Current Affairs Reverse Engineering- CARE (29-08-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Polity and Governance: Union Cabinet approves rolling out of private FM Radio in 234 new cities and towns |
| Economy: Cabinet approves setting up of 12 industrial smart cities across 10 states |
| Centre redesigns Agricultural Infrastructure Fund to cover FPOs |
| Geography: Typhoon Shanshan dumps rain on southern Japan |
| Science and Technology: OpenAI to launch new AI product called ‘Strawberry’ in fall |
Union Cabinet approves rolling out of private FM Radio in 234 new cities and towns
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS 2- Polity and Governance
Context: E-Auctions for Private FM Radio Channels
Why in News
- The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a significant initiative to expand the reach of private FM radio channels across India.
Overview of the Initiative
- E-Auctions for Private FM Radio Channels:
The approved proposal involves e-auctions for setting up 730 new FM radio channels across 234 cities in India.
- The estimated reserve price for these channels is ₹784.87 crore.
- This initiative is aimed at expanding the reach of private FM radio, particularly in areas that have not yet been covered by existing channels.
- Targeted Cities and Towns:
The initiative is strategically focused on cities and towns located in aspirational districts and areas affected by Left-Wing Extremism. These regions often lack adequate access to media and communication services, and the introduction of new FM channels is expected to address this gap.
State-wise Distribution:
- Uttar Pradesh: 100 channels in 32 cities/towns
- Andhra Pradesh: 68 channels in 22 cities/towns
- Madhya Pradesh: 61 channels in 20 cities/towns
- Rajasthan: 59 channels in 19 cities/towns
- Bihar: 57 channels
- Karnataka: 53 channels in 16 cities/towns
- West Bengal: 42 channels
- Maharashtra: 36 channels
- Tamil Nadu: 33 channels
- Telangana: 31 channels
- Punjab: 28 channels
- Gujarat: 24 channels
- Haryana: 27 channels
- Jharkhand: 19 channels
Financial and Regulatory Details
- Annual License Fee (ALF):
The Cabinet has approved a new scheme for charging the Annual License Fee (ALF) for FM channels. - The ALF will now be set at 4% of the gross revenue, excluding Goods and Services Tax (GST).
- This scheme will be applicable to the 234 new cities and towns where the FM channels will be set up.
Expected Impact and Benefits
- Enhancing Access to Local Content:
The expansion of FM radio channels is expected to significantly enhance access to diverse and local content. - The new channels will focus on providing content in local languages and dialects, which will promote regional cultures and traditions.
- This is particularly important in regions where local languages may not have significant representation in mainstream media.
- Promotion of Local Culture and “Vocal for Local”:
The initiative aligns with the government’s “Vocal for Local” campaign, which encourages the promotion of local products, languages, and cultures. - By providing a platform for local content, the new FM channels will contribute to preserving and promoting regional identities.
- Employment Generation:
The rollout of new FM channels is expected to create employment opportunities in the media and broadcasting sectors. - This includes jobs related to content creation, broadcasting, marketing, and technical support. The focus on local content will also encourage creativity and innovation within these communities.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the recent Union Cabinet approval for the expansion of private FM radio channels in India:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
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Q. With reference to organic farming in India, consider the following statements: (2021)
1. The National Programme for Organic Production’ (NPOP) is operated under the guidelines and directions of the Union Ministry of Rural Development. 2. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority’ (APEDA) functions as the Secretariat for the implementation of NPOP. 3. Sikkim has become India’s first fully organic State. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Answer. b |
| Answer 1– A
Explanation:
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Cabinet approves setting up of 12 industrial smart cities across 10 states
Source: Indian Express
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/cabinet-12-industrial-smart-cities-9537671/
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3- Economy
Context: National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP)
Why in News
- The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved setting up of 12 industrial smart cities under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP).
Overview of the Exercise
- The approval of 12 industrial smart cities under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs is a significant development in India’s industrial landscape.
- This initiative is designed to bolster India’s economic growth, enhance global competitiveness, and align with the broader vision of a self-reliant and developed India.
National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP):
- The NICDP is a large-scale initiative aimed at developing world-class industrial infrastructure across India.
- It is strategically aligned with six major industrial corridors, which serve as key economic zones.
- The goal is to create an ecosystem that supports both large-scale industries and MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises), thereby promoting investment, industrial growth, and exports.
Key Components of the Approved Smart Cities
- Strategic Investments:
The smart cities under NICDP are intended to attract significant investments. These industrial nodes are not only designed to cater to current industrial demands but are also developed “ahead of demand,” ensuring that infrastructure is ready as soon as industries are set up. The project is expected to catalyze the achievement of $2 trillion in exports by 2030, reflecting the government’s vision of a globally competitive and self-reliant India. - Modern Infrastructure:
The smart cities will be developed as greenfield projects, meaning they will be built from scratch with no constraints from existing infrastructure. These cities will incorporate modern infrastructure with the ‘plug-n-play’ and ‘walk-to-work’ concepts. ‘Plug-n-play’ implies that industries can set up operations quickly with minimal setup time, as all necessary utilities and services are pre-installed. The ‘walk-to-work’ concept ensures that residential areas are located close to workplaces, reducing commute times and enhancing the quality of life. - Integration with PM GatiShakti:
These projects are aligned with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, which emphasizes multi-modal connectivity. This integration ensures that the industrial cities will have seamless connectivity with other regions, facilitating the easy movement of goods, services, and people. This connectivity is crucial for maintaining supply chain efficiency and fostering regional economic growth.
