "green" or environmentally sustainable, helping to distinguish genuine sustainable projects from others.
  • Investment Needs: India requires approximately ₹162.5 trillion (about $2.5 trillion) to meet its climate commitments, necessitating substantial investments in sustainable initiatives.
  • Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborations in sectors like Indian Railways can enhance renewable energy projects, utilizing available land efficiently.
  • Climate Action Fund: Establishing a dedicated fund can support MSMEs in meeting compliance for carbon border adjustment measures (CBAM).
  • Fiscal Allocations: The Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) model can help make rooftop solar installations more affordable for households.
  • Circular Economy Tax Incentives: Promoting recycling and resource efficiency can be encouraged through tax deductions and benefits.

The government's commitment to climate action is outlined in initiatives such as the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) launched in 2008, which includes missions focused on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable development. To ensure accountability in climate financing, measures such as a Sovereign Green Bond Framework, robust verification systems, and regular audits are necessary for tracking progress and enhancing transparency.


GS3/Economy

Enhanced Certificates of Origin 2.0 System

Source: Business Standard

UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 28th January 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & MonthlyWhy in News?

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has recently launched the enhanced Certificate of Origin (eCoO) 2.0 System, which aims to streamline the certification process for exporters and improve trade efficiency.

  • The eCoO 2.0 System simplifies the certification process.
  • It introduces multi-user access for exporters under a single Importer Exporter Code (IEC).
  • Aadhaar-based e-signing is now supported alongside digital signature tokens.
  • An integrated dashboard provides easy access to services and resources.
  • The platform processes over 7,000 eCoOs daily, connecting 125 issuing agencies.
  • Electronic filing of Non-Preferential Certificates of Origin is mandatory via the platform.

Additional Details

  • Multi-user Access: Exporters can authorize multiple users under one IEC, facilitating collaborative work.
  • Aadhaar-based e-signing: This feature enhances flexibility for exporters by allowing them to sign documents electronically.
  • Integrated Dashboard: Offers seamless access to various eCoO services, including Free Trade Agreement (FTA) information and trade events.
  • In-lieu Certificate of Origin: Exporters can request corrections to previously issued certificates through an easy online application process.
  • Daily Processing: The platform efficiently handles the issuance of both preferential and non-preferential certificates, ensuring smooth operations for exporters.
  • For more information, exporters can visit trade.gov.in under the “Get Certificate of Origin” section.

The enhanced eCoO 2.0 System is a significant advancement for the export community, providing them with improved tools and resources to facilitate international trade.


GS2/Polity

Should Governors be Chancellors of State Universities?

Source: The Hindu

UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 28th January 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & MonthlyWhy in News?

The role of the Governor as Chancellor of State universities has sparked significant debate, often misinterpreted as a protective mechanism for universities against political interference established post-independence.

  • The dual role of Governors as Chancellors can limit university autonomy.
  • Governors' involvement may lead to political interference rather than safeguarding academic independence.
  • There are alternative governance models proposed for universities.

Additional Details

  • Reduced Autonomy: The role of the Governor as Chancellor has historically constrained university autonomy, a legacy of colonial rule. This includes powers such as appointing Vice-Chancellors and controlling university bodies, which can invite political influence.
  • Political Interference: Instead of insulating educational institutions from political turmoil, the Governor's involvement can amplify political influence, particularly when aligned with the Central government’s objectives.
  • Dual Authority System: The existence of both the Governor and State government creates a conflicting authority, leading to administrative paralysis in states governed by opposition parties, delaying critical decisions like Vice-Chancellor appointments.
  • Federalism Principles: Governors' actions can contradict the principles of federalism, particularly when they exercise powers beyond the advice of the state government, undermining state autonomy.
  • Alternative Governance Models:Several models can be considered to mitigate issues with current governance, including:
    • Governor as Ceremonial Chancellor: Limiting the Governor's powers, requiring actions based on State Council of Ministers' advice.
    • Chief Minister as Chancellor: This model proposes the Chief Minister assume a ceremonial role, with some states already pursuing this approach.
    • State-Appointed Chancellor: Allow state governments to appoint a Chancellor who is an eminent academic or public figure.
    • Chancellor Elected by University Bodies: Empowering university bodies and alumni to elect their Chancellor for improved institutional self-governance.
    • Chancellor Appointed by University’s Executive Council: Enabling universities to appoint Chancellors through transparent processes.

