Daily Current Affairs for IAS PCS (UPSC CSE)

Introduction Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming industries worldwide, from healthcare to finance and governance. However, regulating AI is proving to be a complex challenge due to geopolitical rivalries, inconsistent legal frameworks, and ethical concerns. Without robust oversight, AI could pose risks such as bias, security vulnerabilities, and privacy violations. Therefore, a balanced regulatory approach that fosters innovation while ensuring accountability is essential. Complexities in AI Regulation Geopolitical Tensions: Countries like the US, China, and the UK aim to dominate AI innovation, often prioritizing national security and economic benefits over global cooperation. Divergent Development Goals: Advanced nations focus on AI leadership, while developing economies such as India, Brazil, and South Africa emphasize AI applications in healthcare, agriculture, and economic development. Inconsistent Legal Frameworks: The EU AI Act imposes strict regulations on high-risk...

Introduction India’s business environment faces several regulatory challenges, including corruption, frequent compliance updates, and inefficiencies in governance. Despite reforms such as the Jan Vishwas Act (2023) and the proposed Jan Vishwas 2.0, businesses continue to struggle with complex compliance systems. Establishing a unified compliance identity system and ensuring predictable regulations is essential for improving India's ease of doing business and attracting investments. Key Challenges in India’s Compliance Framework 1. Pervasive Corruption in Regulatory Compliance The India Business Corruption Survey 2024 highlights that 66% of businesses admitted to paying bribes, with 54% coerced into making payments for obtaining permits, licenses, or approvals. Corruption increases operational costs, making compliance expensive and inefficient. 2. Excessive and Frequent Compliance Updates In 2024 alone, India witnessed 9,420 compliance updates , averaging 36 daily regulatory chan...

Introduction In the face of rising income inequality and unemployment, discussions around Universal Basic Income (UBI) have gained traction in India. The International Labour Organization (ILO) has highlighted concerns over jobless growth , a phenomenon worsened by automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) . As a potential solution, UBI is being explored to provide a financial safety net, ensuring basic economic security for all citizens. Background and Evolution of UBI in India The concept of Universal Basic Income (UBI) gained prominence in India after the 2016-17 Economic Survey , which proposed it as an alternative to inefficient welfare schemes . The evolution of the JAM (Jan-Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) infrastructure has further strengthened the feasibility of Direct Benefit Transfers (DBTs) , making UBI a more viable policy option. UBI aims to provide a fixed income to all individuals without any preconditions, ensuring a minimum level of financial security. While it does not ...

  The UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2025 is scheduled for May 25, 2025 , which means you have about 75 days left to turn your UPSC dream into reality. The Prelims is not just an exam—it’s the first big hurdle that separates aspirants from achievers. This guide will provide you with a strategic study plan, essential resources, and expert tips to maximize your score and ensure success in UPSC Prelims 2025. 1. Understanding UPSC Prelims 2025 – Exam Structure Before diving into preparation, it's essential to understand the exam pattern. Paper 1: General Studies (GS) Total Questions: 100 Total Marks: 200 Duration: 2 Hours Negative Marking: Yes (1/3rd deduction for wrong answers) Topics Covered: History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Science & Tech, Environment, and Current Affairs Paper 2: CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test) Total Questions: 80 Total Marks: 200 Duration: 2 Hours Negative Marking: Yes (1/3rd deduction for wrong answers) Qualifying Marks: ...

Introduction Extradition is a crucial legal process that allows a country to request the surrender of an individual accused or convicted of a serious crime. It ensures that fugitives cannot evade justice by seeking refuge in another country. Recently, the US Supreme Court rejected Tahawwur Rana’s plea against extradition to India, clearing the way for his trial in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack case. India has been pursuing his extradition since 2011, but delays in the US legal system prolonged the process. What is an Extradition Treaty? An extradition treaty is a formal agreement between two countries to transfer individuals accused or convicted of crimes, ensuring they face legal proceedings. Such treaties strengthen international cooperation in combating terrorism, financial fraud, organized crime, and other transnational offenses. Countries with Which India Has an Extradition Treaty India has signed extradition treaties with 48 countries , including: United States, United Kingdom, ...

Satkosia Tiger Reserve (STR), located in Odisha, remains a critical biodiversity hotspot despite facing significant conservation challenges. Recently, the reserve has gained attention due to human-wildlife conflicts, with 674 families being relocated as part of a tiger conservation initiative. However, despite these efforts, Satkosia remains one of the four tiger reserves in India without a single tiger. Overview of Satkosia Tiger Reserve Location & Geographical Significance Satkosia Tiger Reserve spans across four districts in Odisha: Angul, Cuttack, Boudh, and Nayagarh. It serves as a crucial transitional zone between the Eastern Ghats and the Deccan Plateau, contributing to rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems. Establishment & Area Established: 2007, through the merger of Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary (1976) and Baisipali Wildlife Sanctuary (1981). Total Area: 1,136.70 sq. km. Flora and Fauna Satkosia Tiger Reserve is home to over 400 plant species, including Sal, Mahua, Bamb...