{"id":33503,"date":"2024-12-10T18:56:45","date_gmt":"2024-12-10T13:26:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.nextias.com\/ca\/?p=33503"},"modified":"2025-02-06T16:09:00","modified_gmt":"2025-02-06T10:39:00","slug":"news-in-short-10-december-2024","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.nextias.com\/ca\/current-affairs\/10-12-2024\/news-in-short-10-december-2024","title":{"rendered":"News In Short 10-12-2024"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Eklingji Temple<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Syllabus: GS1\/ Art &amp; Culture<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>In News<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The Eklingji Temple in Udaipur has recently implemented new rules, including a dress code and a mobile phone ban, with the stated aim of preserving the sanctity of the temple.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>About Eklingji Temple<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Dedicated Deity:<\/strong> Lord Shiva, worshipped as Ekling Nath, the ruling deity of the Mewar kingdom.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img data-dominant-color=\"9d9792\" data-has-transparency=\"false\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/wp-images.nextias.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/format=auto\/ca\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Eklingji-Temple.webp\" alt=\"Eklingji-Temple\" class=\"not-transparent wp-image-33504\" style=\"--dominant-color: #9d9792; width:456px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wp-images.nextias.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/format=auto\/ca\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Eklingji-Temple.webp 850w, https:\/\/wp-images.nextias.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/format=auto\/ca\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Eklingji-Temple-300x212.webp 300w, https:\/\/wp-images.nextias.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/format=auto\/ca\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Eklingji-Temple-768x542.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> Kailashpuri, about 22 km from Udaipur, Rajasthan.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Built in:<\/strong> 8th century by <strong>Bappa Rawal<\/strong>, the <strong>founder of the Mewar dynasty.<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Represents the spiritual and administrative power of the Mewar kings, who ruled as representatives of Lord Ekling Nath.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Architectural Style: <\/strong>The temple complex comprises 108 temples, showcasing intricately carved stone architecture.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Features a <strong>four-faced Shiva Lingam made of black marble<\/strong>, symbolizing the <strong>four forms of Lord Shiva.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Originally linked to the <strong>Pashupata sect<\/strong>, then Nath sect, and later to Ramanandis.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cultural Significance:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Royal Connection<\/strong>: Historically managed by the Mewar royal family, who consider Lord Ekling Nath the real ruler of Mewar.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Diwan of Mewar acts as the deity&#8217;s earthly representative.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: IE<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>New National Manuscripts Mission<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Syllabus: GS1\/Culture<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Context<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The committee of experts has recommended the continuation of the<strong> National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM) <\/strong>with broader reach and direct oversight by the Ministry.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>About<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Ministry:&nbsp; <\/strong>Ministry of Culture<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Established in: <\/strong>2003 (10th Five Year Plan)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Aim:<\/strong> To conserve, and promote access to Indian manuscripts.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It functions as a unit under the<strong> Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts,<\/strong> for which funds are provided to the organization.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It uses technology for preservation and digitization of manuscripts.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Training is offered for various aspects of preventive conservation.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pib.gov.in\/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2082387#:~:text=The%20National%20Mission%20for%20Manuscripts%20presently%20functions%20as%20a%20unit,preservation%20and%20digitization%20of%20manuscripts.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>PIB<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Namo Drone Didi Central Sector Scheme<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Syllabus: GS2\/ Welfare Scheme<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>In Context<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The Ministry of Civil Aviation has informed that 15 thousand drones were approved to be provided to the Women Self Help Groups unde<strong>r NAMO Drone Didi Central Sector scheme during the three years ending 2026.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Features<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Drone Subsidy: <\/strong>80% of the cost of a drone is covered as a subsidy (up to \u20b98 lakhs).\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Remaining cost financed through loans under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Easy Loan Terms: Loans at a 3% interest rate.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Drone Pilot Training: <\/strong>Comprehensive training included in the drone package.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Focus on precision farming and application of fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Income Opportunities<\/strong>: SHGs can earn an additional \u20b91 lakh per annum by renting drone spraying services to farmers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Implementation Period:<\/strong> Target to equip 15,000 Women SHGs with drones during 2024-25 to 2025-26.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Benefits<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Contributes to women-led economic development.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enhances agricultural efficiency and promotes sustainable farming practices.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strengthens rural economies by introducing modern technology at the grassroots level.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: AIR<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>National Panchayat Awards 2024<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Syllabus: GS2\/ Polity and Governance<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Context<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has announced the recipients of the National Panchayat Awards 2024 for the appraisal year 2022\u20132023.