To move forward, it is suggested to decentralize university governance by empowering institutions to elect or appoint their Chancellors, thus promoting autonomy and reducing political interference. Additionally, the Governor's role should be limited to ceremonial functions to uphold state autonomy and federal principles.

For further consideration, previous year questions (PYQ) have highlighted the importance of legislative powers exercised by the Governor and the legality surrounding the re-promulgation of ordinances without legislative approval.


GS2/International Relations

Paris AI Summit

Source:  Indian Express

UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 28th January 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & MonthlyWhy in News?

Amid growing concerns regarding the need to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) without hindering innovation, global leaders are set to convene in Paris on February 10 for a two-day AI Action Summit. This summit builds on the 2023 AI Safety Summit held at Bletchley Park, which addressed serious safety concerns and led to the signing of the Bletchley Declaration on AI Safety by 25 nations, including the United States and China. Furthermore, the 2024 Seoul Summit saw 16 major AI companies voluntarily commit to a framework for transparent AI development.

  • The Paris AI Summit aims to establish a framework for global AI governance.
  • Key global leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will participate in the summit.
  • The summit addresses the concentration of power in the AI market.

Additional Details

  • 2023 Bletchley Declaration: This declaration emphasizes aligning AI development with human intentions while ensuring safety, ethics, and accountability. It highlights the importance of civil society's involvement and developers' responsibilities in testing and mitigating AI risks.
  • 2024 AI Seoul Summit: Co-hosted by the Republic of Korea and the UK, this summit aimed to discuss global AI safety, innovation, and inclusivity, confirming shared concerns over AI's opportunities and risks. It also established minimum standards for AI use.
  • Paris Summit Structure: The summit will feature a multistakeholder forum on February 10, bringing together diverse representatives from government, business, civil society, and academia, followed by a summit of heads of state on February 11 to discuss collaborative actions for AI governance.
  • Global AI Context: The summit occurs against the backdrop of significant AI advancements and investments, such as the US's Stargate Project, which aims to build advanced AI infrastructure with a $500 billion budget involving major tech companies.

The Paris AI Summit is pivotal for Europe as it seeks to enhance its standing in the global AI landscape, which is often perceived as being overshadowed by American and Chinese advancements. The initiative of French President Emmanuel Macron highlights the urgency for Europe to establish its competitive edge in AI technology.


GS2/Polity

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Bombay HC's Ruling on Loudspeakers Not Being Essential to Religion

Source:  Indian Express

Why in News?

The Bombay High Court addressed a petition from two residents' groups in Mumbai's Nehru Nagar, Kurla (East), and Chunabhatti areas, which raised concerns regarding mosques and madrasas using loudspeakers excessively and at prohibited times.

Key Takeaways

  • The court directed the implementation of a mechanism to control decibel levels from loudspeakers at religious places.
  • A four-step penalty system was established for violations, emphasizing public health and noise regulation compliance.

Additional Details

  • Non-Essential Practice: The court clarified that the use of loudspeakers for prayers or religious discourses is not an essential part of any religion, thus not protected under Article 25 of the Constitution.
  • Public Health Concerns: The ruling acknowledged that noise pollution has severe health implications and can infringe on the rights of nearby residents, prioritizing public interest over claimed religious rights.
  • Legal Framework Compliance: The court mandated that all religious institutions must adhere to the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, enforcing penalties for violations regardless of religious contexts.

