Date-Wise Current Affairs

February 2023

13 February 2023

Science & Technology

1) Italy discovers invisible Galaxy

Italian researchers have discovered a Black Galaxy or Invisible Galaxy using ALMA. ALMA is Atacama Large Millimetre Array (Atacama Desert is in South America). The galaxy discovered is compact. It is young and has interstellar dust. The galaxy is forming new stars at the rate of 1000 times the Milky Way.

About Invisible Galaxy

The galaxy is termed invisible because the light emitted couldn’t be seen from the earth. However, the presence of the galaxy has been discovered using the gravitational lensing technique.

Gravitational Lensing Technique used

Scientists used this technique to discover the galaxy. The technique is generally used to detect dark matter. The galaxy is located at long distances from the earth, and also the galaxy is young and compact. This makes it difficult to capture light or other wavelengths emitted by the galaxy. In circumstances where light or its wavelength is not helpful, gravitational lenses come in aid.
The gravitational field created by the invisible galaxy bends light from other galaxies. These lights are studied to learn about the invisible galaxy. The technique where gravitational waves are used to learn about the galaxy is called the gravitational lensing technique.

2) Israel launches sniffing robots

The Locusts have very good smelling power. Israeli researchers have used the antennae of the locusts to create sniffing robots. The bot is bio-hybrid, and therefore its sniffing powers are higher than the electronic sniffers. With Machine learning, the bot has been taught to identify different smells.

How was the robot created?

The robot has four wheels. It was created by placing the antenna of locusts between the electrodes. The electrodes send signals when the antenna grabs a nearby scent. Each scent has a unique measurement of current. Based on the current generated, the bot identifies the scent. The bot is calibrated previously for the scent it grabs and the corresponding current value.

Applications

With this, Israel has taken investigative technologies to the next level. The bot sniffers can be used to detect drugs and explosives.

About the robot

The bot can detect even the tiniest particle or an organism in its surrounding. For instance, it can even detect a mosquito!

Scientific Principle used

Every sensory organ of animals or insects generates an electric signal when they encounter external stimuli or a smell. These electric signals are sent to their brain to be processed and identified. The robot uses the same principle.

3) Exercise TARKASH

Context:

The sixth edition of joint exercise TARKASH was recently concluded by The National Security Guard (NSG) and US Special Operations Forces (SOF).

About Exercise TARKASH:

● The exercise, for the first time, included “Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) terror response” in its drill.
● The objective was to rapidly neutralize the terrorists, rescue the hostages safely and deactivate the chemical weapons being carried by the terrorists.

Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Weapons:

● CBRN weapons are also classified as weapons of mass destruction.
● They have been used by States and terror elements in the past.
● The most recent use of CBRN in the form of a sarin gas attack was witnessed in Syria in 2017 when more than 100 people died.

International Treaties related to WMD:

● The use of chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons is regulated by a number of international treaties and agreements. Among them are the following:
● Geneva Protocol, 1925, which banned the use of chemical and biological weapons
● Biological Weapons Convention, 1972, and Chemical Weapons Convention, 1992, which put comprehensive bans on biological and chemical weapons, respectively.
● India has signed and ratified both the 1972 and 1992 treaties.
● There are very few non-signatory countries to these treaties, even though several countries have been accused of non-compliance.
● The use and proliferation of nuclear weapons are regulated by treaties such as Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT).

4) Science Center and Planetarium to be constructed in Kota by NCSM

Science Center and Planetarium will be constructed in Kota, Rajasthan. The Science Center and Planetarium will be one of the best science centers and planetariums in the world.

Science Center and Planetarium to be constructed in Kota

The Science Center and Planetarium will be constructed in Kota, Rajasthan. The Science Center and Planetarium will be one of the best science centers and planetariums in the world. About 35 crore 25 lakh rupees will be spent on these.
An MoU was signed between the National Council of Science Museums and the Science and Technology Department of the Government of Rajasthan in this regard.

About National Council of Science Museums

National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Culture. It is the largest chain of science centers or museums under a single administrative umbrella in the world. There are 24 science centers or museums and one R & D laboratory and training center of NCSM, located in different states in India.
The first science museum, Birla Industrial and Technological Museum (BITM), Kolkata, under CSIR43, was opened on 2 May 1959. In July 1965, the second science museum of the country, the Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum (VITM) was opened in Bangalore.

Which is the largest Planetarium in India?

Birla Planetarium in Kolkata is the largest planetarium in Asia and the second largest in the world. It is one of the most famous planetariums in India. Popularly known as Taramandal, the planetarium was inaugurated on 2 July 1963 by the then Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru.
It has an electronics laboratory for the design and fabrication of science equipment. It has an astronomy gallery that maintains a huge collection of fine paintings and celestial models of renowned astronomers.

5) Diyodar Meteorite

Context:

The Diyodar meteorite that hit India in 2022 was India’s first aubrite in 170 years

About Diyodar Meteorite:

● A meteorite is a celestial object (made of rocks and metals) that enters the atmosphere of the earth and reaches the surface.
● The meteorite is a “rare, unique specimen” of aubrite.
● India has been the site of hundreds of meteorite crashes, but this is only the second recorded crash of an aubrite.

What are aubrites?

● Aubrites “are coarse-grained igneous rocks that formed” in oxygen-poor conditions and thus “contain a variety of exotic minerals that are not found on Earth”.
● For example, the mineral heideite was first described in the Basti meteorite.
● Source of Aubrites: not yet sure of their origin, but some signs indicate that they could be from the asteroid 3103 Eger or from the planet Mercury.
● Composition: Around 90% of the meteorite was composed of orthopyroxene. Pyroxenes are silicates consisting of single chains of silica tetrahedra (SiO 4); orthopyroxenes are pyroxenes with a certain structure.

6) Aero India 2023: New Solar Power ISR Drone ‘Suraj’ Launched by Garuda Aerospace, Check its Specifications & Uses

Garuda Aerospace displays a solar-powered Suraj drone specifically designed for ‘surveillance operations’. This newly launched Solar Power High Altitude ISR Drone was presented at the Aero India 2023 event.

New ISR Drone ‘Suraj’

This highly capable ISR drone named ‘Suraj’ carries a versatile payload of high-resolution zoom cameras designed with thermal imagery as well as foliage-penetrating lidar sensors. Also, the maximum capacity of this device is approximately 10 kg, as per the announcement.
Garuda Aerospace held its unveiling ceremony on February 15, 2023 (Wednesday), to showcase this exemplary piece of technology. The Garuda corporation presented the latest solar-powered unmanned reconnaissance aerial J-Glider - SURAJ at the Aero India 2023 show, which was conducted in Bengaluru, India.
Dr Satheesh Reddy, who is the former DRDO Chairman and current Principal Scientific Advisor to the Defence Minister, unveiled the ISR drone. Talking about its usage, SURAJ is an ISR high-altitude drone invented to provide assistance in surveillance operations. It can help in providing real-time information to the high command and protecting Indian Armed Forces deployed on borders and crucially high altitudes. This will prove beneficial in carrying out security operations and other military processes.

Unique Features of Suraj Drone

First of all, this drone has J-shaped wings that are equipped with solar-powered cells. These Solar cells serve as their primary fuel source, whereas an auxiliary battery is fixed inside, which provides additional propulsion or decreased speed as per requirement.
Additional characteristics include having a versatile payload of high-resolution zoom cameras with thermal imagery and foliage-penetrating lidar sensors created with a maximum capacity of 10 kg. The Gauruda company claims that it has an endurance capacity of about 12 hours and can fly at an altitude of 3000 feet respectively.
It is further equipped with cutting-edge technology, which allows it to capture, process, and transmit photos and videos simultaneously. It can also display valuable information to headquarters before planning strategic operations. The drone is extensively designed to cater to the Indian Army, Navy, Airforce, BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, DRDO, MOD, as well as MHA. Garuda Aerospace recently raised 22 million dollars in funding which will be spent on developing a prototype of the SURAJ. This device is ready to fly by August 2023.

Development of Suraj Drone

As per the official reports, Garuda Aerospace company has been working on this project with a professional team of scientists and experts from the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), DRDO, and other organizations to invent the SURAJ drone. The drone is prepared with AI, ML, and Bionic Chips for advanced real-time processing making it an analytical component in safeguarding the security of India.
The significant development of the SURAJ drone marks a historical milestone in the Indian drone industry. With a rise in the use of drones in military and surveillance operations globally, the demand for technologically advanced drones such as SURAJ is undoubtedly expected to grow.

About Garuda Aerospace

Dr. Satheesh Reddy, Former DRDO Chairman, and current Principal Scientific Advisor to the Defence Minister, praised the duly efforts made by the Garuda Aerospace corporation. This company is one of the upcoming digital technology companies in the drone sector that are developing many technological or modern solutions for different sectors like Defence, Agriculture, and Industrial Automation, stated the Chairman.
Another official, Agnishwar Jayaprakash, the Founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace, added, “We are confident that the SURAJ drone will play a vital role in safeguarding the security of our nation and the people. Suraj will have ISR capability and will be equipped with AI, ML, and Bionic Chip for advanced real-time processing."
The 22 million dollars of funding amount raised by the Garuda company will help in the development of a 1:1 prototype of SURAJ, which will be ready to fly by August in the current year 2023. Moreover, the company has over 400 drones and 500 pilots across 84 cities in India in order to support different emergencies.

14 February 2023

All Topics Current Affairs

1) Aero India 2023 (Science & Technology)

Context:

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate the 14th edition of Asia’s largest aero show –– Aero India 2023 - in Bengaluru, Karnataka on February 13, 2023.

Details:

● Spanning over five days, the event, on the theme ‘The runway to a billion opportunities’, will radiate the rise of a strong & self-reliant ‘New India’ by displaying India’s growth in aerospace and defense capabilities.
● The focus will be on showcasing indigenous equipment/technologies and forging partnerships with foreign companies, in line with the ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ vision for a secure and prosperous future.
● The major exhibitors include Airbus, Boeing, Dassault Aviation, Lockheed Martin, Israel Aerospace Industry, BrahMos Aerospace, Army Aviation, HC Robotics, SAAB, Safran, Rolls Royce, Larsen & Toubro, Bharat Forge Limited, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and BEML Limited.
● The ‘CEOs Round Table’, under the chairmanship of the Raksha Mantri, will be held on the theme ‘Sky is not the limit: opportunities beyond boundaries’.
● The Bandhan ceremony, which witnesses the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs)/Agreements, Transfer of Technologies, Product Launches, and other major announcements, will be held
● The annual defense innovation event, Manthan, will be the flagship technology showcase event
● The ‘India Pavilion’, based on the ‘Fixed Wing Platform’ theme, will showcase India’s growth in the area, including the future prospects.

About Aero India:

● Aero India is a biennial air show and aviation exhibition held in Bengaluru, India at the Yelahanka Air Force Station.
● It is organized by the Defence Exhibition Organisation, Ministry of Defence.
● Aero India is the largest air show in Asia.
● The Defence Ministry of India, Indian Air Force, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Department of Space, the Union Civil Aviation Ministry and other such organizations join hands to organize Aero India show making it the largest air show in Asia.
● The first edition of the air show was held in 1996.

2) Aksai Chin Railway Line (International relations)

The Chinese Government is planning to build a new railway line in the Aksai Chin region. The line will run till Pangong Lake. It will run very close to the Line of Actual control. Phase one of the railway line will be completed by 2025. During this phase, China will lay a railway line between Xiagtse and Pakhutso. The plan is to complete the line by 2035.

About the Railway Line

China recently proposed a medium-term railway plan and a long-term railway plan for the Tibet area. The Aksai chin railway line is a part of this plan. Under the plan, China is to increase the Railway connections of Tibet to 4000 km. Currently, it is 1400 km. And the new railway line is to pass through the India-Nepal border. Also, it will pass through G219 NH.

G219 NH

It is a Chinese National Highway that connects the entire southern and western borders of the country. It is 10,000 km long. The construction of the highway commenced in 2013 and is expected to be completed by 2030. After completion, it will be the longest NH in the world. Before 2013, the highway connected Xinjiang and Tibet.

1962 war and the new Railway line

The 1962 war was fought between India and China because of the G219 highway. The new planned Railway line will run through this highway!

3) Joshimath Land Subsidence (environment and disaster management)

Why in News?

Due to land subsidence, Joshimath - a key transit point for tourists traveling to Badrinath and Hemkund Sahib - developed cracks, causing panic and protests among the local population.
● Joshimath has been declared a landslide-subsidence zone and over 60 families living in uninhabitable houses in the sinking town have been evacuated to temporary relief centers.

Where is Joshimath Located?

● Joshimath is a hilly town located on the Rishikesh-Badrinath National Highway (NH-7) in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand.
● The city serves as a tourist town as it acts as an overnight rest stop for people visiting Badrinath, Auli, Valley of Flowers, and Hemkund Sahib, among other important religious and tourist locations in the state.
● Joshimath is also of great strategic importance to the Indian armed forces and is home to one of the Army's most important cantonments.
● The town (falls in high-risk seismic Zone-V) is traversed by running streams with a high gradient from Vishnuprayag, a confluence of the Dhauliganga and the Alaknanda rivers.
● It is home to one of the four cardinal maths or monasteries established by Adi Shankara - Sringeri in Karnataka, Dwarka in Gujarat, Puri in Odisha, and Joshimath near Badrinath in Uttarakhand.

Background:

○ Cracks on walls and buildings were first reported in 2021, as the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand experienced frequent landslides and flooding.
○ As per reports, the Uttarakhand government's expert panel in 2022 found that several pockets of Joshimath are "sinking" owing to man-made and natural factors.
○ It was found that a gradual settling or sudden sinking of the earth's surface due to the removal or displacement of subsurface materials — has induced structural defects and damage in almost all wards of the city.

Reasons:

○ Site of an Ancient landslide: According to the 1976 Mishra Committee report, Joshimath lies on a deposit of sand and stone, it's not on the main rock. It lies on an ancient landslide. The report added that undercutting by river currents of Alaknanda and Dhauliganga is also playing their part in bringing landslides.
■ The committee had recommended that restrictions be placed on heavy construction work, blasting or digging to remove boulders for road repairs and other construction, and felling of trees.
○ Geography: Scattered rocks in the area are covered with old landslide debris comprising boulders, gneissic rocks, and loose soil, with a low bearing capacity.
■ These gneissic rocks are highly weathered and have a low cohesive value with a tendency of high pore pressure when saturated with water, especially during monsoons.
○ Construction Activities: Increased construction, hydroelectric projects, and the widening of the NH have made the slopes highly unstable in the last couple of decades.
○ Land Erosion: Due to the running streams from Vishnuprayag and sliding along the natural streams are the other reasons behind the city's fate.

Impact:

○ At least 66 families have fled the town while 561 houses have reported cracks. A government official said that over 3000 people have been affected so far.

4) Joint Theatre Command of Tri-services (Defence)

Context:

● Recently, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced the setting up of ‘Joint Theatre Commands’ of the tri-services to bolster coordination among the defense forces.

Key Highlights:

● Lt Gen Anil Chauhan (retd) has been appointed as the next Chief of Defence Staff(CDS).
● The post was lying vacant for over nine months after the country’s first CDS General Bipin Rawat was killed in a chopper crash last December.

Need of Joint Theatre Command:

● To bring all the 17 individual commands into four or five unified theatre commands.
● It will help in better planning and military response and also bring down costs.
● To have a unified approach to fighting future wars.
○ Need for a unified approach to war fighting was brought out in the deliberations after the 1999 Kargil battle.
○ The Kargil Review Committee had called for structural changes in higher defence management.
○ Shekatkar committee, headed by Lt Gen. (retd) D.B. Shekatkar, which had recommended the creation of the post of CDS and theatre commands.
About
○ The idea behind the ‘Theatre Command System’ is to bring synergistic coordination between the three branches of the armed forces.
○ It aims at bringing separate commands for the army, navy, and air force under a unified command spearheaded by a single commander.
● Countries that follow the Theatre Command System
● The USA was the first country to enforce a theatre command system.
● Russia also started with the restructuring of its defense forces in 2008 and has four theatre commands.
● China’s theatre command system is said to be based on the US model Proposed Joint Theatre Command
● According to the current proposal, there will be five theatres - Northern Land Theatre (Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Central sector), Western Land Theatre (Pakistan centric), Eastern Land Theatre, Maritime Theatre Command, and Air Defence Command.

Constraints:

● It comprises hurdles related to operational command and controls over assets.
● Besides, budgetary allocations, fund distribution, and assets between the army, navy, and air force need to be clearly worked out to enable the setting up of a seamless theatre command.
● The Indian Army and Indian Air Force have seven commands each while the Indian Navy has three commands. These commands are scattered across the nation and don’t coincide geographically.

5) Chief of Defence Staff

● The Chief of Defence Staff will head the Department of Military Affairs (DMA) under the Ministry of Defence.
● It will also be the Permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee.
● CDS will act as the Principal Military Adviser to Raksha Mantri on all tri-Services matters.
○ The three Chiefs will continue to advise RM on matters exclusively concerning their respective Services.
○ CDS will not exercise any military command, including over the three Service Chiefs, so as to be able to provide impartial advice to the political leadership.
● CDS will be a member of the Defence Acquisition Council chaired by Raksha Mantri and the Defence Planning Committee chaired by the NSA.
● It will serve as Military Adviser to the Nuclear Command Authority.

6) House rules and the weapon of expunction (Polity and governance)

The expunction of portions of the speeches made by Opposition politicians in Parliament recently has sparked off a debate on an action taken by the Speaker and the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha
on the rules that are in place:
● Article 105 of the Constitution confers members, freedom of speech in the House and immunity from interference by the court for anything said in the House.
● Rule 380 of the Rules of procedure of the Lok Sabha and Rule 261 of the Rules of the Rajya Sabha give the power to the presiding officers of these Houses to expunge any words used in the debate which are defamatory, unparliamentary, undignified or indecent.
○ Once expunged they do not remain on record.
○ If anyone publishes them thereafter, they will be liable for breach of privilege of the House.
● Rule 353 of the Lok Sabha regulates the procedure in that regard. ○ MPs are required to give “adequate advance notice” to the Speaker as well as the Minister concerned.
● Rule does not prohibit the making of any allegation.
○ The only requirement is advance notice: Minister concerned will conduct an inquiry into the allegation
■ The allegation which necessitates advance notice, is of a defamatory or incriminatory nature.
■ If the allegation is neither defamatory nor incriminatory, the above rule would have no application.
○ The rule does not apply to an allegation against a Minister in the government.
○ The Council of Ministers is accountable to Parliament, the Members of the House have the right to question Ministers and make imputations against their conduct as Ministers.

Procedure while making an allegation against a Minister:

● Such a procedure has been laid down by Speakers in the past.
● Making an allegation against a Minister or the Prime Minister: The MP who makes an imputation against a Minister of the government should be sure about the factual basis of the allegation, and that he must take responsibility for it.
● If the MP complies with this stipulation, then the allegation will be allowed to remain on record.

15 February 2023

Indian Polity

1) NAMASTE Scheme

Context:

Union Budget 2023-2024 has allocated nearly Rs 100 crore for the National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE).

About NAMASTE Scheme:

● It was launched in 2022 as a Central Sector Scheme.
● The scheme is being undertaken jointly by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (MoSJE) and aims to eradicate unsafe sewer and septic tank cleaning practices.

Objectives of the scheme:

● Zero fatalities in sanitation work in India.
● All sanitation work is performed by skilled workers.
● No sanitation workers come in direct contact with human faecal matter.
● Sanitation workers are collectivized into Self Help Groups (SHGs) and are empowered to run sanitation enterprises.
● Strengthened supervisory and monitoring systems at National, State, and Urban Local Body (ULB) levels to ensure enforcement and monitoring of safe sanitation work.

What are the Key Features of the Scheme to be Implemented in all ULBs?

● Identification: NAMASTE envisages identifying the Sewer/Septic Tank Workers (SSWs).
● Occupational Training and distribution of PPE Kits to SSWs.
● Assistance for Safety Devices to Sanitation Response Units (SRUs).
● Extending Health Insurance Scheme Benefits to identified SSWs and their families under the Ayushman Bharat- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY).
● Livelihood Assistance: The Action Plan will promote mechanization and enterprise development by providing funding support and subsidy (capital +interest) to the sanitation workers, to procure sanitation-related equipment.

IEC (Information Education and Communication) Campaign:

● Massive campaigns would be undertaken jointly by the ULBs & NSKFDC (National Safai Karamcharis Finance & Development Corporation) to spread awareness about the interventions of NAMASTE.

2) Section 69 of the IT Act:

Context:

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) recently issued orders to block some apps on an “urgent” and “emergency” basis under Section 69(A) of the Information Technology Act, 2000.

About Information Technology Act, 2000:

● The Information Technology (IT) Act, of 2000, governs all activities related to the use of computer resources.
● It covers all ‘intermediaries’ who play a role in the use of computer resources and electronic records.

About Section 69 of the IT Act:

● It confers on the Central and State governments the power to issue directions to intercept, monitor or decrypt any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer resource.
● It allows the government to issue content-blocking orders to online intermediaries such as Internet Service Providers (ISPs), telecom service providers, web hosting services, etc.
The grounds on which these powers may be exercised are:
● In the interest of the sovereignty or integrity of India, defense of India, and the security of the state.
● Friendly relations with foreign states.
● Public order, or for preventing incitement to the commission of any cognizable offense relating to these.
● For investigating any offense.

Process of Blocking Applications and Internet Websites:

● Section 69A, for similar reasons and grounds (as stated above), enables the Centre to ask any agency of the government, or any intermediary, to block access to the public of any information generated, transmitted, received or stored, or hosted on any computer resource.
● Any such request for blocking access must be based on reasons given in writing.

3) Operation Sadbhavana

Context:

As part of ‘Operation SADBHAVANA’, the Indian Army is undertaking multiple welfare activities in remote areas of the Union Territory (UT) of Ladakh.

About Operation Sadbhavana:

● Operation Sadbhavana (Goodwill) is a unique humane initiative undertaken by the Indian Army in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to address the aspirations of people affected by terrorism, sponsored and abetted by Pakistan.
● As part of ‘Operation SADBHAVANA’, the Indian Army is undertaking multiple welfare activities such as the running of Army Goodwill Schools, Infrastructure Development Projects, and Education Tours for the children living in remote areas of the Union Territory (UT) of Ladakh.
● To improve the standard of education and to provide them with quality education, Indian Army is presently running seven (07) Army Goodwill Schools (AGS) under ‘Operation SADBHAVANA’ in Ladakh Region.
● Some of the objectives achieved through ‘Operation SADBHAVANA’ are national integration tours, women empowerment, employment generation, education, and development activities towards nation-building.
● ‘Operation SADBHAVANA’ projects are selected after taking local aspirations into consideration, in conjunction with local civil administration and it is ensured that there are no duplicates with projects of civil administration.

4) Judicial Majoritarianism

Context:

As the recent majority judgment of the Supreme Court on demonetization comes under criticism, the minority judgment by J. Nagarathna is being hailed for its challenge to the RBI’s institutional acquiescence to the Central government.

About Judicial Majoritarianism:

● As opposed to standard matters heard by Division Benches consisting of two judges, numerical majorities are of particular importance to cases that involve a substantial interpretation of constitutional provisions.
● In such cases, Constitutional Benches, consisting of five or more judges, are set up in consonance with Article 145(3) of the Constitution.
○ Such Benches usually consist of 5, 6, 9, 11 or even 13 judges.
● This is done to facilitate decision-making by ensuring numerical majorities in judicial outcomes.
● Article 145(5) of the Constitution: It states that no judgment in such cases can be delivered except with the concurrence of a majority of the judges but that judges are free to deliver dissenting judgments or opinions.

Differences among the judges and methodological fallacies:

● Any differences in judicial decisions can be attributed to a difference in either the methodology adopted and the logic applied by the judges.
● The differences can also be attributed to the judges’ own ‘judicial hunches’ which may be an outcome of their subjective experiences, outlook, and biases.
● In such circumstances, it is entirely possible that the majority may fall into either methodological fallacies and errors or be limited by their ‘judicial hunch’ respectively.
● In such situations, a meritorious minority decision, irrespective of the impeccability of its reasoning receives little weightage in terms of its outcomes.
● For example:
○ The dissenting opinion of Justice H.R. Khanna in A.D.M. Jabalpur v. Shivkant Shukla (1976) upholding the right to life and personal liberty even during situations of constitutional exceptionalism.
○ Dissenting opinion of Justice Subba Rao in the Kharak Singh v. State of U.P. (1962) case upholding the right to privacy which received the judicial stamp of approval in the K.S. Puttaswamy v. UOI (2017) case.

Dissenting opinions:

● The rate of judicial dissent at the height of the Emergency in 1976 was a mere 27% as opposed to 10.52% in 1980.
● The rate of dissent where the Chief Justice was a part of the Bench was lower than in those cases where the Chief Justice was not on the Bench.
● Such situations call into question the efficiency and desirability of head-counting procedures for a judicial determination on questions of national and constitutional importance.

5) Project 39A

In News: Even as the Supreme Court has called for reforming death penalty sentencing, trial courts awarded 165 death sentences in 2022, the highest in over two decades, according to the Annual Death Penalty Report, 2022. The report will be released on Monday by Project 39A
● This shift has been sharply influenced by the extraordinary sentencing of 38 persons to death in Ahmedabad in a single bomb blast case, representing the largest number of persons sentenced to death in a single case since 2016

Project 39A

● It is a criminal reforms advocacy group with the National Law University, Delhi.
● It is inspired by Article 39-A of the Indian Constitution, a provision that furthers the intertwined values of equal justice and equal opportunity by removing economic and social barriers
● Project 39A aims to trigger new conversations on legal aid, torture, forensics, mental health in prisons, and the death penalty, using empirical research to re-examine practices and policies in the criminal justice system
● The dismal state and sometimes the absence of record-keeping in the police, prisons and courts along with multiple barriers to accessing records/ data complicates criminal justice research in India.

16 February 2023

Sports

1) Hyderabad Formula E-Championship

Formula E is an electric car race. It is a championship of single-seater electric cars. It was conceived in 2011 in Paris. The championship is hosted by ABB FIA. The first Formula E championship was held in Beijing in 2014. The 2023 Formula E championship is to be held in Hyderabad.

About the Formula-E championship 2023

This is the first time the race has been held in India. The electric cars will race each other near the Hussain Sagar Lake of Hyderabad. More than 22,000 spectators are expected at the championship. The top companies participating in the race are Nissan, Porsche, Jaguar, Mahindra, Maserati, McLaren, etc. The cars will reach a top speed of 320 km per hr. The companies participating in the race are releasing their third-generation electric race cars. During the race, the cars have to complete 32 laps. Each lap has 18 turns.

Electric Motorsport

Electric sports cars lost their significance due to the speeds achieved by oil-based cars. However, with the invention of lithium-ion batteries, cars have regained their significance in the 21st century. Today, electric car engine capacities are even higher than oil-based or gas-based racing cars!

2) Khelo India Winter Games 2023

The Khelo India scheme was launched to increase the sports skills of the youth in the country and also to increase the sports infrastructure. Since the scheme’s launch, the Khelo India committee working under the sports ministry has been organizing several games like Khelo India Youth Games, Khelo India Winter Games, etc. The Khelo India Winter Games 2023 were recently launched in the Gulmarg of Jammu and Kashmir.

About Khelo India Winter Games 2023

This is the third edition, meaning the games have been conducted twice, and this is the third time. More than 1500 participants are to participate this year across nine different games.

Organizers

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports is organizing the Khelo India Winter Games along with; the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council and the Winter Games Association of J&K.

Previous Khelo India Winter Games

The 2021 edition was held in Leh. And the 2020 edition was held in Gulmarg. Games held are skiing, figure skating, snowshoe running, ice stock sports, Nordic skiing, ice hockey, speed skating, mountaineering, snow rugby, etc.

Gulmarg

It is a hill station and one of the most popular tourist spots in the country. It is located at the Pir Panjal Range.

3) Saudi Arabia to host the 2027 Asian Cup Football Tournament

The Asian Football Cup is held once in four years. It is organized by the Asian Football Confederation. Around 23 teams participate in the tournament. Teams are carefully chosen based on their skills and several other selection criteria. Teams are chosen by AFC. The host of the tournament is selected through a bidding process. The 2023 host is Qatar. This was decided long back. Recently, the 2027 host was selected, and it is Saudi Arabia.

India, too, placed its bids.

In 2019, when the AFC announced the bidding process for the 2027 cup, India too placed its bids. FIFA’s issue in 2022 affected India’s win. What is the FIFA issue? FIFA banned the All India Football Federation for its influence from third parties. FIFA also took away the rights of India to hold the U-17 women’s world football cup in 2022. However, the ban was lifted later. Besides bidding, voting is also held. Out of 45 countries that participated in the voting, 23 countries voted for Saudi Arabia.

Other countries that placed bids

India, Iran, Qatar, and Uzbekistan

Asian Cup Football Tournament 2027

● Slogan: Forward for Asia
● Host cities: Dammam, Riyadh, and Jeddah

The 2023 Asian Football Cup

Around 24 teams are to participate in the tournament. So far, AFC has selected 13 teams. The hosting country, that is, Qatar, qualifies directly. The other countries selected so far are Japan, Syria, South Korea, Australia, Iran, UAE, Saudi Arabia, China, Iraq, Oman, Vietnam, Lebanon, Palestine, Uzbekistan, Thailand, India, Hong Kong, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Bahrain, Malaysia, Jordan, and Indonesia.

4) 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup Mascot

Tazuni, a fun, football-loving penguin, was recently unveiled as the Official Mascot of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023.

Key Points:

● Tazuni will become an important symbol for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand, appearing on official tournament merchandise and media platforms, as well as in real life in community activities ahead of the event.
● The design is based on the Eudyptula minor species found in both host countries, and the name combines the Tasman Sea and the word ‘Unity’.

5) India’s First Frozen Lake Marathon: Ladakh

India’s first frozen lake marathon is set to be held in Ladakh’s Pangong Tso.
○ Pangong Lake or Pangong Tso is a long narrow, endorheic (landlocked) lake situated at the height of more than 14,000 ft (4,350 meters) in the Ladakh Himalayas.
○ The lake is 5 kilometers wide and 134 kilometers long, with one-third of it lying in India & the other two-thirds in China.
○ It is the world’s highest saltwater lake.
○ The lake is also very deep and reaches a maximum depth of almost 328 feet.
○ It is also known to change colors, appearing blue, green, and red at different times

17 February 2023

Indian Heritage Sites & Culture

1) Draft Geo-heritage Sites and Geo-relics Bill, 2022

Why in News?

Recently, the Ministry of Mines has notified Draft Geo-heritage Sites and Geo- relics (Preservation and Maintenance) Bill, 2022.
• The Bill is aimed at providing for the declaration, preservation, protection, and maintenance of geo-heritage sites and geo-relics of national importance for geological studies, education, research, and awareness purposes.
• The GSI has declared 32 geo-heritage sites, including the Siwalik Fossil Park, Himachal Pradesh; Stromatolite Fossil Park, Jharmarkotra Rock Phosphate deposit, Udaipur district, Akal Fossil Wood Park, Jaisalmer, but several are in stages of disrepair.

What are the Key Features of the Bill?

• Defines Geoheritage Sites:
Geoheritage sites are "sites containing geo-relics and phenomena, stratigraphic type sections, geological structures and geomorphic landforms including caves, natural rock-sculptures of national and international interest; and includes the such portion of land adjoining the site" that may be required for their conservation or to access to such sites.
• Georelics:
• A Geo-relic is defined as "any relic or material of a geological significance or interest like sediments, rocks, minerals, meteorite or fossils".
• The GSI (Geological Survey of India) will have the power to acquire geo-relics "for its preservation and maintenance".
Authority to Central Government:
• It would authorize the Central Government to declare a geoheritage site to be of national importance.
• This would be under the provisions of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 (RFCTLARR Act).
Compensation to the Occupier of Land:
• Provision is made for compensation to the owner or occupier of land who incurs loss or damage from the land due to the exercise of any power under this Act.
• The market value of any property will be ascertained in accordance with the principles set out in the RFCTLARR Act.
• Prohibition on Construction:
• The Bill imposes a prohibition on construction, reconstruction, repair or renovation of any building within the geoheritage site area or utilization of such area in any other manner, except for construction for preservation and maintenance of geoheritage site or any public work essential to the public.
• Penalty:
• Penalties for destruction, removal, defacement or contravention of any direction issued by the Director General, GSI in the geo-heritage site are mentioned.
• There is a penalty of imprisonment which may extend to six months or a fine which may extend to Rs.5 lakh, or both. In the case of a continuing contravention, an additional fine of up to Rs.50,000 for every day of continuing contravention may be imposed.

What are the Concerns?

• There are concerns over the distribution of power, as mentioned in the Bill.
• It points to how the GSI has the authority to acquire any material of geological significance, including sediments, rocks, minerals, meteorites, and fossils, as well as sites of geological importance.
• The issue of land acquisition for the purpose of safeguarding these sites could also lead to issues with local communities.

What is the Geological Survey of India?

• It was set up in 1851 primarily to find coal deposits for the Railways.
Over the years, it has not only grown into a repository of geo-science information required in various fields in the country but has also attained the status of a geo-scientific organisation of international repute.
• The main functions of the GSI relate to the creation and update of national geoscientific information and mineral resource assessment.
• It is headquartered in Kolkata and has six regional offices located at Lucknow, Jaipur, Nagpur, Hyderabad, Shillong and Kolkata. Every state has a state unit.
• Presently, GSI is an attached office to the Ministry of Mines.

18 February 2023

Geography

1) Eruption of the world’s largest active volcano ‘Mauna Loa

Scientists and researchers have alarmed the residents of Hawaii Island as the world’s largest active volcano ‘Mauna Loa’ is at risk of eruption.

The Mauna Loa volcano:

● It is the World’s largest active Volcano in the Island of Hawaii in the U.S. state of Hawaii in the Pacific Ocean.
● The volcano makes up 51% of the Hawaii Island landmass.
● It is an active shield volcano with relatively gentle slopes, with a volume estimated at 18,000 cubic miles (75,000 km3).
● Lava eruptions from Mauna Loa are silica-poor and very fluid, and they tend to be non-explosive.
● It last erupted in 1984 which led to destruction on the Island.

What is Shield Volcano?

● A shield volcano is a broad volcano with sloping sides that is formed mainly out of runny lava that flows out of its central summit vent.
● Examples of Shield Volcanoes: are Mauna Loa on the Island of Hawaii, Wolf volcano on the Galapagos Islands, and Nyamuragira in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Characteristics:

○ Basaltic magma, is high in temperature, very low on silica, and with low gas content.
○ Basic lava, which is non-acidic and very runny.
○ Gentle sides as the lava flow for long distances before it solidifies.
○ No layers, as the volcano just consists of lava.

2) Rainbow clouds

Context

Recently, an unusually-shaped rainbow cloud appeared over China. The cloud in question resembles a pileus cloud, and the phenomenon of bright colours appearing on a cloud is called cloud iridescence.

About

What is a pileus cloud?

● A pileus cloud is usually formed over a cumulus or cumulonimbus cloud.
● It is formed when the base cloud pushes a moist current of air upwards and the water vapor from the current condenses to somewhat resemble wave-like crests or umbrellas.
● A pileus cloud is transient in nature and lasts barely for a few minutes, making it difficult, and at the same time, exciting, to spot.

Cloud iridescence:

● Cloud iridescence or Irisation is an optical phenomenon that mostly occurs in wave-like clouds, including
○ pileus
○ Altocumulus lenticularis
● Iridescence in clouds means the appearance of colors on clouds, which can either be in the form of parallel bands like in a rainbow or mingled in patches.
● In ancient Greek mythology, Iris is the goddess of the rainbow.
● “Irisation”, the phenomenon of rainbow-like colors in clouds, is derived from her name.
● The iridescence of clouds is a photometer – an optical phenomenon produced by the reflection, refraction, diffraction, or interference of sunlight.

Cause of cloud iridescence:

● In pileus clouds, small water droplets or ice crystals, usually of a similar size, diffract the sunlight from falling on them. The thinness of the cloud ensures more exposure to sunlight for each water droplet or ice crystal.
● To ensure its wave crest-like appearance, water droplets or ice crystals in these clouds are always moving – droplets form at one side of the cloud and evaporate from the other end – and hence these clouds remain small and thin since the droplets have no way of combining and growing in size.
● Diffraction: Iridescence or Irisation is caused by diffraction within 10 degrees from the sun. Beyond ten degrees and up to about 40 degrees, interference of light is the main cause of iridescence.

3) Turkey & its relation to earthquakes

Context

Recently, Turkey witnessed a 7.8 magnitude earthquake which is one of the most powerful earthquakes in the past two decades with more than 1,300 people killed and thousands still believed to be trapped under rubble.

What makes Turkey a hotbed of seismic activity?

● Turkey is frequently shaken by earthquakes.
● Turkey’s proneness to earthquakes comes from its tectonic location.
● Turkey, a hotbed of seismic activity, sits on the Anatolian Plate, which borders two major faults as it grinds northeast against Eurasia.

Tectonic plates:

● The Earth’s outermost layer comprises some 15 major slabs, called tectonic plates.
● The boundaries between these plates are a system of faults – fractures between two blocks of rocks. Any sudden movement along these faults can cause earthquakes.
● The North Anatolian fault traverses the country from west to east, and the East Anatolian fault rests in the country’s south-eastern region.
○ The North Anatolian fault (NAF) line, the meeting point of the Eurasian and Anatolian tectonic plates — is known to be “particularly devastating”.
● The NAF, one of the best-understood fault systems in the world, stretches from the south of Istanbul to north-eastern Turkey and has caused catastrophic earthquakes in the past.

About Earthquake:

● An earthquake is the shaking of the surface of the Earth, resulting from the sudden release of energy in the Earth‘s lithosphere that creates seismic waves.
● Earthquake is the form of energy of wave motion transmitted through the surface layer of the earth.
● It may be due to faulting, folding, plate movement, volcanic eruptions and anthropogenic factors like dams and reservoirs.
The location
● Turkey is a country that occupies a unique geographic position, lying partly in Asia and partly in Europe.
● Throughout its history it has acted as both a barrier and a bridge between the two continents.
● Turkey is situated at the crossroads of the Balkans, Caucasus, Middle East, and eastern Mediterranean.
Turkey is bounded on the north by the Black Sea, on the northeast by Georgia and Armenia, on the east by Azerbaijan and Iran, on the southeast by Iraq and Syria, on the southwest and west by the Mediterranean Sea and the Aegean Sea, and on the northwest by Greece and Bulgaria.

4) Baiga Tribe: Praised By Prime Minister Sri Narendra Modi

The Prime Minister of India appreciated the efforts of Lahari Bai, of the Baiga tribe who has been engaged in the conservation of more than 150 varieties of millet.
○ The Baiga Tribe is one of the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
○ They reside in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.
○ Traditionally, the Baiga lived a semi-nomadic life and practiced slash-and-burn cultivation. Now, they are mainly dependent on minor forest produce for their livelihood.
○ They practice a form of shifting cultivation called, “Bewar.”
○ Mahua is an important aspect of Baiga’s food and drink. It is an intoxicant prepared from the fermentation and distillation of the flowers of the Mahua tree.
○ Tattooing is an integral part of Baiga culture, every age and body part has a specific tattoo reserved for the occasion.

5) Thwaites Glacier: Study

Scientists studying Antarctica’s Thwaites Glacier say warm water is seeping into its weak spots, worsening melting caused by rising temperatures.
○ Thwaites Glacier nicknamed the “Doomsday glacier,” is a fast-moving glacier in West Antarctica.
○ It covers an area roughly the size of Great Britain.
○ It is 120 km wide at its broadest.
○ The glacier is rapidly losing ice to the ocean in response to climate change and changes in ocean circulation.
○ It loses more than 50 billion tons of ice to the ocean yearly, contributing to about 4% of the annual sea level rise.
○ The glacier holds enough water to raise global sea levels by 65 centimeters.
○ It has retreated by about 14 kilometers since the late 1990s.
○ It also acts as a buffer, holding back neighboring glaciers that contain around three meters of potential sea level rise.

20 February 2023

Economics

1) Changes In NEFT And RTGS Systems For FCRA Related Transactions

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently made changes in NEFT and RTGS systems for Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) related transactions.
○ This comes after the Home Ministry mandated the State Bank of India (SBI) to report all overseas donors’ details, including the purpose of remittances, on a daily basis.
○ According to the FCRA, all foreign contributions should be received only in the “FCRA account” of SBI, New Delhi Main Branch (NDMB).
○ Contributions to the FCRA are received directly from foreign banks through SWIFT and through Indian intermediary banks through the NEFT and RTGS systems.
○ The RBI has asked banks to make necessary changes in their core banking/middleware solutions to capture the requisite details while forwarding the foreign donations through NEFT and RTGS systems to SBI.
○ The new guidelines will go into effect on March 15, 2023.
○ To meet the requirements of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the RBI has directed SBI to collect donor information in all such transactions, including name, address, country of origin, amount, currency, and purpose of remittance.
○ SBI is also required to report these details to MHA on a daily basis.
○ The FCRA regulations have been tightened since the Narendra Modi-led government came to power in 2014.
○ In recent years, nearly 2,000 Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) have had their FCRA registration canceled for violating various provisions of the law. As of December-end 2021, there were 22,762 FCRA-registered organizations.

NEFT:

○ NEFT, which stands for National Electronic Funds Transfer, is an electronic method of transferring money online.
○ Most Indian banks provide the NEFT feature on internet banking and mobile banking.
○ It enables transferring funds from the account maintained with any bank to any other bank branch, provided the transaction is attempted between the banks that participate in the NEFT payment system.
○ Transactions made through NEFT do not take place in real time.

RTGS:

○ RTGS, which stands for Real-time Gross Settlement, is a payment mode where the money is transferred from one bank account to the other in real time, without any delay.
○ It is mostly used for transactions of high value.
○ When using the banking method, RTGS is the fastest possible way to transfer money.
○ Transactions made through RTGS are processed on a one-to-one basis

2) 49th meeting of GST Council

The GST Council makes recommendations to the Union Government and the State Government based on the issues related to GST. There are 33 members of the council. Of these 31 are from states and UT and 2 are from the center. The 49th meeting of the council was recently chaired by Finance Minister Smt Nirmala Sitaraman. Outstanding GST cess dues to the states were cleared.

Key Highlights of the 49th GST Council Meet

● GST on liquid jaggery, pencil sharpeners, and tracking devices was reduced
● A report of the GST Appellate Tribunal was adopted; certain modifications were introduced
● Capacity-based taxation introduced in certain sectors

To Plug the leakages in GST collections

There are leakages in the revenue collection from certain products like tobacco, Gutkha, Pan Masala, etc. The following recommendations were made for these products
● The capacity-based levy will not be prescribed for these products
● Compliance measures to plug evasions

Other changes introduced

● GST on rab reduced from 18% to 5%
● GST on pencil sharpener reduced from 18% to 12%
● Council recommended Amnesty Scheme
● Late Fees for returns rationalized

Compensation Pending

GST compensation pending as of June 2022 was the highest for Maharashtra, 2102 crores; followed by Karnataka 1934 crores, followed by Delhi, Rs 1212 crores.

What is GST Appellate Tribunal?

It will act as a quasi-judicial body. It will solve disputes between individuals, governments, businesses, etc.

3) One Year of India-UAE CEPA

India and UAE signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in 2022. In 2023, the countries celebrated one year of signing the agreement recently. CEPA is a Free Trade Agreement. With UAE, India signed CEPA on agriculture, taxation, customs valuation, trade in goods, import licensing, export subsidies, non-tariff measures, intellectual property, dispute settlement, MSME, digital trade, etc.

Background

The countries signed the agreement on February 18, 2022, during a virtual summit held between Indian PM Modi and the UAE President Zayed Al Nahyan.

Achievements with CEPA

Due to CEPA, the trade between the countries increased to 57.8 billion USD. Before the agreement, the trade between the countries stood at 45.3 billion USD. Trade increased by 27.5%.

Significance

The India-UAE CEPA was the first bilateral agreement India signed with middle-east or north African region.

Imports and Exports

Between April 20222 and November 2022, Indian exports to UAE increased by 19.32%. The agreement came into force in May 2022. The major trade sectors were food security, energy, education, and health care.

Way Forward

India is to promote tourism in UAE. The FICCI will showcase the strengths of different Indian states in Dubai starting in April 2023.

4) PFRDA launches T+2 settlement for NPS withdrawal

The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority recently reduced the turnaround time of the National Pension Scheme to T+2 years. Earlier, it was T+4 years. What is T+2 or T+4? T is the date, the request was made. T+2 means, “after two days of the request”, and T+4 means “after four days of the request”.

Partial Withdrawal

A subscriber of the National Pension Scheme can withdraw less than 25% of the funds. However, this shall be done only after 10 years.

What is the change introduced?

Say a person subscribes to the scheme. He shall do this by depositing a minimum of Rs 1000. He can also open an NPS account by depositing Rs one lakh. When he exits from the scheme, he gets a matured amount at an interest of 8% or 10%. You can deposit as much ever money as you want. Money can be deposited at will. No restrictions on the timeline or amount to be deposited. Now, the only rule is that you need to wait at least ten years after depositing your money. You cannot withdraw in the middle. After ten years, you may withdraw 25% of the amount.
Now say a subscriber wants to withdraw. He submits a withdrawal form to the bank in which he opened the NPS account. With a savings account, you get the amount the same day. But with an NPS account, you will need to wait at least 2 days to get the amount. Earlier, the wait time was 4 days. The pension regulator has now reduced it to 2 days.

5) Telangana’s Teja chili

The Teja Chilli of Telangana is the most popular chili in many countries. Despite high international demand, the farmers of Teja Chilli are facing heavy losses. They are struggling to recover their investment.

