UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

20 June 2024 09:44

Q1. Consider the following statements:

Statement-I:

The European Commission (EC) is an institution within the European Union.

Statement-II:

The European Commission oversees the day-to-day operations and policy implementation of the European Union.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

(a)  Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I

(b)  Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I

(c)  Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect

(d)  Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

20 June 2024 09:42

KRISHI SAKHI CONVERGENCE PROGRAM (KSCP)

Syllabus: GOVERNMENT SCHEMES

Context: Recently, the Prime Minister of India granted certificates to over 30,000 women from Self Help Groups (SHGs) as ‘Krishi Sakhis’ under the Krishi Sakhi Convergence Programme (KSCP).

Learning Points:

* Krishi Sakhi convergence program (KSCP) aims to transform rural India through the empowerment of rural Women as Krishi Sakhi, by imparting training and certification of Krishi Sakhis as Para-extension Workers.

* This certification course aligns with the objectives of the “Lakhpati Didi” Program.

* Under the 'Lakhpati Didi' program, the aim is to create 3 crore Lakhpati Didis, one dimension of which is Krishi Sakhi.

Training Modules:

* Krishi Sakhis undergo comprehensive training, including modules on agro-ecological practices, farmer field schools, soil health, livestock management, and more.

* After training, Krishi Sakhis take a proficiency test. Those who qualify become certified Para-extension Workers, enabling them to undertake various agricultural activities.
Employment Opportunities:

* Krishi Sakhis can engage in activities related to soil health, crop demonstrations, crop insurance, horticulture awareness, and rainfed area development, earning resource fees for their services.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

20 June 2024 09:41

EUROPEAN COMMISSION (EC)

Syllabus: INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS

Context: The European Commission (EC) has indeed proposed anti-dumping duties on Indian optical fibre cable (OFC) manufacturers. If implemented, the duties would increase the cost of Indian OFC exports, potentially limiting their competitiveness in the European market. India exported nearly Rs 39,600 crore worth of OFC in 2024, with Europe being a major destination.

Learning Points:

* The European Commission (EC) is a crucial institution within the European Union (EU).

* It serves as the EU’s executive arm, overseeing day-to-day operations and policy implementation.

Composition:

* The EC consists of a College of Commissioners, with each member representing one of the 27 EU member states. The President of the Commission leads this group of Commissioners.

Functions:

* Executive Role: The EC manages the EU’s administrative affairs, executing policies and decisions.

* Legislative Role: It proposes new laws to the European Parliament.

* Judicial Role: The EC interprets and applies EU law.

Priorities:

* The Commission focuses on various areas, including the economy, environment, education, and fundamental rights.

* It also plays a crucial role in international relations and humanitarian aid.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

19 June 2024 09:23

Q4. Consider the following statements:

Statement-I:

Digi Yatra Initiative is a project by the Ministry of Civil Aviation to create a Biometric Enabled Seamless Travel experience (BEST) using Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) for passengers at airports.

Statement-II:

Digi Yatra aligns with the Digital India vision to transform India into a digitally empowered society.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

(a)  Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I

(b)  Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I

(c)  Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect

(d)  Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

19 June 2024 09:18

Q2. With reference to the E. coli, consider the following statements:

1.  E. coli is a type of bacteria that can be found in the intestines of humans and animals.
2.  It can be transmitted to humans through contaminated food and water.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

19 June 2024 09:16

PRACTICE QUESTIONS

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

19 June 2024 09:15

DIGI YATRA

Syllabus: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Context: The CEO of Digi Yatra Foundation, has indicated that the vision is to enhance seamless movement across India by including hotels, rail travel, and public places in the Digi Yatra system.

Learning Points:

* Digi Yatra Initiative is a project by the Ministry of Civil Aviation to create a Biometric Enabled Seamless Travel experience (BEST) using Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) for passengers at airports.

*  The primary goal is to streamline the boarding process and enhance the airport experience by eliminating manual verification of tickets and IDs at various checkpoints.

* It provides a decentralized mobile wallet-based identity management platform which is cost effective and addresses privacy/data protection issues in implementation of Digi Yatra.

