UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 January 2025

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 January 2025 covers important current affairs of the day, their backward linkages, their relevance for Prelims exam and MCQs on main articles

**InstaLinks : ** Insta Links help you think beyond the current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background.

**Table of Contents **

**GS Paper 2 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 January (**2025)

• Cleaning Out Gaza Proposal

Cleaning Out Gaza Proposal

Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):

• Apple Man of India

Apple Man of India

• Education as A Tool for Propaganda

Education as A Tool for Propaganda

Facts for Prelims (FFP):

• Enhanced Certificate of Origin (eCoO) 2.0 System

Enhanced Certificate of Origin (eCoO) 2.0 System

• Lala Lajpat Rai

Lala Lajpat Rai

• Libia Lobo Sardesai

Libia Lobo Sardesai

• Stove Lighter

Stove Lighter

• Storm Eowyn

Storm Eowyn

• Lezim Dance

Lezim Dance

• Wetland City Accreditation (WCA)

Wetland City Accreditation (WCA)

Mapping:

• Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 January 2025

GS Paper 2 :

Cleaning Out Gaza Proposal

Syllabus: International Relations

Source: DC

Context: Former U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed a controversial plan to “clean out” Gaza by relocating Palestinians to neighbouring countries like Egypt and Jordan.

Trump’s Proposal to Cleanse Gaza:

• Plan Details: Trump suggested resettling over 1.5 million Palestinians from Gaza to neighbouring Arab countries, particularly Egypt and Jordan. He proposed building housing for displaced Palestinians to enable them to live “peacefully.” • Objective: The plan aimed to resolve the conflict by removing Palestinians from Gaza, framing the resettlement as either a “temporary” or “long-term” measure. • Rationale: Trump argued this would create stability and peace while eliminating Gaza as a conflict zone. Neighbouring Nations’ Views:

• Jordan’s Response: Firmly opposed the plan, citing the risk of jeopardizing Jordan’s demographic balance, where **2.3 million **Palestinian refugees already reside. Jordanian officials emphasized the importance of a two-state solution and rejected forced displacement. • Firmly opposed the plan, citing the risk of jeopardizing Jordan’s demographic balance, where **2.3 million **Palestinian refugees already reside. • Jordanian officials emphasized the importance of a two-state solution and rejected forced displacement. • Egypt’s Stance: President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi warned against the plan, stating it would lead to the “elimination of the Palestinian cause.” Expressed concerns over Gaza’s militants using Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula as a base for future attacks, destabilizing the region. Highlighted risks to Egypt’s 1979 peace treaty with Israel. • President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi warned against the plan, stating it would lead to the “elimination of the Palestinian cause.” • Expressed concerns over Gaza’s militants using Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula as a base for future attacks, destabilizing the region. • Highlighted risks to Egypt’s 1979 peace treaty with Israel. • Palestinian Opposition: Palestinians view this as a repeat of the 1948 Nakba, fearing permanent displacement and further loss of homeland. • Palestinians view this as a repeat of the 1948 Nakba, fearing permanent displacement and further loss of homeland. Possible Positive Outcomes:

• Reduced Conflict: Relocation could temporarily reduce clashes in Gaza and provide Palestinians with immediate relief from violence. • Humanitarian Aid: With international support, displaced Palestinians might gain access to better living conditions. • Stability for Israel: Removing militant threats from Gaza could enhance security for Israeli citizens. Challenges and Limitations:

• Violation of International Law: Forced displacement contravenes international norms and UN Resolution 194, which grants Palestinians the right to return. • Regional Instability: Relocation could destabilize host nations, particularly Jordan and Egypt, by straining their resources and security. • Loss of Palestinian Identity: Permanent resettlement risks erasing the Palestinian claim to Gaza and undermining their struggle for statehood. • Resistance from Palestinians: Strong opposition from Palestinians and global human rights organizations makes the plan impractical. • Historical Precedents: Similar resettlement attempts in Lebanon led to prolonged conflict, including the Lebanese Civil War** (1975-1990).** Way Ahead:

• Two-State Solution: Revive peace negotiations for a viable two-state solution respecting Palestinian sovereignty and Israel’s security. • International Mediation: Engage global stakeholders like the UN and Arab League for a consensus-driven approach. • Humanitarian Support: Provide immediate humanitarian aid to Gaza while ensuring long-term rehabilitation without forced displacement. • Conflict Resolution: Address core issues like Israeli settlements, blockades, and militant activities to foster lasting peace. Conclusion:

Trump’s resettlement proposal for Gaza raises significant humanitarian, legal, and geopolitical concerns. Instead of displacement, a solution rooted in dialogue, mutual respect, and international law is crucial to address the decades-long Israel-Palestine conflict sustainably.