Background

Khammam Agriculture market is one of the biggest chili markets in Telangana. It is the largest producer of Teja Chilli. The Teja Chilli is the major ingredient of Oleoresin. Oleoresin is a chili extract used in food processing units in Asia. Demand for Oleoresin increases the demand for Teja chili in Asia.

About Teja Chilli

The chili is a sub-variety of Guntur Chillies. Of all the Guntur Chilli varieties, the Teja Chilli is the finest. Other Guntur Chilli varieties are Madhubala, Bedki, Roshni, Ankur, etc.

Export destinations of Teja Chilli

Sri Lanka, Latin America, USA, UK, South Korea, Middle East, Bangladesh

SHU Range of Teja Chilli

SHU means Scoville Heat Units. It gives the amount of Capsaicin present in a food product. Capsaicin is a chemical compound that gives a pungent flavor. Higher the SHU, the hotter the food product. SHU in chilies and pepper is very high. Chilies with higher SHU have high demand in the international market.
The SHU of Teja Chilli is 60,000 to 1,10,000. VERY HOT and HIGHLY PUNGENT

Reasons for the high demand for Teja Chilli

The Teja chili is thin and very light in weight. A small quantity is enough to make the food hot and spicy. For this reason, the demand for the chill is high.

21 February 2023

Ecology & Environment

1) Cross Dependency Initiative: 9 Indian states most vulnerable to climate risks

The Cross Dependency Initiative is a business consultant that specializes in climate risk. It released a report on “Gross Domestic Climate Risk”. According to the report, the top 50 provinces facing climate risks are China, the US, and India. It says nine Indian states are most vulnerable to climate risks. They are Punjab, UP, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, TN, Gujarat, Kerala, and Assam. Mumbai has the highest risk of all. 26 provinces in China, 9 in India, and 5 in the US are the most vulnerable of all.

Key Findings

● The most vulnerable states of China are in the eastern and southern parts of the country
● Delta regions of the Yangtze river and Pearl rivers are also highly vulnerable
● Other than US, China, and India, other countries that are highly vulnerable are Pakistan, Brazil, and Indonesia

What does the report say?

The report ranks the states based on eight climate change hazards. They are coastal inundation, riverine and surface flooding, soil movement, forest fire, extreme heat, freeze-thaw, and extreme wind.

How was the report prepared?

The Cross Dependency Initiative created a high-emission scenario based on the data provided by the IPCCC. It fixed the global increase in temperature to 3 degrees Celsius as compared to the pre-industrial temperature.

2) World Pangolin Day: Data on Pangolin poaching in India

In 2023, World Pangolin Day is celebrated on February 18. Every year the day is celebrated on the third Saturday of February month. The main objective of the celebration is to create awareness about the Pangolin population decline. The population of Pangolin is decreasing rapidly in Africa and Asia. The main reason for the decline is their medicinal value. Pangolin scales have several medicinal properties.

Pangolins in India

The World Wildlife Fund says that between 2018 and 2022, more than 1,203 pangolins were poached and trafficked. Indian Pangolins are hunted and exported to markets in South Asia and China.

State wise Pangolin illegal trade in India

Of all the states, Odisha had the highest seizures. More than 154 pangolins were seized in 74 encounters. Following Odisha, Maharashtra has the second-highest seizure incidents. More than 135 pangolins were seized in Maharashtra between 2018 and 2022 according to the WWF report. 50% of the seizures had live pangolins. 40% had pangolin scales.

Conservation

● IUCN: Critically Endangered
● CITES: APPENDIX I: This appendix prohibits international trade
● Wild Life Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I

Why is Pangolin highly demanded in International Market?

The scales of Pangolin have high medicinal properties. They are used to heal back pain and treat strokes, and rheumatism.

How important is Pangolin?

Pangolins are very important to balance the ecosystem. They play a major role in the food chain. A single Pangolin eats 70 million insects. They are natural pest controllers.

3) EU formally bans gas, diesel car sales from 2035

The European Union recently planned to ban the sale of gas and diesel cars. The ban will come into effect in 2035. The decision was made to increase the use of Electric Vehicles. The main objective is to achieve zero emissions. To execute the plan successfully, the European Commission will prepare a report on the progress every two years starting from 2025. Manufacturers welcome the move. Automakers like Volkswagen have already started producing EVs only.

New Legislation

The European Union recently passed a law to reduce emissions. Under the law, the commission will ban the sale of diesel and gas cars by 2035. Sale is to be banned only in the EU. The manufacturers can still make the cars and sell them in other countries! However, the cost of production is to be increased.

Why the new decision?

EU is planning on reducing the carbon dioxide emissions from cars and vans. A 100% reduction has been planned as compared to 2021.

What is the plan?

The EU will prepare a plan and present it by 2025. The plan will assess the emissions released by the cars and vans throughout their lifetime. The 2030 targets have been revised.

Significance

EU had set a target of reaching “Climate Neutrality” by 2050. According to European Union, the law will play a significant role in achieving this target.

4) Marine Spatial Planning Framework

The process of allocating spaces in marine zones for human activities is called the Marine Spatial Planning Framework (MSPF). The space is allocated for economic purposes, ecological purposes, or social purposes. The key elements of the framework are ecosystem-based plans, integrated plans, area-based plans, strategic plans, and adaptive and participatory plans.

Why is it in news?

The first MSPF in India was launched in Puducherry recently. The plan is to be implemented by India and Norway together. It is being implemented under the Indo-Norway Ocean Initiative. The initiative was created under an MoU signed between the countries in 2019.

Objectives of Marine Spatial Planning Framework

● To bring the diverse ocean users under the same platform
● To create a broad and inclusive picture of the ocean
● To provide a common platform for the policy builders and decision makers to discuss with each other
● To allocate marine spaces the right way
● To increase transparency

Need for Marine Spatial Planning Framework

The stresses on the ocean ecosystem are increased due to an increase in anthropogenic activities. As humans try to develop tourism, produce renewable energy, and use coastal waters for aquaculture, the development pressures are creating spatial conflicts. Along with climate change these pressures are creating new threats to the marine ecosystem.

5) Project Cheetah: India gets 12 cheetahs from South Africa

India and South Africa signed an agreement on Project Cheetah in January 2023. According to the agreement, India will get 12 Cheetahs from South Africa. These cheetahs will be dropped at the Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh. In September 2022, eight Cheetahs were introduced in the park. These eight were brought from Namibia. Namibia gifted them to India. This was the first inter-continental transfer of Cheetahs in the world.

What is the plan?

Cheetahs became extinct in India in 1952. Project Cheetah, also called Action plan for the introduction of Cheetah in India was launched to reintroduce the big cats in the country. To achieve this, India signed an agreement with South Africa. Under this agreement, South Africa will send 12 Cheetahs every year for the next 8 to 10 years.

Stakeholders of the plan

The project is implemented by the Forestry department, South African organizations, National Biodiversity Institute, Endangered Wildlife trust, etc. The Indian Air Force flies the Cheetahs from South Africa.

Concerns

Initially, India had planned to introduce the African Cheetahs. However, this was against the IUCN rules of reintroduction. According to IUCN, introducing an exotic species will replace the native ones. So India moved on with Asiatic Cheetahs. Asiatic Cheetahs existed in India and became extinct. Therefore, Asiatic Cheetahs are not exotic species to the country.

22 February 2023

Agriculture

1) Nagaland Orange Festival

Nagaland is celebrating the Orange Festival for two days. Nagaland Fruit Festival is being organized in the state to praise the hard work of orange growers. Revenue from oranges in the state almost doubled recently. Fruit festivals are famous all over the world. The most popular fruit festivals in the world are the Pineapple Festival of Thailand, the Pumpkin Festival in Germany, the Mango Festival of India, the Cranberry festival in Canada, the Marino Grape Festival of Italy, the Orange Festival of Amsterdam, etc. International Fruit Day is celebrated on July 1.

Nagaland Fruit Festival

The festival is to be celebrated in Rusoma village near Kohima. The 2023 Nagaland Fruit festival is the third edition. The Nagaland Fruit festival was organized by the Rusoma Village council. Council joined hands with the horticultural department in conducting the festival.

Why Horticulture and not agriculture?

Cultivation of fruits, vegetables, ornamental plants, flowering plants, medicinal, and aromatic plants are grouped under horticulture. It is a subset of agriculture. So you can term orange cultivation under agriculture as well. But you cannot term paddy, wheat, and other crop cultivation under horticulture!

Significance

Orange earns four crores to five crores of revenue for the state. Currently, there are 78,000 Orange trees in Nagaland. The festival will set a good example for the rest of the Nagas. The Nagas in Nagaland and in other northeastern states are demanding separate land. Looking at the efforts put by the Indian Government through these festivals and learning about the economic development activities in the region, they will start putting their trust in the government. The festival will also aid in India’s Look East Policy. India is to use the North Eastern states to increase its trade in East and South East Asia under this policy.

Other Fruit Festivals in India

● The Banana Festival: Kerala
● Pineapple Festival: Manipur
● Mango Festival: Delhi and different parts of India
● Jack Fruit Festival: Kerala
● International Orange Festival: Nagpur
● Konkan Fruit Festival: Goa
● Strawberries Fruit Festival: Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

2) Fodder-Centric Farmer Producer Organisations

The Indian Government designated National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) as the implementing agency for setting up fodder-centric FPOs.

What are fodder-centric Farmer Producer Organisations?

Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying proposed the setting up of fodder-centric FPOs in 2020 to address the fodder deficit situation in India. It requested the Union Agriculture Ministry to permit the establishment of fodder-centric FPOs under the central scheme “Formation and Promotion of 10,000 new FPOs”. National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) has been designated as the implementing agency for this scheme.
During 2020-23, 100 of these FPOs will be set up by NDDB under this scheme. These will be mainly fodder-centric, with animal husbandry activities as a secondary activity (fodder plus model).

Why is this scheme needed?

The Wholesale Price Index-based fodder inflation has surged to a nine-year high of 25.5 percent in August this year. The prices of dry fodder have remained high in 2022 when compared with the previous year’s prices. This has adversely affected the lives of rural families whose livelihoods rely on the livestock sector.
According to the ‘Situation Assessment of Agricultural Households and Land and Livestock Holdings of Households in Rural India, 2019’ report released by the National Statistical Office (NSO), 48.5 percent of the total 17.24 crore rural households own cattle “in milk”, young cattle and cattle in “others” category in 2018. Of the total 9.3 crore agricultural households, 42.8 percent used green fodder, 52.4 percent of agricultural households used dry fodder, 30.4 percent used concentrated fodder, and 12.5 percent other animal feed during the same period.
Currently, the fodder deficit in India is 12 to 15 percent for green fodder, 25-26 percent for dry fodder, and 36 percent for concentrated fodder. The deficit is caused by seasonal and regional factors. The high WPI-based fodder inflation is caused by the decline in wheat crops and the surge in input costs like diesel.

3) What is “One Nation, One Fertilizer” scheme?

The “One Nation, One Fertilizer” scheme was launched recently by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Key facts

● The “One Nation, One Fertiliser” scheme or Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Urvarak Pariyojana was launched by the Central Government.
● This is the largest fertilizer initiative implemented by the Indian Government to date.
● Under the scheme, all types of fertilizers, whether urea, DAP, or NPK, will be sold under the single brand name “Bharat”.
● The scheme seeks to standardize fertilizer brands across India regardless of the company that manufactures them.
● It aims to remove all confusion related to the quality of fertilizers and their availability.
● Earlier, retailers were pushing the sale of certain brands to get higher commissions and manufacturers are promoting their own products through targeted advertisement campaigns.
● This creates misconceptions about fertilizers, forcing farmers to costlier alternatives.
● This increases the prices of fertilizers significantly.
● The new scheme is expected to minimize the cost of fertilizers and increase their availability in the market.
● Creation of a single brand for all fertilizers will reduce the cross-country movement of fertilizers, resulting in large freight subsidies.
● It will bring down competition between different manufacturers and ensure a sufficient supply of fertilizers is available across India.
● It will unify the fertilizer brands across India.
● Under the new rule, the fertilizer manufacturers are mandated to promote their products under the brand name Bharat.
● They will be permitted to advertise their brand, name, logo, and other related information about the product on one-third of their bags.
● The remaining two-thirds of the bag’s space will display the “Bharat” brand and the “Pradhanmantri Bharatiya Jan Urvarak Pariyojana” logo.
● For all fertilizer companies, state trading entities (STEs), and fertilizer marketing entities (FMEs), the brand name for urea, Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP), Muriate of Potash (MOP), and Nitrogen Phosphorus Potassium (NPK), and others will be Bharat Urea, Bharat DAP, Bharat MOP, Bharat NPK, etc.

4) PM Kisan Samman Sammelan 2022

The PM Kisan Samman Sammelan 2022 will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi on October 17 in Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi.

Key facts

● The 2-day PM Kisan Samman Sammelan will witness the participation of more than 13,500 farmers from across India and over 1,500 art startups.
● Researchers, policymakers, and other stakeholders will also take part in this event.
● During the event, Prime Minister will inaugurate 600 Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samruddhi Kendras (PMKSK), which will operate under the aegis of the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. Under the scheme, the fertilizer retail shops in India will be converted into PMKSK in a phased manner.
● The PMKSK aims to cater to various needs of farmers and provide agricultural inputs like fertilizers, seeds, and tools as well as testing facilities for soil, seeds, and fertilizers. It also creates awareness about various government schemes and improves the capacity of retailers at block/district level outlets.
● Prime Minister Modi will also launch Bhartiya Jan Urvarak Pariyojana – One Nation One Fertilizer, which allows manufacturing companies to market fertilizers under a single brand name – Bharat. Under this initiative, Bharat Urea Bags will be launched.
● 16,000 crores will be released as the 12th installment under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) through the direct benefit transfer (DBT).
● Under the PM-KISAN scheme, eligible farmer families will be provided Rs.6,000 each year in three equal instalments. To date, beneficiaries received Rs.2 lakh under the scheme.
● The Agri Startup Conclave and Exhibition will also be inaugurated during the event. Some 300 startups will demonstrate their innovative solutions focusing on precision farming, post-harvest, value add solution, allied agriculture, waste to wealth, mechanization for small farmers, supply chain management, agri-logistics, etc.
● It will enable networking between startups, farmers, FPOs, agri-experts, corporates, etc.
● Startups will also be able to share their experience and interact with other stakeholders during technical sessions.
● An e-magazine focusing on fertilizer called “Indian Edge” will be launched. It will provide information about domestic and international fertilizer scenarios, including recent developments, price trends analysis, availability and consumption, success stories of farmers and others

5) Millet International Initiative for Research and Awareness

The Government of India is to launch Millet International Initiative for Research and Awareness. It is in line with the United Nations’ plans for the International Year of Millets, which is 2023. India brings in the concept of “SEED MONEY” in the initiative. Research activities on millet, and increasing their productivity will be focused on the initiative. Indian Institute of Millet Research located in Hyderabad will provide technical support to the initiative.

Objectives of MIIRA

● To coordinate the millet research programme
● To involve different countries and increase the skill set of the research activities
● To increase millet consumption in the world
● To increase investment in millet research

What is SEED MONEY?

Every G20 member has to pay a membership fee to join the initiative. Food security is the top priority of G20. The fees will be used in implementing the initiative in different parts of the world.

Background

With India’s insistence, the UN declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets. This will help GoI in achieving its goal of making the country a “Global Hub for Millets”. India produces one-fifth of the world’s millet and is to boost them in the name of “Shree Anna”.

Why millets?

Millets require very less water to grow as compared to rice and wheat. The most common and popular millet is jowar. It is grown in the US, Australia, China, India, Sudan, Nigeria, and Argentina. Another popular millet is Bajra grown only in India and African countries. As the millet production is very low in other countries, India has good opportunities to capture the global trade of millet. Also, the world is moving towards a nutritious and healthy diet. All these factors are in favor of India in its path of becoming the Global Hub of millet.

23 February 2023

International Affairs

1) BBNJ Treaty

Context:

A new round of negotiations on the much-awaited United Nations High Seas Treaty for conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ) began in New York recently.

About BBNJ Treaty:

● The “BBNJ Treaty”, also known as the “Treaty of the High Seas”.
● It is an international agreement on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction.
● It encompasses the high seas beyond the exclusive economic zones or national waters of countries.
● This new instrument is being developed within the framework of the UNCLOS.

About UNCLOS (United Nations Convention for the Law of the Sea):

● UNCLOS is an international agreement that establishes the legal framework for marine and maritime activities.
● The Convention, which concluded in the year 1982, replaced the quad-treaty of 1958.
● It came into effect in the year 1994.
● It divides marine areas into five zones :
○ Internal-waters
○ Territorial seas
○ Contiguous Zone
○ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)
○ Continental shelf or High seas
● India has been a party to the convention since 1995
.

2) Urban-20

Context:

On the 2nd day of the City Sherpa meeting of the sixth Urban20 (U20) cycle, which is being held in Ahmedabad, close to 40 delegates visited the World Heritage walled city of Ahmedabad, where a heritage walk was organised for them early in the morning.

About Urban-20:

● Urban 20 (U20) is an initiative developed in 2017 under the leadership of the Mayor of Buenos Aires and the Mayor of Paris and convened by the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group (C40) in collaboration with United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG).
● It was launched on December 12, 2017, at the One Planet Summit in Paris.
● U20 seeks to develop a joint position and collective messages to inform and enrich the discussions of national leaders at the G20 Summit through unique urban perspectives.
● Urban 20 aims to tackle global challenges by leveraging the potential of cities as hubs of diversity and innovation.
● The U20 brings together mayors from G20 cities under a common framework and coordinates a joint position to inform the discussions of national leaders.
● Contributions from the U20 are shared with the G20 Presidency and Heads of State, enhancing the role of cities as global economic and political leaders.
● Priority areas for the Urban 20 event are as follows:
○ Encouraging environmentally responsive behaviour
○ Ensuring water security
○ Accelerating Climate Finance
○ Leveraging ‘local’ potential and identity
○ Reinventing urban governance and planning frameworks
○ Catalysing digital urban futures

3) Green Deal Industrial Plan

Context:

Recently, the European Union revealed the “Green Deal Industrial Plan” that aims to cut red tape and provide massive subsidies in a bid to support and expand its green industry.

Regulatory Framework:

● By regulatory framework, the Green Deal Industrial Plan seeks to formulate a strategy for the “Net-Zero Industry Act.”
● This will not only simplify rules for traders to trade and operate freely but will expedite the process of trade permits and insurance for green projects, such as renewable energy generation arrays, carbon capture and renewable hydrogen production facilities.

Faster funds arrangement:

● The rules will be relaxed to facilitate easier investment and raising of funds for the EU’s 27 governments to operate and work on clean energy projects.
● The proposal has been formulated to help Europeans (Non-rich) by offering subsidies and allowing the usage of existing EU funds.

Enhancement of skills:

● The ‘Green Deal Industrial Plan’ aims to create a “Net-Zero Industry Academies” that will provide up-skilling and re-skilling programmes in strategic industries.

Trade improvement:

● The deal plan also emphasizes on the significance of free and open trade and aims to further ‘develop EU’s network of Free Trade Agreements and other forms of cooperation with partners to support the green transition.”

USA’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA):

● It is a landmark United States federal law that aims to curb inflation by reducing the deficit, lowering prescription drug prices, and investing in domestic energy production while promoting clean energy.

4) NAVDEX 23 and IDEX 23

Context:

Indian Naval Ship Sumedha reached Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, to participate in Naval Defence Exhibition – NAVDEX 23 and International Defence Exhibition – IDEX 23
● INS Sumedha is the third ship of the indigenously built Saryu class Naval Offshore Patrol Vessels (NOPV), which was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 2014.
● The ship has been designed and built by Goa Shipyard Limited.
● The first INS SUMEDHA was built in Goa and was commissioned in the Indian Navy in 2011.

About NAVDEX 23 and IDEX 23:

● IDEX and NAVDEX, and the International Defense Conference are organized by the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC), in cooperation with the Ministry of Defense and the General Command of the UAE Armed Forces.
● IDEX/NAVDEX takes place biennially.
● The exhibitions showcase the latest technologies and innovations in the global defense sector, support the growth of UAE’s defense industry, and forge new relationships between major international companies.
● IDEX is the only international defense exhibition and conference in the MENA (Middle East and North Africa region) region, which includes countries like Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

About India and UAE Defense Relations:

○ Desert Eagle II, a ten-day air combat exercise, was held between the air forces of India and UAE.
○ The inaugural edition of the Indian & UAE Navy bilateral exercise GULF STAR-1 was conducted in March 2018.

5) Pacific Island Forum (PIF)

In the news:

Pacific island nations are urging Japan to postpone the release of water from the stricken Fukushima nuclear power plant due to concerns that fisheries will be contaminated, according to the Pacific Island Forum (PIF)
● The PIF, a regional bloc of 17 island nations, claims that releasing the water will have a significant impact on fishing grounds that are vital to island economies and supply up to half of the world’s tuna fish.

Pacific Island Forum (PIF)

● The Pacific Islands Forum is the region’s premier political and economic policy organisation.
● Founded in 1971
● It comprises 18 members: Australia, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Nauru, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.
● The Forum’s Pacific Vision is for a region of peace, harmony, security, social inclusion and prosperity so that all Pacific people can lead-free, healthy, and productive lives.
● The Pacific Islands Forum works to achieve this by fostering cooperation between governments, collaboration with international agencies, and representing the interests of its members.
● The Forum currently recognizes 18 dialogue partners: Canada, the People’s Republic of China, Cuba, the European Union, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom, and the United States.
● The work of the Forum is guided by the Framework for Pacific Regionalism, which was endorsed by Forum Leaders in 2014. It sets out the strategic vision, values, objectives, and approaches to achieve deeper regionalism in the Pacific.

24 February 2023

History & Culture

1) World’s first Palm-leaf Manuscript Museum in Kerala

The recently opened Palm Leaf Manuscript Museum in Thiruvananthapuram has added to the cultural and intellectual life of the state of Kerala. The museum, which is the world’s first of its kind, contains 187 manuscripts and other artefacts related to the former Travancore kingdom from 650 AD until the end of the 19th century. It also has documents from the regions of Kochi and Malabar.

Exhibits at the Museum

The museum’s exhibits include palm leaf manuscripts, styluses, carriers for Cadjan bundles, copper plates, and bamboo splints. The museum is divided into eight galleries, each focused on a different aspect of Travancore's history, including “History of Writing,” “Land and People,” “Administration,” “War and Peace,” “Education and Health,” “Economy,” “Art and Culture,” and “Mathilakam Records.” Some galleries also include films and QR code technology for gathering additional information.
The museum is particularly notable for its manuscripts, which are written on cured and treated palm leaves and contain primary source material on a variety of topics

Conservation Efforts

The Palm Leaf Manuscript Museum was created as part of a larger conservation effort by the state of Kerala. The museum is located in a three-century-old building that is home to the Central Archives for the state government. The first phase of the museum’s collection was selected from 1.5 crores (15 million) of palm leaf records that had been poorly preserved throughout the state.
The Palm Leaf Manuscript Museum is a valuable resource for both general visitors and specialized researchers. It offers a glimpse into the rich history of the Travancore kingdom and helps to fill in gaps in our understanding of Kerala’s past. The museum’s audio-visual technology and multimedia exhibits make it an engaging and informative experience for all who visit.

2) Keeladi site

Context

Thekeeladi site is found near Madurai at the banks of River Vaigai, where the excavations from 2015 prove that an urban civilisation existed in Tamil Nadu in the Sangam age.

About

The link between Sangam Age and the Keeladi site:

The Sangam age is a period of history in ancient Tamil Nadu which was believed to be from the third century BCE to the third century CE.
Excavations by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and Tamil Nadu State Archaeology Department (TNSDA) have pushed the Sangam age further back.
In 2019, a TNSDA report dated the unearthed artifacts from Keeladi to a period between the sixth century BCE and the first century BCE.
The findings in the TNSDA report placed Keeladi artefacts about 300 years earlier than the previously believed third century BCE.
A recent ASI report discovered that the Sangam age was present in 800 BCE based according to archaeological findings.

Significance of the site:

Keeladi could also provide crucial evidence for understanding the missing links of the Iron Age (12th century BCE to sixth century BCE) to the Early Historic Period (sixth century BCE to fourth century BCE) and subsequent cultural developments.

Links with Indus valley civilization:

The unearthed Keeladi artefacts have led academics to describe the site as part of the Vaigai Valley Civilisation.
The findings have also invited comparisons with the Indus Valley Civilisation while acknowledging the cultural gap of 1,000 years between the two places.
Till now, the gap is filled with Iron Age material in south India, which serves as residual links.
However, some of the symbols found in pot sherds of Keeladi bear a close resemblance to Indus Valley signs.
A lot of digging and study has to be done to establish the links between these two civilisations.

Key findings from the site:

Keeladi has all the characteristics of an urban civilisation, with brick structures, luxury items and proof of internal and external trade.
It comes across as an industrious and advanced civilisation and has given evidence of urban life and settlements in Tamil Nadu during the Early Historic Period.
Keeladi has also added to the credibility of Sangam Literature.
Gold ornaments, copper articles, semi-precious stones, shell bangles, ivory bangles and ivory combs reflect the artistic, culturally rich and prosperous lifestyle of the Keeladi people.
Agate and carnelian beads suggest import through commercial networks while terracotta and ivory dice, gamesmen and evidence of hopscotch have been unearthed revealing their pastime hobbies.

3) Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti

Prime Minister of India has paid homage to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on his Jayanti.

The founder of the Maratha Kingdom, Shivaji was born to be a natural leader and fighter on 19th February 1630 in the prestigious Shivneri Fort.
He was known as the Father of the Indian Navy, Shivaji was the first to realise the importance of having a naval force, and therefore he strategically established a navy and forts at the coastline to defend the Konkan side of Maharashtra.
The secular ruler was very accommodating of all religions. He had numerous Muslim soldiers in his army.
Shivaji was a dependable supporter of women and their honour. Anyone under his rule caught violating woman’s rights was severely punished.
He had a council of ministers (Asht Pradhan) to advise him on the matters of the state but he was not bound by it.
He was called as the ‘Mountain Rat’ and was widely known for his guerrilla warfare tactics.
He was called so because of his awareness in the geography of his land, and guerrilla tactics like raiding, ambushing and surprise attacks on his enemies

4) Sant Guru Ravidas Jayanti

The President of India greeted fellow citizens on the eve of the birthday of Sant Guru Ravidas.

Guru Ravidas Jayanthi is commemorated on Magh Purnima, the day of the full moon in the month of Magh, according to the Hindu Lunar calendar.
Guru Ravidas was a 14th-century famous Bhakti Movement saint.
He abandoned saguna (with attributes, image) forms of supreme beings, and focussed on the nirguna (without attributes, abstract) form of supreme beings.
Ravidas was a disciple of Sant Kabir and the founder of the Ravidassia religion.
The Sikh scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, contains forty-one of his devotional songs and poems.
The famous saint poetess, Mirabai was a disciple of Guru Ravidas.

5) Mughal Gardens was Renamed As Amrit Udayan

The Central Government has decided to rename the Mughal Gardens inside the Rashtrapati Bhavan as Amrit Udayan.

Features of Mughal gardens:

These are developed in Islamic architectural style by the Mughals in India and other countries.
These gardens are frequently seen as a place for relaxation and meditation.
This gardening design was influenced by Persian, namely the Charbagh structure.
Gardens are formal in style; symmetrically designed in rectangular or square
The garden area is divided into four plots by water channels.
These four channels represent four rivers of life.
The running water provides coolness and freshness to the garden.
The four plots are planted with trees, shrubs, etc.,
Mughal gardens are surrounded by a high, robust wall.
The wall’s summit is decorated with serrated battlements.

25 February 2023

Indian Society

1) Seattle's ban on caste discrimination

Why in the news?

The Seattle city council has recently passed a resolution adding caste to its anti-discrimination policies.

What does the resolution say?

● The legislation recognizes caste as a unique basis of discrimination, similar to race or gender.
● It prohibits businesses from discriminating based on caste with respect to hiring, tenure, promotion, or wages.
● It will ban discrimination in places of public accommodation, such as hotels, public transportation, and public restrooms.
● The move addresses an issue important to the area's South Asian diaspora, particularly the Indian and Hindu communities.
Seattle is likely to be just the first city in the US to recognise and ban caste-based discrimination.

What is the history of the caste system?

● The caste system in India dates back over 3,000 years and divides Hindu society into rigid hierarchical groups.
● The caste system allows many privileges to upper castes but represses lower castes.
● The Dalit community is on the lowest rung of the Indian Hindu caste system and has been treated as untouchables.
● Caste discrimination was outlawed in India over 70 years ago, yet it persists in many forms to date.
● Debate over the caste system's hierarchy is contentious in India and abroad, with the issue intertwined with religion.
● Indian government policies reserving seats for lower-caste students at top Indian universities have helped many land tech jobs in the West in recent years.

Why was it opposed?

● Polarization - Though it set a precedent for other cities to follow such laws in the future, it also polarised the Indian-American population.
● Hindu organizations in the US criticize the legislation, as it will further lead to anti-Hindu discrimination.
● Job losses - The move could dissuade employers from hiring South Asians.
The US is the 2nd most popular destination for Indians living abroad, according to the Migration Policy Institute.

2) Condition of women in real estate, the gender-equity farce

Context

Highlighting gender inequality, a recent report shows that informal women workers in ‘The Indian construction and real estate sector’ earn 30-40 per cent less than male workers.

Highlights of the report:

● Report: 'Pink Collar Skilling: Unleashing the Women's Power in the Real Estate Sector'.
● Released by: Consulting firm Primus Partners and World Trade Centre.
● Key points:
○ Of the total people employed in this industry, only 12 per cent are women.
○ Stark difference: In the domestic construction and real estate sector, which employs 57 million workers, 50 million of the people employed are men, and only 7 million are women.
○ Wage inequality: The informal women workers engaged in construction in India earn 30-40 per cent less than their male counterparts.
■ In India, 47.6 per cent of licensed architects are women, with a gender pay gap of 15 per cent in the field.
○ Question on dominancy: India has only 2 per cent of women executives in construction companies against the UK's 14 per cent and the US's 7 per cent.
■ In the real estate sector, there are a negligible number of women in managerial roles. Only 1-2 per cent of women reach top-level management positions in this industry.

Issues:

● Engagement in unskilled work: Women are mainly employed in the lowest paying and most hazardous tasks (like lifting heavy loads), including brick kiln workers, quarry workers, slab pouring, stone shaping, load carriers, and assistants.
● Less paid for more risky work: The jobs which are labour intensive, cause health hazards and are not well paying are preferred for women.
● More time spent on unpaid work: As per reports, women spend almost twice as much time providing unpaid care work such as cleaning, cooking, providing care to the elderly, fetching water, childcare, etc.
● Labour Market scarring- It is a concept used by ‘Global Gender Gap Report 2021’in which temporary limitation of in-person work has caused permanent and long-lasting effects on women’s chances at decent employment in future.

The gender pay gap in India:

● Gender inequality is one of the oldest and most pervasive forms of inequality in the world, and as a result, the social and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have been far from gender-neutral.
● As per Inequality Report 2022, while women represent about 50 per cent of the population, they earn only about one-third of the labour income for it.
● WEF’s Global Gender Gap Report 2021places India amongst the countries with the largest Gender Gaps in Economic participation and opportunity.
● Female Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) has declined from 27 % in 2010 to 22 % in 2020.
● Though ‘women’ come from varying socio-economic, cultural, and geographical backgrounds, the pandemic disrupted an already skewed ratio in educational opportunities, access to finance, wage disparities, and other social constraints for them demographically.

Challenges in bridging gender inequality:

Though there is a need to bridge gender inequality, there are several challenges that act as restraints in this direction. Some factors are deeply rooted in Indian society, and many are recent challenges. These can be seen as-
● Social challenges-
○ Social norm of gendered differentiation of labour: Women are trained in care activities and cooking skills, whereas men are trained in economic activities. They are considered subordinate to men due to the patriarchal nature of Indian society.
○ “Double burden” of paid and unpaid labour: The conundrum of unpaid care work is only increasing in India given the shrinking family sizes and resulting time poverty faced disproportionately by women.
○ Dependency: Most women are socially and economically dependent on men.
● Economic challenges-
○ Lack of social protection: Most women are offered work in the informal sector, which categorically provides no protection from labour laws or social benefits like pension, paid sick leave or maternity leave.
○ Other factors: Harassment, violence and income difference
● Political reasons-
○ Lack of political intention in bridging gender inequality
○ Lack of regular evaluation of laws, rules and schemes.
○ Less awareness among women about government schemes and measures.

3) India’s ‘untouchable’ women & Discrimination

Context

Despite outlawing caste-based discrimination in 1950, Dalits still get discriminated against when applying for programs such as microloan schemes which are actually established to help them.

About

Challenges faced by Dalit Women:

● Plethora of issues: Dalit women continue to suffer from a high degree of poverty, gender discrimination, caste discrimination, and socioeconomic deprivation.
● Violence: Girls face violence at a younger age and at a higher rate than women of other castes.
● Others
○ Exploitation by dominant castes
○ Lack of justice
○ Workplace violence

How caste plays its role in occupation?

● Caste is essentially the stratification of people into a rigid occupational hierarchy.
● Dalits, who are the last on the list, often called "untouchables" are excluded from all jobs except the worst paid and most degrading — on the pretext of maintaining the spiritual purity of those in higher castes.

An attempt to help

● In India, microloan programs have been embraced as a poverty-reduction policy.
● Microloans are offered by for-profit, not-for-profit and government-owned banks.
○ The Reserve Bank of India regulates the sector and acts as a guarantor of microloans given by banks under national government-sponsored poverty alleviation schemes.
○ The Reserve Bank of India underwrites incentives, including interest rates about half that offered to other women.

What is the problem with microloans?

● Poor implementation of microfinance programs
● lack of outcomes for Dalit women entrepreneurs in India
● Discrimination at the branch level
● Being humiliated when applying for a microloan — of help being refused when filling in a form, of being told not to sit on the same chairs as other bank customers, and of their application being rejected for no good reason.

How do caste certificates ‘too’ creates a hurdle?

● To qualify for a program to assist Dalits, they had to prove they were Dalits by supplying a government-issued caste certificate.
● But this certificate then became the means for them to be identified as Dalits and discriminated against.

Extra information

Unsung Dalit women heroes

● Sabari from the Ramayana: example of acceptance, selflessness, and unconditional love
● Sant Nirmala and Soyarabai: From the Mahar caste, questioning Hindu orthodoxy.
● Naegeli: Fought against the cruel “breast tax” system.
● Kuyili: She commanded the army of Velu Nachiyar.
● Queen of Sivaganga in Tamil Nadu: The Dalit woman who fought against the British around 1780.
● Jhalkaribai: Most trusted companion and advisor of Rani Laxmibai of Jhansi.
● Uda Devil: formed a battalion consisting of Dalit women under the leadership of Begum Hazrat Mahal.
● Savitribai Phule: A pioneer in education for Dalits
● Moovalur Ramamirtham Ammaiyar fought against the exploitative Devadasi system.
● Dakshayani Velayudhan: first and only Dalit woman to be elected to the constituent assembly in 1946.

Initiatives Taken to Promote Transformation

● Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)
● Skills Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood (SANKALP) Scheme
● Stand Up India Scheme
● Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana

4) Two-finger test’ of Rape Victims are ‘Patriarchal’ and ‘sexist’: SC

Context

Recently, the Supreme Court (SC) has declared that any person conducting the invasive ‘two-finger’ or vaginal test on rape or sexual assault survivors will be found guilty of misconduct, as checking the virginity of the rape victim or whether she is ‘sexually active’ or not, is irrelevant to the fact whether she was ‘raped’ or not.

About

What is a Two-Finger Test?

● The ‘two-finger test’ or ‘per Vaginal’ is a regressive procedure that involves the insertion of two fingers into a person's vagina to gauge the laxity of vaginal muscles, thereby determining her 'virginity’.
● Doctors also check how habituated the woman who has been raped is to sexual intercourse and her sexual history.
Patriarchal norms in the society for medical examinations of Rape Victims:
● The Indian Evidence Act: In terms of Section 53A in the Indian Evidence Act, the evidence of a victim’s character or her previous sexual experience with any person shall not be relevant to the issue of consent or the quality of consent in the prosecution of sexual offenses.
● Determining the Virginity of a Woman: Determining a women’s virginity as evidence against the character of the woman is a patriarchal norm and a societal barrier for Women.

Impacts:

On Rape Victim	On Society	On Family of the Victim
Re-victimises and re-traumatises women	Allow people to judge the character of the women/Rape victim.	Due to societal pressure, one can blame the victim for the act/Rape happened.
A personal affront to her dignity	Patriarchal norms to get strengthened.	Do not accept her as earlier.
Character assault
Harassment of the rape survivor by police officials.

What is Supreme Court's take on the issue?

● In May 2013, the Supreme Court banned the two-finger test on rape victims on the grounds that it violates their right to privacy. The court had asked the government to provide better medical procedures in order to confirm sexual assault.
● According to the Apex court, is faulty logic behind the test was that a woman could not be believed when she said she was raped merely for the reason that she was sexually active.
● This test has no scientific basis and neither proves nor disproves allegations of rape. It instead re-victimizes women who may have been sexually assaulted.

5) Deaths by Suicide in India-An Emerging Societal Issue

Context

According to the NCRB report for 2021, an increase of 7.2% from the previous year has been reported in the number of people who died by suicide. Given the large number of persons taking their own lives, suicide has emerged as a critical public health concern in India with social dimensions.

About

Highlights of the report:

● Around 64 lakh persons in India died by suicide, an increase of 7.2% from the year 2021.

Reasons for Suicide:

● 33.2%: Family Problems (other than marriage-related problems)
● 4.8%: Marriage-Related Problem
● 18.6%: Illness
● Daily wage earners accounted for 42,004 (25.6 percent) of the total victims. One in four of the recorded 1, 64,033 suicide victims during 2021 was a daily wage earner.
● They were followed by self-employed people, unemployed people, and those involved in the farming sector were the top categories of people who died by suicide in 2021.
● Maharashtra topped the country in terms of the number of suicides reported in 2021, followed by Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh.
● The report certainly points out suicides as a critical public health issue in India and qualifies for a closer epidemiological assessment.

Report by WHO:

A 2019 report by the WHO said suicide is one of the top four causes of death worldwide, after road injury, tuberculosis, and interpersonal injury.

How is Suicide a Social Problem?

● The problem with only viewing suicide as an individual problem is that we neglect the importance of social forces contributing to suicide.
● Suicide is a serious social problem whose incidence varies between genders, age groups, geographical distribution, and with the influence of the socio-political structure of society.
● The risk of suicide in a population increases when the social context fails to provide a healthy sense of purpose and belonging, contributing to an individual’s sense of contribution and connection.
● Furthermore, suicide should be viewed as a multidimensional public and mental health issue, having complex interactions with the economic, social, cultural, psychological, and biological realms of individual and collective existence.

What are the challenges?

● Under-reporting of such cases due to fear of social stigma and sometimes to rescue from judicial procedures.
● Fear of legal action: Section 309 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) makes suicide a punishable offence. The fear of punitive action and added hassle of having to deal with police and courts often results in a refusal to seek help.
There has been an attempt at the decriminalization of suicide through the Mental Healthcare Act (2017)
● Social stigma: The social stigma associated with suicide results in the NCRB grossly under-reporting the true numbers of suicide.

Related Initiatives:

● Mental Healthcare Act, 2017: It aims to provide mental healthcare services for persons with mental illness.
● KIRAN: The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has launched a 24/7 toll-free helpline to provide support to people facing anxiety, stress, depression, suicidal thoughts, and other mental health concerns.
● Manodarpan Initiative: It is an initiative of the Ministry of Education under Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. It is aimed at providing psychosocial support to students, family members, and teachers for their mental health and well-being during the times of Covid-19.
Madhya Pradesh is going to be the first State in the country to draft a suicide prevention strategy, and the government has formed a task force for it.

27 February 2023

Government Schemes & Initiatives

1) EPFO new instructions

The Employee Provident Fund Organization recently issued new instructions on how employees should apply for pensions. Earlier the amount contributed towards the scheme was capped at Rs 15,000. Now EPFO says the employees can contribute more than this. That is, the capping has been removed and there is no limit to the contribution.

What is the EPFO saying?

Both employer and employees contribute a certain amount (from their salary) to the EPFO scheme on monthly basis. The interest rate of this contributed amount (a part of the contributed amount) is 8.33%. When the person retires he gets an accumulative sum. Earlier, a sealing was fixed to the contributed amount. Now, this limit has been removed.

What is the role of SC in the issue?

The issue was, should the amount being contributed sealed at Rs 15,000 or not. GoI wanted to seal it at Rs 15000. But SC ruled to remove the capping.

Background

The Employment Provident Funds Act 1952 did not include any pension scheme. The pension was added to this in 1995 through an amendment to the act. In the 1990s, the maximum pensionable salary was Rs 5000. This was increased to Rs 6500 later. Now the pensions scheme works like this. The Employee puts 12% of his basic salary and dearness allowance, the employer puts 12%, and the Government outs 1.16%. Now from the 12% contributed by the employer, 3.67% is to the EPF and 8.33% is to the EPS. What is the difference between EPF and EPS? In EPF, both the employer and employee contribute. And in EPS only the employer contributes. Now the issue was around the EPS, that is, the amount whose interest is 8.33%. EPS means Employer Pension Scheme and EPF means Employees Provident Fund.

2) Ethanol interest subvention scheme- Updates

The Government of India recently approved nine ethanol blending projects. These projects are to be implemented under the Ethanol Interest Subvention Scheme. The newly added projects are expected to produce 35 crore litres of ethanol. Of these nine, three are molasses based and five are grain based. Around Rs, 1,034 crores of investments are expected on these projects. Also, the projects will create hundreds of employment opportunities.

Background

The Government of India had already approved 1,481 crore litres of ethanol projects under the Ethanol Interest Subvention Scheme. India has been promoting ethanol and ethanol-blended fuels on a large scale in recent times. Recently, India launched ethanol-blended petrol. And the blending ratio was increased to 20%. Brazil and USA are the world’s leading manufacturers of ethanol fuel. Sale of the fuel in these countries is also big. While they have reached 100% ethanol blending, India is a bit lagging compared to them. However, compared to the development programmes of ethanol-based fuels in the past 20 years, the growth rate has been exponential in the recent five years. Another reason for India’s slow ethanol production is the country’s focus on green ethanol. India is trying to generate most of its ethanol from agricultural waste, especially from sugar cane. The natural way of producing ethanol is time-consuming.

3) PM-KISAN Scheme: PM Modi released Rs 16800 crores

The Government of India launched the PM-KISAN scheme in 2019 to provide financial support to the farmers in the country. Under the plan, Rs 6,000 is provided annually. Recently, PM Modi released Rs 16,800 crores under the scheme. More than 80 million farmers benefited from this. The Prime Minister released the funds from Bellavi, Karnataka.

Background

The scheme was launched on February 24, 2019. Since then, the union government released 12 instalments. This is the 13th. So far, Rs 2.24 lakh cores have been disbursed. Scheme is funded by the central government entirely. State Governments have no role.
The 11th and 12 instalments were released in May 2022 and October 2022.

PM-KISAN during COVID

During COVID, agriculture was the only thriving sector in the country. Around Rs. 1.75 lakh crores were disbursed during the COVID lockdown. This benefitted more than 30 million women farmers. During this time, the women farmers alone received Rs 53,600 crores.

Significance

The scheme was launched to help the farmers increase their income. According to the union government, financial aid will help in doubling farmers’ income. All land-holding farmer households are eligible to receive the amount.

Why now?

The government is releasing the funds to aid the farmers in their Rabi harvesting ahead of Holi.

4) Cabinet approves Vibrant Villages Programme

The Vibrant Villages Programme focuses on developing the rural areas in the northern border states and union territories. More than 663 villages will be developed under the programme. It is to be implemented for two years, that is, between 2022-23 and 2025-26. The Central Government allocated Rs 4,800 crores for the scheme. Of this Rs 2500 crores will be used for building roads. Cabinet approved the scheme recently.

Key Features of the scheme

● One – Village – One– Product concept will be adopted
● Social entrepreneurship will be encouraged by opening growth centres. These centres will work on “Hub and Spoke model”
● Skill development programmes for youth and women
● Heritage development and promotion of local traditional knowledge
● Development of eco-agribusinesses
The NGOs, cooperatives, and Self Help Groups will be involved in the scheme

How will the scheme be implemented?

Each village panchayat will create Village Action Plan with the help of the District administration. They should mainly focus on drinking water, 24/7 electricity, all-weather roads, solar energy projects, wind energy projects, internet connections, tourist centres, health and wellness centres, multi-purpose centres, etc.

Benefits and China factor

The scheme will help India retain its population in the border area. With the Chinese infiltrations increasing at the border and China trying to increase its influence in the disputed land areas, it is essential for India to increase its population in these fragile zones. Recently China announced big railway plans in the disputed region. The 1962 Indo-China war happened because of the 219 NH that connects Tibet with China. China recently announced its plans to extend its railway line through this highway.

5) Jal Jan Abhiyan

The Jal Jan Abhiyan will be implemented by the Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Brahma Kumaris organization. The main objective of the campaign is water conservation. During the campaign, the volunteers from the organization will conduct public awareness campaign on preserving water. The campaign is to run for eight months. They will focus on building new water bodies and also on preserving more than 5,000 water bodies. The target of the campaign is to reach at least ten crore people and organize 10,000 programs.

What is the plan?

The Brahma Kumaris organization is deploying its Raja Yogis to conduct the campaign. Raja Yogis are well-versed yoga practitioners. They will inspire people to prevent water wastage and pull them into the concept of a sustainable world. During the campaign, the participants will take a water pledge on using water wisely, and consume it judiciously.