* Digi Yatra aligns with the Digital India vision to transform India into a digitally empowered society.

Digi Yatra Foundation:

* It has been set up as a joint venture (JV) company in 2019 under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013.

* The Foundation was formed, with the objective of creating the Digi Yatra Central Ecosystem (DYCE).

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

19 June 2024 09:14

HINDU KUSH HIMALAYA (HKH)

Syllabus: GEOGRAPHY

Context: A recent report by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) analysed data on snow persistence from 2003 to 2024 and found it to be significantly lower than normal in the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) this year. Snow persistence is the fraction of the time that snow remains on the ground.

Learning Points:

*  The Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region, often referred to as the Third Pole due to its extensive snow and ice cover.

* It spans across eight countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan.

* It stretches over 3,500 kilometers.

* The HKH range is known for its rugged terrain and towering peaks, including several of the world’s highest mountains, such as Mount Everest and K2.

* The region covers approximately 4.2 million square kilometers, providing a diverse range of ecosystems from subtropical forests at lower elevations to alpine meadows and permanent ice and snow at the highest elevations.

*  It is the source of ten large Asian river systems – the Amu Darya, Indus, Ganges, Brahmaputra (Yarlungtsanpo), Irrawaddy, Salween (Nu), Mekong (Lancang), Yangtse (Jinsha), Yellow River (Huanghe), and Tarim (Dayan).

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

27 May 2024 08:16

Q1. With reference to the cyclone, consider the following statements:

1.  Cyclones are rapid inward air circulation around a low-pressure area.

2.   The air circulates in an anticlockwise direction in the Northern hemisphere.

3.  Cyclones are usually accompanied by violent storms and bad weather.

4.  Tropical cyclones typically form over warm ocean water near the equator.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

27 May 2024 08:08

CYCLONE

Syllabus: GEOGRAPHY

Context: Cyclone Remal recently made landfall, affecting coastal areas in West Bengal, India, and Bangladesh.

Learning Points:

* Cyclones are rapid inward air circulation around a low-pressure area.

* The air circulates in an anticlockwise direction in the Northern hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern hemisphere.

* Cyclones are usually accompanied by violent storms and bad weather.

* The process of cyclone formation and intensification is called Cyclogenesis.

* Tropical cyclones typically form over warm ocean water near the equator.

Types of Cyclones:

* Tropical Cyclone: Forms over warm ocean water near the equator.
•
* Extratropical Cyclone: Develops outside the tropics, often associated with frontal systems.

* Tornadoes: Intense localized cyclonic winds with a funnel-shaped cloud.

* Cyclones are not limited to Earth; they’re also observed on other planets like Mars, Jupiter, and Neptune.

Naming and Locations:

* Cyclones are addressed differently based on their location:

  Hurricanes: In the Atlantic and Eastern Pacific.

  Typhoons: In Southeast Asia.

  Cyclones: In the Indian Ocean and Western Pacific (around Australia).

* An international committee of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) maintains and updates lists of cyclone names.

* Originally, only women’s names were used, but since 1979, men’s names have been included alternately.

* Six lists are used in rotation, with each list reused after six years.

* Names are not repeated if a storm caused significant damage in a country.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

24 May 2024 06:52

PRACTICE QUESTIONS

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

24 May 2024 06:51

WEST BANK

Syllabus: GEOGRAPHY- WORLD MAP

Context: Israeli forces carried out raids in the West Bank city of Jenin for two consecutive days. At least 12 Palestinians were killed during the operation.

Learning Points:

* The West Bank is a landlocked territory in the Levant region of West Asia.

* It is the larger of the two Palestinian territories, the other being the Gaza Strip.

Geography:

* Bordered by Jordan and the Dead Sea to the east.

*  Bordered by Israel (via the Green Line) to the south, west, and north.

* The Mediterranean Sea lies to the west.

* The territory has been under Israeli occupation since 1967.

History:

* Emerged after the 1948 Arab–Israeli War as a region occupied and subsequently annexed by Jordan.