Insta Links:

• Israel-Palestine-Issue • “India’s relations with Israel have, of late, acquired a depth and diversity, which cannot be rolled back.” Discuss. (UPSC-2018)

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 January 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)

Apple Man of India

Context: Shri Hariman Sharma, fondly known as the “Apple Man of India,” has been honored with the Padma Shri for his groundbreaking innovation in agriculture.

• His development of the HRMN-99 apple variety has redefined apple farming in India, enabling cultivation in non-traditional regions and contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. About The Apple Man of India:

• Who is Shri Hariman Sharma? Shri Hariman Sharma is a visionary farmer from Paniala, Bilaspur (Himachal Pradesh), who overcame significant personal challenges to revolutionize Indian apple cultivation. Despite being orphaned early in life, he pursued his passion for farming and pomology, introducing a self-pollinating apple variety that thrives in warm climates. • Shri Hariman Sharma is a visionary farmer from Paniala, Bilaspur (Himachal Pradesh), who overcame significant personal challenges to revolutionize Indian apple cultivation. Despite being orphaned early in life, he pursued his passion for farming and pomology, introducing a self-pollinating apple variety that thrives in warm climates. • The HRMN-99 Variety • Development: The HRMN-99 apple variety was created in 1998 when Shri Sharma planted discarded apple seeds in his backyard, producing fruit even in warm conditions. Features: HRMN-99 is a low-chilling, self-pollinating apple variety suitable for tropical and sub-tropical regions with temperatures of 40-45°C. It bears striped red-over-yellow apples with soft, juicy pulp, yielding up to 75 kg of fruit per plant annually. Adoption: It has been successfully cultivated in 29 states and UTs, including non-traditional apple-growing regions like Bihar, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. • Development: The HRMN-99 apple variety was created in 1998 when Shri Sharma planted discarded apple seeds in his backyard, producing fruit even in warm conditions. • Features: HRMN-99 is a low-chilling, self-pollinating apple variety suitable for tropical and sub-tropical regions with temperatures of 40-45°C. It bears striped red-over-yellow apples with soft, juicy pulp, yielding up to 75 kg of fruit per plant annually. • Adoption: It has been successfully cultivated in 29 states and UTs, including non-traditional apple-growing regions like Bihar, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. Relevance in the UPSC Exam Syllabus

• GS Paper 3 – Agriculture Innovation in Farming: Showcasing grassroots innovations like HRMN-99 highlights the role of science and technology in enhancing agricultural productivity. Food Security: Addresses the accessibility of nutritious fruits to a broader population. Farmer Welfare: Aligns with government schemes for doubling farmer incomes and promoting climate-resilient crops. • Innovation in Farming: Showcasing grassroots innovations like HRMN-99 highlights the role of science and technology in enhancing agricultural productivity. • Food Security: Addresses the accessibility of nutritious fruits to a broader population. • Farmer Welfare: Aligns with government schemes for doubling farmer incomes and promoting climate-resilient crops. • GS Paper 1 – Indian Society Inspiring Individual: Shri Hariman Sharma’s journey exemplifies the resilience of individuals contributing to societal development. • Inspiring Individual: Shri Hariman Sharma’s journey exemplifies the resilience of individuals contributing to societal development. • Essay Topics Grassroots Innovations: Case studies like HRMN-99 enrich essays on topics like rural empowerment and sustainable development. • Grassroots Innovations: Case studies like HRMN-99 enrich essays on topics like rural empowerment and sustainable development. • Ethics (GS Paper 4) Ethical Leadership: Hariman Sharma’s journey reflects integrity, perseverance, and commitment to public welfare. • Ethical Leadership: Hariman Sharma’s journey reflects integrity, perseverance, and commitment to public welfare.

Education as A Tool for Propaganda

Anecdote: In Russian schools, the teaching of history is undergoing a significant transformation. A newly introduced textbook, Military History of Russia, presents a narrative that seeks to justify the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as a necessary and defensive measure by Moscow. The book characterizes the invasion not as an act of aggression but as a “forced” move to protect Russian sovereignty, drawing parallels to the Soviet Union’s struggle against the Nazis during World War II. This comparison is designed to evoke patriotic sentiments and align modern-day actions with historical heroism.