Brahma Kumaris

The organization originated in Hyderabad, Sindh (today the place is in Pakistan). Today the headquarters of the organization is located in Mount Abu, Rajasthan. The founder of the organization was Lekhraj Kriplani. Today he is called the OM BABA. The organization is spread across different parts of the world.
In 1980, the organization registered with the UN Department of Public Relations. In 1983, it received “Consultative Status” from UNESCO.

28 February 2023

Science & Technology

1) National Science Day 2023

India celebrates National Science Day on February 28. National Science Day is celebrated in the country to mark the discovery of the Raman Effect. Raman discovered the Raman Effect on February 28, 1928, and received Nobel Prize for his discovery in 1930.

History of National Science Day

The National Council for Science and Technology 1986 proposed to mark National Science Day on February 28. The Government of India agreed to the proposal.

The objective of National Science Day

National Science Day is celebrated to spread the importance of science in day-to-day life. On occasion, the importance of science and achievements in the field are discussed. New technologies are implemented.

The theme of National Science Day 2023

Global Science for Global well being

Raman Effect

The wavelength of light changes in the air as it is deflected by molecules. This is referred to as scattering. The sky is blue in colour because of the Raman effect. Smaller wavelengths scatter easily. The wavelength of blue is small and is scattered the maximum as compared to all the other colours. For this reason, the sky is blue in colour.

National Council for Science and Technology Communication

It operated under the purview of the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. The main objectives of NCSTC are to develop and build scientific thinking, develop scientific knowledge, conduct training, and spread awareness.

2) Scientists discover the fifth inner core layer of the earth

The recent frequent earthquakes have helped scientists discover a new core. This fifth inner core is a solid ball of nickel and iron and is the innermost layer.

What is the new discovery?

So far, scientists believe that there are only four layers on the earth. They are the outermost layer, called the crust, and the middle layer, called the mantle. And the innermost layer is called the core. The core is divided into two parts, namely the inner core and the outer core. Recently, scientists discovered that there is another layer in the core.

About the new fifth layer

Unlike the inner core and outer core, this new fifth layer is solid. It may be 650 km in diameter. Scientists believe that the inner core of the earth is 2,440 km in diameter. It is about 70% of the moon’s size. Also, it was believed that it was the hottest and densest of all layers. However, this new layer is denser than the other two cores.
Also, scientists discovered that the inner core slowed down its spin recently with respect to the mantle. In a while, the inner core will reverse its direction of spinning. Because of these changes, there will be changes in the magnetic field of the earth.

Role of the core

The interaction between the inner and outer core creates and maintains the magnetic field of the earth. While the inner molten material solidifies, they release an immense amount of heat. This heat energy, along with the convection current generated by the inner and outer core, creates the magnetic field of the earth.

3) NASA Space-X Crew-6 Mission to ISS

The Crew-6 mission is to be launched on February 27 from the Kenedy Space Centre of NASA located in Cape Canaveral. It is a joint operation of both NASA and SpaceX. The Crew Dragon capsule will be carried by the Falcon 9 rocket of SpaceX. The capsule is being sent to the International Space Station.

Crew-6 mission

The mission is launching 2 US astronauts, one Russian Cosmonaut, and a UAE astronaut. This is Crew Dragon’s fourth flight. Previous flights of Crew Dragon were as follows:
● Demo-2 Crew Test flight
● Crew-2 flight in 2021
● Private Axiom Mission-1
The landing site of the mission is the Atlantic Ocean. It is a part of the Commercial Crew Program of NASA. The program provides crew transportation services, that is, carrying cargo and astronauts from and to ISS.

Crew Dragon

It is a reusable spacecraft. It supplies cargo to the International Space Station. Earlier, the crew dragon was called the Dragon rider.

Background

The Crew-6 launch comes after Russia is preparing to send Soyuz MS-23 to replace Soyuz MS-22. Due to a coolant leak in Soyuz MS-22, the astronauts were stranded in space.

4) Meta launches New LLaMA

LLaMA: Large Language Model Meta AI

LLaMA is a large language model developed by META that is similar to ChatGPT. The main objective of the model is to assist researchers in the field of AI. LLaMA is the third large language model developed by META. The first was Glactica, and the second was Blender. However, unlike its predecessors, LLaMA requires fewer resources and computing power.
LLaMA is yet to be released in the market, and only the research paper has been published. However, the announcement of the launch was made in a grand Mark Zuckerberg style, creating a buzz in the industry.

Objective of LLaMA

While LLaMA works almost like ChatGPT, its main objective is to assist researchers in their work. LLaMA can fetch information from the research field, making it a valuable tool for researchers. META aims to establish its top position in the world of chats by creating its own chatbot.

META’s History of Monopolization

META is known for its tendency to absorb its competitors to establish its top position in the market. The company has acquired several popular chat boxes, such as Instagram and WhatsApp. However, for a change, META has developed its own chatbot, the LLaMA.

Privacy and Copyright Issues

Details on how the LLaMA will handle privacy and copyright issues are yet to be revealed. Privacy and copyright issues have been a major concern for chatbots in the past, and it remains to be seen how META will address these concerns.

5) Kerala: First State to use Robotic Manhole cleaners

Kerala uses a BANDICOOT robot to clean sewage. With this, it has become the first state to launch robotic scavengers. BANDICOOT was launched in the temple town Guruvayur. Genrobotics developed the robot. The main objective of developing the robot is to eliminate manual scavenging. The robot has been in use since 2018. However, this is the first time, and it is being used to clean public manholes, replacing humans. The robot fulfils the purpose of the invention for the first time. BANDICOOT was already used in several other states but not for scavenging purposes and not in public places.

Working of BANDICOOT

The Bandicoot has a robotic Tron unit. It is the major component of the robot, and the unit operates just like the limb of man. The Tron enters the manhole, digs and collects the waste. The robot is waterproof and fireproof. It has cameras and sensors. Bandicoot can detect harmful gases.

Awards for BANDICOOT

Genrobotics received the “Kerala Pride” award for building BANDICOOT. The award was presented under Kerala Startup Mission. Also, Genrobotics received National Award for developing the robot.

Why the name BANDICOOT?

The Bandicoots are terrestrial omnivores endemic to Australia. The animal is a digger. The robot operates just like the animal digging the waste from the manhole, and thus the name.

About BANDICOOT

It is the first robotic scavenger in the world. It was developed under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and Make in India initiative. IOCL announced that it will use BANDICOOT robots to clean certain spots in its refineries.

01 March 2023

International Affairs

1) India-Britain exchange scheme

Context

Ahead of the G-20 foreign ministers’ meeting in New Delhi, the external affairs minister announced UK-India 2030 Roadmap, which aims to bolster the two countries' ties in defense and security, trade, and investment.
• Britain has also announced UK’s first Tech Envoy to the Indo-Pacific region, which will boost ties with India as a priority.

About

The Young Professionals Scheme:

• Under the scheme, the U.K. will offer about 3,000 degree-holding Indians in the 18–30-year age group places to work in the U.K. for up to two years.
• The scheme will commence in early 2023. Both India and UK will allow young professionals in their Countries to hold degree programs.
• India is the first country to benefit from such a scheme, highlighting the strength of the UK-India Migration and Mobility Partnership agreed upon last year.
Significance: This landmark migration scheme will enable the brightest and best in both countries to benefit from new opportunities.
• Objective: The Young Professionals Programme is a recruitment initiative aiming to improve geographical representation, and promote gender parity in the Organization at the international level.

India-UK ties on Skill development:

• Education: Education is an essential plank of the India-UK bilateral relationship. Over the last 10 years, the relationship has grown substantially with the introduction of bilateral mechanisms such as the India-UK Education Forum UK-India Education and Research Initiative (UKIERI).
• Indian Students: UK has traditionally been a favorite destination for international students.
At present, there are approximately 20,000 Indian students pursuing Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses in the UK.

Other Government Initiatives to attract International students:

• HEFA (Higher Education Finance Agency) is a welcome step in providing finance to premier educational institutions to create high-quality infrastructure and innovation ecosystems.
• Student Insurance Schemes: Contrary to popular opinion, many students who study abroad are not from wealthy families; they take expensive loans to finance their education.
• The aspiration to secure better exposure and the future can render them prone to difficulties.
• A mandatory student insurance scheme, as well as responsibility for the welfare of students in the foreign country, should be incorporated into agreements to secure the interests of students who also spend considerably in the host country.

2) Senior Mission Leaders’ (SML) Course

The Senior Mission Leaders’ (SML) course is being held in Tokyo, Japan from June 19-30 this year. The Union Home Ministry has directed all states and Union Territories to nominate three candidates – one each from the military, police, and civilian domains – for this course. Both men and women candidates are to be selected by the departments. All the costs associated with the candidate’s participation in the program are to be borne by the nominating entity (department/organizations/state/UTs).

What is the objective of the SML course?

The SML course aims to prepare senior personnel for future roles and responsibilities as mission leaders in United Nations (UN) peacekeeping operations, enabling them to plan, manage, and lead such missions. Participants who complete the course will be equipped to lead UN peacekeeping missions. The course is designed to deepen the understanding of contemporary United Nations peace operations and prepare participants for leadership positions in peacekeeping missions.

Who conducts the SML course?

The Department of Peace Operations, DPCO working at KIPTC of the United Nations conduct the SML course.

What is KIPTC?

It is Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre. It was established in 1998. It is based in Ghana. The main objective of KIPTC is to provide mission training to increase peace operations of the UN. Also, it focuses on linking tactical peace operations. This is usually conducted under sponsorship provided by France. The center empowers the participants to survive and fight in different kinds of environments. Also, it conducts research. It has ties with several international peacekeeping centers including Pearson Peacekeeping Centre of Canada.

3) India-Denmark Cooperation

Why in News?

Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change expressed that India and Denmark can jointly demonstrate the feasibility of achieving ambitious climate and sustainable energy goals during the 'India-Denmark: Partners for Green and Sustainable Progress Conference' in New Delhi.
 Since the launch of the Green Strategic Partnership in 2020, bilateral cooperation is focused on promoting green and sustainable development.

What is Green Strategy Partnership?

 The Green Strategic Partnership is a mutually beneficial arrangement to advance political cooperation, expand economic relations and green growth, create jobs, and strengthen cooperation on addressing global challenges and opportunities; with a focus on an ambitious implementation of the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
 Danish companies with niche technologies and expertise have offered to help India in meeting its air pollution control targets, including in the key area of tackling the problem of burning crop stubble.
 Other key points under the partnership include dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic and cooperation in water efficiency and water loss.
 The creation of India-Denmark energy parks in areas with large numbers of Danish firms and an India-Denmark skill institute to train Indian manpower has been proposed.
 The Green Strategic Partnership will build on an existing Joint Commission for Cooperation and existing joint working groups.

What is the State of India-Denmark Cooperation?

Background:

o The diplomatic relations between India and Denmark, established in September 1949, are marked by regular high-level exchanges.
o Both countries share historical links, common democratic traditions, and a shared desire for regional, as well as international peace and stability.
o Bilateral relations were elevated to the level of “Green Strategic Partnership” during the Virtual Summit held in 2020.

Commercial and Economic Relations:

o Bilateral trade in goods and services between India and Denmark has grown by 78%, from USD 2.8 billion in 2016 to USD 5 billion in 2021.
o The major export items from India to Denmark are textiles, apparel, yarns related, vehicles and components, metal goods, iron and steel, footwear, and travel goods.
o Major Danish exports to India are medicinal/pharmaceutical goods, power-generating machinery, industrial machinery, metal waste and ore, and organic chemicals.

Cultural Exchange:

o India's 75th Independence Day was celebrated in Copenhagen with great enthusiasm with a flag hoisting ceremony and vibrant Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations, attended by a large number of the diaspora. o Important streets and public places have been named after Indian leaders which include the Gandhi Plaene (Gandhi Park), Copenhagen, and Nehru Road near Aarhu University in Aarhus.

Intellectual Property Cooperation:

o The MoU signed in 2020 aims at increasing IP cooperation between the two countries by way of, the exchange of information and best practices on processes for disposal of applications for patents, trademarks, industrial designs, and Geographical Indications, and cooperation in the field of protection of Traditional Knowledge. o It will be a landmark step forward in India’s journey towards becoming a major player in global innovation and further the objectives of the National Intellectual Property Rights Policy, 2016.

Way Forward

• India and Denmark must cooperate in multilateral fora like the World Trade Organization, International Solar Alliance, and Arctic Council to advance democracy and human rights and promote a rule-based multilateral system.

4) Antarctic Impulsive Transient Antenna

• In a significant breakthrough, a team of researchers has succeeded in finding "a fountain of high-energy particles erupting from the ice" in Antarctica which according to the researchers could be proof of a parallel universe.
• Antarctic Impulsive Transient Antenna or ANITA - an experiment maintained by researchers at NASA - has suddenly come into the limelight as the cosmic-ray shower that is key to the new discovery was part of NASA's ANITA and Ice Cube experiment taking place in Antarctica.

What is ANITA?

• Designed by the world's premier space agency NASA, the ANITA instrument is a radio telescope that is used to detect ultra-high energy cosmic-ray neutrinos from a scientific balloon flying over Antarctica.
• It is the first NASA observatory for neutrinos of any kind.
• It involves an array of radio antennas attached to a helium balloon that flies over the Antarctic ice sheet at 37,000 meters.
• To get a gauge of exactly how high is, know that commercial flights fly almost a fourth of that height.
• The height is important here to shut out all other "noises" so that the ANITA antennas can "listen" to the cosmos and detect high-energy particles, known as neutrinos, which constantly bombard the planet.
• ANITA succeeded in detecting the 'fountain' of high-energy particles in 2006 and 2014 but the researchers initially thought them as background noise or glitches.

Different ways signals can reach ANITA as the device floats over Antarctica hanging from its balloon

How does ANITA detect Neutrinos?

• The ANITA instrument these ultra-high energy neutrinos by use of the Askaryan effect.
• This effect predicts the production of coherent radio emission from the cascade of particles produced in a high-energy particle interaction.
• In order to detect this radio emission (Askaryan pulses) we need a radio-transparent medium for the interaction to occur in - and lots of it since these interactions is rare.

Experimental Time Frame

• ANITA-I launched from McMurdo, Antarctica in the summer of 2006–07.
• ANITA-II, a modified instrument with 40 antennas, launched from McMurdo Station in the summer of 2008–2009.
• ANITA-III, launched in December 2014.
• ANITA-IV launched in December 2016, with a lighter overall build, tunable notch filters, and an improved trigger system.

Neutrinos

• A neutrino is a subatomic particle that is very similar to an electron but has no electrical charge and a very small mass, which might even be zero.
• Neutrinos are one of the most abundant particles in the universe.
• These are affected only by a "weak" sub-atomic force of a much shorter range than electromagnetism and are therefore able to pass through great distances in matter without being affected by it.
• Natural sources of neutrinos include the radioactive decay of primordial elements within the earth, which generate a large flux of low-energy electron-anti-neutrinos.

Askaryan Effect

• It is the phenomenon whereby a particle traveling faster than the phase velocity of light in a dense dielectric (such as salt, ice or the lunar regolith) produces a shower of secondary charged particles which contain a charge anisotropy and thus emits a cone of coherent radiation in the radio or microwave part of the electromagnetic spectrum.
• It is similar to the Cherenkov radiation.
• It is named after Gurgen Askaryan, a Soviet-Armenian physicist who postulated it in 1962.
Inspectors from the United Nations nuclear watchdog found uranium particles enriched up to 83.7 percent in Iran's underground Fordo nuclear site.

Report by The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA):

The confidential quarterly report by the Vienna-based International Atomic Energy Agency distributed to member states likely will raise tensions further between Iran and the West over its nuclear program.
That’s even as Tehran already faces internal unrest after months of protests and Western anger over sending bomb-carrying drones to Russia for its war on Ukraine.
The IAEA report only speaks about “particles,” suggesting that Iran isn’t building a stockpile of uranium enriched above 60% — the level it has been enriching at for some time.
The IAEA report described inspectors discovering on Jan. 21 that two cascades of IR-6 centrifuges at Iran’s Fordo facility had been configured in a way “substantially different” to what had been previously declared.
The IAEA took samples the following day, which showed particles up to 83.7% purity, the report said.
The IAEA report also said that it would “further increase the frequency and intensity of agency verification activities” at Fordo after the discovery.

Nuclear Deal with Iran:

Iran’s 2015 nuclear deal limited Tehran’s uranium stockpile to 300 kilograms (661 pounds) and enrichment to 3.67% — enough to fuel a nuclear power plant. The U.S.’ unilateral withdrawal from the accord in 2018 set in motion a series of attacks and escalations by Tehran over its program.
Iran has been producing uranium enriched to 60% purity — a level for which nonproliferation experts already say Tehran has no civilian use. The IAEA report put Iran’s uranium stockpile as of Feb. 12 at some 3,760 kilogram (8,289 pounds) — an increase of 87.1 kilograms (192 pounds) since its last quarterly report in November. Of that, 87.5 kilograms (192 pounds) is enriched up to 60% purity.

More About The 2015 Nuclear Deal: Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA):

In 2015, Iran with the P5+1 group of world powers – the USA, UK, France, China, Russia, and Germany agreed on a long-term deal on its nuclear programme.
The deal was named as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and in common parlance as Iran Nuclear Deal. Under the deal, Iran agreed to curb its nuclear activity in return for the lifting of sanctions and access to global trade. The agreement allowed Iran to accumulate small amounts of uranium for research but it banned the enrichment of uranium, which is used to make reactor fuel and nuclear weapons.
Iran was also required to redesign a heavy-water reactor being built, whose spent fuel could contain plutonium suitable for a bomb and to allow international inspections.

About International Atomic Energy Agency:

Widely known as the world’s “Atoms for Peace and Development” organization within the United Nations family, the IAEA is the international center for cooperation in the nuclear field.
The IAEA was created in 1957 in response to the deep fears and expectations generated by the discoveries and diverse uses of nuclear technology.

02 March 2023

Science & Technology

1) What is HTT-40?

The Union Cabinet recently approved the procurement of 70 HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft costing Rs 6,828 crore for the Indian Air Force.

About HTT-40 trainer aircraft:

• The Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT-40) is a basic trainer aircraft (BTA).
• It is designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

• Features:

o It is a turboprop aircraft designed to have good low-speed handling for better training effectiveness.
o It has a maximum take-off weight of 2.8 tonnes.
o It can achieve a top speed of 450 Km/hr and a maximum range of 1,000km.
o The fully aerobatic tandem seat HTT-40 has an air-conditioned cockpit, modern avionics with multifunction displays, hot refueling, and zero-zero (zero speed and zero altitudes) ejection seats.
• The aircraft will meet the shortage of BTAs for the training of newly inducted pilots of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
• It will be used for basic flight training, aerobatics, instrument flying, and close formation flights, in addition to undertaking secondary missions such as navigation and night flying flights.

What is a turboprop aircraft?

• A turboprop aircraft uses a turbo-prop engine rather than a piston-powered engine or a jet engine.
• They have one or more gas-turbine engines connected to a gearbox that turns the propeller(s) to move the aircraft on the ground and through the air.
• Turboprop aircraft have lower operating costs than jets because they burn less fuel, but they are also slower than jets.

2) Proton beam therapy

Context:

Recent studies talk about the inaccessibility of Proton beam therapy for many with cancer.

About Proton beam therapy treatment:

• Proton therapy is a type of radiation therapy, that uses high-powered energy to treat cancer and some noncancerous tumors.
• Proton therapy is a newer type of radiation therapy that uses energy from positively charged particles (protons).
• Proton therapy has shown promise in treating several kinds of cancer.
• It may cause fewer side effects than traditional radiation since doctors can better control where the proton beams deliver their energy.
• Proton therapy accurately targets very specific locations, which may result in less damage to surrounding tissues while conventional radiation therapy is less targeted, and more “normal” cells in the region of a tumor may be damaged.
• Proton beam therapy is not one single type of treatment, but rather there are different types and methods.

Advantages

• Precise delivery with less long-term damage
• It may allow a ‘Higher Radiation Dose’
• It causes less damage to surrounding tissues and fewer long-term risks
• Proton Beams are easier to control
• It can be well tolerated
• It can be used for inoperable Tumors

Disadvantages

• It may miss cancer outside the radiation field.
• At the current time, proton beam therapy is roughly twice as expensive as conventional radiation therapy.
• Challenges with proton therapy include motion management and changes in anatomy that take place before and during treatment.
• Limited availability of proton beam therapy centers.

Applications:

Proton therapy is sometimes used to treat: Brain tumors, and various cancer types including breast cancer, Lymphoma, Pituitary gland tumors, etc.

3) Dengue and DNA vaccines

Context:

Recent research announced that India’s first and only DNA vaccine for dengue has shown promising results.

About Dengue:

• Dengue is a vector-borne disease transmitted by the bite of an infected female Aedes Aegypti mosquito.
• The mosquito becomes infected when it feeds on the blood of a person infected with the virus.
• There are 4 serotypes of the virus that causes dengue. These are known as DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4.
• Dengue cannot be spread directly from person to person.
• Most cases occur in tropical areas of the world, including the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, Southern China, Taiwan, the Pacific Islands, the Caribbean, Mexico, Africa, and Central, and South America. Symptoms include: High fever, Headache, Vomiting, Muscle and joint pains, Skin Rash
• The diagnosis of dengue infection is done with a blood test.
• WHO estimates 39 crore dengue virus infections per year, of which 9.6 crore show symptoms.

About DNA Vaccines:

• DNA vaccines are often referred to as third-generation vaccines.
• They use engineered DNA to induce an immunologic response in the host against bacteria, parasites, viruses, and potentially cancer.
• The vaccines that are currently available to the global population include those for measles, mumps, rubella, seasonal influenza virus, tetanus, polio, Hepatitis B, cervical cancer, diphtheria, pertussis as well as several other diseases that are endemic to certain regions of the world.

Working:

• DNA vaccines induce an adaptive immune response.
• The basic working principle behind any DNA vaccine involves the use of a DNA plasmid that encodes for a protein that originated from the pathogen in which the vaccine will be targeted.
• More specifically, these vaccines expose the immune system to the target pathogen elements, which allows the immune system to develop antibodies that can recognize and attack this infectious agent if the vaccinated host encounters this pathogen in the future.

DNA Vaccine and COVID-19:

• In September 2021, India gave emergency authorization to the world’s first DNA vaccine for human use called ZyCoV-D.
• The vaccine was developed by the Zydus Cadila pharmaceutical company.
• It was approved for emergency use in adults and in children 12 and older.

Advantages of DNA Vaccine:

• They can be developed quickly.
• They are easy to transport and store.
• It’s less expensive to make and purify large amounts of DNA from viruses or bacteria than to create traditional vaccines.

Disadvantages of DNA Vaccines:

• Limited approvals: as of 2021, the FDA had approved the DNA vaccine only for use in certain animal diseases, such as West Nile Virus in horses and melanoma in dogs.
• More research into the use of DNA vaccines against COVID-19 and other diseases caused by viruses or bacteria is required.
• Scientists still do not properly understand much of the immune response caused by DNA vaccines. Limited data is available on their safety, possible side effects, and effectiveness.

4) Erythritol

New research by Cleveland Clinic, published in Nature Medicine, has shown that Erythritol, a popular artificial sweetener, is associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

Why in news?

• The researchers have pointed out the following issues in the report
o Long-term use of this particular artificial sweetener is associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
o Erythritol made platelets easier to activate and form a clot.
o After ingestion, erythritol is poorly metabolized by the body. Instead, it goes into the bloodstream and leaves the body mainly through urine.
o The human body creates low amounts of erythritol naturally, so any additional consumption can accumulate.

What is Erythritol?

• Erythritol is a popular artificial sweetener that is widely available throughout the world.
• It is an organic compound - a naturally occurring, four-carbon sugar alcohol (or polyol).
• It is used as a food additive and sugar substitute.
• Erythritol is 60–70% as sweet as sucrose (table sugar).
• However, it is almost completely noncaloric and does not affect blood sugar or cause tooth decay.
• Synthesis: It is synthesized from corn using enzymes and fermentation.

5) What is a CE-20 cryogenic engine?

ISRO recently conducted a flight test of a cryogenic engine for the Chandrayan-3 mission.

About CE-20 cryogenic engine:

• It has been designed and developed by the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), a subsidiary of ISRO.
• It will power the Cryogenic Upper Stage of the LVM3 launch vehicle for the Chandrayaan-3 mission.
• It is the first Indian cryogenic engine to feature a gas-generator cycle.
• It is one of the most powerful upper-stage cryogenic engines in the world.
• This engine develops a nominal thrust of 186.36 kN in a vacuum.

What is a Cryogenic stage?

• The cryogenic stage is technically a very complex system due to its use of propellants at extremely low temperatures and the associated thermal and structural problems.
• It uses liquid fuels that are cooled to very low temperatures.
• A Cryogenic rocket stage is more efficient and provides more thrust for every kilogram of propellant it burns compared to solid and earth-storable liquid propellant rocket stages.

Chandrayaan-3 Mission:

• Chandrayaan-3 is India’s third moon mission and is a follow-on mission to Chandrayaan-2 to demonstrate end-to-end capability in safe landing and roving on the lunar surface.
• Chandrayaan-3 mission has three major modules — the Propulsion module, Lander module, and Rover.
• The mission is slated to be launched later this year by Launch Vehicle Mark 3 (LMV3) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota.

03 March 2023

Indian Polity

1) PMLA Appellate Tribunal

Recently, Delhi High Court has directed the Union Government to take expeditious steps for appointing the Chairperson and other members of the Appellate Tribunal under PMLA 2002.

About PMLA Appellate Tribunal:

• The Central Government has been given the power to set up an Appellate Tribunal under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA).
• Composition: The Tribunal consists of a Chairperson and two other Members.
• Qualifications for an appointment:
o A person shall not be qualified for appointment as Chairperson unless he is or has been a Judge of the Supreme Court or of a High Court judge or is qualified to be a Judge of the High Court.
o A person shall not be qualified for appointment as a Member unless he/she has been a member of the Indian legal service/Indian revenue service/Indian economic service/Indian Customs and central excise service/Indian Audit and accounts Service.
• Tenure: They are appointed for a term of five years or till the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
• Functions: Appellate Tribunal has been constituted to hear appeals against the orders of the Adjudicating Authority and the authorities under the PMLA.

Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002:

• PMLA, 2002 was enacted in January 2003 to prevent money laundering in India.
• Objective:
o To prevent and control money laundering.
o To confiscate and seize the property derived from, or involved in, money laundering.
o To provide punishment for the offense of money laundering.
o To appoint the Adjudicating Authority and Appellate Tribunal to deal with the matter connected with money laundering.
o To put obligations on banking companies, financial institutions, and intermediaries to maintain records.
o To deal with any other issue connected with money laundering in India.
• PMLA empowers certain officers of the Directorate of Enforcement to carry out investigations in cases involving the offense of money laundering and also to attach the property involved in money laundering.

2) How are the CEC and ECs appointed?

The Supreme Court recently ruled that the appointment of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and election commissioners (ECs) will be done by the President on the advice of a committee comprising the prime minister, the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha, and the Chief Justice of India.

About Election Commission of India (ECI):

• It is an autonomous and permanent constitutional body responsible for organizing free and fair elections in India.
• The Constitution grants the ECI with the power of direction, superintendence, and control of elections to Parliament, state legislatures, the office of president of India, and the office of vice-president of India.
• Powers and responsibilities ECI:
o Determining the Electoral Constituencies’ territorial areas throughout the country.
o Preparing and periodically revising electoral rolls and registering all eligible voters.
o Notifying the schedules and dates of elections and scrutinizing nomination papers.
o Granting recognition to the various political parties and allocating them election symbols.
o The Commission also has advisory jurisdiction in the matter of post-election disqualification of sitting members of Parliament and State Legislatures.
o It issues the Model Code of Conduct in elections for political parties and candidates so that no one indulges in unfair practice or there is no arbitrary abuse of powers by those in power.
• Composition: The commission consists of a Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and two Election Commissioners (ECs).
• How are the CEC and ECs currently appointed?
o Under Article 324 (2), the President appoints the CEC and other
o The President makes the appointment on the advice of the Union Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister.
o The Constitution does not prescribe any qualifications, academic or otherwise, for appointment to these offices.
o The tenure of office and the conditions of service of all the commissioners is determined by the President.
o The tenure of commissioners is 6 years or up to the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
o The CEC and the two other ECs have the same powers and emoluments, including salaries, which are the same as a Supreme Court judge.
o All three commissioners have the same right of taking a decision. In case of a difference of opinion amongst the three members, the matter is decided by the Commission by a majority.
• Can CEC and ECs be removed?
o Article 324 of The Constitution of India mentions the provisions to safeguard and ensure the independent and impartial functioning of the Election Commission.
o The CEC is provided with security of tenure. He cannot be removed from his office except in the same manner and on the same grounds as a judge of the Supreme Court.
o Any other election commissioner or a regional commissioner cannot be removed from office except on the recommendation of the CEC.
• What does the recent Supreme Court ruling say?
o The CEC and other ECs should be appointed by the President on the advice of a committee comprising the prime minister, the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha, and the Chief Justice of India.

3) Advisory To The Print Media On Paid News: Press Council Of India

Advisory To The Print Media On Paid News: Press Council Of India
The Press Council of India (PCI) recently issued an advisory to the print media on ‘paid news’.It says newspapers should not misconstrue or misquote the statements given by any leader
o Political news published in competing newspaper with similar content strongly suggests such reports to be paid news.
o Two newspapers publishing same news item verbatim during election days is not accidental and it is evident that such news items have been published for consideration.
o The manner of presentation of a news item/photograph that too in favour of a particular party/candidate as also the appeal for voting in favour of a particular party is suggestive of paid news
o The Council said projecting a candidate’s success in election, who was yet to file a nomination, was also suggestive of paid news.
o News reports on campaign meeting and enthusiasm because film stars were present cannot be termed paid news.

Press Council of India (PCI):

o The PCI was first set up in 1966 by the parliament on the recommendations of the First Press Commission under the chairmanship of Justice J.R Mudholkar.
o The present council functions under the Press Council Act 1978.
o It is a statutory, quasi-judicial body that acts as a watchdog of the press in India.
o Primary Function: To check the media practice and to keep an eye on the freedom of the pres

04 March 2023

Ecology & Environment

1) Holistic Development of the Great Nicobar Island Project

The Holistic Development of the Great Nicobar Island Project is being criticized for its adverse impact on the island’s ecology and indigenous tribes. This 166.10 sq. km project involves the construction of an airport, a township, a container transshipment terminal, and a power plant. The project requires the diversion of 130 sq km of forest land and the logging of 8.5 lakh trees.

Why is Great Nicobar Island Project in news?

Recently, the Home Ministry asked that an 8.45 sq. km. airport component is kept confidential, citing strategic imperatives. The Environment Ministry has withheld all discussions on forest clearance for the entire project recommended by the Forest Advisory Committee (FAC). The FAC authorizes the diversion of forest land for projects, and there is no information on when it cleared the proposal for this project.

What is Great Nicobar Island Project?

The project is to be implemented in the Great Nicobar Island at a cost of Rs 75,000 crores, that is, 9.4 billion USD. It was prepared by NITI Aayog and to be implemented by ANIIDC (Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation). It mainly aims on developing coastal tourism, logistics, defense, coastal regulation zone, and commerce and industries. There are four main components in the plan. They are Galathea Bay International Container Transhipment Terminal, Great Nicobar International Airport, Great Nicobar Gas and Solar Power Plant, and the two coastal cities.

What are the mitigation measures?

The island will lose 12 to 20 hectares of mangrove cover. This is to be compensated in the Aravallis in Haryana. The corals are to be translocated to the regions around the island. Galathea Bay has ecologically sensitive zones that are home to rare fauna such as the Nicobar macaque, saltwater crocodile, sea turtle, etc. For this, three conservation sites have been proposed by the Appraisal Committee of MoEFCC. They are Little Nicobar, Meroe island, and Menchal island.

2) Methane Global Tracker report

The Methane Global Tracker report is the annual report released by the International Energy Agency. According to the latest report, fossil fuel companies released 120 million metric tonnes of methane into the atmosphere last year. This is just a slight decline from the unprecedented record created in 2019.

What is the report saying?

The report found that no effort has been taken by fossil fuel companies to bring down emissions. It revealed that cheap and readily available technologies can help bring down methane emissions from the energy sector by 75 percent. Investments in such technologies are estimated to cost less than 3 percent of the net income received by the oil and gas industry in 2022. These findings come after energy giants like BP, Shell, ExxonMobil, etc. reported record profits in 2022, as a consequence of the Russia-Ukraine crisis.

Key Findings of the Report

• 40% of the methane emissions are from the energy sector
• 260 billion cubic meters of natural gas is wasted through methane leaks every year
• Fossil fuel companies are putting in very small efforts to tackle the problem
• We have to reduce natural gas wastage by 75% to lower the global temperature

How is methane emission adding to climate change?

Methane is responsible for 30% of the global warming happening on the earth. It is a greenhouse gas. The potential of methane to warm the earth’s surface is 80 times higher than carbon dioxide. The NOAA of the US says that atmospheric levels of methane increased to 17 parts per billion in 2021.

Methane Initiatives

Global Methane Pledge: It was announced by the US and EU. It aims to reduce methane emissions by 30% in 2030 as compared to 2020.
MARS: MARS is Methane Alert and Response System. It integrates data related to methane emissions. It was launched by the United Nations Environment Programme. It is a satellite-based monitoring programme.

3) Our forests are under threat – here’s how they are certified

Context:

The certification industry offers a multi-layer audit system that seeks to authenticate the origin, legality, and sustainability of forest-based products such as timber, etc.

Background:

• With climate change, deforestation has become a critically sensitive issue globally.
• Forests absorb large amounts of CO2, keeping a check on global warming.
• At the Glasgow climate meeting (2021), more than 100 countries took a pledge to stop and reverse deforestation by 2030.
• Europe and the US have passed laws that regulate the entry and sale of forest-based products in their markets. This is where the certification industry comes in.
• The industry, through independent third-party audits, helps in establishing whether forests were being managed in a sustainable manner.

Two major international standards for sustainable management of forests and forest-based products:

• Developed by Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) – More popular and expensive
• Developed by Programme for Endorsement of Forest Certifications (PEFC) – Endorses the ‘national’ standards of any country

How will they work?

• Organisations like FSC/PEFC are only the developers and owners of standards like, for example, the ISO/BIS.
• They are not involved in the evaluation and auditing of the processes.
• That is the job of certification bodies authorized by the FSC or PEFC.

Two main types of certification on offer:

• Forest management (FM)
• Chain of Custody (CoC): Guarantees the traceability of a forest product like timber throughout the supply chain from origin to market.

Forest certification in India:

• Though the industry has been operating in India for the last 15 years, forests in only one state (UP) are certified.
• 41 divisions of the UP Forest Corporation (UPFC) are PEFC-certified and are managed according to the standards developed by the nonprofit Network for Certification and Conservation of Forests (NCCF).
• Some other states too obtained certification. However, all of these expired over time.
• Many agroforestry projects (paper mills, etc), meant for captive use of the industry, too have forest management certification.

Challenges:

• There are a large number of CoC certifications, but the dropout rate is 40%.
• India’s wood import bill is Rs 50,000-60,000 crores per year.
o India’s forests contribute just about five million cubic meters (5%) of wood every year.
o Almost 85% of the demand is met by trees outside forests (ToF) and about 10% is imported.
• India allows the export of only processed wood, not timber.

Way ahead:

• India-specific standards: Since ToF is so important, new certification standards are being developed for their sustainable management.
• The government’s own standards: The corruption in the private certification space has come under sustained criticism.

Conclusion:

A simple, transparent, easy to adopt, and internationally accepted indigenous system of certifications will take into account India’s national circumstances and will make available sustainably grown and managed forest products in the domestic market.

4) A plateau? Global CO2 emissions rose less than initially feared in 2022, says IEA

Context:

According to the IEA’s ‘CO2 Emissions in 2022’ report, global energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions rose by under 1% in 2022.

Background:

• The report is the first in a new series, the Global Energy Transitions Stocktake, which will bring together the IEA’s latest analysis in one place.
• This will make it freely accessible in support of the first Global Stocktake in the lead-up to the COP28 Climate Change Conference (Dubai, UAE).

About the report:

• It covers CO2 emissions from all energy combustion and industrial processes.
• It also includes information on methane and nitrous oxide emissions, providing a complete picture of energy-related greenhouse gas emissions in 2022.

Important takeaways from the report:

• Global energy-related CO2 emissions grew by 0.9%/321 million tonnes in 2022, reaching a new high of more than 36.8 billion tonnes.
• The rise in emissions last year was far smaller than the exceptional jump of over 6% in 2021.
• However, the report called for stronger actions to accelerate the clean energy transition to move the world towards meeting its energy and climate goals.

Reasons behind better results in 2022:

Growth of solar, wind, electric vehicles, heat pumps and energy efficiency helped limit the impacts of increased use of coal and oil amid the global energy crisis.

Region-specific findings:

• China’s emissions were broadly flat in 2022 due to strict Covid-19 measures.
• The EU emissions fell by 2.5%, thanks to the record deployment of renewables and energy savings measures in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine also contributed.
• In the US, emissions grew by 0.8% as buildings increased their energy consumption to cope with extreme temperatures.
• Excluding China, emissions from Asia’s emerging and developing economies increased by 4.2%, reflecting their rapid economic and energy demand growth.

Fuel-by-fuel analysis:

• CO2 emissions from coal grew by 1.6% as the global energy crisis continued to spur a wave of gas-to-coal switching in Asia.
• The increase in coal emissions balanced the 1.6% decline in emissions from natural gas as supplies were limited by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

• CO2 emissions from oil grew by 2.5% (came mainly from the aviation sector) but still remained below pre-pandemic levels.

06 March 2023

Government Schemes & Initiatives

1) Swachh Sujal Shakti Samman 2023

Recently, the President of India presented the Swachh Sujal Shakti Samman 2023 and graced the launch of Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch The Rain -2023 in New Delhi.

About Swachh Sujal Shakti Samman:

• Swachh Sujal Shakti Samman’ is to highlight and acknowledge the leadership and contribution of women at the grass-root level in the journey towards making a ‘Swachh Sujal Bharat’.
• The women achievers who have contributed exceptionally to ODF Plus Model Villages, Har Ghar Jal Villages, Water Conservation, etc. under the National Flagship Missions were felicitated.
• This year’s event was organized by the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti to honor the women champions of the rural water and sanitation sector.

What is the Catch the Rain campaign?

• Catch the Rain is a Jan Andolan campaign to encourage all stakeholders to create rainwater harvesting structures (RWHS).
• Tag line: Catch the rain, where it falls, when it falls.
• The campaign is implemented by the National Water Mission (NWM), Ministry of Jal Shakti.
• The campaign takes place across the country, in both rural and urban areas.

2) What is NPCDCS?

The Indian Government launched the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS) in 2010 to prevent and control major non-communicable diseases. It focuses on strengthening infrastructure, human resource development, early diagnosis, health promotion and more. It seeks to reduce premature cancer-related mortality by 25% by 2025.

Why is NPCDCS in News?

In line with the NPCDCS, a 164-bed Super-Specialty Cancer and Research Centre are being set up in Mizoram. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Indian Government signed a loan agreement to provide Rs.560 crore credit for this project’s implementation. This facility will have cutting-edge medical equipment for cancer diagnosis to ensure efficient prevention and treatment.

Need for NPCDCS

Cancer, diabetes, stroke and cardiovascular diseases are generally referred to as non-communicable diseases. 60% of the deaths in India occur to non-communicable diseases. Non-communicable diseases cause premature deaths and therefore, reduce the overall productivity of the country.
There are 1.29 crores of persons affected by NCD. Of these 90,000 are suffering from cardiovascular diseases and 13,000 people are suffering from cancers. With NPCDS, more than 96 lakh individuals were screened for NCD and were referred to higher diagnosis centers.

Modified Strategy of NPCDCS

The scheme was launched in 2010. In 2017, a modified strategy was adopted for the scheme. It is now being implemented under this new strategy.
Behavioral change is the focus of the new strategy. To achieve this, outreach camps are being organized. NCD clinics are built. Cost-effective treatment is provided. A robust surveillance system is implemented to monitor morbidity and mortality rates.

Recent Programmes initiated under NPCDCS

Population-based screening is being implemented for the early detection of NCDs. The scheme has been integrated with AYUSH. RNTCP has been integrated with NPCDCS.

TCCC Scheme for Cancer

Under the NPCDCS the Tertiary Care Cancer Centers scheme is being implemented. It aims to set up 20 Cancer Institutes. The GoI has allocated Rs 120 crores per cancer institute.

3) What is the SAMARTH scheme?

The SAMARTH (Scheme for Capacity Building in Textiles Sector) scheme is a demand-driven and placement-oriented umbrella skilling initiative that aims to provide incentives and create jobs in the organized textile industry and related sectors, covering the entire value chain of textiles, except spinning and weaving. It is implemented via Implementing Partners like state government agencies, Textile Industry/ Industry Associations and sectoral organizations of the textile ministry, like the Central Silk Board. It will be implemented until March 2024.

Why is SAMARTH Scheme in News?

The Indian Government is now planning to rope in more industry partners to boost skill development under the SAMARTH scheme. This initiative is part of the steps taken by the government to make the textile sector worth 250 billion USD by the end of this decade from the present 150-155 billion USD.

Recent Achievements in the scheme

Around 92,000 weavers and artisans received jobs under this scheme. The scheme has penetrated more than 28 states and union territories. 1.5 lakh beneficiaries have been provided training under the scheme. The target of beneficiaries is 3.47 lakh beneficiaries.

How is the scheme being implemented?

To implement the scheme the textiles ministry has partnered with more than 116 textile industries and associations. The scheme is a part of the Broad Skilling Policy Framework adopted by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

Objective

The scheme aims to incentivize and support the efforts of the industrial sector in generating employment opportunities in the textile sector. It also aims to increase the productivity of the present workers in the textile sectors such as handicraft, jute, silk, and handloom.

What are the unique features of the scheme?

The scheme is being implemented using advanced technologies such as the Aadhaar Enabled Biometric Attendance System (AEBAS), CCTV, Training of Trainers, and dedicated call centers. 184 courses have been prepared to improve the skills of the present workers. These courses are aligned with the National Skill Qualification Framework. Dhara Initiative: Completed One Year
The Dhara initiative taken up under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav by the Ministry of Culture has been completed one year.
o Dhara initiative has been successful in creating public awareness, and stakeholder participation and helped to devise a framework for the promotion and revival of multiple domains of Indian Knowledge Systems.
o The programme was conceptualized as a series of lectures and discussions dedicated to specific areas of inquiry highlighting India’s civilizational achievements.
o The Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Division of the Ministry of Education located at AICTE, New Delhi is the key execution partner for Dhara events.
o Many conferences have taken place on diverse and distinct themes titled: Indian contribution to Mathematics, Indian National Calendar, Dhara Astronomy and Astrophysics etc.
o The next conferences planned in the series are based on the metallurgical, agricultural and ancient economic thoughts and traditions of India.
o Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Culture

4) 5th Jan Aushadhi Diwas

The 5th Jan Aushadhi Diwas is organized across India based on the theme “Jan Aushadhi – Sasti bhi Acchi bhi”. It was organized from March 1 to 2 this year. It kicked off with the Jan Aushadhi Jan Chetna Abhiyan across India. It was organized by the Union Health Ministry in collaboration with the Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India and states and union territories.

About the 5th Jan Aushadhi Diwas

The event has witnessed the organization of more than 34 Pratigya Yatras across India, with 8 of them led by Members of Parliament on the first day. Over 5,000 citizens, including doctors, have committed to using generic medicines on the MyGov platform. Jan Aushadhi Pratidya Yatra, Pad Yatra was also carried out. The main objective of the divas is to spread awareness of generic medicines and also about PMBJP.

Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana

The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana was launched in November 2008 by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers. There is 9,082 PM Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras as of January 31, 2023.

Objectives

The main objective of the PMBJP is to ensure that citizens have good access to quality medicines. It aims to create awareness about generic medicines. There is an age-old custom among doctors in India of not recommending generic medicines. The current ruling government wanted to change this. And PMBJP was one of the initiatives that works to change this custom. It also generates employment by opening PMBJP Kendra.

How are medicines procured in PMBJP?

Medicines are procured from private manufacturers and also from the CPSUs. After procuring the medicines are tested in NABL-approved laboratories. After their approval, the medicines are distributed to the Pradhan Mantri Janushadhi Kendra.

Role of Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers

The scheme is implemented by this ministry. Apart from monitoring and fund allocations, the ministry should also generate an annual report about the functioning of the scheme. It is one of the flagship schemes of the Government of India.

5) What is Debt Forgiveness Plan?

The Debt Forgiveness Plan was announced by the Biden Government on August 24 last year. This plan vowed to cancel 10,000 USD of student loan debt for individuals earning less than 125,000 USD or for households earning less than $250,000 per annum.

What is Debt Forgiveness Plan?

Under this plan, those who are receiving Federal Pell Grants will be given an additional 10,000 USD in debt forgiven. Federal Pell Grants are given to undergraduate students with exceptional financial needs who have not earned a professional, bachelor’s, or graduate degree. This plan covers all college students whose loans were disbursed prior to July 1, 2022.

Why is Debt Forgiveness Plan in News?

Recently, the US Supreme Court heard cases challenging the legality of this initiative that would waive off 400 billion dollars in student loans.

Under which law was the Debt Forgiveness Plan implemented?

HEROES Act. That is the Higher Education Relief Opportunities for Students Act, 2003. The act empowers the state secretary to waive the regulatory provisions to protect the borrowers affected by military operations or national emergencies or war.

Have the student’s debts been waived before?

