Daily Current Affairs MCQ: 6th February 2025 - Bank Exams MCQ

The primary concern raised by the Supreme Court's directive is that it conflicts with the Forest Rights Act, 2006, which is designed to recognize and confer forest rights to local communities (gram sabhas). By mandating the Forest Department to take control of sacred groves, the directive shifts authority away from local communities, potentially undermining their rights and control over these culturally significant areas. This situation illustrates the tension between state governance and community autonomy in managing natural resources. An interesting fact is that sacred groves have traditionally served not only as ecological havens but also as important sites for cultural and spiritual practices linked to local identities.

The T.N. Godavarman v. Union of India case significantly broadened the definition of 'forest land' to encompass any area that is recorded as forest, irrespective of ownership. This landmark ruling aimed to enhance the protection of forests across India by ensuring that various areas, traditionally recognized as forested, are afforded legal protection. An interesting fact about this case is that it has had a profound impact on environmental jurisprudence in India, influencing various policies and regulations related to forest conservation and management.

Sacred groves, like orans in Rajasthan, play a critical role in protecting water sources and preventing soil erosion. These areas are often revered by local communities and serve as vital ecological zones that sustain perennial water streams, providing essential resources for both wildlife and livestock grazing. An additional fact is that these groves not only support biodiversity but also embody cultural traditions, showcasing the relationship between community practices and environmental stewardship.

Community governance and management, exemplified by places like Jahera in Odisha and Chhattisgarh, contribute significantly to the protection of sacred spaces by enabling local elders or village councils to oversee and enforce protective measures. This local governance model allows for the incorporation of traditional ecological knowledge and practices that are often more effective in managing natural resources sustainably. Interestingly, this approach reflects the importance of indigenous practices in modern conservation efforts, highlighting the role of community involvement in environmental management.

The primary goal of harmonizing legal frameworks is to recognize the authority of gram sabhas in managing sacred groves while also fostering ecological conservation. This approach aims to blend the rights of local communities with the need for environmental sustainability, ensuring that traditional practices have a place in modern conservation efforts. An interesting fact is that sacred groves have been a part of many cultures for centuries, serving not only as ecological reserves but also as sites for cultural and spiritual significance. These areas often support biodiversity and play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.

Vaccination of livestock is a crucial preventive measure against brucellosis, which can significantly reduce the risk of the disease spreading to humans. This bacterial infection often originates from infected animals, particularly through unpasteurized milk and dairy products. By vaccinating animals, the incidence of infection within the livestock population is lowered, subsequently decreasing the likelihood of human exposure. An interesting fact is that brucellosis can also cause significant economic losses in the agricultural sector due to its impact on livestock health and productivity.

The Iskander-M missile system has a maximum range of 500 km, which allows it to conduct tactical strikes on high-value land targets effectively. This capability makes it a significant asset in regional and global security dynamics, as it can reach critical targets within a substantial distance. An interesting fact is that its speed can reach Mach 7, allowing it to evade many current missile defense systems.

The Iskander-M employs a maneuverable reentry vehicle (MaRV) to enhance its effectiveness against missile defense systems. This feature allows the missile to change its trajectory during descent, making it difficult for defense systems to predict its path and intercept it. Additionally, the use of decoys further complicates the defense against such tactical missiles, showcasing the advanced technology integrated into the Iskander-M system.

The Nuclear Energy Mission primarily aims to develop at least 5 indigenous Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) by 2033, as part of a broader strategy to enhance India's nuclear power capacity significantly. This initiative supports India's clean energy transition, contributing to its goal of achieving 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047. Small Modular Reactors are crucial as they allow for more flexible and safer nuclear energy production, which can supplement renewable energy sources and replace fossil fuels in various regions. An interesting fact about SMRs is that they can be built in factory settings and transported to the site, which reduces construction time and costs compared to traditional large reactors.

The deportations of Indian nationals from the U.S. have surged by 400% in the last three years. This dramatic increase can be attributed to intensified enforcement operations aimed at managing undocumented immigration. Such significant changes often reflect broader immigration policies and economic conditions that drive individuals to seek opportunities abroad, highlighting the complex relationship between migration and domestic labor markets. Additionally, this increase raises questions about the societal impact on families and communities left behind in India.