Supreme Court Judgements on Essential Religious Practices (ERP)

  • Shirur Mutt Case (1954): Established that Article 25 protects both religious beliefs and their outward expressions through rituals.
  • Durgah Committee Case (1961): Emphasized that only practices essential to a religion are protected under Article 25.
  • Ismail Faruqui v. Union of India (1995): Clarified that offering prayers is essential but doing so in a mosque is not always necessary.
  • Dr. Mahesh Vijay Bedekar v. Maharashtra (2016): Affirmed that the use of loudspeakers is not an essential religious practice.
  • Sabarimala Temple Entry Case (2018): Ruled that restricting women's entry to the Sabarimala temple violated their rights to equality.

Way Forward

  • Implementation of Strict Noise Regulations: Effective enforcement of noise laws through technology, ensuring consistent penalties for violations.
  • Public Awareness and Sensitization: Promote understanding of the non-essential nature of loudspeaker use in religious practices, balancing religious freedom with public health.

This ruling marks a significant step in addressing the balance between religious practices and public health, reinforcing the need for compliance with established noise regulations in residential areas.


GS3/Environment

Surajpur Wetland Conservation Project

Source: DTE

UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 28th January 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & MonthlyWhy in News?

The Greater Noida authority has recently initiated a project aimed at the protection and conservation of the Surajpur wetland, highlighting its ecological significance and need for preservation.

  • Location: Surajpur Wetland is located near Surajpur Village in the Dadri Tehsil of Gautam Budh Nagar District, Uttar Pradesh.
  • Size: The wetland encompasses a total catchment area of 308 hectares, with 60 hectares designated as the waterbody.
  • Ecological Importance: Recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International, it serves as a crucial habitat for various bird species.

Additional Details

  • Bird Species: Surajpur Wetland provides a breeding ground for numerous waterfowl, including the Spot-billed Duck, Lesser-whistling Duck, and Cotton Pygmy Goose, as well as wintering species like the Red-crested Pochard and Bar-headed Goose.
  • Mammal Diversity: The wetland is also home to various mammals such as the Nilgai, Indian Grey Mongoose, and Golden Jackal.
  • Flora and Fauna: It supports a rich biodiversity, including over 220 plant species, fishes, herpetofauna, and butterflies.
  • Threats: The wetland faces significant threats from the uncontrolled discharge of polluted wastewater into its channels.

The ongoing conservation efforts are vital for maintaining the ecological balance of the Surajpur Wetland, ensuring its role as a green lung for Greater Noida and preserving its biodiversity for future generations.


GS3/Science and Technology

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Fentanyl: A Potent Synthetic Opioid

Source: Indian Express

UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 28th January 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & MonthlyWhy in News?

Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump mentioned that his administration is considering imposing a 10% punitive duty on imports from China, particularly in response to the ongoing fentanyl crisis, which involves fentanyl being trafficked from China to the United States via Mexico and Canada.

  • Fentanyl is a highly potent synthetic opioid approved for medical use.
  • It is significantly more potent than both morphine and heroin.
  • Overdoses of fentanyl can lead to severe health consequences, including death.

Additional Details

  • About Fentanyl: Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is approximately 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin. It is used medically for pain relief and as an anesthetic.
  • Overdose Symptoms: Symptoms of a fentanyl overdose may include stupor, changes in pupil size, clammy skin, cyanosis (blue skin), coma, and respiratory failure, which can ultimately lead to death.
  • What are Opioids? Opioids are a class of drugs derived from or mimicking natural substances found in the opium poppy. They activate opioid receptors in the brain and body, blocking pain signals and producing effects such as pain relief and euphoria.
  • Common Opioids: Some well-known opioids include oxycodone, morphine, codeine, heroin, and fentanyl.
  • An opioid overdose can typically be identified by a combination of three signs: pinpoint pupils, unconsciousness, and difficulty breathing.
  • Overuse of opioids can lead to fatal consequences due to their impact on the brain's respiratory control centers.

The fentanyl crisis underscores the urgent need for effective measures to combat the trafficking of this potent drug and to address the broader issue of opioid addiction and abuse in society.