Yes. In 2020, the Trump administration used the HEROES Act to halt loan requirements. This was done due to the National Emergency declared in 2020.

The budget cost of the plan

More than 26 million people have applied for debt relief. Out of these, the US Government had relieved 16 million. To continue the plan for the next three decades, the US Government will have to spend 400 billion USD.

Observation: Can India adopt such measures?

The Reserve Bank of India says that student loans in India as of August 26, 2022, are Rs. 1,45,785 crores. Due to high-interest rates and job insecurity, students are facing difficulties to repay loans. The annual interest on education loans in the country ranges from 7.3% to 16%. Apart from this, there are processing fees. Given the market size and diversity, it is difficult to implement such loan waivers in India.

07 March 2023

Geography

1) Indian Tea Industry

Context:

India has taken several steps to boost its output, create a niche brand for Indian tea, and ensure the welfare of the families associated with the tea industry.

About Indian Tea Industry:

● India is the 2nd largest tea producer and largest black tea producer after China and 4th largest exporter of Tea in the world.
● India is also the largest consumer of black tea and accounts for 18% of the total World tea consumption.
● The main tea-growing regions are in the Northeast (including Assam) and in north Bengal (Darjeeling district and the Dooars region).
● Tea is also grown on a large scale in the Nilgiris in south India.

Ideal climate conditions for tea cultivation:

● Originate in tropical and subtropical climates.
○ Major tea-growing regions are mainly concentrated in Asia, Africa, South America.
● Tea requires cool to warm temperatures with at least 5 hours of sunlight per day.
○ The average annual temperature for tea plants to grow well is in the range of 15 – 23°C.
○ The rainfall needed is between 150-200 cm.

Market Size of the Tea Industry in India:

● In 2020, nearly 10 million tons of tea was consumed in the country.
● The market in the country is projected to witness further growth in the forecast period of 2022-2027, growing at a CAGR of 4.2%.
● In 2026, the tea industry in India is expected to attain 1.40 million tons.

Tag for Geographical Indication (GI)

● The first GI tag product was Darjeeling Tea, also known as the “Champagne of teas” due to its floral aroma.
● Green and white tea, the other two Darjeeling tea varieties, also have GI tags.
● The Indian tea industry is being developed and promoted by the Tea Board of India.

About Tea Board of India:

● The genesis of the Tea Board India dates back to 1903 when the Indian Tea Cess Bill was passed.
● The present Tea Board was set up under Section 4 of the Tea Act 1953.
● It functions as a statutory body of the Central Government under the Ministry of Commerce.
● The Board is constituted of 31 members (including the Chairman) drawn from Members of Parliament, tea producers, tea traders, tea brokers, consumers, and representatives of Governments from the principal tea-producing states and trade unions.
● Headquarter: Kolkata
● The Board is reconstituted every three years.
○ Earlier, the Tea Board had offices in Cairo and Kuwait.
○ But these two offices were relocated to Dubai.

Issues associated with the Indian Tea sector:

● Stiff competition and improved standards in the world market – due to low product prices from Kenya and other countries – increasing demand for organic tea and quality assurance that entails environmental justice.
● Decline in productivity and quality – Tea bushes must be replanted every five years, but most Tea bushes are older than 20 yrs.; uneven rainfall due to climate change – is affecting the productivity and quality of Indian Tea, leading to lower prices at Tea auctions.
● Poor working conditions and low wages – despite the provisions of the Plantation Labor Act, 1951 most workers and their families live in unsanitary conditions and receive low wages – this issue needs to be addressed given the fact that “starvation deaths” in North Bengal caught the international media attention.
● Small Tea Growers – the challenges faced by the Small Tea Growers’ sector are as follows
○ Not getting the right green leaf price
○ Unlike large estates, STGs are not able to capitalize on scale and marketing of product as a collective is difficult – since it is unorganized
○ Issue of workers’ rights – since STGs are not governed by the PLA, 1951
● Most of them are not recognized by the Tea Board of India due to land ownership regulations and related procedural problems – this means lesser data available on the state of the STG’s making it difficult for policy coordination
● Some global factors, like the decline in demand from European markets in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine war have compounded the problem.

Suggestive measures:

● The One District and One Product (ODOP) program can aid in promoting Indian Tea’s fame.
● The “AROMA” of tea needs to be improved in order for the industry to become profitable, viable, and sustainable.
● Support small farmers to raise production to satisfy domestic and international demand while improving quality and sustainability.
● Create infrastructure to boost exports and concentrate on high-value markets like the EU, Canada, South America, and the Middle East to re-energize.
● Promote GI tea and organic tea using brand marketing and promotion.
● Modernization: To help local supply networks be strengthened and tea producers to become self-sufficient
● Adaptability: Focus on the importance of a risk-proof ecosystem, that is, the need for sustainable solutions to make tea plantations meet the challenges of climate change.
India is the second largest producer of Tea, has numerous opportunities to develop the Tea Industry as it is providing employment to a huge number of people in the northeastern states. A win-win for all and, therefore a truly sustainable and transparent model — is the key requirement for a highly labour-centric industry like tea plantations.

2) Yellowstone National Park

Context:

Recently, Yellowstone celebrated its 151st anniversary.

About Yellowstone national park:

● Yellowstone National Park is an American national park located in the western United States.

Salient features:

● Yellowstone National Park was the first national park in the US and is also widely held to be the first national park in the world.
● The park is known for its wildlife and its many geothermal features, especially the Old Faithful geyser, one of its most popular.
● The subalpine forest is the most abundant.
● It is part of the South-Central Rockies forests ecoregion.
● The rivers of the Snake-Columbia basin, Green-Colorado basin, and Missouri River Basin all begin as snow on the Continental Divide as it weaves across Yellowstone’s peaks and plateaus.
● Yellowstone Lake is one of the largest high-elevation lakes in North America and is centred over the Yellowstone Caldera, the largest supervolcanic on the continent.
● Caldera :

● A large bowl-shaped volcanic depressions more than one kilometre in diameter and rimmed by in facing scarps.
● It is usually formed by the collapse of the top of a volcanic cone or group of cones because of the removal of the support formerly furnished by an underlying body of magma (molten rock).

3) Landslide Atlas of India

Context:

All 12 districts of Himachal Pradesh have figured on a list prepared by the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) of locations prone to landslides.
● The Landslide Atlas of India was released by Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) at the “National Meet on Disaster Risk Management — Trends & Technologies” held at Hyderabad.
● The NRSC, one of the centres of ISRO, manages data from aerial and satellite sources.

About Landslide:

● A landslide is “a movement of a mass of rock, earth or debris down a slope”.

Types of flows

● Debris flows: It is a form of rapid mass movement in which a combination of loose soil, rock, organic matter, and slurry that flows downslope. They are commonly caused by intense precipitation or rapid snowmelt.
● Earth flow: It is a down-slope viscous flow of fine-grained material saturated with water.
● Mudflow: A mudflow is a wet or viscous fluid mass of fine and coarse-grained material that flows rapidly along drainage channels.
● Creep: Creep is the slow, steady, downward movement of material under gravity that occurs in a large area

Key Findings:

● India is among the top four countries with the highest landslide risk, where every year the estimated loss of life per 100 km2 is greater than one.
● This Atlas provides risk assessment in landslide locations during the period of 1998-2022 and covers vulnerable regions in 17 states and 02 UTs of India in the Himalayas and Western Ghats.
● Northwest Himalayas contribute 66.5% of landslides in India, followed by Northeast Himalayas (18.8%) and Western Ghats (14.7%).
● Top 5 districts based on their exposure to landslide: Rudraprayag and Tehri Garhwal (Uttarakhand), Thrissur (Kerala), Rajouri (J & K), and Palakkad (Kerala)
● The database includes three types of landslide inventory – seasonal, event-based and route-wise

4) Even with ‘moderate emissions’, India’s heat is set to get worse

Context:

The climate crisis is no longer a distant event that might happen in the future.

Indications of the impending climate crisis:

● Temperatures are rising, rainfall patterns are shifting, and extreme events such as record-high temperatures, etc.
● For example, the month of February (this year) in India was the hottest since 1901.
● According to a 2021 study (The Lancet), more than five million people died (between 2000-2019) on average each year worldwide because of extreme temperatures.
● The IPCC 6th Assessment Report states that extreme heat events will grow with increasing global warming.

The case of India:

● A study shows that the temperature in India has been steadily increasing during both summer and winter.
● The recorded increase in maximum and minimum temperature over 30 years (1990-2019) is up to 0.9º C and 0.5º C, respectively.

Impact of increasing heat:

● A cause of suffering and death in extreme cases.
● It undermines systems such as agriculture and other climate-sensitive sectors that support the livelihoods and well-being of people.

Climate projections for the districts of India (2021-2050):

● The summer maximum temperature will increase (between 2º C – 3.5º C) even under a ‘moderate emissions scenario.
● Even winter minimum temperatures are projected to increase by 0.5º C to 3.5º C in the future.
● The diurnal temperature range (DTR – variation between high and low air temperature during a single day) is also changing.
○ A Department of Science and Technology study (2020) shows an asymmetric increase in the minimum temperature compared to the maximum.
● This will, in turn, increase the risk of heat stress → drought, deteriorating soil quality, crop failure, job loss, higher migration, morbidity, and mortality → can affect ecological systems and the carbon economy.
● According to a 2019 ILO report, India is expected to lose 5.8% of working hours in 2030 due to heat stress.

Way ahead:

● Implement the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction through improved early warning systems, public awareness, and formulation of heat action plans.
● Prepare district-level heat hotspot maps to design long-term measures to reduce deaths due to extreme heat.

Best practices: Innovative strategies such as –

● Emergency cooling centres (similar to the ones in Toronto and Paris);
● Survival guides that are strategically displayed to survive extreme heat or heat waves (like in Athens);
● White roofs (Los Angeles);
● Green rooftops (Rotterdam);
● Self-shading tower blocks (Abu Dhabi); and
● Green corridors (Medellin).

08 March 2023

Defence & Security

1) What is IMX/CE-23?

The International Maritime Exercise/Cutlass Express 2023 (IMX/CE-23) is being organized in the Gulf region from February 26 to March 16, 2023. The exercise aims to enhance maritime security and ensure safe sea lanes for maritime commerce, with over 50 nations and international maritime agencies participating. It is one of the largest multinational maritime exercises.

India at the IMX

INS Trikand, an Indian Navy ship, is participating in IMX/CE-23. This is the Indian Navy’s first IMX participation, and its second exercise with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), after participating in Operation Sea Sword 2 in November 2022. Participation in exercises like these strengthens relationships, enhances interoperability and collective maritime capability, and enables constructive contributions to regional stability and security in the Indian Ocean region.

Where is the International Maritime Exercise conducted?

In the East African coastal region and the West Indian Ocean. Countries from North America, East Africa, and the West Indian Ocean countries participate in the exercise.

Sponsor of the International Maritime Exercise

US Africa Command. It is led by the US Naval Forces. The US Africa Command is also called the US AFRICOM. The Headquarters of the US AFRICOM is in Stuttgart, Germany. It was established in 2007. The area of responsibility of US AFRICOM is all over Africa except Egypt.
US AFRICOM is one of the 11 Unified Combat commands of the US military. The other ten commands, their headquarters, and their areas of deployment are as follows:
• Central Command: US CENT COM: Florida, USA: Gulf and the Arab countries
• European Command: US EU COM: Stuttgart, Germany: Europe
• Indo-Pacific Command: US INDO PAC COM: Hawaii: Asia
• Northern Command: US NORTH COM: Colorado, USA: North America
• Southern Command: US SOUTH COM: Florida: South America
• Space command: US SPACE COM: Colarado
• Cyber Command: US CYBER COM: Maryland
• Special Operations Command: US SO COM: Florida
• Strategic Command: US STRAT COM: Nebraska
• Transportation Command: US TRANS COM: Illinois

2) What is a BrahMos Missile?

The BrahMos missile is a type of supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from various platforms like submarines, ships, airplanes, or land. It is currently the fastest supersonic missile in the world and was developed by a partnership between India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya, forming BrahMos Aerospace. The missile is named after two rivers, the Brahmaputra in India and the Moskva in Russia.

Why is the Brahmos missile in News?

Recently, the Indian Navy successfully test-fired the ship-launched version of the BrahMos missile. The missile test was conducted using an indigenous seeker and booster in the Arabian Sea. Notably, its anti-ship version was jointly test-fired by the Andaman and Nicobar Command and the Navy in April 2022.

What is a Brahmos missile?

It is a medium-range ramjet supersonic cruise missile. Ramjet engines are air-breathing jet engines. They do not produce thrust when they are held stationary, that is, no ram air. Ram air is the air that is forced to enter an aperture. Cruise missiles are guided missiles. This means the path of the missile can be changed during its flight.
Based on speed the missiles are categorized as supersonic, hypersonic, and subsonic. Supersonic missiles are those missiles that fly at 2-3 Mach speed. Hypersonic missiles fly at 5 Mach speed and subsonic missiles fly at 0.8 Mach speed.

Role of MTCR in Brahmos development

In 2016, India joined the MTCR – Missile Technology Control Regime. With this, we increased the operation range of Brahmos to 800 km. Before MTCR, it wasn’t possible to increase the range of MTCR because Russia was a member of MTCR and India wasn’t. According to MTCR, Russia cannot export missiles that are or range more than 300 km and payload of more than 500 kg to a non-MTCR country. MTCR was established in 1987 by the G7 countries.

3) Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System – Update (March 2023)

The Indian Army has proposed the acquisition of an indigenous Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) to fill critical capability gaps in high-altitude regions. The proposal is expected to be approved by the Ministry of Defence, after which orders can be placed for 310 towed guns.

Who developed the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System?

The ATAGS has been designed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) to replace the current 155 mm artillery system in service, the Bofors towed guns. This howitzer( i.e. artillery weapon that fires shells over relatively shorter distances) has undergone extensive testing by the army in various terrains and has been declared fit for induction. It’s manufactured by Bharat Forge and Tata Defence and Aerospace. Its acquisition could significantly enhance the Indian Army’s capabilities.

What is Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System?

The ATAGS is a Towed Howitzer. The towed howitzer falls between cannon and a mortar. It weighs 18 tonnes. It can be elevated to 75 degrees. It can fire five rounds in 60 seconds. The firing range of ATAGS is 48.074 km. The ATAGS was first displayed at the 2017 republic day celebrations.

Variants

So far India has produced two ATAGS variants. They are ATAGS – HMV. The DRDO developed this. It is towed by a high-mobility vehicle. The other variant is the ATAGS–MGS. It is pulled by an eight-wheeled HMV developed by BEML.

Observation

You can see how heavy and oversized these weapons are. And ATAGS weapons are essential for the defense camps in the borders. For this reason, the Government of India is building roads extensively in the border regions. Bridges and roads in the border region have increased by 75% in the last five years. These roads are essential to transport ATAGS like heavy weapons. The 18-tonne ATAGS is a towing weapon. It comes with an HMV to make its transport easy.

4) FRINJEX-23 Indo-France Joint Military Exercise to commence at Thiruvananthapuram

FRINJEX-23 Indo-France Joint Military Exercise: Indian Army and the French Army will hold their first joint military exercise, FRINJEX-23, at Pangode Military Station in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.

FRINJEX-23 Indo-France Joint Military Exercise

On March 7 and 8, 2023, the Indian Army and the French Army will hold their first joint military exercise, FRINJEX-23, at Pangode Military Station in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. The two armies are participating in this format for the first time, with each contingent consisting of a Company Group from the French 6th Light Armoured Brigade and Indian Army personnel stationed in Thiruvananthapuram.

FRINJEX-23 Indo-France Joint Military Exercise: Key Points

The purpose of the FRINJEX-23 defense exercise is to improve tactical interoperability, coordination, and collaboration between the two forces.
The exercise’s objectives include setting up an internally displaced person (IDP) camp, moving disaster relief supplies, and operationalizing a joint command post to secure an area where joint humanitarian assistance and disaster relief will be provided.
The joint exercise, FRINJEX-23, would strengthen defense cooperation between India and France, which is a crucial component of their wider strategic alliance.

Important Takeaways

Capital of France: Paris
President of France: Emmanuel Macron
Chief of Army Staff, India: General Manoj Pande
Chief of Defence Staff, India: Lt General Anil Chauhan

5) What is Kill Web?

The South Korean military has introduced a concept known as the “Kill Web” in response to the escalating nuclear threat from North Korea. This concept is a key part of Military Innovations 4.0, which seeks to utilize the latest AI technologies to ensure the country’s army can win a war with minimal casualties in the shortest possible time.

What is Kill Web?

It is a multi-layered system that uses advanced warfare techniques such as cyber operations and electronic warfare.

What is the main objective of Kill Web?

The “Kill Web” strategy was announced by the South Korean Ministry in early March. It aims to counter Pyongyang’s advancing nuclear and missile capabilities even before they are launched, by employing a multilayered integrated system that incorporates cyber operations, electronic warfare, and other tactics. Currently, the nation uses the Kill Chain mechanism, under its Three Axis System. Unlike the Kill Web, the Kill Chain uses a single path and is less flexible.

How will the Kill Web work?

It will collect information using sensors, process them and aid the military to speed up or slow down the war. The sensors will help to learn about the weapons used by the enemies and also about their space manipulation.

What are the phases in Kill Web working?

Phase 1: To identify the area where the sensors should be placed. Weapon systems will be moved based on the location of the sensors
Phase 2: Track the signals in the network of areas created by the sensors. Information from the sensor is sent to the shooters. This is called “sensor fusion”.
Phase 3: This is the firing phase. Now that the target has been located, the shooter will fire against the enemy. The current problem is the time taken by the weapons to reach the enemy target. Sometimes, it even misses. But with “Kill Web”, accurate tracking of the enemy becomes easy. And therefore, there are minimal chances of miss, and also the speed of the hit increases.
Phase 4: This is the finishing phase. Just because the enemy is hit, it does not mean he or his area has been destroyed. Confirmation is important.

6) What is INS Vikrant?

The INS Vikrant is an aircraft carrier currently in use by the Indian Navy. It is the first carrier to be built indigenously, having been constructed by the Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kerala. The vessel is named after India’s inaugural aircraft carrier, the INS Vikrant (1961), and its name derives from the Sanskrit word for “courageous.” The motto of the ship is also in Sanskrit, which roughly translates to “I defeat those who fight against me.”

Why is INS Vikrant in News?

The inaugural edition of the Naval Commanders’ Conference-2023 is being organized aboard INS Vikrant. It provides a platform for the officers to discuss key security concerns at the military-strategic levels and interact with senior government functionaries.
The Indian Navy is racing to have the 2 aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, battle-ready post-monsoon, in view of the increasing tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.

What is INS Vikrant?

The INS Vikrant is an aircraft carrier powered by four general electric engines and two gas turbine engines. It was commissioned in 2022. It can carry 26 MIG-29K or 26 Rafale fighter jets. In addition, the carrier can take 2 Dhruv helicopters or 4 MH-60R helicopters.

Where is INS Vikrant Deployed?

Currently, INS Vikrant is deployed at Katuppali naval base located near Chennai. After the Rambilli Naval base is ready, it will be shifted there. The Rambilli is located near Vizag in AP. The base is also called “Varsha”. The base will be the docking spot of the fleet of nuclear submarines India is developing now. The main purpose of the Varsha naval base is to de-congest the Vizag port that is being used for both military and civilian purposes.

Which country helped India in building INS Vikrant?

Russia. We bought the aviation components required to build INS Vikrant from Russia. Russia also provided the steel required to build INS Vikrant. However, Russia stopped the supply of steel in the middle. Our scientists created far better high-quality steel later and completed the construction of INS Vikrant. For this reason, the project INS Vikrant got delayed. It was launched in 2013 but the ship was commissioned only in 2022. The project was initiated in 2009.

09 March 2023

Indian Economy

1) What is meant by the Hindu Rate of Growth?

Former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor Raghuram Rajan recently said India was “dangerously close” to the 'Hindu rate of growth'.

About Hindu Rate of Growth:

• It is a term describing low Indian economic growth rates from the 1950s to the 1980s, which averaged around 4%.
• The term was coined by the late economist Raj Krishna in 1978 to describe the slow growth in the country.

What is Gross Domestic Product (GDP)?

• GDP is the final value of the goods and services produced within the geographic boundaries of a country during a specified period of time, normally a year.
• The GDP growth rate is an important indicator of the economic performance of a country.
• It can be measured by three methods, namely, Output Method, Expenditure Method, and Income Method

2) What is Securities-Based Lending?

The Adani Group have recently prepaid loans backed by shares worth $902 million or 7,374 crores to foreign banks and Indian lenders ahead of their maturity in April 2025.

About Securities-Based Lending:

• It is the practice of raising a loan by offering your existing investments in stocks/mutual funds/ Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) as collaterals.
• These kinds of loans are generally offered to high-net-worth individuals by large financial institutions and private banks.
• The loan amount depends on the security the borrower is offering.
• The loan can then be used for making purchases like real estate or personal items.
• This loan cannot be used for making further security purchases.
• Due to the inherent volatility in the nature of stocks/mutual funds, the risk of forced liquidation tends to be very high for these loans.
• Borrowers benefit from easy access to capital, lower interest rates, and greater repayment flexibility and also avoid having to sell their securities.

3) What is the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC)?

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry recently said that the ONDC will help small retailers survive the onslaught of large tech-based e-commerce companies.

About Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC):

• It is an open-source network set up to enable buyers and sellers to transact with each other irrespective of the e-commerce platform on which either of them is registered.
• It is an initiative of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• It comprises of buyer-side apps where consumers can place orders, seller-side apps that onboard merchants and display their listings, and logistics platforms that handle deliveries.
• Aim:
o To promote open networks for all aspects of the exchange of goods and services over digital or electronic networks.
o To create new opportunities, curb digital monopolies, and by supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises and small traders and help them get on online platforms.
o It seeks to democratize digital or electronic commerce, moving it from a platform-centric model to an open network.
• Benefits:
o It offers small retailers an opportunity to provide their services and goods to buyers across the country through an e-commerce system.
o ONDC enables merchants to save their data to build credit history and reach consumers.
o It is expected to digitize the entire value chain, promote the inclusion of suppliers, derive efficiencies in logistics, and enhance value for consumers.
o ONDC protocols would standardize operations like cataloging, inventory management, order management, and order fulfillment.

4) India’s per capita income doubles since 2014-15: NSO

India's per capita income in nominal terms doubled to Rs 1,72,000 since 2014-15 when the Narendra Modi-led NDA came to power but uneven income distribution remains a challenge.
India’s per capita income in nominal terms doubled to Rs 1,72,000 since 2014-15 when the Narendra Modi-led NDA came to power but uneven income distribution remains a challenge. As per the National Statistical Office (NSO), the annual per capita (net national income) at current prices is estimated at Rs 1,72,000 in 2022-23, up from Rs 86,647 in 2014-15, suggesting an increase of about 99 percent.

The Real Increase In Per Capita Income:

In real terms (constant prices), the per capita income has increased by about 35 percent from Rs 72,805 in 2014-15 to Rs 98,118 in 2022-23.

Real Growth of Per Capita Income:

The average growth of India’s per-capita income in real terms for the period from 2014 to 2019 was 5.6 percent per annum.

Uneven distribution a challenge: The Rising Inequality:

Per capita income is the average income of Indians. The averages mask the rising inequalities. The rising concentration of incomes at the high end means incomes of those at the lower rung of the income ladder may not be changing much.

India: Now The 5th Largest Economy:

According to IMF projections, India has overtaken the UK to become the world’s fifth-largest economy and is now behind only the US, China, Japan, and Germany. A decade back, India was ranked 11th among the large economies while the UK was in the fifth position.

5) India’s Unemployment rate rose to 7.45% in Feb: CMIE

India's unemployment rate rose to 7.45% in February from 7.14% in the previous month, data from the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) showed.
Joblessness as measured by the CMIE All India unemployment rate remained elevated in February 2023 and rose to 7.45% from 7.14% in the previous month.

About the Rural-Urban Unemployment:

The urban unemployment rate decreased for the second straight month and was at 7.93% in February as against 8.55% in January. It touched a record high of 10.09% in December 2022. But more worrying the rural unemployment rate spiked to 7.23% last month from 6.48% in January.

Coupled with a Decline in GDP Growth:

India’s GDP growth rate declined for the second consecutive quarter in October-December (Q3FY23), coming in at 4.4 percent, according to the data released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. The latest quarterly growth number at 4.4 percent is lower than the 6.3 percent growth that was seen in the second quarter of 2022-23.

Record growth in eight core sectors:

The government also released the data for the production of eight core sector growth in January. It showed that production of eight core sector growth expanded at a four-month high of 7.8 percent in January, which is up from a 7 percent growth recorded in December.

The manufacturing sector in India: The biggest concern:

The manufacturing sector in India expanded at the slowest pace in four months in February but remained relatively strong amid buoyant domestic demand, despite higher inflationary pressures.
Rising borrowing costs and weakness in manufacturing have slowed the Indian economy. The manufacturing sector shrank 1.1 percent in the quarter year-on-year, the second straight contraction reflecting weakness in exports.
The Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), compiled by S&P Global dipped to 55.3 last month from January’s 55.4.

6) Doubling India’s Farmers’ Income

In 2016, India’s Prime Minister shared his dream of doubling farmers’ incomes in the year when India completes 75 years of Independence and enters Amrit Kaal. Now that we have entered Amrit Kaal, it is a good time to revisit that dream and see if it has been fulfilled, and if not, how best it can be done.
Unless the incomes of farmers go up, we cannot have sustained high growth of overall GDP. This is because the manufacturing sector starts facing a demand constraint soon after meeting the demand of well-off urban consumers.
Agriculture engages the largest share of the workforce (45.5% in 2021-22 as per Periodic Labour Force Survey). So, focusing on agriculture, even if it was in a dream, is the right way to ensure long-term high growth of the overall economy.
Agriculture also has to provide food and nutritional security to the largest population on this planet. However, if this objective has to be achieved in today’s context, it must encompass policies that also protect the basic resources of this planet, say soil, water, air, and biodiversity.

What are the Issues with Doubling Farmers’ Income?

Issues with Agricultural Policies:

o Trade and marketing policies adopted by the government are suppressing farmers’ incomes.
o For Example The ban on exports, the suspension of several commodities from the futures markets, and the imposition of stocking limits on certain commodities.
o These are hidden policy instruments of “implicit taxation” of farmers’ incomes.
o The policy of heavy subsidization along with assured and open-ended procurement of paddy and wheat is creating challenges for the environment.

Fragmentation of Land:

o Land fragmentation is a significant issue in India. Small and marginal farmers who own less than two hectares of land constitute around 85% of the total number of farmers in India.
o This fragmentation of land limits the scale of agricultural operations, making it difficult to achieve economies of scale.

Poor Infrastructure:

o India has a weak agricultural infrastructure, including inadequate irrigation facilities, poor storage facilities, and weak transportation networks. This results in poor-quality produce, wastage, and low returns to farmers.

Low Productivity:

o The productivity of Indian agriculture is low compared to other countries. The yield per hectare of major crops in India is lower than that of China, Brazil, and the United States.

Climate Change:

o Climate change has a significant impact on Indian agriculture. Erratic rainfall, rising temperatures, and extreme weather events such as droughts and floods affect crop production and reduce farmers' income.

Price Volatility:

o The agriculture sector in India is characterized by price volatility due to the lack of a stable pricing policy.
o Fluctuations in the prices of agricultural commodities, coupled with high input costs, make it difficult for farmers to plan their production and marketing strategies.

Inadequate Institutional Support:

o The lack of institutional support in the form of credit, insurance, and marketing facilities for farmers is a significant challenge.
o Access to credit and insurance remains low for small and marginal farmers.

Dependence on Monsoon:

o A large proportion of Indian agriculture is dependent on monsoon rains.
o Delayed or inadequate rainfall affects crop production and farmers' income.

What are the Steps taken by Government for Supporting Farmers?

 The government has implemented various schemes and policies to achieve this goal, including increasing the Minimum Support Price for crops, promoting organic farming, and creating a national agricultural market.
 The government provides a fertilizer subsidy whose budget crosses Rs 2 lakh crore. It provides income support to farmers through PM-Kisan.
 Many small and marginal farmers also get a free ration of at least 5 kg/person/month through the PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana.
 There are also subsidies for crop insurance, credit, and irrigation.
 States also give out power subsidies in abundance, especially for irrigation. Even farm machinery for custom hiring centers is being subsidized by many states.

What should be the Way Forward?

Realignment of Support Policies:

o The government should incentivize the cultivation of crops that are environmentally friendly and consume fewer resources such as water and fertilizers.
o Millets, pulses, oilseeds, and horticulture crops could be given carbon credits to encourage their cultivation.
o The subsidies/support should be crop-neutral or skewed in favor of the crops that are beneficial for the planet's resources.

Promotion of High-Value Crops:

o Farmers should diversify their crops to include high-value crops that have better market demand and can fetch higher prices.
o This can be done by introducing better seeds, irrigation techniques, and training on sustainable farming practices.

Collaboration with Corporations:

o The government can collaborate with corporations to provide farmers with better market access and an assured buyback arrangement to reduce their market risk.
o Corporations can also offer farmers better prices for their produce by using them for making value-added products such as tofu, soya milk powder, soya ice cream, and frozen soya yogurt.

Technological Innovation:

o The government should invest in research and development to come up with new technologies that can help farmers increase their productivity and profitability. This can include the use of solar panels on farmers' fields as a third crop.

10 March 2023

Sports

1) What is Race Across India?

Race Across India is Asia’s longest-ever cycle race. It was accorded the Asian Ultracycling Championship by the World Ultracycling Association. It was kicked off recently from Srinagar in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

About Race Across India

The final destination of this first-of-its-kind race is Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu, covering a distance of 3,655 kilo kilometers in 12 states. As many as 29 cyclists have taken part in this race. Geeta Rao is the only female participant in this race. She is India’s first differently-abled Super Randonneur. Earlier she received a silver medal at the Para-Cycling Championship 2022. She lost her leg after suffering from polio at a young age.

What is ultra cycling?

The Ultra cycling event where cyclists cover at least 200 km within at least six hours. Today, ultra cycling is one of the fast-growing in the world. Apart from ultra cycling, there are three other cycling sports. They are road cycling, cyclocross, and mountain biking.

World Ultra Cycling Association

World Ultra Cycling Association is a non-profit organization. It was founded in 1980. It is governed by the laws of State of the Colorado. Though the USA has a constitution, different states in the country have different constitutions. For instance, there are 29 articles in the Colorado constitution. There are seven articles in the US constitution. There are 448 articles in the Indian Constitution.

Other similar events

The Race Across Russia was conducted in 2013. Race Across Europe was conducted in 1997. The rules of ultra-cycling in mountainous regions are different. For instance, the Race Across Alps was conducted for 540 km. Here the participants had to climb 540 km uphill! To date, this is considered one of the toughest races in the world.

Observation

This is the first time the race is conducted in Jammu and Kashmir. This says that the changes being brought in the region have been successful. Three years after Article 370 has been scrapped in J & K, schools have been running without being shut due to hartals, the employment rate is increasing, and long-standing government vacancies in the state are being filled slowly.

2) Lionel Messi bags Best FIFA Men’s Player Award

The captain of the Argentina football team Lionel Messi recently won the Best FIFA Men’s player award. It is one of the prestigious awards for sports personalities, especially for those in the football game. The award is presented by FIFA.

History of the award

Earlier he was called the FIFA World Player of the Year. Later in 2010, it was combined with Ballon d’Or and together it was called the FIFA Ballon d’Or. FIFA received 13 million pounds to add the tag of Ballon d’Or. The award was presented in this name for six years, that is, till 2016. All six years, it was Lionel Messi who won the award. Later in 2016, the Ballon d’Or tag was given up. And only the FIFA tag was attached. FIFA dropped Ballon d’Or because its relations with England Football Association were deteriorating.
Lionel Messi is an Argentine football player. Currently, he belongs to the “Paris Saint Germain” club.

3) Carabao Cup 2023: Manchester United wins

The Carabao cup is also called the EFL cup. It is a major football trophy played in England. More than 92 clubs participate in the knockout competition. In 2023, the trophy was won by Manchester United. Liverpool is the most successful club in the competition. The team has won more than nine championships. (Carabao is an energy drink in Thailand). Winning the Carabao cup is essential to enter the UEFA Champions League. Apart from winning the Carabao cup, the team should also finish the Premier League in the top four.

Finals

The final battle was fought between Manchester United and Newcastle. Manchester United is winning the trophy after six years. Newcastle is a Saudi Arabia-backed club.

UEFA Champions League

This championship league is conducted among top European clubs. Around 80 clubs participate in the championship. It is organized by the Union of European Football Association. The participating clubs receive 5 million Euros apart from winning prize money.

4) Karnataka end 54-year wait wins Santosh Trophy

Karnataka ended their 54-year wait to win the Santosh Trophy national football championship, beating Meghalaya 3-2 in a pulsating final at the King Fahd International Stadium.

Santosh Trophy 2023

Karnataka ended their 54-year wait to win the Santosh Trophy national football championship, beating Meghalaya 3-2 in a pulsating final at the King Fahd International Stadium in the Saudi Arabia capital. Services beat Punjab 2-0 in the playoff to finish third. PP Shafeel and Christopher Kamei scored in either half. Services, winners of five of the last 10 editions, took the lead in the seventh minute through a strike from distance by Shafeel before Kamei converted a left-footed attempt from outside the box.
Karnataka (Sunil Kumar 2′, Bekley Oram 19′, Robin Yadav 42′) 3 – 2 Meghalaya (Brolington Warlarpih 19′, Sheen Stevenson Sphktung 60′)

About the Santosh Trophy

• The National Football Championship for Hero Santosh Trophy, due to sponsorship ties with Hero MotoCorp also known as the Hero National Football Championship, or simply Santosh Trophy, is a state-level national football competition contested by the state associations and government institutions under the All India Football Federation (AIFF), the sport’s governing body in India.
• Before the starting of the first national club league, the National Football League in 1996, the Santosh Trophy was considered the top domestic honor in India. Many players who have represented India internationally, played and gained honor while playing in the Santosh Trophy. The tournament is held every year with eligible teams who are divided into zones, must play in the qualifying round, and can progress into the tournament proper.
• The tournament was started in 1941 by the Indian Football Association (IFA), which was the then de facto governing body of football in India. It was named after the former president of the IFA, Sir Manmatha Nath Roy Chowdhury, the Maharaja of Santosh who had died at the age of 61 in 1939. The IFA later donated the Santosh Trophy to the AIFF, soon after its formation as the sport’s official governing body in India, and since then AIFF has been organizing the tournament.
• The trophy for the runner-up, Kamala Gupta Trophy, was also donated by the then-president of IFA, Dr. S.K. Gupta, and it was named in honor of his wife.
• The third-place trophy, Sampangi Cup, was donated by the Karnataka State Football Association (then Mysore Football Association) and was named so in memory of a renowned footballer, Sampangi, who was from Mysore.
• Until 2018, the tournament was organized as an individual competition, but since 2021, the AIFF rebranded it as the men’s senior tier of the National Football Championship for the regional teams of various age groups. In September 2022, it was announced that the tournament will be organized on a zonal basis.

5) Women T20 World Cup 2023

The 2023 T20 Women’s world cup was held in South Africa.
o The final battle was between South Africa and Australia.
o The Australian team won the battle.
o India quit losing to the Australian team during the semi-finals.
o Richa Ghosh is the only Indian named in the Team of the Tournament, with four Australian players included.
o Australia won their third consecutive Women’s T20 World Cup title, sixth overall, defeating hosts South Africa in the finals at the Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town.
o Defending a target of 157 runs, Australia restricted South Africa to 137/6 in 20 overs, winning by 19 runs.

6) Jeswin Aldrin Breaks National Record at AFI National Jumps Competition

Tamil Nadu’s Jeswin Aldrin broke the national record in the men’s long jump in the second AFI National Jumps Competition. Jeswin Aldrin leaped 8.42 meters to take over the previous record.
Tamil Nadu’s Jeswin Aldrin broke the national record in the men’s long jump in the second AFI National Jumps Competition. Jeswin Aldrin, 21-year-old, leaped 8.42 meters to take over the previous mark of 8.36 meters set by India teammate M Sreeshankar at the Federation Cup in Kozhikode in April 2022. Aldrin previously won silver at the Asian Indoor Championships in Astana last month with a 7.97-meter jump and made the most of being in a competitive frame to break the national record.

Jeswin Aldrin Breaks National Record in Men’s Long Jump at AFI National Jumps Competition- Key Points

• Aldrin leaped 8.37 meters in Kozhikode last year to win gold but since his jump was wind-aided, it wasn’t considered a national record by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI).
• M Sreeshankar, who bagged silver at the AFI National Jumps Competition with a jump of 8.36m, made the national record.
• A measure of Aldrin’s dominance can be praised from the fact he was the only competitor to cross the eight-meter mark.
• Jeswin Aldrin opened with 8.05m and followed it up with 8.26 before finding the power and speed to get to 8.42m.
• Kerala’s Muhammed Anees Yahiya was a distant second at 7.85 meters.
• Alongside, Gayathry Sivakumar set the women’s triple jump meet record with a jump of over 12.98 meters to break the 12.68m mark set by Aleena Jose in the inaugural edition in Thiruvananthapuram last year.
• She had only two valid jumps in six attempts, but both were good enough for gold. She opened with a 12.46m and got the record in her third attempt.
• Tamil Nadu’s R Punitha edged out Maharashtra’s Sharvari Parulekar for silver in the event with a jump of 12.39 meters.

AFI National Jumps Competition 2023 Results

Jeswin Aldrin from Tamil Nadu broke the national record in the men’s long jump in the second AFI National Jumps Competition. The below-given table shows the complete results for both men and women at the AFI National Jumps Competition.

Category	Name	Result
Men’s Long Jump	Jeswin Aldrin (TN)	8.42m
Men’s Long Jump	Muhammed Anees Yahiya (Kerala)	7.85
Men’s Long Jump	Rishabh Rishishwar (UP)	7.77
Women’s Pole Vault	G Sindhushree (Ktk)	3.50m
Women’s Pole Vault	Vibha Srinivasa (Ktk)	3.20m
High Jump	Abhinaya Shetty (Ktk)	1.73m
High Jump	Rubina Yadav (UP)	1.73m
High Jump	Niranjana Sampat	-
Long Jump	L Sruthilekshmi (Ker)	6.11m
Long Jump	Manisha Merel (Odi)	5.96m
Long Jump	R Punitha (TN)	5.85m
Triple Jump	Gayathry Sivakumar (Ker) (New Meet Record)	12.98m
Triple Jump	R Punitha (Tamil Nadu)	12.39m
Triple Jump	Sharvari Parulekar (Maharashtra)	12.30m

11 March 2023

Agriculture

1) Millets Giveaway

The Small Farmers’ Agri-Business Consortium, a society promoted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare of the Indian government, has launched a special marketing campaign called Millets Giveaway. The campaign is aimed at promoting direct purchases from small and marginal farmer-producer organizations (FPOs) to support their livelihoods.

What is Millets Giveaway?

The Millets Giveaway campaign encourages citizens to purchase millets directly from FPOs through ONDC’s My Store, a marketplace built for Indian sellers. Millets are the primary focus of the campaign, motivating more people to adopt these grains in their diet. This is a part of the nationwide and also the worldwide drive to promote these nutri-cereals in the International Year of Millets 2023.

Significance of FPO in the campaign

The campaign is being held through the FPOs. The FPOs have always played big roles in bringing changes in the lives of the farmers, especially the small and marginal farmers. Earlier the farmers used to cultivate the crops using traditional methods. FPOs helped them to learn new and conservative farming methods. Today, drip irrigation is a big success mainly because of these FPOs. Through good agricultural practices, the FPO helped farmers increase productivity by 30% to 50%. Also, the FPO played a large role in farm mechanization. They rented farm machinery and demonstrated the usage of many machines.

Why Giveaway campaign?

The Government of India has been promoting millet on a large scale. During the Budget 2023-24, the finance minister Smt Nirmala Sitaraman announced that millets will be promoted under the brand name “Shree Anna”. The APEDA signed a pact with a private firm called LULU to promote millets in the GCC. LULU is into the supermarket business. The food processing ministry launched the Bhojpur Millet festival. The government is promoting millet because these crops are highly nutritious and climate-resilient. Also, the Millet International Initiative for Research and Awareness was launched. The campaign will help the government achieve its plan on promoting millet.

2) Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela

The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, inaugurated the Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela. The event is being organized by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in New Delhi. This year, the event is being organized under the theme of “Nutrition, Food and Environmental Protection with Shree Anna”.

Key Highlights of Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela

The three-day event includes a fair that features live demonstrations of various crops and technologies, as well as stalls for input agencies and farmer counseling. Its aim is to empower small farmers, scientists, and startups by solving major issues concerning the agriculture sector. During the event, awards were conferred to recognize progressive dedicated farmers.

What is the need for Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela?

With the climate change impacts increasing exponentially, there is a need for resilient agriculture. Only technologies can bring in climate-resilient agriculture. Take the recently launched HD-3385 new wheat variety for instance. The crop is climate resilient. It helps farmers to save their crops from high temperatures before harvest. Such agricultural advancements should be reached the farmers as the earliest. The Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela will help farmers learn about the advancements and use of technologies.

Why should GoI organize more such Melas?

Today, the top three countries in terms of Agricultural technologies are China, Japan, and Netherlands. China has deployed 18 UAV agriculture zones. With this, the country saves 30% of pesticide costs and 50% of labor costs. The Netherlands creates 90,000 tonnes of livestock feed from food waste. This aids in a sustainable production cycle. Japan uses cloud computing to monitor plantations. India should adopt its technologies more. With a huge population, festivals are the best way to reach many farmers within a short span. Today India is focusing on bringing investors in food processing. It should also focus on bringing in investors in agricultural technologies.

3) Bhojpur’s Millet Festival

The Bhojpur’s Millet Festival was organized from February 28 to March 1 in Bihar. Union Minister of Food Processing Industries Pashupati Kumar Paras inaugurated this event. It is part of the many Millet-related events conducted in 2023, which has been declared by the UN as the International Year of Millets.

Key Highlights of the Bhojpur Millet Festival

The two-day event brought together stakeholders in the food processing sector to specifically focus on millet. This event helped increase awareness about Shree Anna (the mother of all grains) and its role in improving the health of people. It is also expected to boost the export of millets from Bihar, which is known to produce Jowar, Bajra, Ragi and Small Millets. Notably, India accounts for 20% of the global millet production and 80% of Asia’s millet output. However, millets still account for a mere 3% of the world grain trade.

Why was the festival organized in Bhojpur?

The festival was organized in Bhojpur for the following reasons:
Location
Bhojpur is located in the state of Bihar. The region has a moderately extreme climate. Winters are cool and summers are hot. The region is quite dry and receives rains during South West Monsoon.
Rainfall
Light showers occur during the Rabi season. Paddy is the main crop cultivated here. Apart from paddy, the other crops grown here are chickpeas, lentils, pigeon peas, field peas, toria, mustard, linseed, etc. As you can see the agricultural productivity is diverse here. It falls under Agro Climatic Zone III.
Irrigation
As you can see, the potential is huge. However, 90% of the irrigation is done by tube wells here. Lately, the tube wells are becoming dry during summer. For this reason, it is essential that Bhojpur chooses climate-resilient crops like millets. And GoI is promoting millets on a large scale. Thus, the festival was conducted here.
KVK Crop Diversification
Also, Krishi Vigyan Kendra has rooted deeply in these areas. They have promoted crop diversification on a large scale here. The KVKs have introduced new varieties of oil seeds, pulses, cereals, horticultural crops, etc. For instance, in paddy, the KVK introduced Rajendra Sweta, Rajendra MAhsuri, etc. In lentils, K-75, HD-2463, etc were introduced. Apart from this the KVK also established poultry units. Vermicomposting and zero tillage are also being done here.

4) Nano Liquid DAP Fertilizer: Approved

The Government recently approved the launch of nano liquid DAP (di-ammonium phosphate) fertilizer in India and has been notified in the Fertilizer Control Order (FCO).

o Nano liquid DAP fertilizer is a concentrated phosphate-based fertilizer.
o It provides phosphorous nutrition throughout the crop growth and development cycle.
o Nano-DAP is jointly manufactured by Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO) in association with a private player Coromandel.
o Nano-DAP will be sold at Rs 600 per bottle of 500 ml. One bottle will be equivalent to one bag of DAP, which currently costs Rs 1,350.
o DAP is the second most consumed fertilizer in the country after urea.
o Out of the estimated annual consumption of around 10-12.5 million tonnes, local production is around 4-5 million tonnes, while the rest has to be imported.
o Nano-DAP will help to bring down India’s fertilizer import bill.
o It is also expected to contribute to bringing down the annual subsidy on non-urea fertilizers.

5) Seaweed Mission:

What is Seaweed?

Seaweed is the common name for a variety of different species of marine plants and algae that grow in the ocean and places like rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water. There are some seaweeds that are microscopic, like phytoplankton, that live suspended in the water column and provide the base for the majority of food chains.

Seaweed species in India:

The commercially exploited seaweed species in India mainly include Kappaphycusalvarezii, Gracilaria edulis, Gelidiellaacerosa, Sargassum spp., and Turbinaria spp. Seaweeds are valued for commercial products such as Carrageenan and Agar besides being used for the production of polysaccharides, fertilizer, sludge, and other high-value products such as nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals for use against various lifestyle diseases.

About Seaweed:

Out of the global seaweed production of ~ 32 million tons fresh weight is valued at around 12 billion US dollars. China produces ~57 %, Indonesia ~28% followed by South Korea, whereas India is having a mere share of ~0.01-0.02%. Despite several advantages, commercial seaweed cultivation has not taken place in the country at an appropriate scale, as is being practiced in South-East Asian countries.
By an estimate, if cultivation is done in ≈10 million hectares or 5% of the EEZ area of India, it can provide employment to ~ 50 million people; set up a new seaweed industry; contribute to national GDP; ocean productivity; abates algal blooms, sequesters millions of tons CO2; Healthier ocean; bio-ethanol of 6.6 billion liters.