The textbook has been edited by Vladimir Medinsky, a close aide to President Vladimir Putin, reflecting the Kremlin’s active role in shaping the narrative. It attributes the conflict to NATO’s eastward expansion and what it describes as Western interference in Russia’s sphere of influence, positioning Russia as a victim compelled to defend its security and territorial integrity. By framing the war in this way, the textbook not only seeks to rationalize current geopolitical actions but also to foster a sense of unity and legitimacy among the younger generation.

This deliberate reframing highlights the potent role of education in shaping political ideologies. By introducing such a narrative into classrooms, the Russian government is attempting to cultivate a generation that views its foreign policies through a lens of justification and nationalism. Critics argue that this approach weaponizes education, using it as a tool to suppress dissent and promote state-approved versions of truth. The long-term impact of this effort may be the entrenchment of a worldview that aligns with the Kremlin’s objectives, shaping societal perceptions and political attitudes for decades to come.

Relevance in the UPSC Exam Syllabus:

• GS Paper 4: Ethics and Integrity: Ethical Considerations in Education: Debating the moral implications of using education to promote state propaganda. Truth vs. Manipulation: Importance of honesty in state-controlled narratives. • Ethical Considerations in Education: Debating the moral implications of using education to promote state propaganda. • Truth vs. Manipulation: Importance of honesty in state-controlled narratives. • Essay Writing: Topics on Soft Power and Propaganda or Ethics in Education can draw on examples like Russia’s use of history textbooks. • Topics on Soft Power and Propaganda or Ethics in Education can draw on examples like Russia’s use of history textbooks.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 January 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Enhanced Certificate of Origin (eCoO) 2.0 System

• Source: PIB*

** **Context: The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) introduced the Enhanced Certificate of Origin (eCoO) 2.0 System, a digital platform aimed at simplifying export certificationCAROTAR-2020-rules/ and boosting trade efficiency.

About Enhanced eCoO 2.0 System:

• What is eCoO 2.0? The eCoO 2.0 system is an upgraded digital platform for issuing Certificates of Origin (CoO), which authenticate the origin of exported goods. It facilitates exporters with seamless access to both preferential and non-preferential CoOs, ensuring global trade compliance. • The eCoO 2.0 system is an upgraded digital platform for issuing Certificates of Origin (CoO), which authenticate the origin of exported goods. It facilitates exporters with seamless access to both preferential and non-preferential CoOs, ensuring global trade compliance. • Administering Ministry/Department: Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. • Aims of eCoO 2.0: • Streamlining Export Processes: Simplify the CoO certification process for exporters. Enhancing Trade Efficiency: Reduce processing times and improve trade documentation accuracy. Supporting Global Supply Chains: Provide transparency for intermediary and re-export trade. • Streamlining Export Processes: Simplify the CoO certification process for exporters. • Enhancing Trade Efficiency: Reduce processing times and improve trade documentation accuracy. • Supporting Global Supply Chains: Provide transparency for intermediary and re-export trade. • Key Features of eCoO 2.0: • Multi-User Access: Allows exporters to authorize multiple users under a single Importer Exporter Code (IEC). Aadhaar-Based e-Signing: Adds flexibility alongside digital signature tokens for document authentication. Back-to-Back Certificates of Origin: Enables re-export and transshipment certifications for non-Indian-origin goods based on verified documentation. Mandatory Electronic Filing: Non-preferential CoOs are now mandatorily processed online from 1st January 2025. In-Lieu Certificate of Origin: Provides correction options for previously issued CoOs via an easy online application. • Multi-User Access: Allows exporters to authorize multiple users under a single Importer Exporter Code (IEC). • Aadhaar-Based e-Signing: Adds flexibility alongside digital signature tokens for document authentication. • Back-to-Back Certificates of Origin: Enables re-export and transshipment certifications for non-Indian-origin goods based on verified documentation. • Mandatory Electronic Filing: Non-preferential CoOs are now mandatorily processed online from 1st January 2025. • In-Lieu Certificate of Origin: Provides correction options for previously issued CoOs via an easy online application. Insta links:

• Carotar-2020-rules

Lala Lajpat Rai

Source: News on Air

** **Context: The nation commemorates the 160th birth anniversary of Lala Lajpat Rai, a towering figure in India’s freedom struggle, remembered for his relentless fight against British colonial rule.

