πTaiwan Strait:
β The Taiwan Strait, or Formosa Strait is a 180 km-wide strait between mainland China and the island of Taiwan.
β It runs between the coast of Fujian (Fukien) Province, China, and the island of Taiwan.
β The strait is part of the South China Sea and connects to the East China Sea to the north.
β The straitβs seafloor is mostly a continental shelf extending out from the Asian continent, with Taiwan on the outer edge.
β It is relatively shallow. It has an average depth of about 490 feet, and a minimum depth of 82 feet.
πIslands:
β The biggest islands along the Taiwan side include Penghu (or Pescadores), Xiamen, and Pingtan.
β The Xiamen and Pingtan Islands are administered by the Peopleβs Republic of China, while the other three islands: Penghu (or Pescadores), Kinmen and Matsu are under the administration of the Republic of China (Taiwan).
β The Taiwan Strait, or Formosa Strait is a 180 km-wide strait between mainland China and the island of Taiwan.
β It runs between the coast of Fujian (Fukien) Province, China, and the island of Taiwan.
β The strait is part of the South China Sea and connects to the East China Sea to the north.
β The straitβs seafloor is mostly a continental shelf extending out from the Asian continent, with Taiwan on the outer edge.
β It is relatively shallow. It has an average depth of about 490 feet, and a minimum depth of 82 feet.
πIslands:
β The biggest islands along the Taiwan side include Penghu (or Pescadores), Xiamen, and Pingtan.
β The Xiamen and Pingtan Islands are administered by the Peopleβs Republic of China, while the other three islands: Penghu (or Pescadores), Kinmen and Matsu are under the administration of the Republic of China (Taiwan).
πMount Fuji:
β Mount Fuji, also known as Fuji-san, is the highest mountain in Japan, standing at 3,776 meters.
β It is situated close to the Pacific coast in the Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures in the heart of the large island of Honshu, about 100km to the southwest of the Tokyo-Yokohama metropolitan area.
β Unlike other famous high-elevation mountains in the world, Mt. Fuji is not part of a large mountain range.
β It is a stratovolcanothat has been dormant since its last eruption in 1707 but is still generally classified as active by geologists.
β It has a prominent summit craterand is constructed from innumerable basaltic lava flows, each a few meters thick.
β It has a smooth slope and a wide, spreading base, creating a beautiful skyline as it narrows to a magnificent peak.
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β Mount Fuji, also known as Fuji-san, is the highest mountain in Japan, standing at 3,776 meters.
β It is situated close to the Pacific coast in the Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures in the heart of the large island of Honshu, about 100km to the southwest of the Tokyo-Yokohama metropolitan area.
β Unlike other famous high-elevation mountains in the world, Mt. Fuji is not part of a large mountain range.
β It is a stratovolcanothat has been dormant since its last eruption in 1707 but is still generally classified as active by geologists.
β It has a prominent summit craterand is constructed from innumerable basaltic lava flows, each a few meters thick.
β It has a smooth slope and a wide, spreading base, creating a beautiful skyline as it narrows to a magnificent peak.
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πTriton Island
β Location: Triton Island is the southernmost island in the Paracel Islands chain in the South China Sea, situated closer to Vietnam than to other parts of China.
β Strategic Importance: Triton Island is of strategic importance due to its proximity to vital shipping lanes, fisheries, and potential underwater energy reserves.
β Conflicting Claims: The Paracel Islands, including Triton Island, are claimed by China, Vietnam, and Taiwan.
β China asserts its claim based on the Nine-Dash Line, a demarcation on maps covering most of the South China Sea.
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β Location: Triton Island is the southernmost island in the Paracel Islands chain in the South China Sea, situated closer to Vietnam than to other parts of China.
β Strategic Importance: Triton Island is of strategic importance due to its proximity to vital shipping lanes, fisheries, and potential underwater energy reserves.
β Conflicting Claims: The Paracel Islands, including Triton Island, are claimed by China, Vietnam, and Taiwan.