The Mission envisages the following activities:

• Establishing model demonstration farms over one hectare for the cultivation of economically important seaweeds in nearshore and onshore along the Indian coast.
• Kappaphycus all over the Indian coast
• Gracilaria dura in Gujarat
• Gracilariaverrucosa in Chilka lake (Odhisa)
• Ulva Linza or Ulva proliferainChilka lake (Odhisa)
• Ulva Lactuca or Ulva fasciata or Ulva indica all over Indian coast
• Establishment of seaweed nurseries for supplying seed material for large-scale farming of economically important seaweeds in the country
• Ulva (spore-based methods or vegetative as applicable)
• Kappaphycus and Gracilaria (vegetative methods)
• Establishment and demonstration of processing technologies/recipes for edible seaweeds in line with consumer acceptability or cultural food habits
• Dried flakes, Dried powder, Dried sheets, or processed dried sheets with additional flavor meet the acceptance/perceptions of people
• Seaweed-based proteins as an alternative to meet
• Food supplements
• Feed supplements
Setting up of processing plant for integrated production of plant growth stimulants (sap) along with industrially important cell wall polysaccharides (phycocolloids) such as agar, agarose, carrageenan, and alginates from fresh seaweeds
• Sap
• Polysaccharides (Ulvan, agar, agarose, carrageenan, and alginates)
• Value addition technologies aimed at making high-value products for niche markets (personal care, cosmetics, nutraceuticals, feed supplements)
• An activity on seaweed cluster development includes value chain development, supply chain development, and collection of data on the environmental, economic, and social impacts of seaweed projects in the country.

6) Miyawaki Technique

A path of land in Mumbai’s eastern suburbs has become a testament to creating the ‘urban forests’ through the Miyawaki technique.

What is a Miyawaki plantation?

In the Miyawaki technique, various native species of plants are planted close to each other so that the greens receive sunlight only from the top and grow upwards than sideways. As a result, the plantation becomes approximately 30 times denser, grows 10 times faster, and becomes maintenance-free after a span of 3 years.

How To Grow A Miyawaki Forest:

Step 1: Procure saplings of native tree and shrub varieties. Saplings of native plants are generally cheaper than exotic and ornamental plants (with prices usually ranging from 10-80 Rs). However, procuring plants for larger plots may be expensive as an average of 4000 trees or more are planted per acre in the Miyawaki method. Developing a nursery and propagating the plants can effectively bring down the cost. Growing plants in pots or grow bags allow for more effective management of the growing medium; making it easier to manage the soil in which the sapling grows. This ensures the soil is healthy and nutrient-rich. Plants are also easier to water and nurse in case of disease when grown in pots. Healthy saplings can then be transplanted onto the demarcated forest patch sometime between a few months to a year.
Step 2: Once the plants are ready to be transplanted, soil preparation processes begin. First holes of one-meter depth are dug. The soil dug out is checked, and understanding the soil of the forest patch helps a grower intervene more effectively to enhance its quality. Growers employ a range of strategies like adding compost, cocopeat, groundnut shells, beneficial micro-organisms, and shredded leaf litter to enhance the soil. Once the soil is treated, the saplings are placed into the holes and the soil is returned to where it was dug out from.
Step 3: The trees planted need to be watered regularly henceforth. Having an irrigation line or water outlet that allows you to reach all trees is essential. The trees need to be watered every day (or as frequently to ensure that the soil surface does not dry out). Watering requirements reduce sharply after the first year or two.
Step 4: Insert support sticks for the saplingsHard wooden sticks are firmly inserted next to the saplings. The saplings are then tied and secured to the stick. This provides support for the sapling. This ensures the saplings grow straight and don’t droop. The additional support also provides a degree of protection during bad weather.

7) Saguna Rice Technique

The Saguna Rice Technique(SRT) will help stop the stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana.

What is Saguna Rice Technique:

Saguna Rice Technique is a unique new method of cultivation of rice and related rotation crops without plowing, puddling, and transplanting (rice) on permanently raised beds. This is a zero-till, Conservation Agriculture (CA) type of cultivation method. The permanent raised beds used in this method facilitate ample oxygen supply to the root zone area while maintaining optimum moisture conditions there. SRT has made suitable changes in conventional rice cultivation to ease farmers’ laborious work and prevent fertility loss during puddling.

Important Principles:

• SRT insists that all roots and small portions of the stem should be left in the beds for slow rotting.
• No plowing, puddling, or hoeing is to be done to control weeds.
• This system will get the crop ready for harvesting 8 to 10 days earlier.
• Take this into consideration while choosing a variety to avoid getting harvesting caught in receding rain.

8) PLI Scheme For Food Processing Industry

Government of India in March 2020 to boost domestic manufacturing and cut down on import bills.PLISFPI for implementation during 2021-22 to 2026-27 has an outlay of Rs. 10,900 crores.

Scheme Objectives:

• Support Food manufacturing entities with stipulated minimum Sales and willing to make a minimum stipulated investment for expansion of processing capacity and Branding abroad to incentivize the emergence of strong Indian brands.
• Support the creation of global food manufacturing champions;
• Strengthen select Indian brands of food products for global visibility and wider acceptance in the international markets;
• Increase employment opportunities for off-farm jobs,
• Ensuring remunerative prices of farm produce and higher income to farmers.

13 March 2023

Social Justice & Social Issues

1) Women's Reservation Bill

Why in news?

Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader began a day-long hunger strike in New Delhi, demanding passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill (WRB).

What is the Women’s Reservation Bill (WRB)?

• The Constitution 108th Amendment Bill, 2008 seeks to reserve one-third (33%) of all seats for women in the Lok Sabha and the state legislative assemblies.
• Reserved seats may be allotted by rotation to different constituencies in the state or union territory.
• Reservation of seats for women shall cease to exist 15 years after the commencement of this Amendment Act.

What is the timeline of the bill?

• 1996 – The WRB was 1st introduced in 1996, and was referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee, however, the Bill lapsed with the dissolution of the Lok Sabha and had to be reintroduced.
• 1998 – The Bill was reintroduced and yet again, it failed to get support and lapsed.
• 1999 – The Bill was reintroduced by the NDA government in the 13th Lok Sabha and was subsequently introduced twice in the year 2003.
• 2004 – The UPA government included it in its Common Minimum Programme and finally tabled it, this time in Rajya Sabha to prevent it from lapsing again, in 2008.
• Few recommendations made by the 1996 Geeta Mukherjee Committee were included in this version of the Bill.
• 2010 – The Bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha and lapsed in the Lok Sabha, since then the demand for reservation for women in legislative bodies is not new.
WRB is seen as a logical extension of the 72nd and 73rd constitutional amendments (1992, 1993), which reserved one-third of all seats and chairperson posts for women in rural and urban local governments.

Why did the parliament fail to pass the WRB?

• Heated debates & sexist taunts – The WRB has seen some of heated debates and a fair share of sexism.
• Quota within quota – The 1996 committee recommended reservation for OBC women within the 1/3rd reservation for women of the Bill, however, this demand has never been incorporated.
• This has led to opponents saying that the WRB will not benefit their women.
• Lack of political ability – Only Odisha’s Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and West Bengal’s Trinamool Congress (TMC) have reserved seats for women for election candidatures.
• Diverts attention – Opponents contend WRB diverts attention from the larger issues of electoral reform such as criminalization of politics and inner-party democracy.

What is the status of Women's Reservations in India?

• Gujarat – It elected just 8% of women legislators in its 182-member assembly.
• Himachal Pradesh – Where every second voter is a female, has elected 67 men and only 1 woman.
• National average – The national average of women in all state assemblies remains around 8%.
• Rankings – India ranks 144 out of 193 countries in the representation of women in parliament according to Inter-Parliamentary Union’s report.
• Among our immediate neighbors, India falls behind Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Nepal.

Why is WRB important?

• Women have historically suffered due to systemic inequality and barriers.
• Caste groups – Any scheme of women’s reservation must be within the constitutional tenets and must also account for its representation across caste groups.
• Gender quota – Without a gender quota, women’s representation will continue to remain marginal causing a massive deficit in our democracy.
• Panchayats – Some recent studies on panchayats have shown the positive effect of reservation on the empowerment of women and on the allocation of resources.
• Vote share – Though women’s vote share has increased the number of women in positions of power has not increased.

What is the way forward?

• With its massive women population, India has a huge reservoir of potential which, if unleashed, will take the country much ahead.
• Women’s reservation will jump-start the democratic process, allowing a significant majority to have a say in how their lives must be governed.

2) Same-sex marriages can rock societal values: Centre

Context:

The Centre has opposed the Supreme Court pleas seeking legal validation of same-sex marriage, saying it would cause complete havoc with the delicate balance of personal laws and accepted societal values.
• According to the government marriage between a biological man and woman is a “holy union, a sacrament and a sanskar” in India.
• Any “deviation” from this “statutorily, religiously and socially” accepted norm in “human relationships” can only happen through the legislature and not the Supreme Court.

What were the petitioners’ demands:

• Sought an interpretation of the Special Marriage Act, 1954 in a gender-neutral manner where a person is not discriminated against due to his sexual orientation.
• The Special Marriage Act of 1954 provides a civil form of marriage for couples who cannot marry under their personal law.

Governments arguments:

• The government argued that the Court had only decriminalized sexual intercourse between same-sex persons in its 2018 judgment in Navtej Singh Johar, and not legitimized this “conduct”.
• The court, while decriminalizing homosexuality, had never accepted same-sex marriage as part of the fundamental right to life and dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution.
• Registration of marriage of same-sex persons would also result in violation of existing personal as well as codified law provisions.
It is submitted that there cannot be an untrammeled right under Article 21 and cannot override other constitutional principles, adding that Parliament has designed and framed marriage laws, which are governed by personal laws/codified laws relatable to customs of various religious communities, to recognize only the union of a man and a woman to be capable of legal sanction, and thereby claim legal and statutory rights and consequences.

Ethical aspects of Same-sex marriage

Equality: Denying same-sex couples the right to marry is seen as discrimination and a violation of basic human rights.
Consent: Same-sex couples should be able to marry if they are both consenting adults who are making a free and informed decision to enter into a lifelong commitment.
Harm: Opponents of same-sex marriage argue that it is harmful to society or to children who may be raised by same-sex couples.
• However, many studies have found that there is no evidence to support these claims and that children raised by same-sex parents do just as well as children raised by opposite-sex parents.
Tradition: Some people argue that same-sex marriage goes against traditional values and beliefs.
• However, tradition is not always a reliable guide to ethics, and there is no inherent ethical value in maintaining a tradition simply because it is old or familiar.
Religious beliefs: For some, same-sex marriage may conflict with their religious beliefs. While everyone has the right to their own beliefs, it is important to remember that religious beliefs should not be used to justify discrimination or deny equal rights to others.

3) Child Marriage in India

Context:

Activists working on the ground suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic combined with poverty may have worsened the phenomenon of child marriage in India.

About Child marriage:

• Child marriage can be described as a formal marriage or an informal union entered into by an individual before attaining the prescribed eligible age.
• The legally prescribed marriageable age in some jurisdictions is below 18 years, including India.

Child Marriage in India

• Child marriage prevalence is generally defined as the percentage of women 20-24 years old who were married or in union before age 18.
o India is estimated to have over 24 million child brides.
• According to the National Family Health Survey, 40% of the world’s 60 million child marriages take place in India.
• According to the International Centre for Research on Women, India has the 14th highest rate of child marriage in the world,
• Eight States have a higher prevalence of child marriage than the national average —
o West Bengal, Bihar, and Tripura top the list with more than 40% of women aged 20-24 years married below 18, according to NFHS data.
o In Kerala, women who got married before the age of 18 stood at 6.3% in 2019-20, from 7.6% in 2015-16.

Reasons for child marriage in India:

• Customs and Traditions: Traditions like dowry put a lot of stress on the family because the parents have to give a lot of money, jewelry, land, etc. for their daughter to get married.
o Generally the amount of dowry rises with the age of the girl, so families prefer to marry their girls young.
• Poverty: Poor Families ‘sell’ their children through marriage to pay off debts or to get out of the cycle of poverty.
o Child marriage makes families poorer because young girls who get married won’t be educated or skilled enough to do well in the workforce.
• “Protecting” the Girl’s Sexuality: In some cultures, marrying a girl young is thought to “protect” the girl’s sexuality and the family’s honor.
• Security: Parents often marry their daughters off young to “secure” a good future for them.
o Abuse, rape, and other crimes against girls, as well as extreme poverty, can make parents turn to child marriage as a way to protect their daughters.
• Laxity in Implementation of Laws: Laws are not implemented stringently. In many cases, the ages of the bride and groom aren’t checked at the time of registration of marriage.
o Many child marriages aren’t even registered.
• Discrimination based on gender: Child marriage is a manifestation of discrimination against girls and women.
o According to a UNICEF report on ‘Child Marriage and the Law’, “The discrimination often manifests itself in the form of domestic violence, marital rape, and deprivation of food, lack of access to information, education, healthcare, and general impediments to mobility”.

Harmful impacts of Child Marriage:

Child Rights Issues:

• Children who are forced to get married young lose their rights including the right to an education, and the right to be safe from physical and mental violence, injury, or abuse, among others.

Health Issues:

• According to NFHS-5, the prevalence of child stunting is 35.5% in 2019-21.
• Premature Pregnancy: Most young brides don’t know much about contraception and don’t have easy access to reproductive health services.
o They get pregnant at a younger age and have more than one child before their mind and bodies are ready.
• Maternal Mortality: Girls under 15 are five times more likely to die during childbirth or pregnancy. The leading cause of death for girls ages 15 to 19 around the world is pregnancy-related deaths.
• Infant Mortality: Babies born to mothers younger than 20 have almost 75% higher death rates than babies born to mothers older than 20 years. The children who do make it are more likely to be born premature and with low birth weight.

Illiteracy:

• Child brides are often taken out of school and not allowed to get further education.
• Research shows that child marriage and pregnancy are the biggest factors that keep girls from going to school.

Intergenerational Cycle of Poverty:

• Child marriage negatively affects the economy and can lead to an intergenerational cycle of poverty.
• Girls and boys married as children are more likely to lack the skills, knowledge, and job prospects needed to lift their families out of poverty.
• Early marriage leads girls to have children earlier and more children over their lifetime, increasing the economic burden on the household.

Teen Widows:

• In a society that allows child marriages, it is not unusual to find widows and divorcees under the age of 18.

Laws and Policies to prevent child marriages:

• The Child Marriage Restraint Act of 1929: It is also known as the Sarda Act. It was a law enacted to restrain the practices of Child Marriage.
• Its main goal was to eliminate the evils placed on young girls who could not handle the stress of married life and to avoid early deaths.
• This act defined a male child as 21 years or younger and a female child as 18 years or younger.
• The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act of 2006: Under this act, the marriageable age for a male is prescribed as 21 years and that of a female is 18 years.
• Child Marriage is prohibited in India as per the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006.
• Hindu Marriage Act, 1956: Under Hindu Marriage Act, there are no certain provisions for punishing the parents or people who solemnized the marriage.
• A girl can get the marriage annulled only if she wants to get married before attaining the age of fifteen years and she challenges the marriage before turning eighteen.
• Muslim Personal Law: Under Muslim Laws, there is no bar to child marriage. The couple after the marriage has an “option of puberty” known as Khayar-ul-bulugh in which they can repudiate the marriage after attaining the age of puberty.
• The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012: which aim at protecting children from violation of human and other rights.
• A parliamentary standing committee is weighing the pros and cons of raising the age of marriage for women to 21, which has been cleared by the Union Cabinet.

Way forward:

• The solution lies in empowering girls, creating proper public infrastructure, and addressing societal norms.
• It should be ensured that Child Protection Committees and Child Marriage Prohibition officers are doing the job and community support groups should be activated.
• Such efforts can lead to Child Marriage Free Villages like Odisha which now has over 12,000 such villages.
• Local gram panchayat members should be oriented to spread awareness on child marriage, not only that it is illegal to get a child married off before 18, but also the dangers to the child’s health and her offspring.
• There has been a rise in child marriages during the pandemic, but many have been prevented as well.

4) Evolution of Women's Movements in India

Why in News?

According to the Economic Survey 2022-23, there are about 1.2 crore Self Help Groups (SHG) in India, most of which are all women. The Indian women's movement has been recognized globally for its vibrancy. However, the evolution of the movement has received less attention.

How the Women's Movement Evolved in India?

Evolution:

o The movement has transformed over time from serving as a beacon for the nationalist movement to a rights-based civil society movement to a state-led movement for economic empowerment.

Three Phases:

o Nationalist Movement (1936 - 1970s)

• Women were the face of the nationalist movement. The clarion call by Mahatma Gandhi to 1936 All India Women’s Conference was the hallmark of a nationalist movement that relied on women to serve as its face.
• The movement aimed to give women political power. The political history of the Indian women’s movement was observed when women satyagrahis were arrested during the salt satyagraha and the Quit India movement.
• These movements set the stage for women's leadership in politics.

o Rights-Based Civil Society Movement (the 1970s-2000s)

• Women's groups were mobilized to sensitize women about their rights.
• The greatest success of this mobilization came when the 73rd Amendment to the Constitution was passed, reserving one-third of seats in panchayat and leadership positions in local bodies for women.
• Chipko, one of the earliest ecofeminist movements in the world broadcast pictures of women clinging to trees to protest logging.
• It was a non-violent agitation that originated in Uttar Pradesh’s Chamoli district (now Uttarakhand) in 1973.
• Also, the Self-Employed Women’s Association began to unionize women in the informal sector leading the advocacy for reforms in legal and social protection for women workers.

o State-Led Movement for Economic Empowerment (2000s-present)

• The government invested heavily in building and supporting SHGs.
• SHGs function mainly as thrift and credit institutions.
• The movement aimed to enhance women's access to income-generating activities.
• The movement seeks to address the deficiency of vocational skills and entrepreneurship among women.

What are Self Help Groups?

About:

o SHGs are informal associations of people who choose to come together to find ways to improve their living conditions.
o It can be defined as a self-governed, peer-controlled information group of people with similar socio-economic backgrounds and having a desire to collectively perform a common purpose.

Objectives:

o SHG relies on the notion of “Self Help” to encourage self-employment and poverty alleviation.
o To build the functional capacity of the poor and the marginalized in the field of employment and income-generating activities.
o To resolve conflicts through collective leadership and mutual discussion.
o To provide collateral-free loans with terms decided by the group at market-driven rates.
o To work as a collective guarantee system for members who propose to borrow from organized sources.

Conclusion

The women's movement in India has evolved over time, with each phase addressing different aspects of women's lives. The future of the women's movement in India depends on how effectively the state-led movement can transform women's lives by taking economic empowerment programs to scale.

5) Migrant Issues and Safeguards

Why in News?

Tamil Nadu’s industrial and manufacturing sectors are concerned about the possibility of migrant worker exodus after purported attacks on Hindi-speaking men.
The state’s industries heavily rely on the estimated one million migrant workers.

What are the Issues Faced by Migrant Workers?

Social and Psychological Aspects:

o Many times, migrants are not easily accepted by the host place, and they always remain second-class citizens.
o Any person migrating to a new culture faces multiple challenges, from cultural adaptation and language barriers to homesickness and loneliness.

Exclusion from Political Rights and Social Benefits:

o Migrant workers are deprived of many opportunities to exercise their political rights like the right to vote.
o Moreover, the need to provide proof of address, Voter IDs, and Aadhaar cards, which is difficult due to the fluidity of their lives, deprive them of accessing welfare schemes and policies.

Issues faced by Marginalised Sections:

o Whereas the people who are poor or belong to a marginalized section do not find it easy to mix up.

What is the Legal Framework for Migrant Labour Welfare?

The legal framework for migrant labor welfare in India is provided by the Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act, of 1979.
o The Act mandates the registration of establishments that employ migrant workers and requires contractors to obtain licenses from both the home and host states. However, the Act has not been fully implemented in practice.
o The Act has been subsumed into four broader labor codes, which are:
• The Code on Wages,2018
• The Industrial Relations Code,2020
• The Code on Social Security,2020
• The Occupational Safety, Health, and Working Conditions Code,2020
The implementation process is delayed as states are yet to finalize their rules under these codes.

What are the Issues with Legal Framework for Migrant Workers?

 Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act, of 1979 has not been fully implemented in states.
 Small Startups and Informal Sector Left out From Social Security Coverage. There are no specific provisions for social security of employees in small startups, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, or workers in small establishments having less than 300 workers.
 Migrant workers, self-employed workers, home-based workers, and other vulnerable groups in rural areas are not covered under social security benefits.
o This would enable companies to introduce arbitrary service conditions for their workers.

What are the Steps taken by Government for Migrant Welfare?

Central Government’s Steps:

o The Union Government has approved the proposal for the continuation of the 7 existing sub-schemes under the “Relief and Rehabilitation of Migrants and Repatriates” scheme.
o In 2021, NITI Aayog, along with a working subgroup of officials and members of civil society, has prepared a draft National Migrant Labour policy.
o The ramping up of the One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC) project and introduction of the Affordable Rental Housing Complexes (ARHC), PM Garib Kalyan Yojna scheme, and e-Shram portal reflected a ray of hope for migrants.

State Governments’ Steps:

o In 2012, with the help of the International Labour Organisation, an MoU was signed between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh to track laborers migrating from 11 districts of Odisha to work in brick kilns in then-united Andhra Pradesh.
o Kerala has set up facilitation centers for migrant workers to maintain data regarding migrant workers arriving in Kerala as well as help migrant workers navigate any problems they might face.
o Jharkhand started the Safe and Responsible Migration Initiative (SRMI) in 2021, which aims at enabling systemic registration of migrant workers for monitoring and analysis in the source as well as the destination districts.
o Jharkhand government will have help desks which will be known as ‘labor consulates’ in various states.

Way Forward

Merely enrolling workers in a registry will not be effective unless they also have access to social security benefits. Therefore, it is crucial for the central government to collaborate with states and coordinate their actions in safeguarding the rights of workers.

14 March 2023

Arts & Culture

1) “Re(ad)dress: Return of Treasures” Exhibition

The “Re(ad)dress: Return of Treasures” Exhibition, which features 26 repatriated Indian antiquities, will be displayed in the national capital as part of efforts to raise awareness about the prevention of illicit trafficking of antiquities. The exhibition has been set up at the Khajuraho G20 culture group meeting.

What is Re(ad)dress: Return of Treasures Exhibition?

The exhibition showcases a range of historical artefacts, including the 12th-century Dancing Ganesha, a stone sculpture from Central India that was recovered from the U.S. in 2021, and the Yaksha, Amin Pillar from 2nd century B.C., which was discovered in the U.K. and repatriated in 1979-80. According to the Archaeological Survey of India, 244 stolen/ missing artefacts have been repatriated till now.

History of Repartition of Indian Antiquities

Indian is rich in cultural heritage. One of the oldest civilizations in the world started in India. This is mainly because of India’s abundant resources and fertility. Unfortunately, historical artefacts were stolen from India. With recent efforts by the GoI, several stolen crafts and artefacts were returned back. The USA alone returned more than 50 million USD worth of artefacts to India in the last five years.

Significance of “Re(ad)dress: Return of Treasures” Exhibition

The exhibition is important because it shows the identity of the country. Also, the stolen artefacts fuel illegal trade. The illegal trade of precious artefacts contributes to terrorism. The repartition will help to reduce the demand for illegally obtained antiquities.

What are the famous arts placed in the “Re(ad)dress: Return of Treasures” Exhibition?

The Dancing Ganesha: Recovered from the US in 2021 is a sculpture from the 12th century. India got this sculpture back after a long legal battle. It is a rare piece of art that belongs to medieval India. Yaksh, Amin Pillar: Recovered from the UK. It is a 2nd-century sandstone sculpture.

2) What is Hola Mohalla?

Hola Mohalla is a Sikh festival celebrated for three days in March, usually a day after the Hindu festival of Holi. The festival takes place on the second day of the lunar month of Chett. People from all over the world participate in this festival. Its celebration was started by the X Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh.

How is Hola Mohalla celebrated?

A fair is organized in Anandpur Sahib on Hola Mohalla. The Anadnpur Sahib is located in Punjab near the Sutlej river. The last two Sikh gurus Guru Gobind Singh and Guru Tegh Bahadur lived here. Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa Panth here. The Anadpur Sahib was founded by Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth guru.
The festival concludes with a long military-style procession near Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib, one of the five seats of temporal authority of the Sikhs. Recently, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann paid obeisance at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib and took part in various events that mark the beginning of Hola Mohalla.

What type of food is consumed during Hola Mohalla?

Lacto Vegetarian. It is a vegetarian diet which includes dairy products but does not include non-vegetarian foods and eggs. The Lacto vegetarian food is prepared by the Langar in Anandpur Sahib. Food is served for more than a week for everyone visiting there. Langars are community kitchens in Gurudwara. They serve meals free of cost.

Which Sikh community celebrates Hola Mohalla?

The festival is celebrated by all Sikhs. However, it is mostly considered the festival of Nihang. Nihang are also called Akali. They are armed warriors. The Hola Mohall highlights Nihang for a reason. Guru Gobind Singh introduced the custom of celebrating Hola Mohalla. He used to train the soldiers for war on this day specifically.

3) Where is Rijksmuseum?

The Rijksmuseum is the Netherlands’ national museum. It is dedicated to Dutch arts and history. It is situated in Amsterdam in Museum Square, close to the Van Gogh Museum. It was founded in The Hague on November 19, 1798. It was shifted to Amsterdam in 1808.

Why is Rijkmuseum in News?

The Night Watch at Rijksmuseum is a famous painting by Rembrandt – a Dutch Golden Age painter. Members belonging to the climate activist group Extinction Rebellion protested close to the famous painting in Amsterdam to oppose the Rijksmuseum’s partnership with the airline KLM and bank ING.
Another notable development is the recent exhibition on slavery. The event involved exhibits like the ‘tronco’ (a wooden plank brace used to restrain slaves) from the Netherlands, collars, etc.

What is special about Rijksmuseum?

The museum is famous for its masterpieces such as The Milkmaid, Self Portrait of Van Gogh, Rembrandt’s Night Watch, The Merry Family, etc. It means the State Museum in English. The museum was founded in 1798. The museum displays more than 8,000 art pieces. It has a collection of more than 1 million objects belonging to the 1200-2000 centuries.
The Rijksmuseum was inspired by the French museum the Louvre.

Rijksmuseum and the Creative Common Universal License

The museum made 125,000 images available for download. The numbers are being increased every year. Every year, the museum is increasing its numbers. The target has been set to one million images! These images are to be available for download under the Creative Commons 1.0 Universe License. What does this mean? Anybody can use images with this license. If an author has got patented rights for his painting, you cannot download or use that painting even as wallpaper. However, the images with Creative Commons 1.0 Universal License can be downloaded and can be used for personal purposes.

4) Burial sites of Charaideo

Context

Assam’s pyramid-like structures known as moidams or maidams have met all the technical requirements of UNESCO’s World Heritage Centre.

About the development:

• The mound burial system of the Ahoms, known as Maidams, in and around Charaideo hills are located in the Sivasagar district geographically but are now recognized as the pride historical resource identified with the new district Charaideo.
• They enshrine the mortal remains of the members of Ahom Sawargadeos (Kings) who ruled large swathes of the present-day State and beyond for some 600 years until the advent of the British in the 1820s.
• Moidams (or Maidams) represent the late medieval (13th-19th century CE) mound-burial tradition of the Tai Ahoms in Assam, which lasted almost 600 years.
• Charaideo, more than 400 km east of Guwahati, was the first capital of the Ahom dynasty founded by Chao Lung Siu-Ka-Pha in 1253.
• Out of 386 Moidams explored so far, 90 royal burials at Charaideo are the best preserved, representative, and most complete examples of this tradition.
• The Charaideo Moidams enshrine the mortal remains of Ahom royalty along with the objects they cherished.
• But after the 18th century, the Ahom rulers adopted the Hindu method of cremation, later entombing the cremated bones and ashes in a Moidam at Charaideo.

The nomination of the Charaideo Moidams coincided with the 400th birth anniversary of Lachit Borphukan, the most celebrated Ahom general who thwarted the attempts of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s army to capture Assam.

The Ahom Dynasty:

● The Ahom dynasty (1228–1826) ruled the Ahom kingdom in present-day Assam, India for nearly 598 years.
● The dynasty was established by Sukaphaa, a Shan prince of Mong Mao who came to Assam after crossing the Patkai Mountains.
The rule of this dynasty ended with the Burmese invasion of Assam.
● In external medieval chronicles, the kings of this dynasty were called Asam Raja, whereas the subjects of the kingdom called them Chaopha or Swargadeo.
● The Ahom rule lasted till the British annexed Assam in 1826, following the Treaty of Yandabo.

FAMOUS BATTLES OF AHOMS
Battle of Alaboi (1669)	In 1669, Aurangzeb dispatched the Rajput Raja Ram Singh I to recapture territories won back by the Ahoms. The battle of Alaboi was fought between the Ahom armed force and Mughals trespassers on August 5, 1969, in the Alaboi Hills near Dadarain North Guwahati.
Battle of Saraighat (1671)	The battle of Sarai Ghat was one of the most significant warfare in medieval India. The Battle of Saraighat was a naval battle fought between 1671between the Mughal Empire (led by the Kachwaha king, Raja Ram Singh I), and the Ahom Kingdom (led by Lachit Borphukan) on the Brahmaputra river at Saraighat, Guwahati, Assam. Although weaker, the Ahom Army defeated the Mughal Army through brilliant uses of the terrain, clever diplomatic negotiations to buy time, guerrilla tactics, psychological warfare, military intelligence and by exploiting the sole weakness of the Mughal forces (navy). The Battle of Saraighat was the last battle in the last major attempt by the Mughals to extend their empire into Assam. Though the Mughals managed to regain Guwahati briefly later after a Borphukan deserted it, the Ahoms wrested control in the Battle of Itakhuli in 1682 and maintained it till the end of their rule.

5) 3 Indian Cities in the UNESCO Network of Learning Cities

Recently, three cities in India have joined the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities. These include two cities Thrissur and Nilambur in Kerala and Warangal in Telangana.

About the Cities

Thrissur - Cultural Capital of Kerala

• Popularly known as the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur is home to academic and research institutions. It is also known for its jewelry industry, especially gold.
• As a member of the UNESCO GNLC, Thrissur hopes to contribute to the intellectual and peer learning processes, focusing on equitable access to learning for all, digital learning ecosystems, and skills for sustainability.
• Thrissur ticked UNESCO’s checkboxes in aspects of good practices, equity, and inclusion among other factors. For eg, the presence of an MSME-Development Institute of India regional center in Thrissur offers institutional support in promoting decent work and entrepreneurship through upskilling.

Nilambur- Kerala’s Eco-Tourism Destination

• It is a city with various socio-economic patterns marked by an urban and rural mix. The majority of the population depends on agriculture and allied industries.
• The city offers free healthcare facilities to all citizens and utilizes health volunteers to provide door-to-door treatment for bedded patients. It also promotes first-aid training for students and young citizens.
• Nilambur aims to promote sustainable development, gender equality, inclusivity, and democracy through community ownership.
• It also aims to ensure employment opportunities and UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2, ‘zero hunger’.

Warangal- The Tourism Spot

• The city is a major tourism venue, welcoming 3.2 million tourists every year. Warangal’s economy is primarily composed of agricultural, industrial, and service sectors.
• The city promotes equity and inclusion, for which it has implemented several strategies, including Women and Child Welfare policy, Urban Policy, and the creation of an advisory committee to monitor and evaluate the impact of initiatives on marginalized groups.

About UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC)

• Launched in 2013 by the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning, the key objective of UNESCO GNLC is to promote social cohesion, economic development, and sustainability in urban areas.
• As part of this, the institute recognizes cities that promote lifelong learning among local communities and connects them with each other for knowledge transfer.
• In 2019, UNESCO made Sustainable Development Goals part of its core policy framework and it was adopted as one of the key ingredients of UNESCO GNLC.
• In line with this, the cities that are identified and inducted under Learning Network also have to comply with all 17 SDGs, especially SDG 4 (‘Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all’) and SDG 11 (‘Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable’).

What is a Learning City?

According to UNESCO, a learning city is one that-
• effectively mobilizes its resources in every sector to promote inclusive learning from basic to higher education;
• revitalizes learning in families and communities;
• facilitates learning for and in the workplace;
• extends the use of modern learning technologies;
• enhances quality and excellence in learning;
• fosters a culture of learning throughout life.

6) Sisupalgarh

Context:

Recently, the ancient city of Sisupalgarh was in news due to the damage by the Land mafias.

About Sisupalgarh:

• It is located near the city of Bhubaneswar in Odisha.
• It was once the capital of Kalinga, which is the ancient name of Odisha.
• It dates back prior to the Mauryan period.
• It is a 2,000-year-old fortified city.
• It is considered one of the largest and best-preserved ancient fortifications in India.
• The remains of the fortification were discovered in 1948 by the Indian archaeologist B.B. Lal.

Features of Sisupalgarh:

• It was designed and constructed in a complete square shape that was surrounded by defensive walls.
• Each side spreads for over half a mile, and the interior is full of stone ruins and sculptures.
• The walls of the fortification are a little over nine meters (30 feet) tall.
• There were eight gateways into the city, two on each of the four sides of the wall.
• The gateways were connected by streets in a grid-like arrangement with the palace in the center.
• The gates were elaborate structures made of brick and stone.
• There is evidence of stone-lined reservoirs that were likely used for harvesting rainwater.
• Intelligent traffic management, pedestrian-friendly pathways, grand gateways with guard houses, wide roads, and vast open space.
• It is identified with Kalinganagara of Kharavela and Tosali of Ashoka.
• The construction of Sisupalgarh was based on JalaDurga(Water Fort) concept, which in Odia is known as the GadaKhai concept.
• Jala Durga is a type of Durga or fort, which must be situated within a water body.
• It is divided into two categories, viz., the Anterdvipa (Island fort) and the Sthala Durga (Land fort).
• Antardvipa-Durga (island fortress) is surrounded by natural (sea or river) water bodies.
• Sthala-Durga (plain fortress) is surrounded by artificial moats or irrigated by a river.

7) Bumchu Festival: Sikkim

The Bumchu Festival was celebrated in the Tashiding Monastery, located in the state of Sikkim.
o Bumchu Festival is the Tashiding holy water vase ritual which is a unique and important occasion that draws travelers from all over the world.
o Annual performances of this ancient ceremony are held at the Tashiding Monastery, located in the western part of Sikkim.
o The Bumchu festival commemorates a supernatural occurrence that took place in the 18th century under Chogyal Chakdor Namgyal.
o Bumchu means “pot of sacred water” in Tibetan.
o The vase is opened during the event, and the water inside is shared among the worshippers.
o The water is thought to have healing qualities and to grant luck and riches to those who drink it.
o The celebration takes place on the 14th and 15th of the first lunar month, which often falls in February or March.
o In Sikkim, the Bumchu festival is a time of intense delight and celebration. At the event, pilgrims travel to Tashiding from all around India as well as from close by nations like Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

8) Yaoshang Festival: Manipur

The five-day-long Yaoshang festival is Manipur’s version of Holi.
o Yaoshang Festival is celebrated every year on the full moon of Lamta month (February-March) of the Meitei lunar calendar.
o The festival is celebrated by the Meitei people who are predominantly Hindu.
o Meiteis are the dominant population of Manipur in northeastern India.
o It is celebrated at the same time as Holi and is known as ‘Manipur’s version of Holi’.
o The five-day-long celebration begins with the burning of ‘yaoshang’ (a small thatch hut/straw hut) which is constructed with bamboo and straws on the first day
o The highlight of the festival is the ThabalChongba, a traditional Manipuri folk dance where boys and girls hold hands and sing and dance in a circle.
o The festival marks the rejuvenation of the spirit of life and commemorates the birthday of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.

9) Menace of Missing Antiquities in India

Why in News?

There is a formidable gap between artifact that has been “officially” declared missing and what is surfacing in global markets or being found on museum shelves and catalogs.
● Since Independence, 486 antiquities have been reported as missing from the 3,696 monuments protected and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

What are the Issues Highlighted Regarding Missing Artefacts?

● According to ASI, 292 antiquities have been brought back to India from abroad since 2014 and 13 between 1976 and 2013.
o The ASI’s list of missing antiquities covers 17 states and two Union Territories. It includes 139 from Madhya Pradesh, 95 from Rajasthan, and 86 from Uttar Pradesh.
● The Parliament committee flagged that the “number of antiquities retrieved” by the ASI from abroad “are not even the tip of the iceberg in comparison to the huge number of antiques smuggled out from the country”.
● Monuments and sites maintained by the ASI are only a “small percentage” of the total number of archaeological sites and monuments across the country.
● The menace of missing antiquities is also illustrated by UNESCO. It estimates that “more than 50,000 art objects have been smuggled out of India till 1989”.

What is Antiquity?

About:

o The Antiquities and Art Treasures Act of 1972, which came into effect on April 1, 1976, defines an "antiquity" as any object or work of art that has been in existence for at least 100 years.
• This includes coins, sculptures, paintings, epigraphs, detached articles, and other items that reflect science, art, literature, religion, customs, morals, or politics from a bygone era.
o For “manuscript, record or other documents which is of scientific, historical, literary or aesthetic value”, this duration is “not less than 75 years.”

Protection Initiative:

o Indian:
• In India, Item-67 of the Union List, Item-12 of the State List, and Item-40 of the Concurrent List of the Constitution deal with the country’s heritage.
• Before Independence, the Antiquities (Export Control) Act was passed in April 1947 to ensure that no antiquity could be exported without a license.
• The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act was enacted in 1958 to protect ancient monuments and archaeological sites from destruction and misuse.
o Global:
• UNESCO formulated the 1970 Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property.
• The United Nations Security Council also passed resolutions in 2015 and 2016 calling for the protection of cultural heritage sites in conflict zones.

What is ‘Provenance’ of Antiquity?

Provenance includes the list of all owners from the time the object left its maker’s possession to the time it was acquired by the current owner.

What is the Procedure for Bringing Back the Antiquities?

● Categories:
o Antiquities taken out of India pre-independence;
o Antiquities which were taken out since independence until March 1976;
o Antiquities have been taken out of the country since April 1976.
● For Antiquities taken out of India before independence, requests for their retrieval must be raised bilaterally or on international fora.
o For example, in November 2022, the Maharashtra government announced that it was working to bring back the sword of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj from London.
● Antiquities in the second and third categories can be retrieved easily by raising an issue bilaterally with proof of ownership and with the help of the UNESCO convention.

15 March 2023

National News

1) Green National Highway Corridors Project and the World Bank Loan: Important Facts

India and the World Bank have recently signed a loan agreement to construct 781 kilometers of green highways across four states in India. The project aims to build the Green National Highway Corridors Project in 4 Indian states. The loan assistance of 500 million dollars will be used for the construction of the highways.
The Green National Highway Corridors Project will promote the use of green technologies and climate resilience to demonstrate safe and environmentally friendly highways. The project aims to establish a new standard for sustainable infrastructure in India.

The Project

The Green National Highway Corridors Project is a massive undertaking that aims to construct highways with an aggregate length of 781 km across four Indian states: Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh. The total project cost is estimated at $1,288.24 million (Rs 7,662.47 crore), and the World Bank has agreed to provide $500 million in loan assistance.

The Objectives of the Project

The Green National Highway Corridors Project aims to promote sustainable infrastructure in India. It will showcase the use of clean energy technologies and promote climate resilience for highway construction. The project will also promote the use of electric vehicles and bring down greenhouse gas emissions.
Under this project, highways will be constructed in a way that will reduce the carbon footprint and promote a cleaner environment. They will be designed to reduce the impact of construction on the environment.
The project is expected to transform the highway infrastructure in the country. It will also provide a boost to the Indian economy by generating employment and increasing trade and commerce.

Local/Marginal Material

One of the important aspects of the project is the use of local or marginal materials, such as lime, fly ash, waste plastic, and bio-engineering measures for slope protection. These materials will not only reduce the cost of construction but will also minimize the environmental impact of the project. Additionally, hydroseeding, coco/jute fiber, and other measures will be used for slope protection, which will help to prevent soil erosion.

2) Q+A: Smart Cities Mission

With the deadline approaching for the Smart Cities Mission in June 2023, the Central Government has urged the poorly performing cities to speed up their projects. These projects were supposed to be completed within 5 years of the city’s selection.

What is Smart Cities Mission?

The Smart Cities Mission was launched in India in 2015 by the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry to improve the quality of life in urban areas. The initiative aimed to create cities that are sustainable, efficient and equipped with modern infrastructure. Under this mission, cities were asked to submit proposals for projects to improve municipal services and make their jurisdictions more liveable. After reviewing proposals, the Ministry selected 100 cities for the mission between January 2016 and June 2018.

What kind of projects are implemented under the Smart Cities Mission?

The project proposals submitted by the cities varied widely, ranging from simple tasks like making roads more accessible and pedestrian-friendly to capital-intensive ones like laying water pipelines and constructing sewage treatment plants. All 100 cities have also constructed Integrated Command and Control Centres to monitor all security, emergency, and civic services. These centers played a crucial role in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic, with many cities converting them into emergency response units.

What is the current status of the mission?

As of March 3, the 100 cities have issued work orders for 7,799 projects worth Rs 1.80 lakh crore. Out of these, 5,399 projects worth Rs.1.02 lakh crore have been completed, while the rest are ongoing. However, only around 20 cities are likely to meet the June deadline for completion, with the others needing more time to finish their projects. Cities selected in January and June 2018 have achieved 44% of their targets, while those selected in 2016 in the second round are not much farther ahead with 46% completion.

The government’s move to push poorly performing cities to complete their projects

With the deadline for completion fast approaching, the Indian government has urged 20 poorly performing cities to speed up their projects. Among the cities are six from the Northeast, five Union Territories, and three state capitals. These cities have completed the fewest projects under the Smart Cities Mission and are lagging behind others. These cities had been instructed and offered guidance to complete the projects within the stipulated time frame.

3) India’s bullet train to run by August 2026: Railway Minister

India’s bullet train to run by August 2026

According to railways and telecom minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the first bullet train in India will begin service in August 2026. The project will stimulate the economy because several of the suppliers to the project have begun receiving export orders. The government intends to start operating the first bullet train in August 2026. The goal is to run the bullet train on a larger section in 2027.
The Indian railways is building the country’s first bullet train from Ahmedabad, Gujarat to Mumbai, Maharashtra over a 508-kilometer route. The high-speed train will run at top speed of 350 km per hour, covering the distance in three hours. The ministry of railways updated the progress of the Bullet Train project and informed that the whole project has progressed by 26.33%. It also stated that 32.93% of the project’s overall Gujarat leg had been completed and that the state’s surrounding civil works had advanced by about 54.74%.

4) Environmental, Social & Governance Law India 2023

In recent years, Environmental, Social, and Governance Law India (ESG) issues have become a significant area of concern in India.

In recent years, Environmental, Social, and Governance Law (ESG) issues have become a significant area of concern for businesses, governments, and individuals around the world. India is no exception to this trend, with the country’s corporate sector and regulators increasingly focused on ESG-related matters. As we enter 2023, it is worth taking a closer look at the state of Environmental, Social & Governance Law India 2023 (ESG law in India) and what the future holds for this rapidly evolving area.

Environmental, Social & Governance Law India 2023: Environmental Law

Environmental law has been a key area of focus for regulators in India for decades. The country’s environmental laws cover a wide range of issues, from air and water pollution to waste management and biodiversity conservation. In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainability and climate change, with the government launching a number of initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy.
● One of the most significant recent developments in Indian environmental law was the introduction of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in 2019.
● The NCAP aims to reduce air pollution levels by 20-30% by 2024 and includes a range of measures such as strengthening monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, promoting cleaner technologies, and increasing public awareness.
● Another important development was the introduction of the Plastic Waste Management Rules in 2018, which aim to reduce the use of single-use plastics and promote recycling.
● These rules require manufacturers, brand owners, and importers of plastic products to take responsibility for the collection and recycling of their products.

Environmental, Social & Governance Law India 2023: Social Law

Social issues such as human rights, labor standards, and community engagement are also increasingly on the agenda of Indian regulators and businesses. India has a complex and evolving labor law regime, which includes a range of provisions related to minimum wages, working conditions, and social security.
● In 2020, the government introduced new labor codes aimed at simplifying and modernizing the country’s labor laws. These codes consolidate a number of existing laws and introduce new provisions related to social security, employment contracts, and dispute resolution.
● Another important area of social law in India is corporate social responsibility (CSR).
● The country’s Companies Act requires certain companies to spend a percentage of their profits on CSR activities, such as education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability.

Environmental, Social & Governance Law India 2023: Governance Law

Good corporate governance is essential for ensuring that businesses operate in a responsible and sustainable manner. In India, corporate governance is governed by a range of laws and regulations, including the Companies Act, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) regulations, and the Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements (LODR) regulations.
The LODR regulations, which apply to listed companies, set out a range of requirements related to board composition, disclosure, and shareholder rights. In 2020, SEBI introduced a number of amendments to these regulations aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability.

Environmental, Social & Governance Law India 2023: Evolving Framework

ESG issues are increasingly on the radar of regulators, investors, and stakeholders in India. The country has a complex and evolving legal framework governing these issues, with a range of laws and regulations related to environmental, social, and governance matters. As we move into 2023, it is likely that ESG law in India will continue to evolve, with a growing emphasis on sustainability, climate change, and responsible business practices. Businesses operating in India will need to stay abreast of these developments and ensure that they are complying with the relevant laws and regulations.