• Known as the “Lion of Punjab” or Punjab Kesari, he was an inspiring leader, social reformer, and a pivotal contributor. About Lala Lajpat Rai:

• Birth: • Born on 28th January 1865, in Dhudike village (now in Ferozepur district, Punjab). His father, Munshi Radha Krishna, was a teacher, and his mother, Gulab Devi, imbued him with strong moral values. • Born on 28th January 1865, in Dhudike village (now in Ferozepur district, Punjab). • His father, Munshi Radha Krishna, was a teacher, and his mother, Gulab Devi, imbued him with strong moral values. • Education and Profession: • Completed his law education from Government College, Lahore. Practiced law in Hisar but eventually devoted himself to political and social causes. • Completed his law education from Government College, Lahore. • Practiced law in Hisar but eventually devoted himself to political and social causes. • Contribution to Freedom Movement: • A prominent member of the Indian National Congress (INC), he participated in several political agitations in Punjab. Opposed the Partition of Bengal (1905) and supported the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920) under Gandhi’s leadership. Played a key role in the Lal-Bal-Pal trio (Lala Lajpat Rai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Bipin Chandra Pal), representing the extremist wing of Congress. Founded the Home Rule League of America in 1917 to garner international support for India’s independence. Protested against oppressive laws like the Rowlatt Act and condemned the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Spearheaded the opposition to the Simon Commission (1928), which excluded Indian representation, leading a peaceful protest in Lahore. • A prominent member of the Indian National Congress (INC), he participated in several political agitations in Punjab. • Opposed the Partition of Bengal (1905) and supported the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920) under Gandhi’s leadership. • Played a key role in the Lal-Bal-Pal trio (Lala Lajpat Rai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Bipin Chandra Pal), representing the extremist wing of Congress. • Founded the Home Rule League of America in 1917 to garner international support for India’s independence. • Protested against oppressive laws like the Rowlatt Act and condemned the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. • Spearheaded the opposition to the Simon Commission (1928), which excluded Indian representation, leading a peaceful protest in Lahore. • Organizations Associated: • Co-founded the Punjab National Bank (1894) to promote financial independence. Founded the Hindu Relief Movement (1897) to aid famine victims and protect them from religious conversion. Established the Servants of People Society (1921) to work on social reform and upliftment. Actively involved with Arya Samaj, contributing to its educational and social initiatives. • Co-founded the Punjab National Bank (1894) to promote financial independence. • Founded the Hindu Relief Movement (1897) to aid famine victims and protect them from religious conversion. • Established the Servants of People Society (1921) to work on social reform and upliftment. • Actively involved with Arya Samaj, contributing to its educational and social initiatives. • Literature and Newspapers: • Authored influential works such as Young India, England’s Debt to India, India’s Will to Freedom, Evolution of Japan, Political Future of India, and Message of the Bhagavad Gita. Edited the Arya Gazette and used it as a platform for nationalist ideas. • Authored influential works such as Young India, England’s Debt to India, India’s Will to Freedom, Evolution of Japan, Political Future of India, and Message of the Bhagavad Gita. • Edited the Arya Gazette and used it as a platform for nationalist ideas. • Death: • While leading a peaceful protest against the Simon Commission in October 1928, he was brutally lathi-charged under orders from Superintendent James Scott. Suffered fatal injuries and succumbed to them on 17th November 1928, declaring, “Every blow on my body will be a nail in the coffin of British imperialism.” • While leading a peaceful protest against the Simon Commission in October 1928, he was brutally lathi-charged under orders from Superintendent James Scott. • Suffered fatal injuries and succumbed to them on 17th November 1928, declaring, “Every blow on my body will be a nail in the coffin of British imperialism.” Insta links:

• Lala-Lajpat-Rai

Libia Lobo Sardesai

Source: IE

** **Context: India commemorates Libia Lobo Sardesai, a 100-year-old freedom fighter, who was honoured with the Padma Shri for her remarkable role in Goa’s liberation struggle.