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>About<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The award recognizes Panchayats<\/strong> for their efforts in poverty alleviation, health, child welfare, water conservation, sanitation, infrastructure, social justice, governance, and women empowerment.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A total of<strong> 45 awardees<\/strong> (36 Gram Panchayats, 3 Block Panchayats, 3 District Panchayats and 3 Institutions) are selected for National Panchayat Awards 2024.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Categories Under National Panchayat Awards 2024<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Deen Dayal Upadhyay Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nanaji Deshmukh Sarvottam Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Special categories of Awards<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Gram Urja Swaraj Vishesh Panchayat Puraskar,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Carbon Neutral Vishesh Panchayat Puraskar, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Panchayat Kshamta Nirmaan Sarvottam Sansthan Puraskar.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pib.gov.in\/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2082383#:~:text=Honoring%2045%20Exemplary%20Panchayats%3B%20Special%20Awards%20for%20Achieving%20Carbon%2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>PIB<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Draft Guidelines for Implementation of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in Higher Education<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Syllabus: GS2\/Education<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Context<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The University Grants Commission (UGC) has finalized the \u2018Draft Guidelines for Implementation of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in Higher Education\u2019.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>About<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Aim:<\/strong> To provide access to education and to enable the concept of life-long education.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>RPL <\/strong>is defined in the guidelines as a formal mechanism used to evaluate a person\u2019s existing knowledge, skills, and experience gained through formal, non-formal, or informal learning.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>RPL is integral to the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The objectives of RPL guidelines include <\/strong>enabling individuals who have acquired competencies through non-formal and informal learning methods to <strong>access higher education programmes.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Significance:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It supports lifelong learning to develop a competent and adaptable workforce capable of meeting the challenges of a rapidly changing labour market.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The guidelines offer marginalised groups the opportunity to obtain recognised qualifications and improve their socio-economic status.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The University Grants Commission (UGC)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Established in <strong>1956<\/strong>, it provides funding to universities and colleges, sets guidelines for academic programs, and promotes research in institutions of higher learning.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Key functions of the UGC include:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Accrediting universities: <\/strong>It grants recognition to universities in India.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Funding: <\/strong>Provides financial assistance to universities and colleges for development, research, and other academic purposes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Regulating standards:<\/strong> Sets quality standards in teaching, research, and infrastructure in higher education institutions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Promoting academic growth:<\/strong> Encourages research, innovation, and the development of new courses in various fields.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/education\/new-ugc-guidelines-to-promote-life-long-learning\/article68966491.ece#:~:text=The%20University%20Grants%20Commission%20(UGC,concept%20of%20life%2Dlong%20education.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>TH<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>LIC\u2019s Bima Sakhi Yojana<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Syllabus: GS2\/Welfare Scheme; GS3\/ Economy<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Context<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The Prime Minister has launched the <strong>\u2018Bima Sakhi Yojana\u2019 <\/strong>of Life Insurance Corporation in Haryana.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>About<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It is designed to <strong>empower women aged 18-70 years<\/strong>, who are <strong>Class X pass.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They will <strong>receive specialized training<\/strong> and a <strong>stipend for the first three years<\/strong> to promote<strong> financial literacy and insurance awareness.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>They can serve as LIC agents and the graduate Bima Sakhis<\/strong> would have the opportunity to qualify for being considered for Development Officer roles in LIC.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It is the <strong>largest life insurance company in India<\/strong> and one of the oldest, having been established in <strong>1956<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It was formed by the <strong>merger of more than 200 private life insurance companies<\/strong> and provident societies,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It has the objective of spreading life insurance across the country and making it accessible to every segment of the population.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pib.gov.in\/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2082406\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>PIB<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Removal of Vice President<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Syllabus: GS2\/Polity<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Context<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The opposition INDIA bloc MPs are considering moving an impeachment resolution against Vice-President (VP) and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar for allegedly favouring the ruling NDA.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Removal of Vice President<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The procedure to remove the Vice-President is outlined in <strong>Articles 67 (b), 92, and 100 of the Constitution.<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Under Article 67(b),<\/strong> a Vice-President can be removed through a resolution in the Council of States, passed by a majority and agreed upon by the House of the People, with at least 14 days&#8217; notice.