5) What is ATL Sarthi?

Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) – NITI Aayog, a government-led think tank in India, has launched ATL Sarthi, a comprehensive self-monitoring framework to strengthen the ecosystem of Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) in schools. AIM has established 10,000 ATLs in India to promote curiosity, imagination, and creativity among young students and to develop skills such as computational thinking, physical computing, and design thinking.

The Need For ATL Sarthi

ATL Sarthi was launched to enhance the performance of ATLs and achieve the desired objectives. It aims to provide a monitoring and evaluation framework that can help improve the functioning of ATLs.

What are the four pillars of ATL Sarthi?

The four pillars of ATL Sarthi are:
Self-reporting dashboard: AIM has developed a self-reporting dashboard known as the “MyATL Dashboard” to track the performance of ATLs. The dashboard is designed to provide real-time information on the activities and achievements of each ATL. The schools can self-report their progress and accomplishments, which can be analyzed by the authorities to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each ATL.
Compliance SOPs: AIM has developed a set of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for schools to ensure financial and non-financial compliance. These SOPs ensure that the ATLs comply with the rules and regulations set by AIM and the government. This step will ensure that the funds allocated for the ATLs are spent efficiently.
Cluster-based approach: AIM has introduced a cluster-based approach to enhance the performance of ATLs. This approach involves forming clusters of 20-30 ATLs in a particular region. These ATLs can learn from each other through training, collaborations, events, and best practices. The ATL Cluster aims to provide a self-sustainable model for enablement and monitoring, wherein the ATLs and local authorities work in tandem with each other on-ground.
Performance-enablement matrix: AIM has provided ownership to schools to analyze their performance through a Performance-Enablement (PE) Matrix. This matrix will enable schools to assess their performance and take corrective measures if needed. The schools can use this matrix to evaluate their progress and achievements and improve their performance.

16 March 2023

International Affairs

1) Fact Sheet: Saudi-Iran Détente

China’s recent announcement of the Saudi-Iran détente in West Asia has been viewed as a strategic move aimed at securing long-term economic interests and establishing political influence in the region. This deal is set to rival the traditional role played by the United States in the area and has far-reaching implications for global politics.

Low-risk, high-impact opportunity for China

China sees the Saudi-Iran détente as a “low-risk, high-impact” opportunity to establish its diplomatic and political credentials in West Asia. This is a region where China has high economic stakes, and the normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran presents a unique chance for China to expand its influence in the area. With this move, China hopes to establish itself as a key mediator in the region and a force to be reckoned with in global politics.

Economic interests at stake

China’s interest in the Saudi-Iran détente is largely driven by economic considerations. The region is home to some of the world’s largest oil reserves, and China is heavily dependent on these reserves to fuel its growing economy. The peace between Saudi Arabia and Iran has the potential to stabilize the oil market and ensure a steady supply of oil to China. In addition to oil, China also has significant investments in infrastructure projects in the region and is keen to protect these investments.

Establishing political influence

China’s interest in the Saudi-Iran détente goes beyond just economic considerations. The deal presents an opportunity for China to establish its political influence in the region, something it has been striving for in recent years. By playing a key role in the normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, China hopes to establish itself as a mediator in the region and a key player in global politics. This move also allows China to challenge the traditional role played by the United States in the area and assert its dominance in a region that has long been under the influence of Western powers.

Implications for global politics

The Saudi-Iran détente has far-reaching implications for global politics, and China’s involvement in the deal is set to further complicate an already complex situation. The normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran has the potential to reshape the balance of power in the region and impact the ongoing conflicts in Syria, Yemen, and Iraq. With China now involved in the deal, it adds another layer of complexity to an already complicated situation.

2) Q+A: UN’s List of Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Bhutan’s Graduation

Bhutan, a landlocked country in South Asia, is set to be removed from the LDC list on December 13, 2023, becoming the seventh country to graduate from the list. Bhutan’s graduation was announced by the United Nations General Assembly in 2018, based on its sustainable development efforts, including poverty reduction, education, healthcare, and gender equality. This graduation is a significant milestone for Bhutan, as it represents the country’s progress in terms of economic and human development.

What is the LDCs List?

The Least Developed Countries (LDCs) list was established in 1971 by the United Nations with the purpose of identifying and supporting the world’s poorest and most vulnerable countries. The list includes 46 countries that are categorized based on their income levels, human development indicators, and economic vulnerability. These countries face significant challenges in terms of economic development, including low levels of infrastructure, limited access to financial markets, and a high incidence of poverty.

What are the benefits of graduating from LDC List?

Bhutan’s graduation from the LDC list is expected to have several benefits for the country, including increased access to international financial markets, greater foreign direct investment, and improved trade opportunities. It is also expected to boost Bhutan’s international image and attract more tourists to the country, which is known for its natural beauty and unique culture. The graduation also highlights the importance of sustainable development and good governance in achieving economic growth and reducing poverty.

What are the challenges faced by LDCs?

While Bhutan’s graduation from the LDC list is a positive development, it also highlights the challenges faced by other countries on the list. The LDCs account for 13 percent of the global population, but they contribute to just 1.3 percent of the global GDP and less than 1 percent of global trade and foreign direct investment. This indicates that the LDCs are facing significant economic and development challenges that need to be addressed.
Some of the countries on the LDC list, such as Burkina Faso, Senegal, Rwanda, Haiti, Nepal, and the Solomon Islands, are among the poorest in the world, with high levels of poverty, limited access to education and healthcare, and inadequate infrastructure. These countries also face challenges such as political instability, conflict, and climate change, which further exacerbate their economic and social challenges.

3) Warrior Shield FTX Joint Exercise

Context

The South Korean and U.S. militaries announced to hold of their biggest joint field exercises in five years, as the U.S. flew a long-range B-1B bomber to the Korean Peninsula in a show of force against North Korea.

Background:

• The two countries last conducted Foal Eagle in 2018.
• Recently, both countries have been expanding their joint military exercises in the face of an evolving North Korean nuclear threat.
• The United States flew a supersonic bomber over ally South Korea as part of an enormous combined aerial exercise involving hundreds of warplanes in a show of force meant to intimidate North Korea over its barrage of ballistic missile tests.
• The US has fired B-1B missiles to demonstrate its determination and ability to use the full range of its military capabilities, including nuclear, to defend its allies.
North Korea is highly sensitive to the deployment of B-1Bs, which are capable of carrying a large conventional weapons payload.
• It responded to the previous flights of multiple B-1Bs by test-launching two short-range missiles.

Details of the exercise:

• The South Korean and U.S. military will conduct the Freedom Shield exercise, a computer-simulated command post training, to strengthen their defense and response capabilities, and separate large-scale joint field training exercises called ‘Warrior Shield FTX.’
• It is going to be conducted from March 13 to 23, 2023.

Why is such an exercise being conducted?

• North Korea test-fired more than 70 missiles in the year 2022, the most ever in a single year, and several more this year.
• Many of the missiles were nuclear-capable weapons designed to strike the U.S. mainland and South Korea.
• The Hwasong-15 is one of North Korea's three existing ICBMs (intercontinental ballistic missiles), all of which use liquid propellants that require pre-launch injections and cannot remain fueled for extended periods.
• The North is pushing to build a solid-fuelled ICBM, which would be more mobile and harder to detect before its launch.

Nuclear Diplomacy:

• Nuclear diplomacy deals with the prevention of nuclear war and peacetime proliferation.
• It also deals with the use of the threat of nuclear warfare to achieve diplomatic goals.

4) Eric Garcetti appointed as US Ambassador to India

The US Senate Committee has announced the appointment of Eric Garcetti as the new US Ambassador to India.

US ambassador to India

The US Senate Committee has announced the appointment of Eric Garcetti as the new US Ambassador to India. Despite being nominated by President Joe Biden almost two years ago, Garcetti’s appointment had been pending until now. Eric Garcetti served as the President of the City Council of Los Angeles for four consecutive terms and is known to be a close acquaintance of President Biden. He has also emerged as a leader within the Democratic Party. However, Garcetti’s tenure as mayor of Los Angeles lasted for nine years and was not without controversy. In 2020, there was a controversial incident that occurred during his time in office.
Eric Garcetti’s nomination for the prestigious diplomatic posting as the US Ambassador to India had been pending before the US Congress since July 2021, when President Biden nominated him for the position. Prior to his confirmation, the position had remained vacant for more than two years. However, during President Biden’s first two years in office, some lawmakers had expressed concerns about Garcetti’s handling of sexual assault and harassment allegations against a former senior adviser, which led to his confirmation being delayed.

Eric’s Career

Before entering politics, Eric Garcetti was a guest lecturer of International Affairs at the University of Southern California, where he taught courses in diplomacy, public policy, and world affairs. He also served as an officer in the US Navy Reserve for nearly 12 years, starting in 2005. In addition to his political career, Garcetti is known for his passion for jazz piano and photography.
From 2013 to 2022, Garcetti held the position of Mayor of Los Angeles, making him the youngest mayor the city has had in 100 years and the first Jewish person to hold the office. Prior to his time as mayor, he served as the President of the Los Angeles City Council from 2006 to 2012 and as a Councilmember for the 13th District before that.

5) Battle of Bakhmut

Context:

Bakhmut has been in news recently, regarding the Russian-Ukrainian war.

About the Battle of Bakhmut:

• Bakhmut is a city in the eastern Ukraine region of Donetsk
• Bakhmut is currently in ruins, having been the focal point of Russian assaults and a site of dogged defense by the Ukrainian military.
• The industrial city, is known for its salt and gypsum mines.
• It’s also the site of a winery established on the order of Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin in 1950.
• Background: Bakhmut has been caught up in conflict since 2014 when Russia-backed separatists launched a push to capture Donetsk. The separatists briefly seized parts of the city that year, before Ukrainian forces drove them out.
• Bakhmut is proximate to multiple important roads which may have some strategic value to the Russian advance.
• It’s an important transport hub, a lot of supply lines go through there and Russia could use it as a base.

6) China, India, and the Promise of the Power

Why in News?

With India’s presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and the G-20, its focus is also on China.

What are the Focus Areas of China’s Development?

Steady Growth:
o In 2022, China’s economy grew by 3%.
o China’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product) increased to 121 trillion yuan (approximately USD 18 trillion), registering an annual growth rate of 5.2% over the past five years.
People’s Well-Being:
o As a result of continued efforts of the past eight years, China has historically resolved absolute Poverty, with the alleviation of close to 100 million rural residents from poverty.
o Over 70% of the government’s expenditure went toward ensuring people’s well-being.
Win-Win Cooperation:
o In the period 2013-2021, China’s contribution to global economic growth averaged 38.6%, higher than that of G7 countries combined (25.7%).
o Ever since the Chinese President proposed the Global Development Initiative (GDI) in a speech at the United Nations General Assembly in 2021, more than 100 countries have expressed their support and over 60 countries have joined the Group of Friends of the GDI.

What is the Scenario of Trade between India and China?

o China is India’s second biggest trading partner after the US.
o China and India are important trading partners, with bilateral trade volume reaching USD 135.984 billion in 2022.
o Though there is a trade deficit, India’s import of equipment and materials from China does reduce the overall cost of “Made-in-India” products, benefits Indian downstream industries and consumers, enhances the competitiveness of Indian exports, and in turn facilitates India’s integration into global industrial and supply chains.
o The Chinese market is open to India, and the Chinese side is happy to see more high-quality Indian goods, cultural and other products entering the Chinese market.
o Investments by Chinese enterprises have created a large number of jobs for the Indian people and contributed to India’s economic development.

Way Forward

o The development and revitalization of China and India embody a boost to the force of developing countries; it is one that will change the destiny of a third of the world’s population and have bearing on the future of Asia and beyond.
o As two neighboring and ancient civilizations, with a combined population of 2.8 billion, China and India are representatives of developing countries and emerging economies.
o India and China are both in the process of national rejuvenation and a crucial period of modernization where challenges need to be overcome and problems need to be solved.
o China and India have far more common interests than differences.

7) India and the AUKUS Grouping

Recently, the US, UK, and Australia have unveiled details of their plan to create a new fleet of nuclear-powered submarines, aimed at countering China's influence in the Indo-Pacific region. Under the AUKUS pact, Australia is to get at least three nuclear-powered submarines from the US.
The AUKUS agreement, which involves Australia acquiring nuclear-powered submarines with the help of the US and the UK, is being praised and criticized simultaneously. It is viewed as a means of strengthening deterrence and stability in the Indo-Pacific. However, China sees it as a dangerous alliance that the US is building in the area, along with the Quadrilateral forum or the Quad.
This pact will trigger multiple strategic consequences for Asia, including India. However, it is also an opportunity for India to develop a unique set of arrangements with the US and its allies.

What is AUKUS Grouping?

o It is a trilateral security partnership for the Indo-Pacific, between Australia, the UK, and the US (AUKUS) which was signed in 2021.
o The major highlight of this arrangement is the sharing of US nuclear submarine technology with Australia.
o Its Indo-pacific orientation makes it an alliance against China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea.
o It involves a new architecture of meetings and engagements between the three countries, as well as cooperation across emerging technologies (applied AI, quantum technologies, and undersea capabilities).

What are the Concerns related to AUKUS Grouping for Asia?

Regional Security:
o The AUKUS partnership has been perceived as a challenge to the security and stability of the region, particularly by China. The agreement includes the sharing of sensitive defense technologies and intelligence, which has raised concerns about its impact on the strategic balance in the region.
Diplomatic Implications:
o The AUKUS partnership has also been viewed as a diplomatic setback for countries such as India, Japan, and South Korea, which have traditionally been seen as key allies of the United States in the region.
o These countries fear that the new partnership will sideline them and reduce their influence in the region.
Impact on Non-Proliferation:
o The AUKUS partnership involves the transfer of nuclear-powered submarine technology to Australia, which has raised concerns about its impact on global non-proliferation efforts. Some experts have expressed concern that this move could set a dangerous precedent and encourage other countries to pursue nuclear capabilities.
Economic Consequences:
o The AUKUS partnership has also raised concerns about its economic implications, particularly for countries such as India that have significant defense industries. The agreement is expected to lead to increased competition and could potentially impact the ability of these countries to sell defense equipment to Australia.

What will be the Strategic Consequences for India?

Strengthening ties with Australia:
o With Australia's upgraded scientific and technical capabilities, there is an opportunity for India to deepen its S&T cooperation with Australia, which could eventually expand to sensitive strategic areas.
o This would enhance India's own technological capabilities and contribute to regional peace and security.
Recognizing the Continuing Global Strategic Salience of Britain:
o India tends to neglect the strategic importance of Britain, but the AUKUS deal may boost UK's profile in Asia.
o India could explore opportunities for closer cooperation with Britain on Indo-Pacific security issues.
Embracing the idea of an "Anglosphere":
o Despite India's difficult past relations with the Anglosphere, the AUKUS deal has brought enduring geopolitical bonds between the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand back to life.
• An Anglosphere is also called the world of English-speaking people bound by common political beliefs, similar legal traditions, and shared geopolitical interests.
o India could explore opportunities to expand its ties with the English-speaking world, particularly in the areas of technology and defense.
Developing a Unique Set of Arrangements:
o With the US seeking to boost the strategic capabilities of its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific, India has a rare opportunity to develop its own set of arrangements with the US and its allies.
o This could involve closer military cooperation, joint exercises, and intelligence sharing, among other things.

How can India Safeguard its Strategic Interests?

Exploring Opportunities for Collaboration:
o India can explore opportunities for collaboration and technology transfer with the AUKUS countries, while also ensuring that its own national security interests are not compromised.
o India can seek collaborations with AUKUS countries in areas such as maritime security, cybersecurity, and intelligence sharing.
Maintaining Balance:
o India should maintain a balance between its engagement with AUKUS and other key partners, such as Russia, France, and Japan.
o India should avoid being drawn into a zero-sum game and strive to maintain strong ties with all relevant countries.
o This is particularly important given the complex geopolitical landscape of the Indo-Pacific region.
Strengthening Quad:
o India should work towards strengthening the Quad, which could provide a counterbalance to AUKUS and help promote a rules-based regional order.
o India should leverage the Quad to promote regional stability and balance of power.
Ensuring the Interest of Smaller Countries:
o India needs to ensure that the interests of smaller countries in the region are not overlooked in any engagements with AUKUS. India should take a leadership role in promoting a cooperative and inclusive approach to regional security issues.
o This could involve initiatives such as capacity building for smaller countries in the region and promoting greater regional integration and connectivity.

17 March 2023

Science & Technology

1) Fact Sheet: Thiania Indica

A group of researchers led by Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, have discovered a new species of jumping spider, Thiania indica. The spider was discovered during an expedition to Kulathupuzha in the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary in December 2021.

Thiania indica belongs to the Thiania C.L. Koch genus of Salticidae family. The research findings were published in the March 2023 issue of the peer-reviewed journal Arachnology by the British Arachnological Society.

Distinct Features of Thiania indica

The researchers have described the distinct features of the species’ male and female spiders. Both genders of the species have reddish-brown carapace. Males have four patches of white hairs on their grew-yellow abdomen. On the other hand, females have a wide transverse black band anteriorly and posteriorly on their creamy yellow abdomen.

Previous Records

Only one species, Thiania bhamoensis, belonging to the Thiania C.L. Koch genus has been previously recorded in India. The particular species has been distributed across China, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Indonesia.

Need for Further Exploration

The researchers pointed out that many biodiverse regions of the Western Ghats remain either unexplored or poorly surveyed for arachnids. They called for greater focus in hotspots such as the Western Ghats and Indo-Burma regions where more hitherto undiscovered species are expected.
The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a biodiversity hotspot and is home to a large number of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic. The region is also one of the eight “hottest hotspots” of biodiversity in the world. Indo-Burma region, on the other hand, is a biodiversity hotspot that spans across parts of Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam. The region is home to a large number of species, many of which are endemic and are facing threats due to human activities such as deforestation, poaching, and hunting.

2) What is TV-D1?

The first test vehicle demonstration (TV-D1) under the Gaganyaan mission will be conducted on May 2023. It aims to test the abort process mid-air, the parachute system, and the recovery of crew members after splashdown. The demonstration involves using a single liquid propellant-based rocket stage to carry the crew module to a sub-orbital level. The success of this demonstration will bring the Gaganyaan mission an inch closer to the goal of sending humans to space.

Additional Demonstrations and Crewed Missions

The uncrewed mission will only take place after the success of two such demonstrations. Two more test vehicle demonstrations will follow before the second uncrewed mission, which will carry a pressurized crew module. The first crewed mission has been scheduled for late 2024 or early 2025, but its timeline will depend on the success of these tests.

Gaganyaan Advisory Council’s Recommendation

The Gaganyaan Advisory Council has recommended additional testing for the Crew Escape System and deceleration systems through four abort missions using Test Vehicle (TV) and Integrated Air Drop Tests before proceeding with crewed missions. This was in addition to the two uncrewed missions that were originally planned.

Testing Procedures

The TV-D1 is designed to test the processes for aborting the mission mid-air, the parachute system that will bring the crew module down to sea, and the recovery of crew members from the module after splashdown. The demonstration will use a single liquid propellant-based rocket stage to carry the crew module to sub-orbital level.

Importance of TV-D1

The test vehicle demonstration is an essential step in the Gaganyaan mission’s progress. The TV-D1 aims to test the safety and reliability of the spacecraft and its systems, including the escape mechanism, at a much higher altitude than before. The TV-D1’s success will pave the way for further testing and the eventual crewed mission.

3) GPT-4 vs ChatGPT

Context

GPT-4 is a large multimodal model created by OpenAI and announced on March 14, 2023.

What is GPT-4?

• GPT-4 is "multimodal" created by OpenAI, which means it can generate content from both image and text prompts.
• Multimodal models can encompass more than just text and also accepts images as input.
• Meanwhile, GPT-3 and GPT-3.5 only operated in one modality, text, meaning users could only ask questions by typing them out.
• GPT-4 is also capable of handling over 25,000 words of text, opening up a greater number of use cases that now also include long-form content creation, document search and analysis, and extended conversations.

ChatGPT:

• ChatGPT is a ‘conversational’ AI and will answer queries just like a human would.
• It can answer follow-up questions.
• It can also “admit its mistakes
• It can challenge incorrect premises and reject inappropriate requests.
• It is being seen as a replacement for much of the daily mundane writing, from an email to even college-style essays.
• Developed by: OpenAI, a research, and development firm that was founded as a non-profit in 2015.
• Language Used: It has used the GPT 3.5 series of language learning models (LLM).
• GPT stands for Generative Pre-trained Transformer 3.
• It relies on deep learning techniques to produce human-like text based on inputs.’

Issues:

• ChatGPT’s GPT-3.5 was limited to textual input and output, meaning they could only read and write.
• ChatGPT could process 8,000 words at a time.
• ChatGPT’s GPT-3.5 model could handle 4,096 tokens.

4) Green and Self-Powered Desalination Plant in Lakshadweep

Why in News?

Recently, the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), an autonomous institute under the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) is establishing a Green and Self-powered Desalination Plant in Lakshadweep.

• The NIOT is working on an initiative to provide potable water in six islands of Lakshadweep using Low-Temperature Thermal Desalination (LTTD) technology. The NIOT is now trying to make this process emission-free.
• Currently, the desalination plants, each of which provides at least 100,000 litres of potable water every day, are powered by diesel generator sets.

What is the Green and Self-powered Desalination Plant?

About:

o The proposed desalination plant will use a combination of renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and wave energy to power the plant. The plant will be equipped with reverse osmosis (RO) technology to desalinate seawater and produce potable water. The NIOT plans to set up the plant in one of the islands, where there is a high potential for renewable energy generation.
o The plant is the first of its kind in the world as it will generate drinking water from sea water using indigenous technology, green energy and environmentally friendly processes and it is self-powered.

Need:

o The process of LTTD is not fossil-fuel-free and also consumes diesel and works by diesel generator sets, a precious commodity in the islands that has to be shipped from the mainland critical for powering the electric grid.

What is Low-Temperature Thermal Desalination Technology?

o LTTD is a desalination technique that turns seawater into drinkable water.
o This method is based on the idea that ocean water 1,000 to 2,000 feet below the surface is 4–8°C colder than surface water. Therefore, a tank is used to collect and apply high pressure to salty surface water (via an external power source).
o The vaporized water under pressure is contained in tubes or a chamber. Cold ocean water is drawn up via these tubes, where the vapor condenses to create fresh water and the salt that results is diverted away and the condensed fresh water can be used for drinking.

What is Desalination Plant?

• A desalination plant turns salt water into water that is fit to drink.
o Desalination is the process of removing salts from water to produce water that meets the quality (salinity) requirements of different human uses.
• Most commonly used technology for the process is reverse osmosis.
o An external pressure is applied to push solvents from an area of high-solute concentration to an area of low-solute concentration through a semi-permeable membrane.
o The microscopic pores in the membranes allow water molecules through but leave salt and most other impurities behind, releasing clean water from the other side.
• These plants are mostly set up in areas that have access to seawater.

Conclusion

• The successful implementation of NIOT's self-powered desalination plant in Lakshadweep will require a concerted effort from all stakeholders involved and the project can become a sustainable solution to the water scarcity problem in the region and a model for other coastal communities facing similar challenges.

5) Reliance Industries To Introduce Personal Genomic Mapping

Reliance Industries will introduce personal genomic mapping (PGM) to the Indian market.
o All the genetic information of an organism is called its genome. It consists of nucleotide sequences of DNA.
o Genetic mapping can offer firm evidence that a disease transmitted from parent to child is linked to one or more genes.
o PGM is expected to grow by 2.4 times by 2032.
o PGM can identify and assess genes associated with a disease, and help with healthcare choices and precision medicine.
o PGM provides clues about which chromosome contains the gene and precisely where the gene lies on that chromosome.
o Ethical concerns exist around the possible use of PGM data for “designer” babies and the high cost involved and potential data abuse.

18 March 2023

Indian Polity

1) BCI Allows Foreign Lawyers to Practice in India

Why in News?

Recently, the Bar Council of India (BCI) has notified Rules for Registration and Regulation of Foreign Lawyers and Foreign Law Firms in India, 2022, allowing foreign lawyers and law firms to practice in India.
• However, it did not allow them to appear before courts, tribunals or other statutory or regulatory authorities.

What is the BCI Decision?

• For over a decade, BCI was opposed to allowing foreign law firms in India.
• Now, the BCI has reasoned that its move will address concerns about the flow of Foreign Direct Investment in the country and make India a hub of International Commercial Arbitration.
• The rules bring legal clarity to foreign law firms that currently operate in a very limited way in India.
• The BCI said it “resolves to implement these Rules enabling the foreign lawyers and Foreign Law Firms to practice foreign law and diverse international law and international arbitration matters in India on the principle of reciprocity in a well-defined, regulated and controlled manner.

What are the New Rules?

• The notification allows foreign lawyers and law firms to register with BCI to practice in India if they are entitled to practice law in their home countries. However, they cannot practice Indian law.
o According to the Advocates Act 1961, advocates enrolled with the Bar Council alone are entitled to practice law in India. All others, such as a litigant, can appear only with the permission of the court, authority or person before whom the proceedings are pending.
• They shall be allowed to practice transactional work /corporate work (Non-Litigious Practice) such as joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, Intellectual Property matters, drafting of contracts, and other related matters on a reciprocal basis.
• They shall not be involved or permitted to do any work pertaining to the conveyancing of property, title investigation or other similar works.
• Indian lawyers working with foreign law firms will also be subject to the same restriction of engaging only in “Non-Litigious Practice.”

What is the Significance of the New Move?

• It is likely to pave the way for potential consolidation, especially for firms dealing in the cross-border mergers and acquisitions (M&A) practice in particular.
• Entry of foreign law firms will support in a big way the ambition of India to be more visible and valuable in a global context, especially on international trade and commerce.
• This will be a game changer for mid-size firms and will also help the law firms in India to achieve more efficiency in talent management, IA, technology, domain knowledge in a global context, and management.

What is the Bar Council of India?

• The Bar Council of India is a statutory body created by Parliament under the Advocates Act, 1961 to regulate and represent the Indian bar.
• It performs the regulatory function by prescribing standards of professional conduct and etiquette and by exercising disciplinary jurisdiction over the bar.
• It also sets standards for legal education and grants recognition to universities whose degrees in law will serve as qualifications for enrolment as an advocate.
• In addition, it performs certain representative functions by protecting the rights, privileges and interests of advocates and through the creation of funds for providing financial assistance to organize welfare schemes for them.

2) Governor’s Power to Call for Floor Test

Why in News?

Recently, the Supreme Court (SC) has said that the Governor cannot call for a Floor Test on the basis of internal differences in the Party Members.
• The SC while hearing a case about a dispute between two factions in a political party, discussed the powers and role of the Governor in calling for a trust vote.

How can the Governor Call for a Floor Test?

About:

o Article 174 of the Constitution authorizes the Governor to summon, dissolve and prorogue the state legislative assembly.
• Article 174(2)(b) of the Constitution gives powers to the Governor to dissolve the Assembly on the aid and advice of the cabinet. However, the Governor can apply his mind when the advice comes from a Chief Minister whose majority could be in doubt.
o According to Article 175(2), the Governor can summon the House and call for a floor test to prove whether the government has the numbers.
o However, the Governor can exercise the above only as per Article 163 of the Constitution which says that the Governor acts on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers headed by the Chief Minister.
o When the House is in session, it is the Speaker who can call for a floor test. But when the Assembly is not in session, the Governor’s residuary powers under Article 163 allow him to call for a floor test.

Governor’s Discretionary Power:

o Article 163 (1) essentially limits any discretionary power of the Governor only to cases where the Constitution expressly specifies that the Governor must act on his own and apply an independent mind.
o The Governor can exercise his discretionary power under Article 174, when the chief minister has lost the support of the House and his strength is debatable.
o Generally, when doubts are cast on the chief minister that he has lost the majority, the opposition and the Governor would rally for a floor test.
o On numerous occasions, the courts have also clarified that when the majority of the ruling party is in question, a floor test must be conducted at the earliest available opportunity.

What are the SC’s Observations on the Governor's Floor Test Call?

• In 2016, the SC in Nabam Rebia and Bamang Felix vs Deputy Speaker case (the Arunachal Pradesh Assembly case) said that the power to summon the House is not solely vested in the Governor and should be exercised with aid and advice of the Council of Ministers and not at his own.
• The Court highlighted the facts that the Governor is not an elected authority and is a mere nominee of the President, such a nominee cannot have an overriding authority over the representatives of the people, who constitute the House or Houses of the State Legislature.
• In 2020, the Supreme Court, in Shivraj Singh Chouhan & Ors versus Speaker, Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly & Ors, upheld the powers of the Speaker to call for a floor test if there is a prima facie view that the government has lost its majority.
o The Governor is not denied the power to order a floor test where on the basis of the material available to the Governor it becomes evident that the issue as to whether the government commands the confidence of the House requires it to be assessed on the basis of a floor test.

What is a Floor Test?

• It is a term used for the test of the majority. If there are doubts against the Chief Minister (CM) of a State, he/she can be asked to prove the majority in the House.
o In the case of a coalition government, the CM may be asked to move a vote of confidence and win a majority.
• In the absence of a clear majority, when there is more than one individual stake to form the government, the Governor may call for a special session to see who has the majority to form the government.
o Some legislators may be absent or choose not to vote. The numbers are then considered based only on those MLAs who were present to vote.

3) Suspension of Operations (SoO) Agreement

Context

The State government of Manipur has decided to withdraw from the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with two hill-based tribal militant groups (Kuki and Zoumi), alleging they were “influencing agitation among forest encroachers”.

Background:

• The steps were taken in view of the violent incidents that happened in Kangpokpi district during a protest rally organized against Section 144. Many civilians and police personnel were injured in the ding-dong running battles at several places.
• The protest rally was influenced by two groups, Kuki National Army (KNA) and Zomi Revolutionary Army (ZRA).

Section 144:

• Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) of 1973 authorizes the Executive Magistrate of any state or territory to issue an order to prohibit the assembly of four or more people in an area.
• According to the law, every member of such 'unlawful assembly' can be booked for engaging in rioting.

What is the matter?

• The recent protests were against the expulsion of residents that some groups claim are “illegal immigrants from Myanmar, Nepal, and Bangladesh”.
• The crisis has been fuelled by long-standing tensions between the ethnic Meitei or non-tribals in Imphal valley and Kuki tribal communities living in the hills, as well as growing numbers of refugees fleeing counterinsurgency operations conducted by the junta in Myanmar.
• Many of these refugees belong to the same ethnic group, the Kuki-Chin-Zomi-Mizo tribe that lives in the hills of Manipur.
• The districts of Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, Tamenglong, Chandel, Ukhrul, and Senapati are notified as “hill districts” in Manipur.
• The ethnic Kuki population in Manipur is about 30 percent of the 28.5 lakh population, according to the 2011 Census.
• Leaders of the hills communities have alleged the eviction drive is targeting legitimate residents of the state.

What is the Suspension of Operations pact?

• The SoO pact was signed on August 22, 2008.
• Objective: For initiating political dialogue with the militant groups.
• Reason: The Kuki outfits who were initially demanding a separate Kuki state have come down to a ‘Kukiland territorial council’, which would have financial and administrative powers independent of the Manipur Assembly and government. There are nearly 30 Kuki insurgent groups in Manipur, of which 25 are under tripartite Suspension of Operations (SoO) with the Government of India and the state.
• Time period: The duration of the Suspension of Operation agreement is one year, it is extendable according to the progress of its implementation.
• Implementation: To oversee the effective implementation of the SoO pact, a committee called the Joint Monitoring Group (JMG), with representatives from all the signatories, has been formed.
• Signatories of the agreement:
• The signatories of UPF and KNO shall abide by the Constitution of India, the laws of the land, and the territorial integrity of Manipur.
• They are prohibited from committing all kinds of atrocities, and extortion, among others.
• Provisions of the agreement:
• The militant cadres are to be confined in designated camps identified by the Government.
• Arms are deposited in a safe room under a double-locking system.
• The groups are given arms only to guard their camps and protect their leaders.
• As a rehabilitation package, the UG cadres living in the designated camps are given a monthly stipend of Rs.5000.
• Financial assistance is also being provided to maintain the designated camps.

4) Rules For Registration And Regulation Of Foreign Lawyers And Foreign Law Firms In India, 2022

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has notified the Rules for Registration and Regulation of Foreign Lawyers and Foreign Law Firms in India, 2022.

New Rules:

o The notification allows foreign lawyers and law firms to register with BCI to practice in India if they are entitled to practice law in their home countries. However, they cannot practice Indian law.
o According to the Advocates Act 1961, advocates enrolled with the Bar Council alone are entitled to practise law in India.
o All others, such as a litigant, can appear only with the permission of the court, authority or person before whom the proceedings are pending.
o They shall be allowed to practice transactional work /corporate work (Non-Litigious Practice) such as joint ventures, mergers, and acquisitions, Intellectual Property matters, drafting of contracts and other related matters on a reciprocal basis.
o They shall not be involved or permitted to do any work pertaining to the conveyancing of property, title investigation or other similar works.
o Indian lawyers working with foreign law firms will also be subject to the same restriction of engaging only in “Non-Litigious Practice.”

5) Right Of Children To Free And Compulsory Education Act, 2009

The Delhi High Court recently disposed of a plea seeking direction to the Bar Council of India (BCI) to make the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 (RTE Act) a compulsory subject in all law schools.
o The Constitution (Eighty-sixth Amendment) Act, 2002 inserted Article 21-A in the Constitution of India to provide free and compulsory education of all children in the age group of six to fourteen years as a Fundamental Right.
o RTE Act is an Act of the Parliament of India enacted on 4 August 2009 as envisaged under Article 21-A.

Main Features of the RTE Act:
o Free and compulsory education to all children of India in the 6 to 14 age group.
o It clarifies that ‘compulsory education’ means the obligation of the appropriate government to provide free elementary education and ensure compulsory admission, attendance, and completion of elementary education to every child in the six to fourteen age group.
o No child shall be held back, expelled, or required to pass a board examination until the completion of elementary education.
o It makes provisions for a non-admitted child to be admitted to an age-appropriate class.
o It specifies the duties and responsibilities of appropriate Governments, local authorities, and parents in providing free and compulsory education and sharing financial and other responsibilities between the Central and State Governments.
o It lays down the norms and standards relating inter alia to Pupil Teacher Ratios (PTRs), buildings and infrastructure, school-working days, and teacher-working hours.
o It provides for the appointment of appropriately trained teachers, i.e., teachers with the requisite entry and academic qualifications.
o It prohibits physical punishment and mental harassment, screening procedures for admission of children, capitation fee, private tuition by teachers, and running of schools without recognition.
o It provides for the development of a curriculum in consonance with the values enshrined in the Constitution.

20 March 2023

Ecology & Environment

1) Utility Bidder’s Deforestation Report

The Deforestation Report by Utility Bidder has revealed that India has seen the highest surge in deforestation in the past 30 years. The country lost 384,000 hectares (ha) of forests between 1990 and 2000, but the figure rose to 668,400 ha between 2015 and 2020. This trend makes India the second-largest country with deforestation after Brazil. The report analyzed the deforestation trends of 98 countries using data aggregator Our World In Data’s figures from 1990 to 2000 and 2015 to 2020. Here are some key points from the report.

Cattle Rearing and Oil Seed Cultivation Responsible for Most Deforestation

The report highlights that cattle rearing and oil seed cultivation are the leading causes of global deforestation. Cattle rearing alone causes an annual loss of 2,105,753 ha of forests, followed by the cultivation of oil seeds causing a loss of 950,609 ha.

Palm Oil Cultivation Leads to Deforestation in Indonesia

Indonesia witnessed a significant loss of forests due to palm oil cultivation, leading to the destruction of 650,000 ha of forests. It ranks third globally in terms of deforestation.

Soybean Cultivation is Another Driver of Deforestation

While palm oil has been a big driver of deforestation for many years, soybean cultivation is also responsible for significant deforestation globally. The report states that many ha of grassland and forests have been destroyed to make room for soybean cultivation.

Logging is the Third Highest Factor Responsible for Deforestation

Logging is the third highest factor responsible for deforestation, causing around 678,744 ha of annual deforestation globally.

India Compensates for Increase in Population at the Cost of Deforestation

The report suggests that India has had to compensate for the increase in residents due to its status as the country with the second-largest population in the world. This has come at the cost of deforestation, making it the country with the largest increase in deforestation from 1990 to 2020, with a difference of 284,400 ha in forestry loss.

Brazil Loses Forests Due to Climate Change

Brazil ranks first globally in terms of deforestation, having lost 1,695,700 ha of forests between 2015 and 2020. However, this is much lower than the 4,254,800 ha it lost between 1990 and 2000. Most of the forests were lost due to climate change.

2) Background Radiation

Background radiation refers to the radiation emitted from natural sources such as rocks or mountains. A recent study conducted by scientists at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) found that certain areas in Kerala are experiencing nearly three times more background radiation than previously assumed. The study is significant, as it sheds light on the natural radiation levels in India, which has important implications for the country’s nuclear energy plans.

Monazite sands and high levels of thorium

The higher radiation levels in Kollam, a district in Kerala, are attributed to the presence of monazite sands that are high in thorium, a naturally radioactive element. Thorium is a common radioactive element that is found in small amounts in soil, rocks, and water. Monazite sands are one of the most important sources of thorium, and India has been using these sands as a source of nuclear fuel for many years. Southern India, which is home to granite and basaltic volcanic rock, has higher levels of radiation from uranium deposits.

Study findings

The study conducted by BARC scientists measured radiation levels from nearly 100,000 locations across India. The study found that the average natural background levels of gamma radiation in India were 94 nGy/hr. However, in Kollam district, the levels were found to be 9,562 nGy/hr, which is about three times more than the assumed levels. The 1986 survey conducted previously had mapped only 214 locations.

No elevated health risk

Although the higher radiation levels in the Kollam district might seem concerning, the study’s authors note that there is no elevated health risk associated with these higher radiation levels. The human body is accustomed to higher doses of radiation, and there is no evidence to suggest that the higher levels of radiation in the Kollam district are causing any adverse health effects.

IAEA safety standards

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) specifies maximum radiation exposure levels, which have also been adopted by India’s atomic energy establishment. The IAEA recommends that public exposure to radiation should not exceed 1 milli-Sievert every year, and those who work in nuclear plants or are exposed to radiation by virtue of their occupation should not be exposed to over 30 milli-Sievert every year.

3) NZIA and CRMA

The European Union (EU) has recently announced two major pieces of legislation that are part of its Green Deal Industrial Plan – the Net Zero Industry Act (NZIA) and the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA). The aim of these measures is to promote green manufacturing and reduce the EU’s reliance on imports. In this article, we will take a closer look at these acts and their potential impact on the global manufacturing landscape.

The Net Zero Industry Act

The Net Zero Industry Act (NZIA) is a key component of the EU’s Green Deal Industrial Plan. It seeks to promote the production of green technologies within the EU by achieving at least 40% of the EU’s green technology needs through domestic manufacturing by 2030. This would reduce the EU’s reliance on imports, create jobs, and promote sustainable economic growth. The NZIA will support the development of a range of green technologies, including renewable energy, energy-efficient buildings, and electric vehicles. It will also provide funding for research and development in the green manufacturing sector and create incentives for companies to adopt more sustainable practices.

The Critical Raw Materials Act

The Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) is another key component of the EU’s Green Deal Industrial Plan. It aims to reduce the EU’s reliance on imports of critical raw materials by setting goals for their extraction, processing, and recycling within the EU. Critical raw materials are those that are essential for the production of high-tech products such as batteries, electric vehicles, and wind turbines.
By reducing the EU’s reliance on imports of critical raw materials, the CRMA aims to boost the EU’s competitiveness in the global manufacturing sector. It will also help to ensure the security of the supply of critical raw materials, which are often subject to geopolitical tensions.

Implications for Emerging Economies

The EU’s focus on green manufacturing and reducing reliance on imports could have implications for emerging economies that depend on their manufacturing sectors. For example, countries that export raw materials to the EU could see a reduction in demand, which could have a negative impact on their economies.
However, the EU has stated that it is committed to working with partner countries to promote sustainable and fair trade. It has also pledged to support the development of green technologies in partner countries, which could create new opportunities for cooperation and trade.

Criticism from Civil Society Groups

The EU’s preference for industrial policy over carbon pricing has led to criticism from civil society groups. Some groups argue that the NZIA and CRMA do not go far enough in addressing the root causes of climate change and that carbon pricing would be a more effective tool for reducing emissions.
However, the EU argues that a combination of industrial policy and carbon pricing is necessary to achieve the goals of the Green Deal. It has also stated that it is committed to ensuring that the costs of the transition to a green economy are distributed fairly.

4) World’s First Sand Battery

Finland has installed the world’s first sand battery that can store heat from renewable energy sources for months
o Sand batteries made of sand collected from construction sites, can solve the problem of round-the-year energy supply, a known limitation of renewable energy sources that can be harnessed intermittently.
o Sand can be heated up to 600 degrees Celsius (°C), whereas water starts to boil at 100°C.
o It also has low heat conductivity, which reduces energy loss.
o The storage system has three main components: the sand silo, an electrical air heater, and an air-to-water heat exchanger.
o For charging the sand silo, the air is heated to 600°C in the electric air heater.
o The hot air is then circulated inside the silo using a heat-exchange pipe and blowers to raise the temperature of the sand at the silo’s core to 600°C.
o When the storage enters the discharging stage, the blowers are used to pump air into the pipe inside the sand silo.
o Once the air reaches 200°C, it is transferred to the air-to-water heat exchanger, where it is used to boil water. It is then sent to the heating network.
o The storage system requires electricity at all times.
o It is needed to charge the battery, monitor the temperature during standby and run the blowers when the battery is used.
o 1,000 times more power is discharged as heat than is used as electricity.

5) Horseshoe Crabs

Scientists have recently urged the Odisha government to immediately come up with a robust protection mechanism before the Horseshoe crabs (living fossil) becomes extinct due to destructive fishing practices.
o The horseshoe crab is a marine chelicerate arthropod living in shallow coastal waters on soft sandy or muddy bottoms and spawns mostly on intertidal beaches at summer-spring high tides.
o The Chelicerata is a division within the Arthropoda, containing animals such as spiders, scorpions, harvestmen, mites and ticks.
o Like all arthropods, they have a segmented body and segmented limbs and a thick chitinous cuticle called an exoskeleton.
o It is known as a marine ‘living fossil’.
o Odisha is the largest habitat of horseshoe crabs in India.
o Conservation status in India:
o Wildlife Protection Act 1972: Schedule IV
o IUCN Status
o American horseshoe crab: Vulnerable
o Tri-spine horseshoe crab: Endangered

6) Karnala Bird Sanctuary: Bird Count Report

The recent annual scientific bird count report covering three seasonal bird counts at the Karnala Bird Sanctuary finds a total of 187 species of birds.
o Karnala Bird Sanctuary is located in the Raigad District of Maharashtra.
o It is a habitat of woodland birds in the Western Ghats & was one of the favored areas of well-known ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali.
o It also forms a catchment area of the Patalganga river.
o Flora: The Sanctuary area is covered with mixed deciduous forest.
o Fauna: Globally threatened and endemic birds like Long Billed Vultures, Malabar Gray Hornbill, Small Sun Bird, and Shahin Falcon birds spp. are found in Karnala Bird Sanctuary.

7) Udhwa Bird Sanctuary

Context:

Recently, Jharkhand’s Udhwa Bird Sanctuary was in news with the ongoing speculations of it getting the prestigious Ramsar Site status.

About Udhwa Bird Sanctuary:-

• It is situated in the Sahebganj district of the state of Jharkhand.
• It is the only notified bird sanctuary in the state.
• It is named after saint Uddhava of Mahabharat times, a friend of Lord Krishna.
• It falls within the Gangetic Plains bio-geographic zone.
• The Sanctuary has two water bodies i.e. Patauran (155 ha) and Berhale (410 ha), interconnected by a water channel.
• The Sanctuary is connected to the Ganga River through a 25 km long water channel known as the Udhuwa Nala, at Farraka.
• The Sanctuary has been identified as an ‘Important Bird Area’.
• Among birds of prey are Tern, Brahminy Kite, Fishing Eagle, Hawk, and Vulture. House and Palm Swift, Swallow, Kingfisher, Drongo.
• Indian Roller and Parakeet are also common here.
• Migratory birds visiting the lake during winter include Black-headed & Brown-headed Gulls, Grey-headed Lapwing, Little-ringed Plover, Red & Green Shanks, Spotted Green Shanks, Common Sandpiper, Temmink’s Stint, Yellow & White Wagtail, Blue-throat, Western Swallow, etc.

8) Namdapha National Park

Context:

Recently, logs and a truck were seized from the core area of Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh’s Changlang district.

About Namdapha National Park:-

• It is located in the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh.
• It is the largest protected area in the Eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot.
• It was established as a national park in 1983.
• It was declared a Tiger Reserve in the same year 1983.
• It is also on the Tentative List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India.
• It is India’s easternmost tiger reserve.
• It is near the international border with Myanmar.
• Its adjoining areas, are flanked by the Patkai hills to the south and southeast and by the Himalayas in the north.
• The area lies close to the Indo-Myanmar-China trijunction.
• Namdapha is in fact the name of a river originating in the park and it meets the Noa-Dehing river.
• Noa-Dehing river is a tributary of the Brahmaputra and flows in a North-South direction in the middle of the National Park.
• The park is located between the Dapha bum range of the Mishmi Hills and the Patkai range.
• It is the fourth largest national park in India.
• The first three are Hemis National Park in Ladakh, Desert National Park in Rajasthan, and Gangotri National Park in Uttarakhand.
• Vegetation: The vegetation is characteristic of tropical evergreen forests (Tropical Rain Forests).
• Fauna: elephants, black bears, Indian Bison, several species of deer, reptiles, and a variety of arboreal animals.
• Important bird species: White-winged Wood Ducks, a rare and endangered species, the great Indian hornbills, jungle fowls, and pheasants.
• It is the only park in the World to have the four Feline species of big cat namely the Tiger (Panthera Tigris), Leopard (Panthera Pardus), Snow Leopard (Panthera Uncia), and Clouded Leopard (Neofelis nebulosa).
• It is also famous for Critically Endangered species like the Namdapha flying squirrel, species that was last spotted in 1981.
• Hoolock Gibbons, the only ‘ape’ species found in India is found in this National Park.