* Occupied by Israel during the 1967 Six-Day War.

* Administered by Israel as the Judea and Samaria Area.

* Mid-1990s Oslo Accords divided the West Bank into three regional levels of Palestinian sovereignty: Area A (PNA), Area B (PNA and Israel), and Area C (Israel).

Significance:

*  Palestinians consider it the heart of their envisioned state, along with the Gaza Strip.

*  Israelis view it as their ancestral homeland, with numerous biblical sites.

* Area C contains Israeli settlements, which the international community considers illegal under international law.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

23 May 2024 08:23

Q3. With reference to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), consider the following statements:

1.  The Consumer Price Index measures the average change in prices of a basket of goods and services consumed by households.

2.  The Reserve Bank of India adopted the CPI as its primary measure of inflation.

3.  The base year for CPI calculations is 2012.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

23 May 2024 08:19

Q1. With reference to the Ordinance making power of the President, consider the following statements:

1.  Article 213 of the constitution empowers the President to promulgate ordinances.

2.  The President can issue an ordinance only when either both or one of the Houses of Parliament is not in session.

3.  An ordinance promulgated by the President has a maximum validity of six months and six weeks from the date of its promulgation.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

23 May 2024 08:17

CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (CPI)

Syllabus: ECONOMY

Context: The Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) has raised concerns about the delay in releasing the All-India Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers (AICPI-IW).

Learning Points:

* The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a crucial economic indicator that measures the average change in prices of a basket of goods and services consumed by households.

* It provides insights into inflation trends and helps policymakers make informed decisions.

Purpose and Calculation:

* The CPI reflects price changes from the perspective of retail buyers. It tracks the cost of essential items that consumers purchase for daily use.

* The calculation involves comparing the current prices of a fixed basket of goods and services with their prices in a base year. The percentage change indicates inflation or deflation.

Sub-Groups:

* The CPI includes various sub-groups representing different categories of goods and services.

* These sub-groups help analyze specific sectors of the economy. Some common sub-groups are:

 Food and Beverages: Includes food items, beverages, and dining out expenses.

 Fuel and Light: Covers energy costs such as fuel, electricity, and gas.

 Housing: Includes rent, utilities, and home-related expenses.

 Clothing, Bedding, and Footwear: Tracks prices of clothing and footwear.

Types of CPI:

* CPI for Industrial Workers (IW): Focuses on urban industrial workers and their consumption patterns.

* CPI for Agricultural Labourer (AL): Specifically considers rural agricultural labourers.

* CPI for Rural Labourer (RL): Reflects the cost of living for rural labourers.

* CPI (Rural/Urban/Combined): The overall CPI, combining both rural and urban data.

Data Sources and Compilation:

* The first three CPI types are compiled by the Labour Bureau under the Ministry of Labour and Employment.

* The fourth type (CPI Rural/Urban/Combined) is compiled by the National Statistical Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.

* The base year for CPI calculations is 2012.

* Recently, the Ministry of Labour and Employment introduced a new series of CPI for Industrial Worker (CPI-IW) with a base year of 2016.

Policy Implications:

* The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) uses CPI data to formulate monetary policy. Controlling inflation is a key objective.

* In April 2014, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) adopted the CPI as its primary measure of inflation, replacing the Wholesale Price Index (WPI).

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

20 June 2024 09:42

PRACTICE QUESTIONS

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

20 June 2024 09:41

GHAGGAR RIVER

Syllabus: GEOGRAPHY

Context: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann recently conducted an on-site review of flood-prone areas along the Ghaggar River. This proactive move aims to mitigate flood risks in Punjab and assess the preparedness for the upcoming monsoon season. Notably, this approach represents a significant shift from past practices, where state visits occurred post-flooding.

Learning Points:

* The Ghaggar river rises from the Shivalik Range in northwestern Himachal Pradesh.

* It is a seasonal river that flows only during the monsoon season.

* The Ghaggar River flows through four states in India: Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan

* The Hakra, which flows in Pakistan, is the continuation of the Ghaggar River in India, and they are together called the Ghaggar - Hakra River.