β China asserts its claim based on the Nine-Dash Line, a demarcation on maps covering most of the South China Sea.
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πCloud Chamber:
β A cloud chamber is a scientific apparatus that mimics the conditions required for cloud formation.
β It resembles a closed cylindrical or tubular drum, inside which water vapour, aerosols, etc. are injected.
β Under the desired humidity and temperature inside this chamber, a cloud can develop.
β India is building a cloud chamber with convection properties, as required to study Indian monsoon clouds. Globally, there are only a handful of convective cloud chambers.
β Objective: The objective of establishing a convective cloud chamber is to gain a better understanding of cloud physics under conditions commonly affecting Indian weather systems. Thereafter, this knowledge can be used for strategic planning of weather modification.
β Significance: Scientists will have the flexibility to tailor physical and atmospheric parameters to suit environmental requirements that influence the Indian weather and climate.
β A cloud chamber is a scientific apparatus that mimics the conditions required for cloud formation.
β It resembles a closed cylindrical or tubular drum, inside which water vapour, aerosols, etc. are injected.
β Under the desired humidity and temperature inside this chamber, a cloud can develop.
β India is building a cloud chamber with convection properties, as required to study Indian monsoon clouds. Globally, there are only a handful of convective cloud chambers.
β Objective: The objective of establishing a convective cloud chamber is to gain a better understanding of cloud physics under conditions commonly affecting Indian weather systems. Thereafter, this knowledge can be used for strategic planning of weather modification.
β Significance: Scientists will have the flexibility to tailor physical and atmospheric parameters to suit environmental requirements that influence the Indian weather and climate.
πPapua New Guinea:
β It is an island country that lies in the south-western Pacific.
β It includes the eastern half of New Guinea (the worldβs second-largest island) and many small offshore islands.
β Neighbors: Indonesia to the west, Australia to the south, and the Solomon Islands to the southeast.
β Terrain: It is mainly mountainous but has low-lying plains in southern New Guinea.
β The islands that constitute Papua New Guinea were settled over a period of 40,000 years by a mixture of peoples who are generally referred to as Melanesians.
β Language: English is the main language of government and commerce. In most everyday contexts, the most widely spoken language is Tok Pisin.
Government:
β The country is a constitutional monarchy and a member of the Commonwealth.
β The British monarch, represented by a governor-general, is the head of state, and the Prime Minister is the head of government.
β Papua New Guineaβs rainforests are rich in biodiversity, housing rare species such as birds of paradise, tree kangaroos, and the Queen Alexandraβs birdwing butterfly.
β These forests represent only one per cent of Earthβs land but play a vital role in absorbing carbon and supporting the lives and traditions of Papua New Guineaβs indigenous peoples.
β Capital: Port Moresby
β It is an island country that lies in the south-western Pacific.
β It includes the eastern half of New Guinea (the worldβs second-largest island) and many small offshore islands.
β Neighbors: Indonesia to the west, Australia to the south, and the Solomon Islands to the southeast.
β Terrain: It is mainly mountainous but has low-lying plains in southern New Guinea.
β The islands that constitute Papua New Guinea were settled over a period of 40,000 years by a mixture of peoples who are generally referred to as Melanesians.
β Language: English is the main language of government and commerce. In most everyday contexts, the most widely spoken language is Tok Pisin.
Government:
β The country is a constitutional monarchy and a member of the Commonwealth.
β The British monarch, represented by a governor-general, is the head of state, and the Prime Minister is the head of government.
β Papua New Guineaβs rainforests are rich in biodiversity, housing rare species such as birds of paradise, tree kangaroos, and the Queen Alexandraβs birdwing butterfly.
β These forests represent only one per cent of Earthβs land but play a vital role in absorbing carbon and supporting the lives and traditions of Papua New Guineaβs indigenous peoples.
