Current Affairs 1 November 2024

UPSC Prelims Facts

Ultra-Enforcement Concrete (UEC)

Context: The Indian government is adopting Ultra-Enforcement Concrete (UEC) to lower infrastructure costs for bridges and metros by approximately 25%, inspired by technology from Malaysia.

About Ultra-Enforcement Concrete:

• Definition: UEC is a high-performance concrete known for its enhanced durability, strength, and cost-effectiveness.
• Origin: Derived from Malaysian technology to help reduce India's large-scale construction expenses.
• Key Benefits: UEC minimizes material use while maintaining strength, offering significant savings, especially in large projects like metros and bridges.

Relevance in UPSC Syllabus:

• Infrastructure : Linked to GS Paper 3 (Economic Development and Infrastructure) covering highways, railways, and other public assets.
• Innovation : Highlights technological advancements in sustainable, cost-efficient construction.
• Environmental Impact : Supports sustainability by reducing the carbon footprint of large infrastructure projects.

Luminescent Nanomaterials

Context: To address counterfeiting issues, researchers at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) developed a security ink based on luminescent nanomaterials.

About Luminescent Nanomaterials:

• Properties: These nanomaterials, infused with rare-earth ions, emit colors based on specific light wavelengths.
• Multi-Color Display: They show blue under 365 nm UV light, pink under 395 nm, and orange-red under 980 nm near-infrared, making them harder to duplicate.
• Durability: Withstands light, temperature, and humidity variations, suitable for long-term applications.

Applications:

• Enhanced Security: Traditional covert tags are UV-only and easily forged. This multi-wavelength ink adds a layer of security.
• Widespread Use: Ideal for currency, certificates, branded products, and pharmaceuticals, enabling easy verification.

Sanjay Dubri Tiger Reserve

Context: A controversy has arisen around new constructions within Madhya Pradesh's Sanjay Dubri and Bandhavgarh tiger reserves, sparking debate between wildlife and tourism authorities.

About Sanjay Dubri Tiger Reserve:

• Location: Northeastern Madhya Pradesh, adjoining Guru Ghasidas National Park.
• Components: Comprises Sanjay National Park and Dubri Sanctuary, forming a critical wildlife corridor.
• Rivers: Includes rivers such as Banas, Gopad, and Mahan.
• Biodiversity: Habitat for species like tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and various deer.

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve:

• Location: Between Vindhyan and Satpura ranges in Madhya Pradesh.
• Vegetation: Features tropical moist deciduous forests with sal and bamboo forests.
• Tiger Density: Holds one of India's densest tiger populations.

LiDAR Technology

Context: LiDAR technology recently uncovered a long-lost Mayan city in the dense Mexican jungle.

• Definition: LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) uses laser pulses to measure distance and create 3D topography maps.
• Functioning: The laser pulse reflects off surfaces, calculating distances to form a high-resolution elevation model.
• Applications: Used in archaeology, conservation, and urban planning, notably helpful in dense vegetation regions.
• Archaeological Impact: LiDAR's precision aids in revealing historical sites obscured by thick foliage, like the ancient Maya city of Valeriana.

Chushul-Moldo Border

Context: Indian and Chinese forces shared Diwali greetings at Chushul-Moldo, highlighting efforts for diplomatic engagement.

About Chushul-Moldo Border:

• Location: Eastern Ladakh along the LAC between India and China, close to Pangong Lake.
• Strategic Importance : The high-altitude, rugged terrain is a pivotal meeting point for maintaining communication between the two armies amid tensions.