* Before reaching the Ottu barrage, it is known as the Ghaggar.

* Downstream of the barrage, it becomes the Hakra and flows through the Thar Desert in Pakistan.

* It dries up in the Great Indian (Thar) Desert.

Historical Significance:

*  In pre-Harappan times, the Ghaggar was a tributary of the Sutlej River.

* The Sutlej changed its course around 8,000-10,000 years ago, leaving the Ghaggar-Hakra as a system of monsoon-fed rivers terminating in the Thar Desert.

*  The Indus Valley Civilization thrived along the dried-up Hakra riverbed in Pakistan.
Sarasvati River Connection:

* Scholars have suggested that the Ghaggar-Hakra might be the defunct remains of the Sarasvati River mentioned in the Rig Veda.

*Despite drying up, it still holds historical and cultural significance.

Tributaries:

* The main tributaries of the Ghaggar are the Kaushalya River, Markanda, Sarsuti, Tangri, and Chautang.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

20 June 2024 09:38

NALANDA UNIVERSITY

Syllabus: ANCIENT HISTORY

Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the ancient Nalanda site after the inauguration of the new campus of Nalanda University in Rajgir, Bihar.

Learning Points:

* Nalanda, an ancient centre of higher learning in Bihar, India, holds a remarkable history spanning from 427 to 1197 AD.

* Nalanda University holds World Heritage Site status, recognized by UNESCO. Its historical significance and architectural marvels have earned it this prestigious designation.

Founding and Evolution:

* Nalanda University was founded during the reign of the Gupta dynasty by Kumaragupta I (also known as Kumaragupta the Great) in the early 5th century CE.

*  Initially dedicated to Buddhist studies, Nalanda evolved over time to encompass a diverse curriculum, including fine arts, medicine, mathematics, astronomy, politics, and the art of warfare.

*  Its sprawling campus featured eight separate compounds, ten temples, meditation halls, classrooms, serene lakes, and lush parks.

* Nalanda University holds World Heritage Site status, recognized by UNESCO.

*  Its historical significance and architectural marvels have earned it this prestigious designation.

Patronage and Fame:

* King Harsha: Under the patronage of King Harsha, Nalanda flourished and reached its zenith. Generous grants and support from various rulers contributed to its growth and reputation.

* Academic Excellence: Nalanda gained fame not only for its sheer size but also for its commitment to academic excellence. Its vast library, known as the “Dharma Gunj,” housed countless scrolls, manuscripts, and texts from different parts of the world. This library played a pivotal role in the dissemination of wisdom across borders.

*  Renowned Scholars: Nalanda was home to renowned scholars such as Nagarjuna, Aryadeva, and Dharmapala, whose contributions to Buddhism and other fields of study are still revered today.

Challenges and Destruction:

* Hunas Invasion: Nalanda faced notable attacks during its history. The first attack occurred between 455 and 470 AD when the Hunas, a Central Asian tribal group, invaded Nalanda during the reign of Emperor Samudragupta of the Gupta Empire.

*  End of an Era: Despite its resilience, Nalanda faced decline and eventual destruction around AD 1197.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

19 June 2024 09:20

Q3. With reference to the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), consider the following statements:

1.  The EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism is designed to ensure a fair price on carbon emissions produced during the manufacturing of carbon-intensive goods entering the EU.

2.   It aims to encourage cleaner industrial production in non-EU countries.

3.  The transitional phase of CBAM began in October 2023, with a full implementation expected from January 1, 2026.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

19 June 2024 09:16

Q1. Consider the following rivers:
1.  Indus
2.  Ganga
3.  Brahmaputra
4.  Mekong

How many of the above given rivers originate from the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region?

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

19 June 2024 09:15

EU CARBON BORDER ADJUSTMENT MECHANISM (CBAM)

Syllabus: ENVIRONMENT

Context: British wind and solar farms exporting power to continental Europe could face CO2 fees from 2026 - even though they don't produce any emissions - unless the UK and European Union can agree changes around the EU's carbon border tax.