About Goa Liberation Movement:

• Timeline and Background: • Period: The liberation struggle gained momentum between 1954 and 1961. Reason: Goa was under Portuguese rule for over 450 years. The oppressive regime and economic exploitation fuelled nationalist sentiments. The turning point came in 1954 when India imposed an economic blockade after Portuguese suppression of satyagrahis. • Period: The liberation struggle gained momentum between 1954 and 1961. • Reason: Goa was under Portuguese rule for over 450 years. The oppressive regime and economic exploitation fuelled nationalist sentiments. The turning point came in 1954 when India imposed an economic blockade after Portuguese suppression of satyagrahis. • Key Events: • 1954 Blockade: Following the arrest of satyagrahis, India severed Goa’s road, rail, and sea links. August 1955 Satyagraha: Thousands of satyagrahis attempted to enter Goa but faced violent retaliation from Portuguese forces. Operation Vijay (1961): The final military action by India, launched on 17th December 1961, led to the surrender of Portuguese forces and the liberation of Goa on 19th December 1961. • 1954 Blockade: Following the arrest of satyagrahis, India severed Goa’s road, rail, and sea links. • August 1955 Satyagraha: Thousands of satyagrahis attempted to enter Goa but faced violent retaliation from Portuguese forces. • Operation Vijay (1961): The final military action by India, launched on 17th December 1961, led to the surrender of Portuguese forces and the liberation of Goa on 19th December 1961. • Leaders Involved: • Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia: Advocated for Goa’s freedom and sparked nationalist fervour. Libia Lobo Sardesai: Played a significant role through underground communication and as a voice of the liberation movement. Lt. Gen. J.N. Chaudhuri: Led Operation Vijay to secure Goa’s independence. • Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia: Advocated for Goa’s freedom and sparked nationalist fervour. • Libia Lobo Sardesai: Played a significant role through underground communication and as a voice of the liberation movement. • Lt. Gen. J.N. Chaudhuri: Led Operation Vijay to secure Goa’s independence. Libia Lobo Sardesai:

• Who is Libia Lobo Sardesai? • Born: 25th May 1924, in Portuguese-ruled Goa. Raised in Mumbai, she became actively involved in the Goan nationalist movement during her college years. • Born: 25th May 1924, in Portuguese-ruled Goa. • Raised in Mumbai, she became actively involved in the Goan nationalist movement during her college years. • Contribution to Goa Liberation: • Underground Radio Station: From 1955-1961, Libia, alongside her colleague and husband Vaman Sardesai, ran the ‘Voice of Freedom of Goa’, broadcasting news countering Portuguese propaganda. Risk and Sacrifice: Operated from the jungles of the Western Ghats in Amboli and Castle Rock, enduring isolation, harsh conditions, and threats from Portuguese forces. Final Broadcast: Announced Goa’s liberation on 19th December 1961, flying over Panaji in an IAF plane to deliver the historic news to the people. • Underground Radio Station: From 1955-1961, Libia, alongside her colleague and husband Vaman Sardesai, ran the ‘Voice of Freedom of Goa’, broadcasting news countering Portuguese propaganda. • Risk and Sacrifice: Operated from the jungles of the Western Ghats in Amboli and Castle Rock, enduring isolation, harsh conditions, and threats from Portuguese forces. • Final Broadcast: Announced Goa’s liberation on 19th December 1961, flying over Panaji in an IAF plane to deliver the historic news to the people. • Legacy: • Libia is remembered as a symbol of resilience and courage, inspiring generations to fight for justice and freedom. Her efforts ensured that the voice of the Goan struggle reached the masses, despite heavy Portuguese censorship. • Libia is remembered as a symbol of resilience and courage, inspiring generations to fight for justice and freedom. Her efforts ensured that the voice of the Goan struggle reached the masses, despite heavy Portuguese censorship. Insta links:

• Goa-liberation-day

Stove Lighter

Source: TH

Context: This article discusses the stove lighter, a simple yet ingenious kitchen tool used globally. By generating small sparks, it ignites gas stoves, making cooking both easy and efficient.

About Stove Lighter:

• What is a Stove Lighter? A stove lighter is a compact device designed to create electric sparks that ignite gas stoves. It eliminates the need for matches, offering a safer and more efficient way to light stoves. • A stove lighter is a compact device designed to create electric sparks that ignite gas stoves. It eliminates the need for matches, offering a safer and more efficient way to light stoves. • Types of Stove Lighters: • Manual Lighters: Use a piezoelectric mechanism where pressure generates a spark. Electronic Lighters: Operate on batteries to create sparks using an electric circuit. Flame-Based Lighters: Create a small flame using fuel (like butane) to ignite gas. • Manual Lighters: Use a piezoelectric mechanism where pressure generates a spark. • Electronic Lighters: Operate on batteries to create sparks using an electric circuit. • Flame-Based Lighters: Create a small flame using fuel (like butane) to ignite gas. • How Does a Stove Lighter Work? • Piezoelectric Mechanism: Contains piezoelectric materials, where pressure applied by clicking displaces positive and negative ions, creating a charge difference. This charge generates a spark as electrons jump through the air, ionizing it and forming a conductive path. The spark ignites the gas released from the stove burner. Electronic Mechanism: Uses a battery to power a small circuit that produces high-voltage sparks at the press of a button. Sparks ignite the gas for immediate flame generation. Flame-Based Mechanism: A small fuel reservoir releases gas, and a built-in spark ignites the flame, which lights the stove burner. • Piezoelectric Mechanism: Contains piezoelectric materials, where pressure applied by clicking displaces positive and negative ions, creating a charge difference. This charge generates a spark as electrons jump through the air, ionizing it and forming a conductive path. The spark ignites the gas released from the stove burner. • Contains piezoelectric materials, where pressure applied by clicking displaces positive and negative ions, creating a charge difference. • This charge generates a spark as electrons jump through the air, ionizing it and forming a conductive path. • The spark ignites the gas released from the stove burner. • Electronic Mechanism: Uses a battery to power a small circuit that produces high-voltage sparks at the press of a button. Sparks ignite the gas for immediate flame generation. • Uses a battery to power a small circuit that produces high-voltage sparks at the press of a button. • Sparks ignite the gas for immediate flame generation. • Flame-Based Mechanism: A small fuel reservoir releases gas, and a built-in spark ignites the flame, which lights the stove burner. • A small fuel reservoir releases gas, and a built-in spark ignites the flame, which lights the stove burner. Insta links:

• Piezoelectric-bone-conduction-hearing-implants

Storm Eowyn

Source: DTE

Context: Storm Eowyn, a bomb cyclone, has caused widespread destruction across the British Isles, particularly in Ireland and Scotland.

About Storm Eowyn:

• What is Storm Eowyn? • Definition: Storm Eowyn is a powerful bomb cyclone, characterized by its rapid drop in air pressure (50 millibars within 24 hours), more than double the threshold for “explosive cyclogenesis.” Formation: It originated on January 22, 2025, off the eastern US coast and rapidly traversed the North Atlantic, covering 2,000 miles to reach western Scotland by January 24, 2025. • Definition: Storm Eowyn is a powerful bomb cyclone, characterized by its rapid drop in air pressure (50 millibars within 24 hours), more than double the threshold for “explosive cyclogenesis.” • Formation: It originated on January 22, 2025, off the eastern US coast and rapidly traversed the North Atlantic, covering 2,000 miles to reach western Scotland by January 24, 2025. • Impacted Region: • The storm has severely affected Ireland and Scotland, with gusts reaching up to 114 mph at Mace Head, Ireland. • The storm has severely affected Ireland and Scotland, with gusts reaching up to 114 mph at Mace Head, Ireland. What is a Bomb Cyclone and How is It Formed?

• Definition: A bomb cyclone is a rapidly intensifying storm where the central air pressure drops by at least 24 millibars in 24 hours. The explosive pressure drop creates severe winds and intense weather conditions. • A bomb cyclone is a rapidly intensifying storm where the central air pressure drops by at least 24 millibars in 24 hours. The explosive pressure drop creates severe winds and intense weather conditions. • Formation: • Jet Stream: A strong jet stream (200+ mph winds) over the North Atlantic provides energy for rapid storm development. Temperature Contrast: A clash between cold Arctic air and warm ocean air creates instability. Moisture and Heat Flux: Warm Ocean surfaces provide heat and moisture, fuelling deep cloud formations and intensifying the storm. Pressure Drop: The low-pressure system moves south to north, aligning with the jet stream and accelerating its intensification. • Jet Stream: A strong jet stream (200+ mph winds) over the North Atlantic provides energy for rapid storm development. • Temperature Contrast: A clash between cold Arctic air and warm ocean air creates instability. • Moisture and Heat Flux: Warm Ocean surfaces provide heat and moisture, fuelling deep cloud formations and intensifying the storm. • Pressure Drop: The low-pressure system moves south to north, aligning with the jet stream and accelerating its intensification. • Significance of Storm Éowyn: • Climate Change Indicator: Highlights the potential for more frequent and intense storms in a warming world. Energy of the Jet Stream: Demonstrates the role of atmospheric conditions in accelerating cyclonic development. Preparedness: Red alerts and effective forecasting have minimized loss of life and improved disaster management. Environmental Impact: Record-breaking winds and rainfall underscore the challenges posed by extreme weather events on infrastructure and ecosystems. • Climate Change Indicator: Highlights the potential for more frequent and intense storms in a warming world. • Energy of the Jet Stream: Demonstrates the role of atmospheric conditions in accelerating cyclonic development. • Preparedness: Red alerts and effective forecasting have minimized loss of life and improved disaster management. • Environmental Impact: Record-breaking winds and rainfall underscore the challenges posed by extreme weather events on infrastructure and ecosystems. Insta links:

• What-is-a-bomb-cyclone

Lezim Dance

Source: IE

Context: The upcoming Bollywood film Chhava, based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, has sparked controversy over a scene where the Maratha king is depicted performing the Lezim dance.

About Lezim Dance:

• What is Lezim Dance? Lezim is a traditional folk-dance originating from Maharashtra, characterized by vigorous movements and rhythmic beats. It is performed with a Lezim, a handheld instrument made of wood with metallic jingles that produce a distinct sound during the dance. • Lezim is a traditional folk-dance originating from Maharashtra, characterized by vigorous movements and rhythmic beats. It is performed with a Lezim, a handheld instrument made of wood with metallic jingles that produce a distinct sound during the dance. • Region: • Primarily performed in Maharashtra, especially during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, marriage processions, and cultural celebrations. Also popular in regions along the Konkan coast. • Primarily performed in Maharashtra, especially during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, marriage processions, and cultural celebrations. • Also popular in regions along the Konkan coast. • Features: • Physical Rigor: Involves energetic movements like stepping, squatting, and jumping, often forming patterns in groups of twos or fours. Instruments: Accompanied by drums like dhol or dhalgi, with occasional song accompaniments. Cultural Symbolism: Represents community spirit and is widely practiced as a physical exercise in schools across Maharashtra. Formation: Dancers move in circles or synchronized formations, gradually increasing the pace in tandem with the drum beats. • Physical Rigor: Involves energetic movements like stepping, squatting, and jumping, often forming patterns in groups of twos or fours. • Instruments: Accompanied by drums like dhol or dhalgi, with occasional song accompaniments. • Cultural Symbolism: Represents community spirit and is widely practiced as a physical exercise in schools across Maharashtra. • Formation: Dancers move in circles or synchronized formations, gradually increasing the pace in tandem with the drum beats. Historical Significance of Lezim Dance:

• Origin: • Believed to have evolved from akhadas (traditional gymnasiums), where physical skills and drills were performed as part of training. Initially performed during martial arts training and later adapted into cultural and celebratory events. • Believed to have evolved from akhadas (traditional gymnasiums), where physical skills and drills were performed as part of training. • Initially performed during martial arts training and later adapted into cultural and celebratory events. • Role of Shivaji Maharaj in Lezim Dance: • During Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s** reign**, the dance was popularized as a military exercise to maintain physical fitness among soldiers. It became a symbol of Maratha pride and unity, resonating with the community’s cultural identity. • During Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s** reign**, the dance was popularized as a military exercise to maintain physical fitness among soldiers. • It became a symbol of Maratha pride and unity, resonating with the community’s cultural identity. Insta links:

• Maratha-military-landscapes

Wetland City Accreditation (WCA)

Source: TOI

Context:** Indore and Udaipur** have become the first Indian cities to achieve the prestigious Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.

About Wetland Accredited Cities:

• What is Wetland City Accreditation (WCA)? Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) is a voluntary initiative under the Ramsar Convention that recognizes cities for wetland conservation efforts. Established in COP12 (2015): WCA was introduced during the 12th Conference of the Parties (COP12) to the Ramsar Convention held in Uruguay in 2015. Validity and Renewal: Accreditation is valid for 6 years and can be renewed if cities continue to meet the prescribed international criteria. • Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) is a voluntary initiative under the Ramsar Convention that recognizes cities for wetland conservation efforts. • Established in COP12 (2015): WCA was introduced during the 12th Conference of the Parties (COP12) to the Ramsar Convention held in Uruguay in 2015. • Validity and Renewal: Accreditation is valid for 6 years and can be renewed if cities continue to meet the prescribed international criteria. • To promote conservation and wise use of wetlands in urban and peri-urban areas. To ensure socio-economic benefits for local populations while safeguarding ecological balance. To encourage cities near Ramsar-designated wetlands to maintain positive relationships with these ecosystems. • To promote conservation and wise use of wetlands in urban and peri-urban areas. • To ensure socio-economic benefits for local populations while safeguarding ecological balance. • To encourage cities near Ramsar-designated wetlands to maintain positive relationships with these ecosystems. • Criteria for Accreditation: Cities must satisfy six international criteria, including:

• Adopting measures for wetland conservation and wise use. • Promoting ecosystem services provided by wetlands. • Maintaining sustainable socio-economic practices linked to wetlands. • Engaging local communities in conservation. • Addressing concerns related to wetland degradation. • Protecting both natural and human-made wetlands. • Features: • Provides international recognition and positive publicity for cities. Encourages wetland conservation policies in urban planning. Helps implement India’s Amrit Dharohar initiative by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). Promotes sustainable urban development while ensuring ecological preservation. • Provides international recognition and positive publicity for cities. • Encourages wetland conservation policies in urban planning. • Helps implement India’s Amrit Dharohar initiative by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). • Promotes sustainable urban development while ensuring ecological preservation. • Recent Addition from India: • Indore, Madhya Pradesh: Recognized for Sirpur Lake, a Ramsar site developed as a bird sanctuary and water bird congregation zone. Udaipur, Rajasthan: Known for its interconnected wetlands, including Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai, which support biodiversity and eco-tourism. • Indore, Madhya Pradesh: Recognized for Sirpur Lake, a Ramsar site developed as a bird sanctuary and water bird congregation zone. • Recognized for Sirpur Lake, a Ramsar site developed as a bird sanctuary and water bird congregation zone. • Udaipur, Rajasthan: Known for its interconnected wetlands, including Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai, which support biodiversity and eco-tourism. • Known for its interconnected wetlands, including Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai, which support biodiversity and eco-tourism. Insta links:

• Wetland-city-accreditation-WCA

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28 January 2025 Mapping:

Lake Victoria

Source: DTE

Context: A recent study has revealed alarming insights into Lake Victoria’s algal blooms, caused by cyanobacteria, which pose significant threats to ecosystems, human health, and water quality

About Lake Victoria:

• Location: • Lake Victoria is the world’s second-largest freshwater lake, situated in East Africa. It spans Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya, making it a shared natural resource among these nations. • Lake Victoria is the world’s second-largest freshwater lake, situated in East Africa. • It spans Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya, making it a shared natural resource among these nations. • Rivers and Drainage: • Feeds the White Nile River, which flows northward, eventually merging with the Blue Nile in Sudan to form the Nile River. Numerous smaller rivers, such as the Kagera River, drain into Lake Victoria. • Feeds the White Nile River, which flows northward, eventually merging with the Blue Nile in Sudan to form the Nile River. • Numerous smaller rivers, such as the Kagera River, drain into Lake Victoria. • Unique Features: • It supports the largest freshwater fishery in the world, producing over 1 million tons of fish annually. Known for its ecological diversity, including unique fish species like Nile Perch and Tilapia. • It supports the largest freshwater fishery in the world, producing over 1 million tons of fish annually. • Known for its ecological diversity, including unique fish species like Nile Perch and Tilapia. • Threats from Cyanobacteria: • Cyanobacteria or blue-green algae form harmful algal blooms (cyanoHABs), leading to: Ecosystem Disruption: Toxic blooms degrade water quality and harm aquatic life. Human Health Risks: Drinking or using contaminated water can expose communities to toxins that cannot be eliminated by boiling. Economic Impact: Affects fishing livelihoods and increases the cost of water treatment. • Cyanobacteria or blue-green algae form harmful algal blooms (cyanoHABs), leading to: Ecosystem Disruption: Toxic blooms degrade water quality and harm aquatic life. Human Health Risks: Drinking or using contaminated water can expose communities to toxins that cannot be eliminated by boiling. Economic Impact: Affects fishing livelihoods and increases the cost of water treatment. • Ecosystem Disruption: Toxic blooms degrade water quality and harm aquatic life. • Human Health Risks: Drinking or using contaminated water can expose communities to toxins that cannot be eliminated by boiling. • Economic Impact: Affects fishing livelihoods and increases the cost of water treatment. Insta links:

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