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Article 92:<\/strong> The Chairman or the Deputy Chairman not to preside while a resolution for his removal from office is under consideration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Article 100:<\/strong> Voting in Houses, power of Houses to act notwithstanding vacancies and quorum.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Such a resolution cannot be moved<strong> unless a notice of at least 14 days<\/strong> has been provided, indicating the intention to move the resolution.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Process:&nbsp;<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It begins with a resolution <strong>introduced in the Rajya Sabha<\/strong>, which requires a <strong>majority of 50% <\/strong>of the members present plus one on the day of voting.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If approved, the resolution <strong>moves to the Lok Sabha,<\/strong> where it must be passed by a <strong>majority <\/strong>to take effect.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Once both Houses pass the resolution, the Vice President is removed from office.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/india\/opposition-set-to-submit-notice-for-resolution-to-impeach-jagdeep-dhankhar-9715788\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>IE<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>India-Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Syllabus: GS2\/ IR<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Context<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The 3-day stocktake visit for<strong> India-Australia CECA<\/strong> was concluded recently.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The discussions covered areas of trade in goods, services, mobility, agri-tech cooperation, and more.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>About&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>CECA is a <strong>free-trade agreement <\/strong>between two countries that strengthens their bilateral trade.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Australia and India first embarked on<strong> negotiations for a CECA in 2011.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Talks were suspended in 2016. In 2021, the two countries formally revived the CECA talks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Both countries are looking to expand their trade ties under CECA, to cover <strong>sectors <\/strong>like goods, services, rules of origin, government procurement, digital trade, and agri-technology.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It also aims to unlock the potential of sectors such as clean energy, agribusiness, education, skills development, and tourism.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In 2023-24, India&#8217;s imports from Australia <strong>declined 15% to USD 16.15 billion<\/strong>, while India&#8217;s exports increased 14.23% to USD 7.94 billion. Australia is <strong>India&#8217;s 13th largest export destination<\/strong> and 14th largest import source for India.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pib.gov.in\/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2082297\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>PIB<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Bamboo Shoots<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Syllabus: GS3\/ S&amp;T, GS2\/ Health<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>In News<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The discovery of <strong>anti-obesity properties in Melye-Amiley<\/strong> highlights the potential of India&#8217;s rich biodiversity and traditional food systems in addressing modern health challenges.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The findings suggest that Melye-Amiley can help <strong>reduce lipid accumulation <\/strong>and <strong>promote fat burning<\/strong>, making it a potential natural solution for weight management and metabolic health.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>About&nbsp; Melye-Amiley<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Definition: <\/strong>Traditional fermented bamboo shoot from Tripura, known for its unique flavor and health benefits.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Region:<\/strong> Indigenous to Tripura, a state in North East India.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Source:<\/strong> Derived from locally fermented bamboo shoots, reflecting the region&#8217;s rich cultural heritage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: PIB<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Tungsten<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Syllabus: GS3\/S&amp;T<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>In News<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The Tamil Nadu Assembly has adopted a resolution to immediately <strong>revoke the tungsten mining rights <\/strong>granted to <strong>Hindustan Zinc Limited, <\/strong>citing concerns about the environmental and cultural impact of mining in the area.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>About Tungsten<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Appearance:<\/strong>&nbsp; Shiny, silvery-white metal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Properties: <\/strong>High Melting Point, High Density, Hardness and Strength at high temperatures.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Occurrence:<\/strong> Found naturally on Earth almost exclusively in compounds with other elements.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Principal Ores are Scheelit and Wolframite<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Uses:<\/strong> High-Temperature Applications like used in filaments of incandescent light bulbs, arc-welding electrodes etc\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Tungsten carbide (WC) is an extremely hard and wear-resistant material used in cutting tools.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Used in various industrial and defence applications.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Legal Status in India:<\/strong> Classified as a major mineral under the Second Schedule of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. This means its exploration and mining are regulated by the government.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: TH<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Hindon River<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Syllabus: GS3\/ Environment\/ Pollution<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>In News<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Once a lifeline for communities settled along its banks, the <strong>Hindon River in Western Uttar Pradesh<\/strong>, often called <strong>India&#8217;s Sugar Bowl<\/strong>, has been reduced to a drain carrying domestic and industrial waste.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Declared &#8220;Dead&#8221; by environmental experts due to severe pollution and lack of aquatic life.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>About Hindon River<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Origin: <\/strong>Upper Shivalik Hills in Saharanpur district, Uttar Pradesh.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Length: <\/strong>Approximately 400 kilometers before merging Yamuna River.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tributaries: <\/strong>Major tributaries include Krishni and Kali Rivers, which significantly impact its flow and pollution levels.