GS2/International Relations

India and China: Reviving Bilateral Ties Through Dialogue and Cooperation

Source: Money Control

UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 28th January 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & MonthlyWhy in News?

After three months of negotiations, India and China have reached an agreement to implement concrete measures aimed at resuming direct flights, issuing visas, facilitating various exchanges, and allowing the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for pilgrims this summer.

  • Agreement on resuming the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in summer 2025.
  • Restoration of direct flights and visa services for media and business representatives.
  • Resumption of dialogues regarding hydrological data sharing on trans-border rivers.
  • Efforts to enhance economic and trade relations despite existing tensions.
  • Plans for cultural events and academic collaborations to strengthen people-to-people ties.

Additional Details

  • Historical Context: The relationship between India and China is historically complex, influenced by cultural, historical, and geopolitical factors. Following a prolonged military standoff at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, both nations are making efforts to mend bilateral ties.
  • Disengagement Process: The successful disengagement process completed in November 2024 symbolized a significant diplomatic achievement, leading to subsequent high-level meetings.
  • Focus on Economic Relations: Despite achieving record trade volumes exceeding $125 billion in 2023, there are ongoing concerns related to trade imbalances and protectionist policies from both sides.
  • Cultural Initiatives: As part of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025, India and China plan to conduct cultural events, media exchanges, and academic collaborations to enhance mutual understanding.
  • Challenges Ahead: The path forward includes addressing unresolved border issues, strategic distrust, and economic barriers that continue to hinder cooperation.

The renewed dialogues between India and China signify a crucial step toward stabilizing a multifaceted relationship. While challenges remain, the agreements on cultural exchanges, trade transparency, and environmental cooperation reflect both nations' commitment to fostering mutual growth and regional stability. By tackling underlying issues and prioritizing constructive engagement, India and China can work towards a more harmonious and prosperous future.


The document UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 28th January 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly is a part of the UPSC Course Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly.
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FAQs on UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 28th January 2025 - Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly

1. What are the key features of WASP-127b that make it unique among exoplanets?
Ans.WASP-127b is notable for its low density, which suggests it is a gas giant with a thick atmosphere. It is also characterized by its large size, being nearly 1.5 times the size of Jupiter, and its proximity to its host star, resulting in extreme temperatures. Its discovery of supersonic winds adds to its uniqueness, as these winds can reach speeds exceeding those found on other known planets.
2. How do supersonic winds on WASP-127b affect its atmospheric composition?
Ans.Supersonic winds on WASP-127b can significantly influence the distribution of atmospheric gases and clouds. These winds can create dynamic weather patterns, leading to the mixing of different chemical species and potentially altering temperature gradients. The presence of such winds may also impact the formation and stability of clouds, affecting the planet's overall climate system.
3. What implications does the discovery of supersonic winds on exoplanets like WASP-127b have for future astronomical studies?
Ans.The discovery of supersonic winds on exoplanets like WASP-127b opens new avenues for research in exoplanetary atmospheres. It emphasizes the importance of studying atmospheric dynamics and can provide insights into wind patterns, weather systems, and climate evolution on other planets. This knowledge can help refine our models of planetary atmospheres and improve our understanding of their potential habitability.
4. How does the study of WASP-127b contribute to our understanding of planetary formation and evolution?
Ans.The study of WASP-127b helps to elucidate the processes involved in planetary formation and evolution, especially for gas giants. By examining its atmospheric conditions and wind patterns, scientists can gain insights into how such planets form, their migration histories, and how they interact with their host stars. This knowledge is crucial for developing a comprehensive theory of planetary system formation.
5. What role do exoplanets like WASP-127b play in the search for extraterrestrial life?
Ans.Exoplanets like WASP-127b are essential in the search for extraterrestrial life as they help scientists understand the diversity of planetary environments outside our solar system. While WASP-127b itself may not be habitable due to its extreme conditions, studying a variety of exoplanets enhances our knowledge of the factors that contribute to habitability, guiding future searches for potentially life-supporting planets.

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