Learning Points:

* The EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is designed to ensure a fair price on carbon emissions produced during the manufacturing of carbon-intensive goods entering the EU.

* It aims to encourage cleaner industrial production in non-EU countries.

EU’s Climate Goals:

*  The EU has committed to reducing its carbon emissions by at least 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels.

* The Carbon Border Tax is part of this effort, targeting import-related emissions which account for 20% of CO2 emissions.

Implementation:

* The transitional phase of CBAM began in October 2023, with a full implementation expected from January 1, 2026.

Impact on Trade:

* There are concerns about increased costs for non-EU exports, including India’s metal exports to EU countries.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

19 June 2024 09:15

E-COLI CONTAMINATION

Syllabus: ENVIRONMENT

Context: Over 300 residents of a 15-tower residential building at Kochi, reported vomiting and diarrhoea in a suspected case of E-coli contamination in drinking water.

Learning Points:

*  E-coli, or Escherichia coli, is a type of bacteria that normally lives in the intestines of people and animals.

* While most strains are harmless, some can cause serious food poisoning and infection.

* The most familiar strains of E. coli that make one sick by producing a toxin called Shiga.

*  E-coli can lead to diarrhea, urinary tract infections, respiratory illness, pneumonia, and other illnesses.

* It’s often spread through contaminated food or water, or through contact with animals or persons.

*  Treatment for E-coli infection typically focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing dehydration, as most cases resolve on their own without the need for antibiotics.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

27 May 2024 08:18

Q2. With reference to the Election Commission of India (ECI), consider the following statements:

1.  The Election Commission of India (ECI) is an autonomous constitutional authority responsible for administering Union and State election processes in India. 

2.  The President of India appoints the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners.

3.  The Chief Election Commissioner can be removed through a process similar to that of a Supreme Court judge.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

27 May 2024 08:14

ELECTION COMMISSION OF INDIA (ECI)

Syllabus: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

Context: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has recently released the absolute number of votes cast during the first five phases of the Lok Sabha elections.

Learning Points:

* The Election Commission of India (ECI) is an autonomous constitutional authority responsible for administering Union and State election processes in India.

*   It plays a crucial role in ensuring transparent and fair elections.

Constitutional Provisions:

* The ECI is established under Article 324 of the Indian Constitution, which deals with elections.

* Articles 324 to 329 outline the powers, functions, tenure, eligibility, and other aspects related to the commission and its members.

* These provisions ensure that the ECI has the authority to supervise, direct, and control elections at various levels.

Structure:

* Originally, the ECI had only one Election Commissioner, but after the Election Commissioner Amendment Act 1989, it became a multi-member body.

* The ECI now consists of:

  Chief Election Commissioner (CEC): The head of the commission.

  Two Election Commissioners: Together, they oversee election-related matters.

* The secretariat of the commission is located in New Delhi.

* At the state level, the Chief Electoral Officer (an IAS rank Officer) assists the state election commission.

Appointment and Tenure:

* The President of India appoints the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners.

* They serve a fixed tenure of six years or until the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.

* Their status, salary, and perks are equivalent to those of Judges of the Supreme Court of India.

Removal Procedure:

* The Chief Election Commissioner can be removed through a process similar to that of a Supreme Court judge.

* Removal requires a special majority (two-thirds of members present and voting) supported by more than 50% of the total strength of the house.

* The Constitution does not use the term “impeachment” for the removal of judges, CAG, or CEC.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

24 May 2024 06:56

Q2. Consider the following statements about One China Policy:

1.  The One China Policy underscores recognition of China’s sovereignty over Taiwan.

2.  Any country that wants to establish political and diplomatic relations with China must adhere to this principle and not recognize Taiwan as an independent country.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

24 May 2024 06:52

CHINA -TAIWAN CONFLICT

Syllabus: INTERNATIONAL EVENTS

Context: Recently China encircled Taiwan with naval vessels and military aircraft in war games.

Learning Points:

* The China-Taiwan Conflict is a complex geopolitical issue with historical roots.