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Historical and Cultural Significance: <\/strong>Once considered a lifeline for communities along its banks.Known as part of<strong> India&#8217;s Sugar Bowl <\/strong>due to its role in <strong>supporting sugarcane cultivation in the region.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Heavily Polluted:<\/strong> Reduced to a drain carrying industrial and domestic waste.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.downtoearth.org.in\/pollution\/how-has-hindon-river-pollution-triggered-a-public-healthcare-crisis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">DTE<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Indian Star Tortoise<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Syllabus: GS3\/ Species In News<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>In News<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>As per the recent study, releasing confiscated <strong>Indian Star Tortoise<\/strong> back into the wild without proper scientific planning can be detrimental like they may carry diseases, have different genetic makeups or may have captive behavioral issues.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>About Indian Star Tortoise (Geochelone elegans)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img data-dominant-color=\"64613e\" data-has-transparency=\"false\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"666\" height=\"460\" src=\"https:\/\/wp-images.nextias.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/format=auto\/ca\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Indian-Star-Tortoise.webp\" alt=\"Indian-Star-Tortoise\" class=\"not-transparent wp-image-33506\" style=\"--dominant-color: #64613e; width:456px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wp-images.nextias.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/format=auto\/ca\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Indian-Star-Tortoise.webp 666w, https:\/\/wp-images.nextias.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/format=auto\/ca\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Indian-Star-Tortoise-300x207.webp 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 666px) 100vw, 666px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Description: <\/strong>Recognizable for its <strong>obsidian shell with sun-yellow star patterns.<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Herbivorous and solitary; does <strong>not hibernate <\/strong>but becomes inactive in extreme weather.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Endemic to India and Sri Lanka, found in<strong> arid regions of northwest India,<\/strong> southern India, and Sri Lanka.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Conservation Status:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>CITES:<\/strong> Listed in Appendix I (prohibits international trade except for scientific purposes).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (India): <strong>Schedule I (highest protection).<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>IUCN:<\/strong> Vulnerable.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Threats: <\/strong>Habitat loss<strong>, <\/strong>Illegal poaching for the exotic pet trade, Unscientific release of seized tortoises poses ecological risks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Recent Research Findings:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Genetic Divergence:<\/strong> Two distinct groups exist: <strong>Northwestern group:<\/strong> Genetically less diverse but stable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Southern group:<\/strong> Highly diverse.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Historical Evolution:<\/strong> Divergence occurred around 2 million years ago due to climatic and habitat changes during the split from the Gondwana supercontinent.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Source: TH<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>INS Tushil<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Syllabus: GS3\/Defence<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Context<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Stealth frigate INS Tushil<\/strong> is commissioned into the Indian Navy in Russia.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>About<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In 2016, India and Russia signed a deal for four stealth frigates, two to be built in Russia and two to be constructed at Goa.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The second frigate <strong>Tamal <\/strong>is expected to be delivered to the Indian Navy in Russia in the first quarter of next year.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>About INS Tushil<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It is an upgraded <strong>Krivak III class frigate of the Project 1135.6<\/strong> of which six are already in service.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tushil means<\/strong> <strong>&#8220;the protector shield&#8221;, <\/strong>and its crest represents the &#8220;Abhedya Kavacham (impenetrable shield)&#8221;.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Its motto is <\/strong>&#8220;Nirbhay, Abhedya aur Balsheel (Fearless, Indomitable, and Resolute)&#8221;.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It is designed for blue water operations across the spectrum of naval warfare in <strong>all four dimensions air, surface, underwater and electromagnetic.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It is armed with a range of advanced weapons, including the<strong> jointly-developed Brahmos supersonic cruise missiles.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pib.gov.in\/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2082369\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>PIB<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Eklingji Temple in Udaipur has recently implemented new rules, including a dress code and a mobile phone ban, with the stated aim of preserving the sanctity of the temple.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[21],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-33503","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-current-affairs"],"acf":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.nextias.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33503","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.nextias.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.nextias.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.nextias.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.nextias.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=33503"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.nextias.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33503\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":33510,"href":"https:\/\/www.nextias.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33503\/revisions\/33510"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.nextias.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=33503"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.nextias.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=33503"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.nextias.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=33503"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}