β Capital: Port Moresby
πIndia Resumes Patrolling in Depsang
Key Points:
β Successful Patrolling: The Indian Army successfully conducted a patrol in one of the five Patrolling Points in Depsang, Eastern Ladakh.
β Disengagement and Resumption: Disengagement was completed from Demchok and Depsang, restoring the situation to pre-April 2020.
β New Patrolling Norms: The next step involves working out new patrolling norms along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
β Significance of Depsang: Depsang is a strategically important area where the distance between the LAC and the Limit of Actual Control (LAC) is maximum.
β Positive Step: The resumption of patrolling is seen as a positive step towards maintaining peace and tranquility along the LAC.
Analysis:
UPSC Questions:
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Key Points:
β Successful Patrolling: The Indian Army successfully conducted a patrol in one of the five Patrolling Points in Depsang, Eastern Ladakh.
β Disengagement and Resumption: Disengagement was completed from Demchok and Depsang, restoring the situation to pre-April 2020.
β New Patrolling Norms: The next step involves working out new patrolling norms along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
β Significance of Depsang: Depsang is a strategically important area where the distance between the LAC and the Limit of Actual Control (LAC) is maximum.
β Positive Step: The resumption of patrolling is seen as a positive step towards maintaining peace and tranquility along the LAC.
Analysis:
β The successful resumption of patrolling in Depsang is a significant development in India-China relations. It indicates progress in resolving the border standoff and easing tensions between the two nuclear powers. However, challenges remain, and it is crucial for both sides to engage in constructive dialogue and adhere to diplomatic norms to maintain peace and stability in the region.
UPSC Questions:
β Prelims: What is the LAC?
A) Line of Actual Control
B) Line of Actual Control and Claim
C) Line of Actual Control and Separation
D) Line of Actual Control and Demarcation
β Mains: Discuss the challenges faced by India in managing the India-China border dispute. What are the key factors contributing to the tensions, and what strategies can India adopt to safeguard its interests and maintain peace and stability in the region?ο»Ώ
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πDepsang Plains
β The Depsang Plains along with Pangong Tso are the two major areas of concern in the standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.
β Despite the strategic importance of the Depsang Plains, the series of military talks held so far have focussed on the standoff areas at Galwan, Gogra Hotsprings and Finger area of Pangong Tso.
β Depsang is one of the few places on the LAC where tank manoeuvres are possible.
β During the 1962 war, Chinese troops occupied the Plains. In 2013, Chinese troops came 19 km inside and pitched tents resulting in a 21-day standoff.
πDepsang Plains
β The Depsang Plains along with Pangong Tso are the two major areas of concern in the standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.
β Despite the strategic importance of the Depsang Plains, the series of military talks held so far have focussed on the standoff areas at Galwan, Gogra Hotsprings and Finger area of Pangong Tso.
β Depsang is one of the few places on the LAC where tank manoeuvres are possible.
β During the 1962 war, Chinese troops occupied the Plains. In 2013, Chinese troops came 19 km inside and pitched tents resulting in a 21-day standoff.
πMalawi:
β It is a landlocked country in Southeastern Africa.
β It shares borders with Tanzania, Mozambique, and Zambia.
β Capital: Lilongwe
Major languages: English and Chichewa (both official)
β Currency: Malawi kwacha (MWK)
β Endowed with spectacular highlands and extensive lakes, it occupies a narrow, curving strip of land along the East African Rift Valley.
β Lake Nyasa (one of the deepest lakes in the world), known in Malawi as Lake Malawi, accounts for more than one-fifth of the countryβs total area.
β Malawi remains one of the poorest countries in the world. The economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, which employs over 80% of the population.
β It is a landlocked country in Southeastern Africa.
β It shares borders with Tanzania, Mozambique, and Zambia.
β Capital: Lilongwe
Major languages: English and Chichewa (both official)
β Currency: Malawi kwacha (MWK)
β Endowed with spectacular highlands and extensive lakes, it occupies a narrow, curving strip of land along the East African Rift Valley.