Background:

* Taiwan came under Chinese control during the Qing dynasty but was given to Japan after China lost the first Sino-Japanese war in 1895.

* China regained control of Taiwan in 1945 after Japan lost World War II, but the civil war between the nationalists and communists led to the nationalists fleeing to Taiwan in 1949.

* As of now, only 15 countries officially recognize Taiwan as a sovereign country due to China’s diplomatic pressure.
•  These include Vatican City, Belize, Honduras, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Nauru, Tuvalu, Marshall Islands, Palau, Solomon Islands, Swaziland, and Eswatini.

One China Policy:

* The One China Policy underscores recognition of China’s sovereignty over Taiwan.

*  It has been held by the US since 1979. Under this policy, the US snapped formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan (Republic of China) and established ties with the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in Beijing.

* Any country that wants to establish political and diplomatic relations with China must adhere to this principle and not recognize Taiwan as an independent country.

Strategic Significance of Taiwan:

* Taiwan is situated in a strategically important location in the western Pacific Ocean, adjacent to China, Japan, and the Philippines.

* Its economic interests, investments in China, and pro-independence sentiments make the situation volatile.

* Monitoring the China-Taiwan relationship closely is crucial for regional stability.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

24 May 2024 06:51

CHAR DHAM TEMPLES

Syllabus: ART AND CULTURE

Context: With an unprecedented number of pilgrims visiting the Char Dham temples in Uttarakhand, the govt. banned offline registration till May 31.

Learning Points:

* The Char Dham in Uttarakhand, also known as the Chota Char Dham, is a sacred pilgrimage circuit consisting of four temples:

  Yamunotri: Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, it is located in the Uttarkashi district near the source of the River Yamuna.

  Gangotri: Also in Uttarkashi, this temple honours Goddess Ganga, situated near the source of the River Ganga.

  Kedarnath: Located in the Rudraprayag district, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

  Badrinath: Situated in the Chamoli district, the Badrinarayan Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

*  These temples are part of the larger Char Dham pilgrimage sites but are specifically located in the state of Uttarakhand.

*  The Char Dham pilgrimage circuit holds immense spiritual significance in Hinduism.

* The pilgrimage usually begins from Yamunotri and proceeds in a clockwise direction to Gangotri, Kedarnath, and ends at Badrinath.

* The journey to these temples is considered highly spiritual and is undertaken by thousands of devotees each year to seek blessings and purification.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

23 May 2024 08:21

Q2. With reference to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), consider the following statements:

1.  The Model Code of Conduct is a set of guidelines published by the union government of India for political parties and candidates.

2.  The MCC is in effect from the announcement of the election schedule until the result declaration.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

23 May 2024 08:18

PRACTICE QUESTIONS

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS SIMPLIFIED

23 May 2024 08:09

MODEL CODE OF CONDUCT (MCC)

Syllabus: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

Context: Governor Arif Mohammed Khan returns ordinances on delimitation of local bodies, citing model code of conduct.

Learning Points:

* The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is a set of guidelines published by the Election Commission of India (ECI) for political parties and candidates.

* It establishes standards of conduct during election campaigns and polling.

Purpose and Scope:

* The MCC serves as a consensus document. Political parties voluntarily agree to adhere to its principles during elections.

*   It empowers the ECI to supervise and conduct free and fair elections, as mandated by Article 324 of the Constitution.

* The MCC is in effect from the announcement of the election schedule until the result declaration.

Restrictions and Prohibitions:

* Financial Grants: The government cannot announce any financial grants during the MCC period.

* Infrastructure Promises: Promising construction of roads or other facilities is prohibited.

* Ad Hoc Appointments: No ad hoc appointments in government or public undertakings are allowed.

Enforcement and Strength:

* While the MCC lacks statutory backing, its strict enforcement by the EC has made it influential over the past decade.

* Some provisions of the MCC can be enforced by invoking corresponding provisions in other statutes, such as the Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860, Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) 1973, and Representation of People’s Act (RPA) 1951.

* Violations of the MCC can result in actions such as warnings, reprimands, or even disqualification of candidates.