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General Studies Prelims

General Studies (Mains)

Ancient Sculptures Reveal Mylara Cult History in Karnataka

In the historical trading city of Basrur, Karnataka, the discovery of two ancient sculptures has unveiled the existence of the Mylara cult during the medieval period in the coastal region. The sculptures, resembling artefacts dating back to the 15th and 17th centuries, present a unique image of a regal warrior seated on a horse, brandishing a sword in one hand and a bowl in the other. They were found in a well and a tank respectively.

The Mylara cult was a religious practice thriving in the Deccan region during the medieval age. The Goddess Mylara, considered a form of Lord Shiva, is at its worship epicentre.

The African Union’s Stand Against Unconstitutional Governance: Niger’s Suspension

Following a recent coup that overthrew the democratically elected president, Niger has been suspended from all institutions and activities of the African Union (AU). This continental body, comprising 55 member states, aims at enhancing cooperation amongst African countries.

Originally formed as the Organisation of African Unity in 1963, it transformed into the AU in 2002 with an accelerated focus on economic integration. After the coup, the AU urged its member nations and the wider international community to renounce this unconstitutional change in governance.

Consequences of Niger’s suspension could extend to diplomatic ties and operation of foreign forces within the country, reflecting the influence of the AU’s decision.

Next-Generation Photonic Analog-to-Digital Converters: Revolutionizing Sectors

The innovative prototypes developed under the Next-Generation Photonic Analog-to-Digital Converters (NG-PADC) project can measure, generate, and transport Radio Frequency (RF) signals using optical methods.

This transformational technology could radically change RF signal transportation and enable accelerated digital communication, superior satellite communication, advanced medical imaging, and photonic radars. RF signals, ranging from about 3 kilohertz (kHz) to 300 gigahertz (GHz), are pivotal for wireless communications, including radio broadcasting, television, and cellular communication.

India’s First Carbon Negative Garrison: A Milestone with Solar Power

The College of Military Engineering (CME) in Pune, Maharashtra, has become India’s pioneering carbon-negative garrison thanks to its recent implementation of a 5-megawatt (MW) solar power plant. This boosts the total solar power generation capacity of the institute to 7 MW.

Besides the fiscal savings of roughly Rs 6.5 crore annually, the power generated at CME is distributed to various defense establishments in Pune. This contributes to the ‘National Clean Air Programme’ and reduces reliance on traditional thermal power plants.

Annual Capacity Building Plan: A New Initiative by Minister of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj

The Annual Capacity Building Plan (ACBP) of the Department of Rural Development, Department of Land Resources, and Ministry of Panchayati Raj is a new initiative launched by the Minister of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj. Developed through Competency Need Analysis (CNA), the ACBP is a roadmap document focusing on the competency enhancement requirements of the officials of the Ministry/Department/Organization (MDO).

Aligning itself closely with the Vision of New India @2047, the plan follows a triadic approach focusing on National Priorities, Citizen Centricity, and Emerging Technology, under the guidance of the Capacity Building Commission. The plan also stresses on Individual, Organizational, and Institutional development as its three foundational pillars.

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