Other Protected Areas in Arunachal Pradesh:-

About Mouling National Park:-

• It was established in 1972.
• It was the second to be established in Arunachal Pradesh, after Namdapha National Park.
• This park has a total land area of about 483 square kilometers and is located west of the Dihang-Dibang biosphere reserve.
• Mouling Peak, the park’s highest peak, makes this an undulating area.
• Rivers such as the Siyom run through the park’s western border.
• Mouling National Park offers the sight of various conserved animals including different types of mammals and birds.

About Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary:-

• Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the South-Eastern part of the Lohit District of Arunachal Pradesh.
• The name comes from the River Kamlang, which flows through the Sanctuary and joins the Brahmaputra
• The local inhabitants are Hishmi, Digaru, and Mizo.
• They Claim themselves as descendent of “King Rukmo” of “Mahabharat”.
• This Wildlife Sanctuary contains all four big cats (Tiger, Leopard, Clouded Leopard and Snow Leopard).
• It also has a population of endangered spp. like Hollock gibbon, Sllorisesies, Leopard cat, Himalayan palm civets, etc. The famous pilgrimage center, “Parasuram Kund” can be approached from Wakro throughout the year at a distance of 20 km.
• Fauna: This Sanctuary has animals like elephants, tigers, leopards, and Hoolock gibbons. Stump-tailed macaque, Capped Langur, Boar, Civets, Deer, Hornbills, Giant and flying squirrels, etc.
• Flora: Canarium resiniferous (Dhuna), Terminalia chebula (Hillika), Gmelina arborea (Gamari), Ammora wallichi (Amari), etc.

About Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary:-

• Itanagar Reserve Forest was declared as Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary.
• It has a geographical boundary with Pam River in the East, Pachin in the South, Neorochi in the North-East, and Chingke stream in the North.
• The vegetation of this Sanctuary can be classified as tropical semi-evergreen and wet evergreen.
• The most common bamboos found in these forest areas are (1) Bambusa palida (Bijuli) and (2) Dendrocalamus hamiltonii (Kako).
• Tree species: (1) Duabanga grandiflora (Khokan) (2) Amoora Wallichii (Aman) (3) Toona ciliata (Poma) (4) Magnolia spp. (Sopa) (5) Schima Wallichii (Makrisal) and Castonopsis indica (Hingori) etc.
• Grass: succharam procerum, S.Spontamum, Andropogon assimillis, phragmites karka, Allpinia allugus.
• Fauna: Animals like Elephants, Tigers, Panthers, Sambar, Barking Deer, and Bears were quite common.
• Hornbills were very common birds to sight. But now it is a chance to sight a Hornbill.

21 March 2023

Government Initiatives & Schemes

1) Mukhyamantri Vriksh Sampada Yojana

On the occasion of World Forestry Day, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel launched the Mukhyamantri Vriksh Sampada Yojana, also known as the Chief Minister Tree Wealth Scheme. The scheme aims to promote tree plantation across the state by providing financial assistance to farmers and landowners.

The Need for Tree Plantations in Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh is known for its dense forest cover and rich biodiversity. However, the state has been facing a massive loss of forest cover due to industrialization and other human activities. The government has recognized the need for urgent action to counter the effects of deforestation and promote tree plantation to conserve the environment.

The Chief Minister Tree Wealth Scheme

Under the Mukhyamantri Vriksh Sampada Yojana, the Chhattisgarh government will provide full subsidy for tree plantation on up to 5 acres of land. For those who wish to plant trees on more than 5 acres of land, the government will provide a 50 percent financial subsidy. The scheme is expected to contribute towards increasing green coverage in the state.

Benefits of the Scheme

The Mukhyamantri Vriksh Sampada Yojana has several benefits for the people of Chhattisgarh. It will not only help to increase the state’s green cover but also provide employment opportunities for people in rural areas. The scheme will also help to conserve soil and water resources, reduce the effects of climate change and air pollution, and improve the overall quality of life for people in the state.

Implementation of the Scheme

The Chief Minister Tree Wealth Scheme will be implemented by the Chhattisgarh Forest Department, which will coordinate with various stakeholders, including farmers, landowners, and NGOs. The department will provide technical assistance and training to ensure that the trees are planted in a systematic and sustainable manner. The scheme will be implemented in phases, and the government has set a target of planting 6 crore trees across the state in the next three years.

2) PM MITRA Parks

The Indian government recently announced the establishment of seven PM MITRA Parks in Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. These parks are inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 5F vision, which aims to boost the Indian textile industry from farm to fashion to foreign markets.
The PM MITRA scheme was announced in October 2021, and the parks are expected to be set up by 2026-27, with a total outlay of ₹4,445 crore. The initial allocation in the 2023-24 Budget is only ₹200 crore, but the government expects the parks to attract crores of investment and create lakhs of jobs.

Integrated Value Chain and Job Creation

The PM MITRA Parks will function as centers of opportunity, creating an integrated textiles value chain. They will offer everything from spinning, weaving, processing, dyeing, and printing to garment manufacturing, all at a single location. This integrated approach is expected to enhance the competitiveness of the textiles industry by helping it achieve economies of scale and attracting global players to manufacture in India.

Selection Process

Out of 18 proposals for PM MITRA parks from 13 states, the eligible sites were evaluated using a transparent challenge method based on objective criteria, taking into account factors such as connectivity, existing ecosystem, textile/industry policy, infrastructure, utility services, and more. The PM Gati Shakti- National Master Plan for Multi-modal Connectivity was also used for validation.

Financing and Implementation

The Ministry of Textiles will oversee the execution of these projects. An SPV owned by the Centre and State Government will be set up for each park, which will oversee the implementation of the project. The Ministry of Textiles will provide financial support in the form of Development Capital Support up to ₹500 crores per park to the Park SPV. Competitive Incentive Support of up to ₹300 crores per park to the units in PM MITRA Park shall also be provided to incentivize speedy implementation.
State governments will provide contiguous and encumbrance-free land parcels of at least 1000 acres of land and will also facilitate the provision of all utilities, Reliable Power Supply and Water availability and Waste Water Disposal system, an effective single window clearance as well as a conducive and stable industrial/textile policy. The parks will offer excellent infrastructure, plug-and-play facilities, as well as training and research facilities for the industry.
PM MITRA Parks represent a unique model where the Centre and State Governments will work together to increase investment, promote innovation, create job opportunities, and ultimately make India a global hub for textile manufacturing and exports. Nearly ₹70,000 crore investment and 20 lakhs employment generation is envisaged through these parks.

3) PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme (PMFME)

Ministry Of Food Processing Industries recently informed that the PMFME scheme has received over 1,02,515 loan applications so far.

About PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme (PMFME):

• It is a centrally sponsored scheme launched in 2020 with an outlay of Rs.10,000 crore.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Food Processing Industries.
• Duration: It will be implemented over a 5-year period from 2020-21 to 2024-25.
• Fund Sharing: The expenditure under the scheme would be shared in a 60:40 ratio between Central and State Governments, a 90:10 ratio with North Eastern and Himalayan States, a 60:40 ratio with UTs with the legislature, and 100% by Centre for other UTs.

Objectives:

o Formalization of micro units by means of GST, Udyog Aadhar, and FSSAI registrations.
o Financial assistance to individual units for the upgradation of food processing facilities.
o Quality improvement and skill development through training and technical knowledge.
o Financial assistance to Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Self Help Groups (SHGs), and producer’s cooperatives for setting up common infrastructure facilities.
o Branding and marketing support to FPOs, SHGs, and producer cooperatives.
o Support and assistance in availing bank loans and preparation of detailed project reports (DPR)

Financial Support:

o Support to Individual micro-units:
• Micro enterprises will get credit-linked subsidies at 35% of the eligible project cost with a ceiling of Rs.10 lakh.
• The beneficiary contribution will be a minimum of 10% and the balance from the loan.
o Support to FPOs/SHGs/Cooperatives:
• Seed capital will be given to SHGs ( at Rs. 4 lacks per SHG) for loans to members for working capital and small tools.
• Grant for backward/ forward linkages, common infrastructure, packaging, marketing & branding.

4) Poshan Pakhwada

The Ministry of Women and Child Development will celebrate the fifth Poshan Pakhwada from 20th March 2022 to 3rd April 2023 with various activities nationwide.

About Poshan Pakhwada:

• The Poshan Pakhwada aims to raise awareness about the importance of nutrition and promote healthy eating habits through Jan Andolan and Jan Bhagidari.
• The theme of this year’s Poshan Pakhwada 2023 is "Nutrition for All: Together Towards a Healthy India".
• With the declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets, this year the focus of Poshan Pakhwada will be to popularise ‘Shree Anna’- the mother of all grains, as a valuable asset to address malnutrition.
• The activities during the Poshan Pakhwada will focus, inter alia, on the following key themes:
o Promotion and popularization of Shree Anna / Millets for nutritional- well-being through the organization of drives to link Millet-based foods with supplementary nutrition, Home visits, Diet consultation camps, etc
o Celebration of Swasth Balak Spardha: Celebrate and recognize the ‘Swasth Balak’ or Healthy Child as per defined criteria by generating a healthy spirit of competition for good nutrition good health and well being
o Popularize Saksham Anganwadis: Campaigns will be organized to increase awareness and popularise Saksham Anganwadis with upgraded infrastructure and facilities as centers of improved nutrition delivery and early childhood care and education.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Women and Child Development

What is Poshan Abhiyaan?

• Poshan Abhiyaan, launched by the Prime Minister of India on 8th March 2018, has been instrumental in ensuring people’s participation and bringing the discourse on nutrition to the forefront.
• Poshan Abhiyan was launched to improve nutritional outcomes holistically.
• Behavioural change at the individual and community levels is an important component to achieve the desired goals of a Kuposhan-mukt Bharat.

6) Kudumbashree and Project Unnati

Context:

Recently, the President attended celebrations of Kudumbashree and Project Unnati-associated events in Kerala.

About Kudumbashree:

• Kudumbashree, the Kerala State Poverty Eradication Mission was launched in May 1998.
• It was inaugurated by the Prime Minister, Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
Objective: to eradicate absolute poverty within a definite time frame of 10 years under the leadership of Local Self Governments formed and empowered by the 73rd and 74th Amendments of the Constitution of India.

Vision:

Kudumbashree strives to develop the model of a microfinance-led financial security process into a more comprehensive model of local economic development under the aegis of local governments.
• It was launched by the State Government with the active support of the Government of India and NABARD.
• Kudumbashree is formally registered as the “State Poverty Eradication Mission” (SPEM).
• State Poverty Eradication Mission (SPEM): it is a society registered under the Travancore Kochi Literary, Scientific and Charitable Societies Act 1955.
• It has a governing body chaired by the State Minister of LSG.
• It has adopted a different methodology for addressing poverty by organizing the poor into community-based organizations.
• The Mission follows a process approach rather than a project approach.
• Kudumbashree is a community organization of Neighborhood Groups (NHGs) of women in Kerala.
• It has been recognized as an effective strategy for the empowerment of women in rural as well as urban areas by bringing women together from all spheres of life to fight for their rights or for empowerment.
• Implementation; It is implemented through Community Development Societies (CDSs) of Poor Women, serving as the community wing of Local Governments.

About Project Unnati:

• It is under the Union Rural Development Ministry.
• It is a skill-upgrading initiative established in 2020.

Objectives:

• Enhancing the beneficiaries of the Mahatma Gandhi NREGA’s skill base and enhancing their quality of life.
• to offer training to one adult household member (between the ages of 18 and 45) who has worked 100 days under the Mahatma Gandhi NREGA in the fiscal year prior to the project’s start.
• Under the project, the selected candidates are skilled using three established training programmes: the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Grameen Kaushal Yojana (DDU-GKY), the Rural Self Training Institute (RSETI), and the Krishi Vigyan Kendra.
• This project is meant for providing training for one adult member (of age 18-45 years old) of a household who has completed 100 days of work under Mahatma Gandhi NREGA in the previous financial year from the year of commencement of the project.
• The family from which training candidates are chosen continues to get 100 days of labor under the MGNREGA.
• The applicants undergoing training are paid a stipend for a maximum of 100 days and for one programme per household at the going wage rate in the relevant State/UT.
• The Central Government bears all costs associated with a stipend in exchange for wage loss benefits.
• Training will be provided to a total of 2,00000 beneficiaries over the course of three years across 26 States and 2 UTs.

7) REACHOUT Scheme

The Union Minister of Earth Sciences said that an umbrella scheme Research, Education, and Training Outreach (REACHOUT) is being implemented by the Ministry of Earth Sciences for capacity building.
o REACHOUT scheme: The Research, Education and Training Outreach (REACHOUT) scheme consists of
o R&D in Earth System Science (RDESS)
o International Training Centre for Operational Oceanography (ITCOocean)
o Program for Development of Skilled manpower in Earth System Sciences (DESK)
o This scheme is being implemented for the entire country and not State/UT-wise.
o The main objectives of the above sub-schemes are
o Supporting various R&D activities in the thrust areas of different components of Earth System Sciences that are theme and need-based and that would help in attaining the National goals set up for MoES.
o Develop useful collaborations with international organizations for the mutual transfer of advanced knowledge in science and technology in Earth Sciences and to provide services to developing countries.
o Develop skilled and trained manpower in Earth Sciences with the support of academic institutions in the country and abroad.

8) Sagar Parikrama Phase IV

Sagar Parikrama Phase IV journey was launched on March 18. Its purpose is to resolve issues concerning fishermen and other stakeholders and promote their economic development through various government schemes and initiatives.

Phase IV of Sagar Parikrama will cover the stretches of Uttar Kannada, Udupi, and Dakshina Kannada. The two-day journey will be accompanied by government officials, fishermen representatives, fish farmers, entrepreneurs, stakeholders, professionals, and scientists from across the country. The objective of this phase is to award certificates and sanctions related to the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada scheme, KCC, and State Scheme to progressive fishermen. The program aims to provide support to the fishermen to ensure that they have the necessary resources to continue fishing sustainably.

Launching a Song on Sagar Parikrama in Kannada

As part of Phase IV, a song on Sagar Parikrama in Kannada will be launched. The song will help popularize the initiative among the local communities and create awareness about the various schemes and programs. The aim is to encourage the local communities to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the initiative and improve their lives.

Popularizing Literature on Different Schemes through Print and Electronic Media

In addition to launching the song, literature on different schemes will be popularized through print and electronic media. The objective is to ensure that the local communities have access to information on the various schemes and programs. This will help them understand the benefits of the initiative and encourage them to participate.

Improving the Lives of Fisher Communities

The main objective of Sagar Parikrama is to improve the lives of fisher communities in India. The initiative aims to ensure that the communities have access to the necessary resources to fish sustainably. This includes upgrading and creating infrastructure, developing fishing villages, and providing support to progressive fishermen. The ecosystem approach ensures that the initiative is sustainable and does not harm the environment.

22 March 2023

Geography

1) Vernal Equinox:

The vernal equinox is observed on March 21st, 2023.

Equinox:

o Equinox happens twice a year when the sun is directly above the equator, and it occurs on approximately the 21st of March and 23rd of September.
o During an equinox, both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres have equal day and night time.
o The vernal equinox (spring equinox) takes place in the Northern Hemisphere around the 20th or 21st of March, while in the Southern Hemisphere, it happens on the 22nd or 23rd of September.
o Conversely, during the autumn season in the Northern Hemisphere on 23rd September (autumn equinox), it is springtime in the Southern Hemisphere, and on the 21st March, it is the opposite.

2) Zealandia: Missing Continent

Scientists have recently confirmed the existence of a “missing” continent known as Zealandia

o Zealandia is a long, narrow microcontinent that is mostly submerged in the South Pacific Ocean.
o Zealandia was formally one of the constituent continents of the ancient supercontinent called Gondwana, which also included Western Antarctica and Eastern Australia over 500 million years ago.
o It began to “pull away” from Gondwana roughly 105 million years ago.
o As Zealandia started pulling away, it began to sink beneath the waves, with over 94 percent remaining underwater for millennia.
o It is approximately 1.89 million square miles (4.9 million square km) in size, about half the size of Australia.
o The vast majority of this new continent lies beneath 6,560 feet (2km) of water.
o The part of Zealandia which is above water forms the foundation of New Zealand’s north and south islands as well as the island of New Caledonia.
o The existence of Zealandia was first recorded in 1642 by Dutch businessman and sailor Abel Tasman, who was on a mission to find the “great Southern Continent,” or Terra Australis.

3) Shifting Capital from Jakarta to Borneo

Context

Recently, Indonesian government authorities unveiled the site of the country’s new capital, from Jakarta to Borneo.

Key-highlights:

• The proposed location—near the regional cities of Balikpapan and Samarinda—is an area at "minimal" risk of natural disasters.
• Borneo is a large island in Southeast Asia that is divided among three countries: Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei.
• Borneo is the third largest island in the world, after Greenland and New Guinea.

About Jakarta (the Indonesian Island):

• Jakarta is the largest city and capital of Indonesia.
• The city lies on the northwest coast of Java at the mouth of the Ciliwung (Liwung River), on Jakarta Bay (an embayment of the Java Sea).
• It is coextensive with the metropolitan district of Greater Jakarta (Jakarta Raya).
• Jakarta is home to about 10 million people and three times that number in the greater metropolitan area.

Problems surrounding the city:

• Jakarta lies on a low, flat alluvial plain with historically extensive swampy areas.
• It is easily flooded during the rainy season.
• The draining of swamps for building purposes and the continuous decrease of upland forest vegetation have increased the danger of floods.
• With such an excess of water in the soil, Jakarta has a shortage of clean drinking water, for which there is increasing demand.
The area is quite fertile for fruit and other horticulture, as most of the soil is of old volcanic origin.

Why is the government planning to change the capital?

• Sinking land: Jakarta is congested, polluted, prone to earthquakes, and rapidly sinking into the Java Sea.
• It has been described as the world’s most rapidly sinking city and it is estimated that one-third of the city could be submerged by 2050.
• Causes: The main cause is uncontrolled groundwater extraction, but it has been exacerbated by the rising Java Sea due to climate change.

4) Landslide Atlas of India

Context

According to the India Meteorological Department’s Statement of Climate of India 2022, heavy rain, floods, and landslides claimed 835 lives in the country in the year 2022.

About Landslides:

• Landslides are natural disasters occurring mainly in mountainous terrains where there are conducive conditions of soil, rock, geology, and slope.
• A sudden movement of rock, boulders, earth, or debris down a slope is termed as a landslide.
• Classification: Landslides are broadly classified based on the;
• Type of materials involved (rock, debris, soil, loose mud)
• Type of movement of the material (fall, topple, slide, rotational slide, or translational slide)
• Type of flow of the material
• Another category is landslides that spread laterally. Landslides mapped in the ISRO atlas are mainly event-based and season-based.

What causes landslides?

• Natural factors: heavy rainfall, earthquakes, snow melting, and undercutting of slopes due to flooding.
• Anthropogenic factors: excavation, cutting of hills and trees, excessive infrastructure development, and overgrazing by cattle.
• Other influential factors: Some of the main factors that influence landslides are lithology, geological structures like faults, hill slopes, drainage, geomorphology, land use and land cover, soil texture and depth, and weathering of rocks.

Proneness of India to landslides:

• India is considered among the top five landslide-prone countries globally. In India, at least one death per 100 sq. km is reported in a year due to a landslide event.
• Himalayas and the Western Ghats remain highly vulnerable because the rainfall variability pattern is the single biggest cause of landslides.
• North-Eastern states: Nearly half of the country’s landslide-prone area (0.18 sq. km) is located in the states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Manipur, Tripura, and Nagaland.

5) UN World Water Development Report 2023

Context:

Recently, ‘United Nations World Water Development Report 2023: partnerships and cooperation for water’, was released. Also, UN 2023 Water Conference is currently being held in New York

Major findings of the report:

Global:

o Globally, two billion people do not have safe drinking water, and 3.6 billion lack access to safely managed sanitation
o The global urban population facing water scarcity is projected to increase from one-third (2016) to nearly half of the global urban population in 2050, with India projected to be the most severely affected.

India:

o 80% of people living under water stress lived in Asia; in particular, northeast China, as well as India and Pakistan.

Recommendations:

• Smart management and conservation of the world’s water resources means bringing together governments, businesses, scientists, civil society, and communities – including indigenous communities – to design and deliver concrete solutions.”
• Water-energy-food nexus is critical in a transboundary context E.g. transboundary water cooperation arrangement established by the Mahakali Treaty (Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project) between India and Nepal, which aims to achieve water and energy security for both parties.
• Partnerships that focus on knowledge co-creation instead of knowledge transfer aim to embrace the diversity of expertise and experience within a knowledge system.
• Water resources management practices should incorporate traditional elements: E.g. paar systems in western Rajasthan, India, and amunas in Peru
• Use of technology: Google began a flood forecasting initiative in 2018, with the goal of preventing catastrophic damage

Other steps to conserve Water:

• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Goal 6 includes a specific goal on water and sanitation (Goal 6)
• UN-mandated Paris Agreement recognizes the interlinkages between water and climate change.
• Dublin Principles water was established as an “economic good”

About the Report:

The WWDR is published by UNESCO on behalf of UN-Water and its production is coordinated by the UNESCO World Water Assessment Programme. It is an annual report released on Launched on World Water Day (22nd March) every year

About the UN 2023 Water Conference (New York from March 22-24, 2023)

It will be the second UN Conference dedicated to water after the one held in Mar del Plata, Argentina, in 1977. UN has launched a global campaign called ‘Be the Change’ to mark World Water Day 2023. We will cover its outcome once the conference gets over.

Jal Jeevan Mission

• The Jal Jeevan Mission aims to deliver safe and enough drinking water to all rural Indian households by 2024 through individual household tap connections.
• It is the Ministry of Jal Shakti’s main programme
• It started in 2019
• Focus: Community-based approach to water, with comprehensive information, education, and communication as a fundamental component of the goal.

6) Illegal Sand Mining in National Chambal Sanctuary

Why in News?

The area of the National Chambal Sanctuary is under threat due to illegal sand mining activities that are damaging the ecosystem and endangering its flora and fauna.
• To tackle this issue, a high-level meeting was held in Jaipur, where the chief secretaries of the three states discussed coordinated efforts to protect the sanctuary.

What is the Significance of the National Chambal Sanctuary?

• The National Chambal Sanctuary is located at the trijunction of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.
o It is a fragile lotic ecosystem, which is a critically important breeding ground for gharials - fish-eating crocodiles.
• The sanctuary is protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and is listed as an ‘Important Bird and Biodiversity Area’.
• The sanctuary is also a proposed Ramsar site, and over 320 species of resident and migratory birds inhabit the area.

What is the Status of Sand Mining in India?

About:

o Sand is classified as a “minor mineral”, under The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulations) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act), and administrative control over minor minerals vests with the State Governments.
• Rivers and coastal areas are the main sources of sand, and the demand for it has increased significantly in recent years due to the construction and infrastructure development boom in the country.
o The Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has issued "Sustainable Sand Mining Management Guidelines 2016" to promote scientific sand mining and environmentally friendly management practices.

Issues Related to Sand Mining in India:

o Water Scarcity: Sand mining can lead to the depletion of groundwater reserves and cause water scarcity in nearby areas.
• For instance, the Yamuna River in the Yamuna Nagar district of Haryana is facing a severe threat from mechanized and unsustainable stone and sand mining.
o Floods: Excessive sand mining can cause the riverbeds to become shallow, which can increase the risk of floods.
• For example, in the state of Bihar, sand mining has led to increased flooding in the Kosi River, causing damage to crops and property.
o Associated Illegal Activities: Unregulated sand mining also involves illegal activities, such as encroachment on public land, corruption, and evasion of taxes.

What is the Legislative Framework of the Mining Sector in India?

• The entry at serial No. 23 of List II (State List) to the Constitution of India mandates the state government to own the minerals located within their boundaries.
• The entry at serial No. 54 of List I (Central List) mandates the central government to own the minerals within the exclusive economic zone of India (EEZ).
o In pursuance to this Mines & Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Act of 1957 was framed.
• International Seabed Authority (ISA) regulates mineral exploration and extraction. It is guided by the UN treaty and India being a party to the treaty has received an exclusive right to explore polymetallic nodules over 75000 sq. km in Central Indian Ocean Basin.

Conclusion

The joint action taken by the three states is a significant step towards conserving the flora and fauna of the sanctuary, protecting the environment, and preserving our natural heritage for future generations.

23 March 2023

Defence & Security

1) INS Sujata’s Visit to Mozambique

INS Sujata, a Sukanya class patrol vessel of the Indian Navy, based at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi, recently visited Port Maputo, Mozambique as a part of its Overseas Deployment from 19 to 21 March 2023. The purpose of the visit is to improve bilateral relations and mutual cooperation between the two navies.

High-Level Meetings and Visits

During its visit, the Commanding Officer of INS Sujata called on several military and civilian dignitaries, including Rear Admiral Eugenio Dias Da Silva Muatuca, the Commander of Mozambican Navy, and Mr. Eneas Da Conceicao Comiche, Mayor of Maputo. The High Commissioner of India and other officials were also present during these meetings.

Cross-Deck Training and Other Activities

As part of the visit, approximately 40 personnel of the Mozambican Navy visited INS Sujata to attend the Cross deck training. This training module covered walkarounds of training facilities, briefing on diving operations, training on VBSS and light weapons, visual communication, and maintenance of machinery and hygiene onboard. Furthermore, various other activities, including a combined morning yoga session and a soccer match, were organized between the personnel of both Navies. A reception was also hosted onboard INS Sujata, which was attended by several Indian and Mozambican dignitaries and diplomats.

Enhancing Mutual Cooperation and Bilateral Ties

The visit of INS Sujata to Port Maputo, Mozambique, further enhanced the mutual cooperation and bilateral ties between the two Navies. Such visits not only provide opportunities for the exchange of knowledge, skills, and expertise but also help in strengthening diplomatic ties and building a strong relationship between the two countries. The visit by INS Sujata highlights India’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region while also fostering friendship and cooperation with other countries.

2) Anti-Submarine Craft INS Androth

India recently launched the INS Androth, as part of an eight-ship series of Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC). The ASW SWC was built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata and is designed to conduct anti-submarine operations in coastal waters, lowintensity maritime operations and mine-laying operations.

Specifications of the INS Androth

The INS Androth is approximately 77.6 meters long, and 10.5 meters wide, and requires a draught of only 2.7 meters. It is propelled by three diesel-driven water jets, enabling it to attain a maximum speed of 25 knots. The ship is equipped with hull-mounted sonar and a low-frequency variable depth sonar, lightweight torpedoes, ASW rockets, and mines, a close-in weapon system (with a 30 mm gun), and 16.7 mm stabilized remote-controlled guns.

Coastal Surveillance and ASW Operations

The ASW SWC is capable of carrying out full-scale sub-surface surveillance of coastal waters and various surface platforms. It can effortlessly coordinate with aircraft in ASW operations. Despite its small size, the ship is expected to pack a lethal punch. The INS Androth and its fellow craft will play a vital role in securing India’s coastal waters and combating any potential threats to the nation’s maritime security.

Combat-Ready and Future Proof Force

The development of specialized vessels helps create a combat-ready and future-proof force that can tackle the current and emerging challenges in the maritime domain. INS Androth’s launch indicates India’s commitment to strengthening its naval capabilities and ensuring the nation’s maritime security.

3) Exercise Sea Dragon 23

Context:

Recently, P8I aircraft of the Indian Navy arrived in Guam, USA to participate in ‘Exercise Sea Dragon 23’.

About Exercise Sea Dragon 23:

• Exercise Sea Dragon 23 is a biennial coordinated multilateral anti-submarine warfare (ASW) exercise for long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft.
• The exercise is conducted by the United States Navy.
• Participating countries include India, the USA, Japan, Canada, and South Korea.
• It was held for the first time in 2015.
• This is the third edition of the Sea Dragon Exercise.
• The exercise aims to achieve high levels of synergy and coordination between the participating countries based on their shared values and commitment to an open, inclusive Indo-Pacific.
• The exercise’s primary objective is to improve coordination among participating countries in the multilateral anti-submarine warfare drills.
• Other Exercises between India and USA include Malabar, Yudh Abhyas, and VAJRA PRAHAR.

4) Exercise Vayu Prahar

The Indian Army and the Indian Air force recently conducted a joint exercise, ‘Vayu Prahar’.

About Exercise Vayu Prahar:

• It is a multi-domain air-land exercise jointly conducted by the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force.
• The special forces also participated along with the Army and the Navy in the 96-hour exercise which was held in the eastern theatre.
• Objective: To validate joint plans to prosecute synergized multiple-domain operations.
• The scope of the exercise included the rapid mobilization of an earmarked Rapid Reaction Force from the hinterland to undertake air-landed operations in a nominated Advance Landing Ground.
• The air-landed force further executed contingency tasks as per a realistic exercise scenario in challenging high-altitude terrain conditions.
• The exercise enabled coordination and rehearsal amongst various agencies for quick mobilization, transportation, and deployment of forces within a theatre.

5) Exercise Konkan 2023

Konkan 2023, the bilateral maritime exercise between the Indian Navy and the UK's Royal Navy, was recently held off the Konkan coast in the Arabian Sea.

About Exercise Konkan 2023:

• Konkan exercise is the annual bilateral maritime exercise between the Indian Navy and the UK’s Royal Navy.
• INS Trishul, a guided missile frigate, and HMS Lancaster, a Type 23 guided missile frigate, participated in this edition.
• They undertook multiple maritime drills to enhance interoperability between the two forces and imbibe best practices.
• The exercises covered all domains of maritime operations, air, surface, and sub-surface.
• It included gunnery shoots on the surface inflatable target ‘Killer Tomato’, helicopter operations, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare drills, Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS), ship maneuvers, and exchange of personnel.
• The exercise will help the Indian Navy and Royal Navy work together to improve maritime security and maintain a rules-based order in the region.

24 March 2023

Indian Economy

1) OilMin accepts all major Kirit Parikh panel recommendations on gas pricing

Context:

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry has accepted the main recommendations of the Kirit Parikh committee on natural gas pricing and will be further recommended by them to the Cabinet soon

What is the Kirit Parikh committee?

The committee was constituted last year (2022) to review the existing pricing formula for domestically produced natural gas in India.

The current method of gas pricing:

At present, the government fixes the prices of gas produced from the old fields of state-run ONGC and OIL (these both account for about 80% of the annual gas output of 91 billion cubic meters in India)

Need for revision of Gas Pricing

• To ensure a reliable pricing regime: A price band will ensure a predictable pricing regime for producers and protect consumers by moderating CNG and PNG price spikes.
• To raise domestic production: A better price will incentivize more investment and help raise domestic production (India targets 15% of energy coming from gas by 2030)
• Helps in improving the environment– dependence on coal and oil needs to be reduced

Major Recommendations of the Committee	Description
Fixed Ceiling price (till 2027)	· Implement a fixed pricing band for APM (Administrative Price Mechanism) gas from old fields · The old fields account for two-thirds of natural gas produced in India · Currently, government controls the price of Gas produced from old fields
By 2027	Move to a purely market-determined natural gas pricing system by 2027
Linking the price	· Link the domestic gas price to 10% of the cost of imported crude oil
No-cut category (uninterrupted supply)	· Some of the sectors have been kept in the ‘no-cut’ category (meaning that supplies will remain uninterrupted in this category even in case of a decline in production) · E.g., The city gas and fertilizer sector will continue to get top priority in the allocation of APM gas.
Inclusion of gas in GST	· Include gas in GST with compensation for five years
Removal of caps on gas prices	· Remove caps on gas prices within three years.
Gradual exit from gas allocation business	· Government should gradually exit out of the gas allocation business.
No changes to the existing pricing formula for new fields and fields with difficult geology	· New and difficult fields enjoy pricing freedom to compensate for the greater risk and cost involved in these projects, but they have a pricing cap. · The report suggests that the upper cap should be removed from January 1, 2026. · E.g., for fields in the Deep sea or in high-temperature, high-pressure zones.

Impact of the move:

• Good for domestic producers: It will benefit domestic producers of natural gas in India, as they will now be able to receive a higher price for their products.
• Will incentivize domestic production and lead to an increase in domestic supply.
• Will make the pricing of natural gas more transparent and efficient
• This will help raise the share of gas in India’s energy mix to 15% by 2030 from around 4% at present.

About Administrative Price Mechanism (APM):

To prevent hoarding, maintain the prices of essential goods (such as Gas) at reasonable levels, and ensure their easy availability, the government fixes the prices of certain commodities. This is known as the administered price mechanism.

About natural gas:

Natural gas, also called methane gas or natural methane gas, is a colourless highly flammable gaseous hydrocarbon consisting primarily of methane and ethane. It is a type of petroleum that commonly occurs in association with crude oil. It can be used as a domestic and industrial fuel.

2) India’s increase in petroleum product exports to the EU

Context

India’s petroleum product exports to the European Union (EU) have grown notably over the past few months as the region is suffering from no supplies of refined products from Russia, due to the war in Ukraine.

About:

• India’s petroleum product exports to the EU rose 20.4 percent year on year in April-January to 11.6 million tonnes.
• The trend is significant as the global oil markets are affected by Russia’s ban on supplies; countries like India are helping maintain a demand-supply balance while preventing extreme price shocks.
• The EU does not want to buy crude as well as refined fuels and products from Russia.
• Countries like India, which is a major oil refiner, are playing their part in bridging the gap by buying Russian oil on one hand and increasing the supply of refined products to the EU on the other.
The term does not include naphtha-type jet fuel, kerosene-type jet fuel, or a petroleum product destined for use in chemical manufacturing or feedstock of that manufacturing or fuel sold to vessels engaged in interstate or foreign commerce.

What are petroleum products?

• Petroleum product means products that are obtained from distilling and processing crude oil and that is capable of being used as a fuel for the propulsion of a motor vehicle or aircraft, including motor gasoline, gasohol, other alcohol-blended fuels, aviation gasoline, kerosene, distillate fuel oil and number 1 and number 2 diesels.

India Petroleum products industry:

• India is a major refiner with an annual refining capacity of about 250 million tonnes.
• While it is also one of the top consumers of crude oil, India’s refining capacity is higher than its domestic demand, making the country a net exporter of petroleum products.
• Indian refiners, particularly export-oriented private sector players Reliance Industries and Nayara Energy, stand to gain from the West’s punitive action against the Russian oil and gas sector.

3) Adani’s Mundra Petrochem project

The Adani Group’s Mundra Petrochemicals project has been suspended as part of the Group’s “comeback strategy” to regain investor confidence amidst allegations of accounting fraud and corporate governance lapses. The project aimed to set up a greenfield coal-to-PVC plant at Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) in Gujarat, with a poly-vinyl-chloride (PVC) production capacity of 2,000 KTPA requiring 3.1 MTPA of imported coal. PVC is widely used in various applications, including flooring, sewage pipes, insulation on electrical wires, plastic bottles, and more.

What is the Mundra Petrochemicals project?

Mundra Petrochemicals Ltd was incorporated in 2021 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Ltd (AEL) to set up a greenfield coal-to-PVC plant in the Kutch district, Gujarat. The project aimed to bridge the gap between domestic production and demand for PVC in India, turning India into a net exporter of PVC.

Why has the project been suspended?

The project’s suspension comes in the wake of allegations of accounting fraud, stock manipulations, and other corporate governance lapses made in the damaging Hindenburg report. The Adani Group has denied all allegations, but roughly USD 140 billion has been wiped out from Gautam Adani’s empire’s market value. To address investor concerns, the Group has planned a “comeback strategy”.

What is the Adani Group’s “comeback strategy”?

The Adani Group’s “comeback strategy” is based on addressing investor concerns around debt, consolidating operations, and fighting off allegations. The Group has canceled a Rs 7,000 crore coal plant purchase, shelved plans to bid for a stake in power trader PTC, repaid some debt, and pre-paid some finances raised by pledging promoter stakes in group companies. The Mundra Petrochemicals project’s suspension is part of the Group’s plan to evaluate the status of growth projects in the primary industry vertical in the coming months.

4) Technology and Innovation Report 2023: UNCTAD

Why in News?

In its Technology and Innovation Report 2023, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) stated that developed countries are benefiting more from green technologies than developing countries, and this could deepen global economic inequality.

What are the Key Findings and Recommendations of the Report?

Findings:

o Green technologies can create a market worth USD 9.5 trillion by 2030, up from USD 1.5 trillion in 2020.
• The total exports of green technologies from developed countries jumped to more than USD 156 billion in 2021 from about USD 60 billion in 2018.
• While exports from developing countries rose to only about USD 75 billion from USD 57 billion.
o According to the ‘frontier technology readiness index’ included in the report, only a few developing countries have the capacity to take advantage of frontier technologies such as blockchain, drones, and solar power.
• Green frontier technologies such as electric vehicles, solar and wind energy, and green hydrogen are expected to reach a market value of USD 2.1 trillion in 2030.
o The frontier technology readiness index which has ranked 166 countries, is dominated by high-income economies, notably the US, Sweden, Singapore, Switzerland, and the Netherlands.
• The second quarter of the list includes emerging economies – notably Brazil - ranked at 40, China at 35, India at 46, the Russian Federation at 31, and South Africa at 56.
• Here, India remains the greatest performer by ranking at 67 positions better than expected.

Recommendations:

o UNCTAD calls on governments in developing countries to align environmental, science, technology, innovation, and industrial policies.
• It urges them to prioritize investment in greener and more complex sectors, to provide incentives to shift consumer demand towards greener goods, and to boost investment in research and development.
o It recommends that international trade rules permit developing countries to protect emerging green industries through tariffs, subsidies, and public procurement so that they not only meet local demand but also reach economies of scale that make exports more competitive.
o Lastly, UNCTAD urged developed countries to provide support to their less well-off counterparts and ensure all nations can participate and take full economic advantage of the green tech revolution.

What is the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)?

• UNCTAD is a permanent intergovernmental body of the United Nations.
o It was established in 1964 and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
• It aims to promote sustainable development, particularly in developing countries, through international trade, investment, finance, and technology transfer.
• UNCTAD's work focuses on four main areas: trade and development, investment and enterprise, technology and innovation, and macroeconomics and development policies.

5) India Aims to Become Top Global Aviation Market by 2030

Why in News?

India is poised to become the world's leading aviation market, surpassing the United States and China by the end of the decade.
• The Civil Aviation Secretary in India made an announcement of the country's plans for expanding air connectivity to increase accessibility for the population during the CAPA India Aviation Summit.

What is the Status of India’s Aviation Sector?

About:

o India's Civil Aviation is among the fastest-growing aviation markets globally and will be a major growth engine to make India a USD 5 trillion economy by 2024.
• India is currently the world's 3rd-largest civil aviation market.
o Over the past 6 years, India's domestic passenger traffic has grown at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 14.5%, and international passenger traffic at around 6.5%.
o India's domestic passenger traffic is projected to rise to 16 crores in the 2023-24 fiscal year and to 35 crores by 2029-30.

Recent Government Initiatives Related to Aviation Sector:

o India's government aims to establish 6 major metropolitan cities as international hubs for air travel.
o National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) 2016
o UDAN Scheme

Challenges:

o High Operating Costs: One of the major challenges for the Indian aviation sector is the high operating costs. This is due to a number of factors such as high fuel prices, airport charges, and taxes.
• For airlines, the increase in jet fuel prices represents a major challenge as this cost typically accounts for 20% to 25% of total operational costs.
o Infrastructure Constraints: The Indian aviation sector also faces infrastructure constraints such as limited airport capacity, lack of modernized air traffic control systems, and inadequate ground handling facilities.
o Regulatory Framework: The Indian aviation sector also faces challenges related to the regulatory framework.
• The sector is heavily regulated, and airlines have to comply with a number of rules and regulations through different windows, which can be complex and time-consuming.

Conclusion

India's ambitious plans for growth in the aviation sector present significant opportunities for the country's economy and its people. While there are challenges to overcome, India's commitment to expanding its aviation infrastructure and developing its manufacturing capabilities positions it well to become a major player in the global aviation market by the end of the decade.

25 March 2023

Sports

1) 2023 SAFF Championship

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has announced that the 2023 edition of the SAFF Championship, South Asia’s most prestigious international football tournament, will be held in Bengaluru from June 21 to July 3. This marks India’s fourth time hosting the tournament, and the first time since the 2015 edition held in Thiruvananthapuram.

Participating Teams and Tournament Format

The tournament will feature all member associations of the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF), with the 13th edition of the competition being divided into two groups. Teams will play round-robin league matches in the group stage, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semi-finals. The date for the draw will be announced later.

India’s SAFF Championship Record

India has won the tournament eight times out of the 12 previous editions, making them the most successful team in SAFF Championship history. The Indian national football team will be looking to defend their title, having emerged victorious in the 2021 edition after defeating Nepal in the final.

Bengaluru’s Rich Football History

Karnataka, the state where Bengaluru is located, has produced some of the greatest players in Indian football history, and they are also the latest winners of the National Football Championships. The timing of the SAFF Championship being hosted in Bengaluru is, therefore, apt.

2) Kodava Hockey Festival

The Kodava hockey festival, an annual inter-family field hockey tournament held in the Kodagu district of Karnataka, is set to return after a four-year hiatus. The festival is organized by a different Kodava family each year and is named after them. This year’s festival will be organized by the Appachettolanda family and will take place in Napoklu, a small town 21 km away from the district headquarters Madikeri.

Preparations for the festival

The town of Napoklu is getting ready to host the world’s largest field hockey tournament, which is expected to attract 30,000 spectators. The town has only three mud grounds, and workers were seen preparing the grounds for the tournament. Temporary bleachers have been set up on all sides of the ground where 30,000 spectators can be accommodated. Multiple galleries, lighting, speakers, and display boards have been set up on the ground. In all, three grounds will be utilized for the hockey tournament, and they will also be used as a backup in case it rains. An estimated ₹1.5 crore has been spent to organize the event by the family.

No age or gender restrictions

The Kodava hockey festival has no age or gender restrictions, and the only requirement is that all members of a team must be from the same family. This unique aspect of the festival ensures that it remains a family-oriented event, where Kodava players from over 200 families come together to play. From every family, young boys and girls, men, women, professionals, and former hockey players who have represented the state or country will be part of the family team. The Kodava community conducts this inter-family hockey tournament every year, which has morphed into a major sporting event and festival in the country. The festival has emerged as a platform for community members to discuss trade and business interests besides scouting for marital alliances.

The history of the festival

The late Pandanda Kuttappa conceived the idea of the Kodava family hockey tournament in 1997, and it was organized by the Pandanda family first. The tournament was conceived in the belief that tapping the inherent love among the Kodavas for hockey could help bring the families and the community together. The first tournament saw nearly 60 teams take part. The format of the tournament was such that every year, one of the Kodava families had to host the event. Starting with the first tournament, the numbers have increased, reaching a high of 281 in 2003, when this event became the world’s largest hockey tournament.
The festival also serves as an opportunity for Kodava people living outside the district to return home and take part in a sporting event like a festival. The festival has been held across the district in previous years, and there is no permanent venue. Families apply to the Kodava Hockey Academy expressing interest and are allotted the tournament after evaluation.

Inauguration and cash prizes

The festival will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on March 18, and it will open with an exhibition match between India Junior XI and Karnataka Men’s XI. While the winning team of the festival this year will be given a cash prize of ₹3 lakh, the runners-up will get ₹2 lakh, and the second runner-up will get ₹1 lakh.

3) IPL 2023: BCCI comes up with New Impact Player Rules, Teams are Allowed to Elect 11 Players after Tossing

The 2023 IPL Season is scheduled to start on March 31, 2023. The opening match will be between champions Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings as part of the inauguration. The national governing body BCCI introduced Impact Player Rule. The entire details are mentioned below.
The schedule for the Indian Premier League (IPL) tournament reveals that the cricket matches are about to begin next week i.e. March 31, 2023. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a new set of rules for the players. As per the revised rulebook for this season, the captains of both teams will be able to select teams of 11 players after the toss. This option was also brought up in the recently concluded SAT20 series of 2023.
A report was published by ESPNCricinfo which stated that the captain of the team will walk with two different team sheets. Moreover, the captain will have the responsibility to hand over their final XI after the tossing results regarding their first batting or bowling which is different from exchanging team sheets before the toss.

BCCI Updates

The cricket’s regulating body BCCI proposed that this new rule adjustment would give allowance to teams so that they can select their best XIs. This will only be done after they get to know whether they have to do batting or bowling initially with the appropriate impact player included, as declared by IPL.
IPL released an official statement in which it gave entire details about the countless modifications to playing conditions. Till now, the rule was that the captains had to exchange the team lists before the toss. The Cricket Board has now updated this rule and this will be in action from 2023 matches.
The exchange of teams will happen immediately after the toss in order to empower teams to let them choose the best 11 players depending on the toss that will be made. Moreover, ESPNcricinfo noted that it will help the teams to plan for the doer or influential player.

Impact Player Rule

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season will begin next week and there are extremely positive hopes prior to the tournament. The public is excitedly sharing various perspectives and predictions from several parts of the country.
Additionally, new and innovative rules are all set to be implemented in this year's edition.
There are many other innovations including the allowance for teams to go for the Decision Review System (DRS) even for Wides and No Balls. This might help eliminate blunders. The Impact Player Rule has captivated fans.
As per the rule, it will have a captain listing four substitute players along with the playing 11 at the toss. The opening ceremony will be on March 31, 2023, starting at 7:30 pm. Match tickets are already sold out. Over one lakh people are expected to mark their presence at the thrilling session.