Vision for a Developed India (Viksit Bharat)
- Positioning in Global Value Chains (GVCs):
One of the central objectives of the NICDP is to strengthen India’s position in global value chains. By providing developed land parcels ready for immediate allotment, the programme aims to attract both domestic and international investors. - This ease of setting up manufacturing units in India aligns with the broader objective of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India), which focuses on boosting domestic production and reducing dependency on imports.
Economic Impact and Employment Generation
- Job Creation:
The NICDP is expected to generate significant employment opportunities, with an estimated 1 million direct jobs and up to 3 million indirect jobs. These jobs will be created through the planned industrialization in the newly developed smart cities. This massive employment generation is expected to uplift the socio-economic conditions of the regions involved, contributing to overall regional development. - Socio-economic Upliftment:
The development of these industrial smart cities is not just about economic growth; it also aims to uplift the socio-economic conditions of the regions. By creating job opportunities and improving infrastructure, the government seeks to enhance the quality of life in these areas.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
- Sustainability Focus:
The NICDP projects are designed with a strong focus on sustainability. The smart cities will incorporate ICT-enabled utilities (Information and Communication Technology) and green technologies to minimize environmental impact. This includes the use of renewable energy sources, efficient waste management systems, and environmentally friendly industrial practices. - Environmental Stewardship:
By prioritizing sustainability, the government aims to create industrial cities that are not only centers of economic activity but also models of environmental stewardship. This approach reflects a commitment to balancing industrial growth with environmental responsibility.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q2. Which of the following statements regarding the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) is/are correct?
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
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Q. Which of the following is/are the aim/aims of “Digital India” Plan of the Government of India? (2021)
Select the correct answer using the code given below (a ) 1 and 2 only ( b) 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Answer. b |
| Answer 2- A
Explanation:
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Centre redesigns Agricultural Infrastructure Fund to cover FPOs
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS-3 Economy
Context Agricultural Infrastructure Fund (AIF)
Why in News
- The Union Cabinet expanded the scope of the Agricultural Infrastructure Fund (AIF).
Overview of the Agricultural Infrastructure Fund (AIF)
- AIF Scheme Details:
The Agricultural Infrastructure Fund (AIF) is a ₹1 lakh crore scheme aimed at boosting agricultural infrastructure in India. It was launched to provide financial support to various agricultural projects, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency, productivity, and sustainability of the agricultural sector. - Recent Expansion of AIF:
On August 28, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the expansion of the AIF scheme to make it more attractive, impactful, and inclusive. This expansion is designed to broaden the scope of eligible projects and integrate additional supportive measures that will foster a more robust agricultural infrastructure ecosystem.
Key Components of the Expansion
- 1. Support for Farmers’ Producers Organisations (FPOs):
A significant component of the expansion is the inclusion of financial support for Farmers’ Producers Organisations (FPOs). This inclusion aims to enhance the financial security and creditworthiness of FPOs, which play a crucial role in aggregating small farmers’ produce, improving their bargaining power, and ensuring better market access. - 2. Broader Scope of Eligible Projects:
The expansion also broadens the scope of eligible projects under the AIF. This means that a wider range of agricultural infrastructure projects can now receive financial support from the fund, further driving growth and innovation in the sector. - 3. Impact on Rural Employment and Investment:
The AIF has already sanctioned ₹47,575 crore for 74,508 projects, leading to a significant mobilization of investment in the agriculture sector—₹78,596 crore in total, with ₹78,433 crore coming from private entities. These projects have generated over 8.19 lakh rural employment opportunities, showcasing the fund’s impact on rural livelihoods.
Expected Outcomes
- Improved Agricultural Productivity and Farm Incomes:
The expansion of the AIF is expected to drive further growth in the agricultural sector by improving infrastructure, which in turn will enhance productivity. Better infrastructure can lead to higher farm incomes by reducing post-harvest losses, improving storage facilities, and enhancing market access. - Contribution to Agricultural Sustainability:
By supporting a wider range of projects and integrating sustainability measures, the AIF expansion will contribute to the overall sustainability of agriculture in India. This includes promoting practices that are environmentally friendly and economically viable. - Strengthening the Agricultural Ecosystem:
The expanded AIF aims to foster a more inclusive and robust agricultural ecosystem. By making the fund more attractive and accessible to a broader range of stakeholders, including FPOs, the government is working towards a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q3. Consider the following statements regarding the recent expansion of the Agricultural Infrastructure Fund (AIF):
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 and 2 only |
Q. With reference to ‘National Investment and Infrastructure Fund’, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2021)
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Answer. d |
| Answer 3 B
Explanation
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Typhoon Shanshan dumps rain on southern Japan
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 1 Geography
Context: Typhoon Shanshan
Why in News
- Typhoon Shanshan is currently impacting southern Japan, bringing with it severe weather conditions that have prompted the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) to issue the highest-level warnings for the Kagoshima prefecture.