β Lake Nyasa (one of the deepest lakes in the world), known in Malawi as Lake Malawi, accounts for more than one-fifth of the countryβs total area.
β Malawi remains one of the poorest countries in the world. The economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, which employs over 80% of the population.
β
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πLewotobi Laki-Laki:
β Location: Situated on Flores Island, southeastern Indonesia.
β Twin volcano: Part of the Lewotobi twin volcano complex, comprising Lewotobi Laki-Laki (Male) and Lewotobi Perempuan (Female) stratovolcanoes.
β Geological significance: Positioned within the βRing of Fire,β a region known for intense tectonic activity.
β Eruption details: Recently erupted, emitting lava and ash, causing significant damage to surrounding villages and resulting in multiple fatalities.
β Safety measures: Authorities advised residents to stay at least 7 km away from the volcano due to the risk of further eruptions and earthquakes.
β Previous names: Historically referred to as Lobetabi, Lovotivo, and Loby Toby.
β Location: Situated on Flores Island, southeastern Indonesia.
β Twin volcano: Part of the Lewotobi twin volcano complex, comprising Lewotobi Laki-Laki (Male) and Lewotobi Perempuan (Female) stratovolcanoes.
β Geological significance: Positioned within the βRing of Fire,β a region known for intense tectonic activity.
β Eruption details: Recently erupted, emitting lava and ash, causing significant damage to surrounding villages and resulting in multiple fatalities.
β Safety measures: Authorities advised residents to stay at least 7 km away from the volcano due to the risk of further eruptions and earthquakes.
β Previous names: Historically referred to as Lobetabi, Lovotivo, and Loby Toby.
Polishing Millets: A Loss of Nutritional Value
Impact of Milling
β Reduction in Nutrients: Milling millets to remove the bran significantly reduces their nutritional value, including protein, dietary fiber, fat, minerals, and phytic acid.
β Increase in Carbohydrates: Milling increases the carbohydrate and amylose content.
Why Millets are Polished
β Shelf Life: Removing the bran, which is rich in fats, can extend the shelf life of millets as it reduces the risk of rancidity.
π―οΈCooking Time and Texture: Milling makes millets cook faster and have a softer texture.
Health Benefits of Whole Millets
β Rich in Nutrients: Whole millets are a good source of minerals like calcium, iron, phosphorus, and potassium.
β Antioxidant Properties: They contain phytochemicals with antioxidant properties, which can help protect against various diseases.
β Lower Glycemic Index: Whole millets have a lower glycemic index, which is beneficial for people with diabetes.
Recommendations
β Consume Whole Millets: It is recommended to consume millets in their whole grain form to maximize nutritional benefits.
β Promote Whole Millet Consumption: Efforts should be made to promote the consumption of whole millets to improve diet quality and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Impact of Milling
β Reduction in Nutrients: Milling millets to remove the bran significantly reduces their nutritional value, including protein, dietary fiber, fat, minerals, and phytic acid.
β Increase in Carbohydrates: Milling increases the carbohydrate and amylose content.
Why Millets are Polished
β Shelf Life: Removing the bran, which is rich in fats, can extend the shelf life of millets as it reduces the risk of rancidity.
π―οΈCooking Time and Texture: Milling makes millets cook faster and have a softer texture.
Health Benefits of Whole Millets
β Rich in Nutrients: Whole millets are a good source of minerals like calcium, iron, phosphorus, and potassium.
β Antioxidant Properties: They contain phytochemicals with antioxidant properties, which can help protect against various diseases.
β Lower Glycemic Index: Whole millets have a lower glycemic index, which is beneficial for people with diabetes.
Recommendations
β Consume Whole Millets: It is recommended to consume millets in their whole grain form to maximize nutritional benefits.
β Promote Whole Millet Consumption: Efforts should be made to promote the consumption of whole millets to improve diet quality and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Possible UPSC Prelims Question: What is the primary reason for polishing millets?