Overview of Typhoon Shanshan
- Location and Movement:
Typhoon Shanshan is moving slowly at the speed of a bicycle, which means its impact will be prolonged. - As of August 28, 2024, it was located about 120 km south of Yakushima, a southern island in Japan, heading north toward Kyushu.
- Wind Speed and Rainfall:
The typhoon is packing winds of up to 180 km/h. - It’s expected to bring heavy rainfall, with forecasts predicting up to 60 cm of rain in 24 hours for southern Kyushu.
Impact on Southern Japan
Injuries and Damage:
- The storm has already caused damage and injuries.
- In Gamagori, a central Japanese city, a landslide buried a house with five people inside. Two have been rescued, and efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining three.
High-Level Warnings:
- The JMA has issued the highest-level warnings for violent winds, high waves, heavy rain, and an emergency storm surge for the Kagoshima prefecture.
- These warnings reflect the potential for widespread damage as the typhoon continues its path across Japan.
Government Response and Public Safety Measures
- Disaster Management Efforts:
Disaster Management Minister Yoshifumi Matsumura has expressed concern about the “unprecedented” levels of severe weather expected from the typhoon. He has urged residents in the typhoon’s path to take early precautionary measures, such as checking the location of their nearest shelters.
- Impact on Transportation and Services:
- Flights and Trains: Dozens of domestic flights connecting southwestern cities and islands are cancelled through Friday (August 30, 2024). Japan Railway companies have announced that most bullet and local train services in Kyushu will be suspended Thursday, with potential suspensions on the main island of Honshu through Sunday (September 1, 2024).
- Postal and Delivery Services: Services have been suspended in the Kyushu region. Supermarkets and other stores have announced plans to close early, reflecting the widespread disruption caused by the storm.
Broader Concerns
- The slow-moving nature of Typhoon Shanshan means that its impact could be more severe and prolonged than faster-moving storms.
- The typhoon’s progression up the Japanese archipelago is likely to bring significant rainfall, strong winds, and the potential for flooding and landslides across a broad area.
- Government officials are particularly concerned about the storm’s impact on vulnerable populations, such as older adults, and have cancelled other planned disaster drills to focus all resources on the current emergency response.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q4. Consider the following statements regarding Typhoon Shanshan impacting Japan in August 2024:
Which of the above statements are correct?
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Consider the following sentences: (2020)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Ans: c |
| Answer 4 C
Explanation
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OpenAI to launch new AI product called ‘Strawberry’ in Fall
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3- Science and Technology
Context: AI product named “Strawberry”
Why in news
- OpenAI is reportedly gearing up to launch a new advanced AI product named “Strawberry”
Overview
- According to a report by The Information, Strawberry is designed to significantly enhance the reasoning capabilities of AI models, enabling the AI to solve math problems even without prior training, execute high-level tasks such as designing market strategies, solving complex word puzzles, and conducting deep research.
Key Features and Capabilities of “Strawberry”
- Advanced Problem-Solving:
Strawberry is expected to excel in solving complex math problems, even those it hasn’t been specifically trained on. This marks a significant leap in AI’s ability to handle tasks that require advanced reasoning and adaptability.
- High-Level Tasks:
The AI tool is also designed to perform sophisticated tasks, such as designing market strategies. This suggests that Strawberry could be highly useful in business and strategic planning, offering solutions that require in-depth analysis and foresight. - Deep Research:
Strawberry is anticipated to have the capability to conduct “deep research,” which could involve synthesizing information from various sources, making connections, and generating insights that are difficult to obtain through traditional research methods.
Development and Integration
- Project Evolution:
Initially known as “Q,” the project has evolved into Strawberry, with OpenAI focusing on advancing the reasoning capabilities of its AI models. This development aligns with the company’s broader goal of pushing the boundaries of what AI can achieve.
- Integration with ChatGPT-4o:
Strawberry is expected to be integrated into OpenAI’s most advanced existing chatbot, ChatGPT-4o, potentially enhancing the chatbot’s functionality and making it even more powerful.
- Contribution to Future LLMs:
The new tool will also aid in the development of OpenAI’s next large language model (LLM), named Orion. This suggests that Strawberry’s advancements could play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of AI models.
Recent Developments by OpenAI
- New Voice Feature:
OpenAI has recently rolled out an advanced voice feature that is more naturalistic, improving the interaction between users and AI by making conversations more human-like. - SearchGPT:
In addition to Strawberry, OpenAI has introduced a new tool called SearchGPT, designed to enhance the functionality of search engines. This tool is expected to provide more accurate and contextually relevant search results, potentially revolutionizing how information is retrieved online.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q5. Which of the following statements about OpenAI’s new AI product “Strawberry” are correct?
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
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Q. With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following? (2020)
Select the correct answer using the code given below: a. 1, 2, 3 and 5 only b. 1, 3 and 4 only c. 2, 4 and 5 only d. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Ans d |
| Answer 5 B
Explanation
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