* To improve taste
* To increase shelf life
* To reduce cooking time
* To enhance nutritional value
Possible UPSC Mains Question: Discuss the nutritional benefits of millets and the impact of milling on their nutritional profile. What measures can be taken to promote the consumption of whole millets in India?
Lake Kariba:
β It is a lake in central Africa, along the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
β It is positioned 810 miles upstream from the Indian Ocean.
β It is the world's largest man-made lake. It covers an area of 2,000 square miles (5,200 square km).
β It was formed by damming the Zambezi Riverin the Kariba Gorge, where the river narrows between hills of hard rock 250 miles (400 km) below Victoria Falls.
β The Kariba Dam consists of adouble-arch wall. It is 128 meters in height, 617 meters in length, 13 meters wide at its top, and 24 meters wide at the base.
β It provides considerable electric power to both Zambia and Zimbabwe and supports a thriving commercial fishing industry.
β The lake encompasses a total of 102 islands, including well-known ones like Chete Island and Spurwing Island.
β Chete Island boasts the world's largest expanse of protected, undeveloped wetlands and hosts the largest single population of African elephants.
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β It is a lake in central Africa, along the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
β It is positioned 810 miles upstream from the Indian Ocean.
β It is the world's largest man-made lake. It covers an area of 2,000 square miles (5,200 square km).
β It was formed by damming the Zambezi Riverin the Kariba Gorge, where the river narrows between hills of hard rock 250 miles (400 km) below Victoria Falls.
β The Kariba Dam consists of adouble-arch wall. It is 128 meters in height, 617 meters in length, 13 meters wide at its top, and 24 meters wide at the base.
β It provides considerable electric power to both Zambia and Zimbabwe and supports a thriving commercial fishing industry.
β The lake encompasses a total of 102 islands, including well-known ones like Chete Island and Spurwing Island.
β Chete Island boasts the world's largest expanse of protected, undeveloped wetlands and hosts the largest single population of African elephants.
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#lakes_series
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Barak River:
β Origin and Course:
Rises in the Manipur Hills, flows into Assam, and later enters Bangladesh as the Surma and Kushiyara rivers.
β Joins the Meghna River, receiving the combined flow of the Ganga and Brahmaputra.
β Tributaries: Major tributaries include the Jiri, Dhaleswari, Singla, Longai, Sonai, and Katakhal.
β Drainage and Sub-basin:
Covers a drainage area of 41,723 sq. km in India, about 1.38% of the countryβs total geographical area.
Lies across Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Assam, Tripura, and Nagaland.
β Geographic Boundaries:
Bounded by the Barail range to the north, the Lushai Hills to the east, and Bangladesh to the south and west.
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β Origin and Course:
Rises in the Manipur Hills, flows into Assam, and later enters Bangladesh as the Surma and Kushiyara rivers.
β Joins the Meghna River, receiving the combined flow of the Ganga and Brahmaputra.
β Tributaries: Major tributaries include the Jiri, Dhaleswari, Singla, Longai, Sonai, and Katakhal.
β Drainage and Sub-basin:
Covers a drainage area of 41,723 sq. km in India, about 1.38% of the countryβs total geographical area.
Lies across Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Assam, Tripura, and Nagaland.
β Geographic Boundaries:
Bounded by the Barail range to the north, the Lushai Hills to the east, and Bangladesh to the south and west.
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πNigeria
β Nigeria (capital: Abuja) an African country on the Gulf of Guinea, has many natural landmarks and wildlife reserves. β Protected areas such as Cross River National Park and Yankari National Park have waterfalls, dense rainforests, savanna and rare primate habitats. It is Africaβs top oil producer.
β Nigeria (capital: Abuja) an African country on the Gulf of Guinea, has many natural landmarks and wildlife reserves. β Protected areas such as Cross River National Park and Yankari National Park have waterfalls, dense rainforests, savanna and rare primate habitats. It is Africaβs top oil producer.