4) Transgender in Sports

Transgender women have been barred from competing in the female category by World Athletics (WA), the international governing body for track and field.

Context:

Transgender women have been barred from competing in the female category by World Athletics (WA), the international governing body for track and field.

Background of Transgender in Sports

• Transgender women who have experienced male puberty will not be able to compete in the female competition after March 31, 2023.
• Under the previous rules, there was no blanket ban, but transgender women had to reduce the amount of blood testosterone to 5 nmol/L and maintain this level for 12 months in order to participate.
• However, the World Athletics Council has set up a working group to conduct research “to further consider the issue of transgender inclusion”.

Issues Associated with Transgender Community

• Health: Transgender people face enormous health disparities, including staggering rates of HIV infection, lack of primary care (including individualized, medically necessary transition-related healthcare), and high rates of attempted suicide.
• Discrimination: Transgender people bear the economic consequences of discrimination, including high rates of poverty and unemployment, discrimination in education, and homelessness.
• Safety: They experience frightening levels of physical violence. This is particularly true among transgender people participating in sex work and other informal or criminalized economies.
• Civil Rights: Possessing accurate and consistent identification documents has always been challenging for the transgender community.
• Marginalization and Social Exclusion: Marginalization of Transgender people often starts with the family into which they were born. They have limited opportunities to make social contributions and they develop low self-confidence and self-esteem and become isolated.
• Employment: Low literacy rate and social exclusion limit the employment and livelihood opportunities for the transgender community.
• Homelessness: Transgender people face the problem of homelessness including a lack of housing and services that meet their specific needs.
• Education: They are unable to access equal educational opportunities because of harassment, discrimination, and even violence.

Important Judgments

• In 2014, the Supreme Court of India, in the case of the National Legal Services Authority versus Union of India, established the foundation for the rights of transgender persons in India by recognizing ‘transgender’ as a ‘third gender’.
o It also laid down several measures for the prohibition of discrimination against transgender persons and the protection of their rights.
o The judgment recommended reservations for transgenders in jobs and educational institutions and their right to declare their self-perceived gender identity without undergoing a sex reassignment surgery.

Important Judgments

Initiatives for Transgender Community in India

• Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019: The Act aims to end discrimination against transgender persons in accessing education, employment and healthcare.
• Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Rules, 2020: The rules seek to recognize the identity of transgenders and prohibit discrimination in the fields of education, employment, healthcare, holding or disposing of property, holding public or private office, and access to and use of public services and benefits.
• National Council for Transgender Persons: It advises the Union Government for the formulation and monitoring of policies and redress the grievances of transgender persons.
• SMILE (Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise): This scheme has been launched by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
o The focus of the scheme is extensively on counseling, basic documentation, education, skill development, financial assistance to transgender students, composite medical health, and setting up of Garima Grehs in each state for providing shelter facilities for abandoned and orphaned transgender persons.
o It also aims to set up transgender protection cells in India for providing quick redressal of offenses & crimes against transgender persons.
• National Education Policy 2020: NEP 2020 identifies transgender children as Socio-Economically Disadvantaged Groups 4 (SEDGs) and provides for equitable quality education for all such students.
o A ‘Gender-Inclusion Fund’ will be constituted under the new policy to build the nation’s capacity to provide equitable quality education for all girls as well as transgender students.
• PM-DAKSH: The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is imparting skill development training to the Transgender beneficiaries of the SMILE Scheme through PM-DAKSH.

Way Forward

• Concerted efforts should be made to bring about legal reform so that transgender people are as free and empowered in their public and private lives as any other citizen of India.
• Gender sensitization of the common people should work in parallel with legal reforms.
• It is the responsibility of each individual at all micro and macro levels to create a ‘gender inclusive’ environment around the transgenders at their households, workplaces, and other institutions.

5) Doping in Sport: Needs Prevention - Current Affair Article for UPSC, IAS, Civil Services, and State PCS Examinations

Why in News?

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will now come under the ambit of the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA). This means India's cricketers will now be tested by NADA. Further, India batsman Prithvi Shaw was recently suspended till November 15 after his urine sample tested positive for the substance 'Terbutaline'.

Doping from the Beginning to the Present Day

There have been several definitions of doping. The first official definition of doping dates from 1963 and it was issued by the European Committee Council: "Doping represents the use of substances or physiological mediators, which are not normally present in the human body, introduced as an external aid to increase the athletes’ performance during a competition".
Doping was described in modern sports in the second half of the 19th century. During the Saint Louis Marathon in 1904, Tom Hicks died as a result of using a mixture of cognac and strychnine. After multiple incidents in competitions, in 1928, the International Athletics Federation (IAF) became the first international federation to ban doping in athletic competitions; 32 years later anti-doping testing was implemented.
In the Olympics, the first official controls for conventional substances took place at the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich. Anabolic steroids were the first substances controlled at the 1976 Olympics in Montreal and as a consequence, many athletes were disqualified and lost their medals. This led to a decision by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which stated that the results of doping tests should be made public during the competition.
That was the beginning of an open fight that began in the 1980s between those seeking and finding new doping substances that are not yet on the antidoping list and the authorities that try to detect these substances. It is clear, however, that between these two sides, there is a gap in favor of those interested in cheating. Further, the introduction of anti-doping controls outside competitions was a new milestone in the anti-doping campaign in 1989.
In modern professional sports, many athletes have tested positive for forbidden substances, perhaps the most publicized case being that of Canadian Ben Johnson, the famous 100 meters runner for the use of anabolic steroids. It was the first doping scandal in the history of the Olympic Games, which led to Johnson’s suspension for two years and then for life, because he tested positive again in 1993.
Currently, doping is considered as any violation of the following rules: the use or attempt to use a forbidden substance or a prohibited method, refusal for sampling after receiving an invitation to doping control in accordance with anti-doping rules, avoidance of sampling, falsification or attempt to falsify any part of the doping control, possession of prohibited substances and/or methods, trafficking or attempted trafficking of any prohibited substance.

BCCI and Anti-doping tussle

The BCCI came under the ambit of the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), ending more than a decade-long standoff between the apex body of Indian cricket and the national organization. It means all cricketers, without exception, will now be tested for banned and performance-enhancing drugs by NADA, like any other Indian athlete.
BCCI had previously used the services of Sweden-based International Dope Testing Management (IDTM) for collecting the samples of cricketers and submitting them to the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL). However, following the Sports Ministry's firm stance on the issue, the BCCI has finally agreed to be NADA compliant.
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) also initiated the process to make the International Cricket Council (ICC) non-compliant to its revised 'Code' for signatories in 2018 after the world cricket body failed to make one of its members, BCCI, NADA compliant. The ICC had become WADA's signatory in 2006 even as it started conducting dope tests as early as 2002. The WADA had set October 8 as the deadline but BCCI's failure to allow the NADA to test its cricketers had forced the world anti-doping watchdog to take action.
The BCCI had in the past argued that it is not a National Sports Federation (NSF) which is recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in India. The BCCI has been an autonomous body that does not receive funding or grants from the sports ministry of the country. Thus, the BCCI argued it need not be covered by National Anti-Doping Organisations (NADO) protocols since it's not an NSF.
The 'whereabouts clause" has been a big roadblock for BCCI to come under the ambit of the NADA. The same clause had vehemently been opposed by star Indian cricketers. The 'Whereabouts Clause' requires every cricketer to inform the ICC or the NADO about his/ her location on 3 specific dates in a year wherein they would be available for out-of-competition testing -- as in for NADA's Dope Control Officer (DCO) for sample collection.

Importance of 'Whereabouts Clause'

Whereabouts are information provided by a limited number of top elite athletes about their location to the International Sports Federation (IF) or National Anti-Doping Organization (NADO) that included them in their respective registered testing pool as part of these top elite athletes’ anti-doping responsibilities.
Because out-of-competition doping controls can be conducted without notice to athletes, they are one of the most powerful means of deterrence and detection of doping and are an important step in strengthening athlete and public confidence in doping-free sports. Accurate whereabouts information is crucial to ensure the efficiency of the anti-doping programs, which are designed to protect the integrity of sports and to protect clean athletes.
The concept of out-of-competition is not new. Experience has shown that out-of-competition testing is crucial to the fight against doping, in particular, because a number of prohibited substances and methods are detectable only for a limited period of time in an athlete’s body while maintaining a performance-enhancing effect. The only way to perform such testing is by knowing where athletes are, and the only way to make it efficient is to be able to test athletes at times at which cheaters may be most likely to use prohibited substances and methods.
Further, the BCCI had reportedly raised concerns surrounding the competence of NADA's doping control officers over the quality of pathologists and sample collection officers. However, now the Sports Ministry has assured that the NADA's doping control officers are well-trained.

What is Doping?

Doping means athletes taking illegal substances to improve their performances. There are five classes of banned drugs, the most common of which are stimulants and hormones. There are health risks involved in taking them and they are banned by sports' governing bodies.
Depending on the country's legislation, doping substances can be bought from pharmacies/supplement stores or, most commonly, from the black market. For a substance or performance improvement method to be classified as doping, it must meet at least two of the following three criteria: (i) to improve performance, to present a hazard (ii) to the health of the athlete and (iii) to violate the spirit of sport. Other methods of improving performance such as blood transfusions are also included in the doping category.

The World Anti-Doping Agency

The goal of WADA is a world in which all athletes compete in a clean sporting environment. WADA is a strong defender of ethical sports and guarantees athletes' legal protection. WADA also aims to harmonize anti-doping work all over the world. WADA was established in 1999, and its head office is located in Montreal, Canada.
WADA Code: The WADA Code or simply the Code is a document aiming to harmonize anti-doping regulations in all sports and across countries. It has been adopted by over 600 sports organizations. The Code works on five aspects:
a. Prohibited List;
b. Testing and investigations;
c. Laboratories;
d. Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs); and
e. Protection of Privacy and Personal Information.

UNESCO's Convention Against Doping

UNESCO's global anti-doping convention entered into force in 2007. The governments that have ratified UNESCO's antidoping convention have undertaken to comply with the principles of WADA's World Anti-Doping Code and support the operations of WADA. The governments are committed to arranging anti-doping activities in their respective countries. Compliance with the convention is monitored through reporting by the convention member states.

International Anti-Doping Agreement

The International Antidoping Agreement (IADA) is an intergovernmental alliance with strong involvement by national anti-doping agencies. IADA exercises active influence on the development of the WADA Code and Standards. It also prepares its own initiatives and develops anti-doping work with its projects and programmes. The IADA agreement was concluded in 1991, and its secretarial staff is located in Norway ni 2015–2016.

The National Anti-Doping Agency

National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) was set up as a registered society under the Societies Registration Act of 1890 on November 24, 2005, with a mandate for dope-free sports in India. The primary objectives are to implement anti-doping rules as per the WADA code, regulate the doping control programmes, promote education and research, and create awareness about doping and its ill effects.
The primary functions of NADA are as under:
• To implement the Anti-doping Code to achieve compliance by all sports organizations in the Country.
• To coordinate dope testing program through all participating stakeholders.
• To promote anti-doping research and education to inculcate the value of dope-free sports.
• To adopt best practice standards and quality systems to enable effective implementation and continual improvement of the program.
To ensure clean and dope-free sports in India, NADA has adopted several methods recently. Consequently, the detection rate stood at a maximum of 4.3% during the year 2018-19. As a result, this year maximum of 187 players were charged for violating the anti-doping rules. Combat doping at a wider level, various new sports like Soft-Tennis, Karate, Kho-Kho, Squash, Roller Skating, Billiards, and Boating have been incorporated into the dope control program, in the year 2018-19.
To prevent doping in sports, NADA has been conducting various Anti- Doping Awareness Programs at national camps, universities, and colleges and during various championships. In the year 2018-19, a total of 90 Anti-Doping Awareness Programs were conducted in different parts of India, wherein the athletes and their coaches were educated about the ill effects of doping and were asked to support clean and dope-free sports in India. To ensure clean and dope-free sports in India, NADA has started its dope testing even at the state level.

Issues and Challenges

Doping has become a key and complex issue in the sports world, which deserves serious consideration, as specialists are still striving to understand how and why it happens, and how to prevent it. "Sensational" revelations in the press reflect the gravity of a worrying situation resonating in most sports disciplines.
Cases of doping compromise the credibility of performance in sports, and the mediatized victories of some "arena heroes" become questionable and disputable. Nowadays some sporting disciplines seem to have managed to surpass human limits and sometimes even legal limits. The financial interests, the pressure to obtain better results, the media coverage of sports competitions and, last but not least, human nature can explain this phenomenon.
It is clear that in some disciplines such as athletics or cycling, human performance cannot improve endlessly. Nowadays, sports are no longer just sports; sports become an industry, a business, a reason for political or national pride, and these facts can only lead to breaking any rules to win. Sometimes, consciously, camouflaged, with a network of specialists behind or on their own, some athletes think "maybe they won’t catch me"; because today sports mean sponsors, advertising contracts, and money, and for that, some believe that any risk is worth taking. Even risks to their own health (often with huge and irreversible consequences) no longer matter.

Way Forward

The doping phenomenon in sports is increasing and diversifying, as are the drugs used for doping. There is a permanent race among those who invent new doping methods and sports ethics organizations that are searching for more performant methods to detect them. Unfortunately, most of the time, those in the first category are always one step ahead. Improving scientific procedures used to detect prohibited substances is of course a necessity and also a challenge. Stricter legislation with the involvement of authorities is required to prevent the spread, marketing and use of such substances. Resolute action is required to restore fair play throughout the sports industry and last but not least, the ethics and fair-play education of young athletes.

6) Fact Sheet: IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships 2023

India’s Youth Affairs and Sports Minister, Anurag Singh Thakur, inaugurated the 13th IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships in New Delhi, marking the beginning of a much-awaited event in the world of boxing. The tournament, hosted by the Boxing Federation of India, will take place from March 16 to 26, with a total prize fund of $2.4 million. The IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships is one of the most prestigious events in the world of boxing, and the fact that India is hosting it is a testament to the growing popularity of the sport in the country.

Indian Boxers Ready for the Challenge

India has fielded a strong contingent for the tournament, with Nikhat Zareen, Lovlina Borgohain, Saweety Boora, and Preeti all set to participate in the event. These boxers have been in impressive form recently and will be looking to make a mark in the competition. They will, however, face stiff competition from some of the world’s best boxers, including several Olympic medallists.

The Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony of the tournament was held on March 15, with the tournament’s brand ambassador, MC Mary Kom, and Bollywood star Farhan Akhtar in attendance. The event was a grand affair, with dancers and musicians putting up spectacular performances that kept the audience enthralled.

The Tournament Format

The event will see 324 boxers from 65 countries compete in 12 weight categories. The tournament follows a knockout format, with each bout consisting of three rounds of three minutes each. The winner of each bout will proceed to the next round, with the ultimate aim of reaching the finals and winning the championship.

The Impact of the Event

The IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships is not just a major sporting event but also has a significant social impact. The tournament provides a platform for women boxers from across the globe to showcase their talent and inspire young girls to take up the sport. It is also a great opportunity for India to showcase its sporting infrastructure and organizational capabilities to the world.

7) Dick Fosbury Passes Away at the Age of 76

Dick Fosbury, the legendary American high jumper, who changed the game of high jump forever with his unconventional technique, passed away at the age of 76. Fosbury was a gold medalist in high jump at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, where he stunned the world with his revolutionary style, known as the Fosbury Flop.

The Birth of the Fosbury Flop

The Fosbury Flop was not an overnight success; it was the result of years of experimentation and practice. Fosbury started his athletic career using the traditional straddle technique, but he soon realized that it wasn’t effective enough to get him the results he wanted. During a high school meet in 1963, Fosbury decided to ditch the straddle and try the scissor technique, which was not very popular at that time. The scissor technique involved jumping over the bar with one leg leading and the other following. However, Fosbury didn’t stop at the scissor technique; he added his own unique twist to it. Instead of going forward over the bar, he leaned back and jumped back over the bar, head first. It was a move that had never been seen before, and the crowd was stunned. Fosbury scored two personal bests that day, and the Fosbury Flop was born.

The Dominance of the Fosbury Flop

It took some time for the Fosbury Flop to gain acceptance in the world of high jump. Coaches and athletes were skeptical of the new technique, and many thought it was dangerous. But Fosbury kept at it, and by the time he reached college, he had perfected the technique. In 1968, Fosbury was selected for the US Olympic team and headed to Mexico City. The Olympics was the perfect stage for Fosbury to showcase his technique to the world. He was up against some of the best high jumpers of the time, but he was confident that his technique would give him an edge. Fosbury’s opponents tried to imitate his style, but they failed miserably. Fosbury won the gold medal with a jump of 2.24 meters, which was a new Olympic record.

The Legacy of Dick Fosbury

After the Olympics, the Fosbury Flop became the most widely used technique across the world. It was adopted by high jumpers of all ages and skill levels, and it remains the dominant technique to this day. Fosbury’s innovation changed the game of the high jump forever, and it earned him a place in the Olympic Hall of Fame. Fosbury’s legacy extends beyond the world of athletics. His innovative thinking and willingness to take risks are an inspiration to people in all walks of life. He proved that sometimes the unconventional path is the one that leads to success.

27 March 2023

Agriculture

1) MSP For Jute

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister of India, has given its approval for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Raw Jute for the 2023-24 season.
o Jute is one of the most important natural fibers after cotton in terms of cultivation and usage
o India is the largest producer of jute followed by Bangladesh and China.
o It is mainly grown in eastern India because of the rich alluvial soil of the Ganga-Brahmaputra delta.
o In India, major jute-producing states include West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Meghalaya, and Tripura.
o A minimum support price (MSP) is a minimum price for any crop that the Government considers as remunerative for farmers and hence deserving of “support”.
o It is also the price that Government agencies pay whenever they procure a particular crop from the farmers.
o There is currently no statutory backing for these prices, nor any law mandating their enforcement.

2) Cultivation Of Dragon Fruit

Under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), a roadmap is being prepared for the cultivation of dragon fruit in the identified potential area to increase the production of exotic and niche area fruits.
o The target for area expansion under MIDH for Kamalam is 50,000 ha. in 5 years.
o Dragon Fruit is a herbaceous perennial climbing cactus widely known as Pitaya, and has its origin in Southern Mexico, Central America, and South America.
o Its flowers are hermaphrodites (male and female organs in the same flower) in nature and open at night.
o It grows in all kinds of soil and does not require much water.
o The plant sustains yield for more than 20 years, is high in nutraceutical properties(medicinal effects), and good for value-added processing industries.
o It goes by many names, including pitaya, pitahaya, and strawberry pear.

3) Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics 2022

Why in News?

Recently, the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying released the ‘Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics 2022, showing an increase in milk, eggs, and meat production in India.
• The contribution of livestock in the agriculture sector has been showing steady improvement which signifies its growing importance for the country’s economy.

What are the Key Highlights?

Milk Production:

o Total milk production in India was 221.06 million tonnes in 2021-2022, keeping It the largest milk-producing country in the world.
o Production had increased by 5.29% over the previous year.
• The Indigenous cattle contribute 10.35% of the total milk production in the country whereas non-descript cattle contribute 9.82% and non-descript buffaloes contribute 13.49% of the total milk production in the country.
o Top five major milk producing States are Rajasthan (15.05%), Uttar Pradesh (14.93%), Madhya Pradesh (8.06%), Gujarat (7.56%), and Andhra Pradesh (6.97%).

Egg Production:

o The total egg production was 129.60 billion numbers, and it is an increase by 6.19% than the previous year.
o Top five egg producing States are Andhra Pradesh (20.41%), Tamil Nadu (16.08%), Telangana (12.86%), West Bengal (8.84%), and Karnataka (6.38%) and these States together contribute 64.56% of total egg production in the country.

Meat Production:

o The total meat production in the country was 9.29 million tonnes, increasing by 5.62% as compared to the previous year.
o The meat production from poultry is contributing about 51.44% of the total production.
o The top five meat producing States are Maharashtra (12.25%), Uttar Pradesh (12.14%), West Bengal (11.63%), Andhra Pradesh (11.04%) and Telangana (10.82%). They together contribute 57.86% of total meat production in the country.

Wool:

o The total wool production in the country during 2021-22 was 33.13 thousand tonnes which had declined by 10.30% as compared to the previous year.
o The top five major wool producing States are Rajasthan (45.91%), Jammu and Kashmir (23.19%), Gujarat (6.12%), Maharashtra (4.78%) , and Himachal Pradesh (4.33%).

What is Animal Husbandry?

About:

o Animal husbandry refers to livestock raising and selective breeding. It is the management and care of animals in which the genetic qualities and behavior of animals are further developed for profit.
o India is the highest livestock owner in the world.
• As per the 20th Livestock Census, the total Livestock population is 535.78 million in the country showing an increase of 4.6% over the Livestock Census-2012.
o Animal rearing has multidimensional potential.
• For instance, Operation Flood, launched in 1970, helped dairy farmers direct their own development, increased milk production ("a flood of milk"), augmented rural incomes, and ensured reasonable prices for consumers.

Significance:

o Economic Development: Animal husbandry is a significant contributor to the economy of many countries. It generates employment opportunities, income, and foreign exchange through the export of animal-based products.
o Sustainable Agriculture: Animal husbandry plays a crucial role in sustainable agriculture by providing manure for soil fertility, controlling pests and weeds, and reducing the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
o Genetic Improvement: Animal husbandry also contributes to the genetic improvement of livestock through selective breeding and genetic engineering, leading to higher productivity, improved disease resistance, and better quality of animal-based products.

4) DigiClaim Module Launched under PM Fasal Bima Yojana

DigiClaim Module in News

Recently, the Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, inaugurated the digitized claim settlement module, DigiClaim, of the National Crop Insurance Portal at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi.

DigiClaim Module under PMFBY

The launch of DigiClaim is part of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) initiative. The introduction of the DigiClaim module will enable the electronic disbursement of claims to farmers in six states, thus providing a sustainable financial flow to insured farmers and easing their lives.
The automated claim settlement process will now be a continual activity aimed at supporting and benefitting farmers.
The launch of DigiClaim is expected to have a direct impact on the claim reversal ratio, which is likely to decrease.
One notable aspect of this digital innovation is that farmers will have the ability to track the claim settlement process in real time through their mobile phones and benefit from the scheme’s features.

DigiClaim Module Significance

To address the issue of delayed disbursement of crop loss claims to insured farmers, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare has launched the DigiClaim Module.
This initiative aims to prioritize farmers’ welfare and expedite the claim disbursal process by ensuring that valid claims are processed transparently and directly to the farmers’ bank accounts.
The DigiClaim Module integrates the National Crop Insurance Portal (NCIP) with the Public Finance Management System (PFMS) to enable this technology.

28 March 2023

Social Justice & Social Issues

1) Tackling the Issue of the Gender Pay Gap

The gender Pay Gap in India refers to the difference in average wages or earnings between men and women in the country. Despite constitutional provisions and various efforts to promote gender equality, the gender pay gap remains a significant issue in India.

According to the Report “Women and Men in India 2022" released by the National Statistical, wage disparity between men and women has widened over the past decade, with the gap opening up further at higher wage levels.
Men in India capture 82% of labor income, while women earn just 18%, according to the first-ever estimates of gender inequality in global earnings presented in the World Inequality Report 2022 released.
To address the gender pay gap, there is a need for greater awareness and advocacy around the issue, as well as policy measures that promote gender equality and economic empowerment of women.

What are the Reasons for the Gender Pay Gap?

Occupational Segregation:

o Women tend to be concentrated in lower-paying occupations, such as caregiving and administrative work, while men are overrepresented in higher-paying industries like technology, engineering, and finance.

Discrimination:

o Women may face bias in hiring, promotions, and pay, even when their qualifications and experience are equal to those of their male colleagues.

Workforce Participation:

o Women are more likely to take time off or work part-time to care for children or elderly relatives, which can lead to interruptions in their career paths and lower overall earnings.

Negotiation:

o Women are less likely to negotiate for higher pay or benefits because the opportunities for them are less, which can result in lower compensation packages.

Limited Access to Education and Training:

o Women may have less access to educational and training opportunities, due to patriarchal beliefs that girls and women must be the ones doing household labor.
o It can limit their ability to acquire the skills and credentials necessary for higher-paying jobs.

Inability to Work Irregular Hours:

o Many jobs require employees to work irregular hours, such as overtime or night shifts, and due to security reasons women are unable to work irregular hours.
o This can result in women being passed over for promotions or being paid less than men who can work more flexible schedules.

Lack of Mobility to Reach Job Sites:

o Women are also more likely to have transportation challenges, such as a lack of access to reliable transportation, which can limit their ability to reach job sites. This can result in women being excluded from certain jobs or industries, which can limit their earning potential.

Discontinuity of Experience owing to Family Responsibilities:

o Women are more likely than men to take time off work to care for children or other family members. This can result in a discontinuity of experience, making it harder for women to advance in their careers and earn higher salaries.

What are the Related Initiatives/Constitutional Provisions?

Constitutional Provisions:

o The Constitution of India guarantees equal pay for equal work for both men and women under Article 39(d) and Article 42. It also prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender under Article 15(1) and Article 15(2).

The Equal Remuneration Act:

o This act was passed in 1976 to ensure that men and women receive equal pay for equal work. The act applies to all organizations, whether public or private and covers both regular and casual employees.

The Maternity Benefit Act:

o This act provides for maternity leave and other benefits to women employees. It was amended in 2017 to increase the duration of maternity leave from 12 weeks to 26 weeks.

The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act:

o This act was passed in 2013 to provide protection against sexual harassment at the workplace. It requires all employers to establish a mechanism for redressal of complaints and to ensure that women are not discriminated against in terms of pay and conditions of work.

Others:

o In 2022, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a “pay equity policy”, saying that its centrally-contracted men and women players would get the same match fees.

What Should be the Way Forward?

Strengthening Legislation:

o Existing laws can be strengthened and new legislation can be introduced to prevent gender discrimination in the workplace. For instance, the Equal Remuneration Act, of 1976 can be enforced more rigorously to ensure equal pay for equal work.

Providing Training and Development:

o Women employees can be provided with training and development opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge, which can help them to advance in their careers and negotiate better salaries.

Empowering Women:

o Women can be encouraged to negotiate for better pay and benefits by providing them with better opportunities and to take up leadership positions in their organizations. This can help break the cycle of gender discrimination and lead to more women in leadership roles.

Ensure Equal Distribution of Work:

o The burden of household work and childcare often falls disproportionately on women, which can limit their ability to work outside the home or to advance in their careers.
o To address this, it is important to promote a more equitable distribution of household work and childcare duties between women and men.
o This can be achieved through policies such as parental leave, flexible work arrangements, and affordable childcare services.

2) World Tuberculosis Day 2023

Why in News?

World Tuberculosis (TB) Day is observed on 24th March every year to spread awareness about the disease and how best to combat it.
• India aims to make the nation TB-free by 2025, whereas the Global Target for TB elimination is 2030.
• Theme for 2023: Yes! We can end TB!

Why is World TB Day Observed and What is its Significance?

• On this day in 1882, Dr. Robert Koch announced the discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis that causes TB, and his discovery opened the way towards diagnosing and curing this disease.
• Even today TB is one of the world's deadliest infectious killers. As per WHO (World Health Organisation), every day, over 4100 people lose their lives to TB and about 28,000 people fall ill with this disease. Deaths from tuberculosis have risen in 2020 for the first time in more than a decade.
o According to the WHO, in 2020, around 9,900,000 people fell ill with TB and died, around 1,500,000. Since the year 2000, 66,000,000 lives have been saved by efforts taken globally to end TB.
o India accounts for roughly 28% of TB cases in the world, as per the Global TB Report 2022.
• Therefore, World TB Day is observed to educate people around the world about the disease TB and its impact.

What is Tuberculosis?

About:

o Tuberculosis is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It can practically affect any organ of the body. The most common ones are the lungs, pleura (lining around the lungs), lymph nodes, intestines, spine, and brain.

Transmission:

o It is an airborne infection that spreads through close contact with the infected, especially in densely populated spaces with poor ventilation.

Symptoms:

o Common symptoms of active lung TB are cough with sputum and blood at times, chest pains, weakness, weight loss, fever, and night sweats.

Treatment:

o TB is a treatable and curable disease. It is treated with a standard 6-month course of 4 antimicrobial drugs that are provided with information, supervision, and support to the patient by a health worker or trained volunteer.
o Anti-TB medicines have been used for decades and strains that are resistant to 1 or more of the medicines have been documented in every country surveyed.
• Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a form of TB caused by bacteria that do not respond to isoniazid and rifampicin, the 2 most powerful, first-line anti-TB drugs.
• MDR-TB is treatable and curable by using second-line drugs such as bedaquiline.
• Extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB) is a more serious form of MDR-TB caused by bacteria that do not respond to the most effective second-line anti-TB drugs, often leaving patients without any further treatment options.

What are the Initiatives to Combat TB?

Global Efforts:

o The WHO has launched a joint initiative “Find. Treat. All. #EndTB” with the Global Fund and Stop TB Partnership.
o WHO also releases the Global Tuberculosis Report.

India’s Efforts:

o National Strategic Plan (NSP) for Tuberculosis Elimination (2017-2025), The Nikshay Ecosystem (National TB information system), Nikshay Poshan Yojana (NPY- financial support), TB Harega Desh Jeetega Campaign.
o Currently, two vaccines VPM (Vaccine Projekt Management) 1002 and MIP (Mycobacterium Indicus Pranii) have been developed and identified for TB, and are under Phase-3 clinical trial.
o In 2018 Nikshay Poshan Yojna was launched, which aimed to support every Tuberculosis (TB) Patient by providing a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of Rs 500 per month for nutritional needs.

3) ‘Aashwasan’ Campaign under ‘Tribal TB Initiative’

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs and TB division of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare organized a national conclave on 24th August at the National Tribal Research Institute (NTRI), New Delhi to disseminate the learnings of the 100-day Aashwasan Campaign under ‘Tribal TB Initiative’.

Tribal TB Initiative

• It is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Central TB Division, Ministry of Health, supported by USAID as a technical partner and Piramal Swasthya as implementing partner.

Aashwasan Campaign

• The Aashwasan Campaign started on 7th January this year for active case finding for TB in 174 tribal districts of India, under the ambit of the Tribal TB Initiative.
• It was flagged off in Nandurbar District, Maharashtra.

The Initiative

• Under the initiative, door-to-door screening for TB was undertaken covering 68,019 villages.
• Based on the verbal screening of 1,03,07,200 persons, 3,82,811 people were identified for Presumptive TB. Of these, 2,79,329 (73%) samples were tested for TB and 9,971 people were found to be positive for TB and put on treatment as per GoI protocols.

Findings

• The data indicates that the tribal communities are more vulnerable to respiratory diseases and TB, compared to other population groups.

Charting Future Course

• With the data which has emerged through the Aashwasan Campaign, Central TB Division will map TB hotspots and use that as the starting point.
• 75 high-burden tribal districts have been selected for focused interventions in the coming months.

4) NAMASTE: National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJ&E) is preparing to undertake a nationwide survey to enumerate all people engaged in the hazardous cleaning of sewers and septic tanks.
• The enumeration exercise is part of the Union government’s National Action Plan for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE).
• It will streamline the process of rehabilitating sanitation workers and eventually merge with and replace the Self-Employment Scheme for the Rehabilitation of Manual Scavengers (SRMS), which was started in 2007.

About NAMASTE

• National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) is a Central Sector Scheme of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) as a joint initiative of the MoSJE and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) that envisages safety and dignity of sanitation workers.
• Outlay & Period of the Scheme: The scheme comes with an outlay of Rs. 360 crores for four years from 2022-23 to 2025-26.
• Implementing Agency: National Safai Karamchari Financial Development Corporation (NSKFDC) would be implementing agency for NAMASTE.

Aim of the Scheme

• NAMASTE aims to achieve the following outcomes:
• Zero fatalities in sanitation work in India
• All sanitation work is performed by skilled workers
• No sanitation workers come in direct contact with human faecal matter
• Sanitation workers are collectivized into SHGs and are empowered to run sanitation enterprises
• All Sewer and Septic tank sanitation workers (SSWs) have access to alternative livelihoods
• Strengthened supervisory and monitoring systems at national, state, and ULB levels to ensure enforcement and monitoring of safe sanitation work
• Increased awareness amongst sanitation services seekers (individuals and institutions) to seek services from registered and skilled sanitation workers

Coverage

• In the first phase, five hundred cities (converging with AMRUT cities) will be taken up under NAMASTE.
• The category of cities that will be eligible are:
o All Cities and Towns with a population of over one lakh with notified Municipalities, including Cantonment Boards (Civilian areas),
o All Capital Cities/Towns of States/ Union Territories (UTs)
o Ten Cities from hill states, islands, and tourist destinations (not more than one from each State).

Enumeration

• NAMASTE envisages identifying the Sewer/Septic Tank Workers (SSWs) with a focus on the informal workforce who are engaged in hazardous cleaning operations.
• The database will enable MoSJE, NSKFDC, and MoHUA (including DAY-NULM, SBM 2.0, and AMRUT) to reach the SSWs and their families and provide them with the necessary support for collectivization, skill building, and linking with social and financial benefits.
• The Survey would be conducted by the City NAMASTE Managers and validated by the concerned ULB.

Assistance under the Scheme

Extending Insurance Scheme Benefits

• Identified SSWs and their families will be covered under the Ayushman Bharat- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY).
• The premium for AB-PMJAY for those identified SSWs families who are not covered earlier shall be borne under NAMASTE.

Livelihood Assistance

• The Action Plan will promote mechanization and enterprise development.
• Funding: National Safai Karamchari Financial Development Corporation (NSKFDC) will provide funding support and subsidy (capital +interest) to the sanitation workers, SHGs of SSWs, and private sanitation service organizations (PSSOs) to procure sanitation-related equipment and vehicles under SUY for total mechanization of cleaning operations.
• Livelihood Choices: Identified SSWs and their dependants will be given counseling on available livelihood choices and an opportunity to acquire alternative skills if they so desire. Depending on their personal preference, an SSW may choose to continue working in the sanitation sector, thereby becoming eligible for receiving capacity-building training.
Alternatively, the worker may choose to explore an alternative livelihood option or an entrepreneurial venture. In case the workers decide to adopt an alternate livelihood of their choice, skilling, and EDP support will be provided to these workers. The workers may start a new livelihood project as an individual or as a group interested in the same option.

Saturation with Social Security Schemes’ Benefits

• The identified sanitation workers and their family members will be extended benefits of all the social security schemes being implemented by various departments in the area.

Governing Structure

The scheme will be governed by National NAMASTE Management Unit (NNMU) at the Centre as the apex body and in states, there will be State Namaste Management Units (SNMUs). Further, at in cities City NAMASTE Monitoring Units (CNMUs) will carry out the implementation and other activities.

National NAMASTE Management Unit (NNMU)

• Apex Body: At the apex of the structure will be the National NAMASTE Monitoring Unit (NNMU) under the Managing Director, NSKFDC, which will report to the concerned Division head in the MoSJE, Government of India.
• Coordinating Body: A Technical Support Unit (TSU) consisting of a team of IT Professionals, Experts in the implementation of similar programmes, SHG experts, IEC experts, Banking experts, etc., will be established in the NNMU to support the implementation of NAMASTE and facilitate coordination between MoSJE and MoHUA.

State Namaste Management Unit (SNMU)

• Head - State Namaste Director: The State Govt. will decide on a suitable officer to be designated as State Namaste Director to head State Namaste Management Unit (SNMU).
• He will be assisted by: State NAMASTE Manager - to be deployed under the Scheme as per requirement.

City NAMASTE Monitoring Unit (CNMU)

• Head- NAMASTE Nodal Officer: At the City level, City NAMASTE Monitoring Unit (CNMU) shall consist of a NAMASTE nodal officer of the city to be designated by the concerned ULB
• He will be assisted by: City NAMASTE Manager.

5) Paalan 1000 Campaign, Parenting App to Focus on Child Health

On 16th August 2022, the Union Minister of State for Health Bharati Pravin Pawar virtually launched the Early Childhood Development Conclave, Paalan 1000 National Campaign, and Parenting App in Mumbai.

Paalan 1000 National Campaign

• ‘Paalan 1000 - Journey of the First 1000 Days’, focuses on the cognitive developments of children in the first 2 years of its life.
• The campaign is centered on the fact that the first 1000 days of a child's life is when a platform is established for its physical, mental, emotional, cognitive, and social health.
• Paalan 1000 combines early years coaching for parents, families, and other caregivers with services designed to meet families’ basic needs. Infants and toddlers are shaped by their experiences – and those experiences are shaped by their caregivers. Caregivers are crucial for a strong start in the first years of life.
• The programme has aligned the mission of the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), emphasizing responsive care and focusing interventions on the first 1000 days.

Focus Area of PAALAN 1000

The cognitive development of children under 2 years is a major focus area of this PAALAN 1000.
It is focused on the 6 principles:
• Maximize Love,
• Talk & Engage,
• Explore through Movement and Play,
• Read and Discuss Stories,
• Mother’s Engagement with the Child while Breastfeeding, and
• Managing Stress and Staying Calm.

PAALAN 1000 Parenting App

• It will provide caregivers with practical advice on what they can do in their everyday routine and will help resolve the various doubts of parents and will direct our efforts in the development of children.
Fact Sheet: India has taken rapid strides in reducing child mortality since 2014 from 45 per 1000 live births to 35 per 1000 live births in 2019.

6) Dr. Ambedkar Centres of Excellence (DACE) Scheme

On 22nd April 2022, the Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment and Chairman of Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF) launched the Dr. Ambedkar Centres of Excellence (DACE) Scheme from Banaras Hindu University.
The scheme will be implemented in 31 Central Universities across the country.

Aim

• The DACEs are being set up to provide high-quality free coaching facilities to the Scheduled Caste students for the Civil Services examinations, conducted by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

Finer Points of the Scheme

• Under the DACE Scheme, a total of 100 seats will be sanctioned for coaching per center.
• Of the total sanctioned seats for coaching, 33% of seats will preferably be given to the eligible female candidates of Scheduled Castes.
• If eligible female candidates are not available in sufficient numbers for the coaching, the concerned University will allocate the vacant seats to the male/transgender candidates (SC Candidates only).
• The coaching benefits, under the scheme, will only be utilized by a student once regardless of the number of chances he/she is entitled to a particular competitive examination.
• It will be mandatory for a student to submit an affidavit to the University stating that he/she has not received any monetary benefit from any of the other schemes of the Government of India, State/UTs, or any funding agency.
• The concerned University will widely publicize the scheme through open advertisements and make a public notice for a Common Entrance Test.
• The students will be selected through an entrance test conducted by the University as per merit.
• In order to conduct the coaching classes, the Universities will have to possess the necessary infrastructure such as separate classrooms, Library, Hi-Speed Wi-Fi connectivity, and other requisite equipment, etc.

Funding

• Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF) shall fund the entire expenditure incurred on the establishment of Dr. Ambedkar Centre for Excellence.
• Rs. 75,000/- per annum / per student will be provided to the University for 100 students.
• Total amount of Rs. 75.00 lakhs per year would be provided to the University for running the Scheme.

Dr. Ambedkar Chairs

• Dr. Ambedkar Foundation is running another Scheme called “Dr Ambedkar Chairs” in Universities/Institutions all over the country.
• Dr. Ambedkar Chairs aim to provide advanced Centres of learning in the premier universities and educational institutes, where academicians, scholars, and students would enrich and advance studies and research to understand, assess, disseminate, and implement the ideas and thoughts of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
• The Chairs also aim to conduct advanced research and teaching on the present and past of the deprived sections of Indian society to provide justice and empower them.

29 March 2023

Arts & Culture

1) Vedic Heritage Portal

The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) has recently launched the Vedic Heritage Portal, a digital repository of Vedic knowledge and traditions from across the country. This portal is the result of a seven-year effort and an estimated cost of Rs 5 crore. The Vedic Heritage Portal is a one-stop solution for researchers and others who seek information about the Vedic heritage of India. It was launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Culture Minister G Kishan Reddy during the IGNCA’s 36th Foundation Day celebrations.

Mapping the Vedic Heritage of the Country

The Vedic Heritage Portal is an effort to map the Vedic heritage of India. The portal offers detailed information about oral traditions, the textual tradition in the form of published books/manuscripts, or implements (yajna-related objects). The aim of the portal is to collate information for making Vedas accessible to people and provide a forum for further dialogue. It is a digital platform that preserves and promotes the ‘Vedas’, which are an intangible heritage of humanity as per the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Content on the Vedic Heritage Portal

Over 550 hours of audio-visual content related to more than 18,000 Vedic mantras have been uploaded on the website, prepared in conjunction with people who know Vedas, Vedic research institutes, Vedapathi families, and experts from all over the world. The Vedic Heritage Portal is available in a mix of English and Hindi, besides audio content in Sanskrit. The portal also includes research articles and lectures on scientific subjects explaining the relevance of ‘Vedic knowledge’ in the perspective of modern science.

IGNCA’s Future Plans

Apart from the Vedic Heritage Portal, the IGNCA is planning to create a museum dedicated to the Vedic implements, or vessels used in the yajna. The museum will showcase over 250 vessels from the Vedic traditions of Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. IGNCA is also working on a project called Vrihattar Bharat, which will explore the cultural linkages of India with 40 other countries, including South East Asian Nations such as Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, and Mongolia.

2) Sajibu Nongma Panba

Sajibu Nongma Panba is a lunar new year celebrated by the followers of Sanamahism in Manipur. This year, it falls on March 22. In this article, we will discuss the origin and observance of this auspicious festival.

The Origin of Sajibu Nongma Panba

According to the followers of Sanamahism, Sajibu Nongma Panba started during the reign of King Maliya Fambalcha (1359 BC-1329 BC), also known as Koi-Koi. King Koi-Koi ascended the throne at the age of 25 and introduced the dating of the Meitei calendar, known as Mari-Fam. The festival is also known as Meetei Cheiraoba or Sajibu Cheiraoba. It is celebrated on the first day of the month of Sajibu, which usually falls during the month of April according to the Meitei lunar calendar.

Observance of the Festival

The Meitei people celebrate the festival with great enthusiasm and rituals. The day starts with the ritual offerings of fruits, vegetables, rice, and other uncooked food items to the Meitei deity Lainingthou Sanamahi in the early morning. After getting blessings from Lainingthou Sanamahi, odd numbers of dishes are prepared using the offerings. Traditionally, the males of the house make the dishes, with the females helping in chopping and washing the ingredients.

The prepared dishes are offered at two different traditional locations around the house. These locations are specially cleansed and sanctified before the offering. The eldest son of the house makes the offering to three deities – Kumsana Kumliklai (Lord of the golden year), Lamsenba Tusenba (Guardian of the Land), and Lammaba Tumaba (Lord of the land) at this sanctified area. The offering includes an odd number of dishes surrounding a small mound of steamed rice, a token currency, fruits, flowers, a candle, and an incense stick, all of them placed upon a plantain leaf. This ritual is performed in the late morning.

After this ritual, the dishes prepared for the feast are exchanged with relatives or neighbours, and this custom is called “Mathel Laanba,” after which the feast begins. It is believed that anything that happens on the day of the new year will happen for the rest of the year.

Hillock Climbing: Ching Kāba

After the feast, it is a tradition that family members climb a small hillock specially prepared by the community near the locality to pay homage to the hill deity, signifying the elevation of the spirit to reach the divine. The “Chin-nga” at Singjamei and “Cheirao Ching” at Chingmeirong are such hillocks that are specially prepared for these hillock climbing rituals.

3) Chetri Chand – the Sindhi New Year

Chetri Chandra, also known as the Moon of Chaitra, is a festival celebrated by Sindhi Hindus to mark the beginning of the Lunar Hindu New Year. This year, it falls on 23 March 2023. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the origins and traditions of this important celebration.

Origins and Significance

Chetri Chandra falls on the first day of the Sindhi month of Chet (Chaitra) and is based on the lunar cycle of the lunisolar Hindu calendar. The festival is celebrated in late March or early April in the Gregorian calendar, around the same time as Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra and Ugadi in other parts of India.

The festival has both agricultural and religious significance. It marks the arrival of spring and the start of the harvest season. But for the Sindhi community, it also commemorates the birth of Uderolal, who is believed to have been born in 1007 after the community prayed to the Hindu god Varun Dev to save them from persecution by the Muslim ruler Mirkhshah.

According to legend, Varun Dev appeared to the Sindhis in the form of a warrior and an old man, who later became known as Jhulelal. He preached and reprimanded Mirkhshah, stating that Muslims and Hindus deserve the same religious freedoms. Jhulelal became the champion of the people in Sindh, from both religions. The Hindu Sindhis celebrate the new year as Uderolal’s birthday, while among his Sufi Muslim followers, Jhulelal is known as “Khwaja Khizir” or “Zindapir.”

Traditions and Celebrations

The tradition of Chetri Chandra likely started with Daryapanthis. During the British colonial era, major annual fairs (melas) used to be organized in Uderolal and Zindapir (near Hyderabad, Pakistan). In contemporary times, the Sindhi community celebrates the festival with major fairs, feast parties, processions with jhankis (glimpse stage) of Jhulelal (an avatar of Varun dev), other Hindu deities, and social dancing.

On this day, many Sindhis carry the Baharana Sahib, a representation of Jhulelal, to a close by river or lake. Baharana Sahib consists of an oil lamp, crystal sugar, cardamom, fruits, and Akha. Behind it is a water jar and a coconut in it, covered with cloth, flowers, and leaves. There is also a statue of Pujya Jhulelal Devta.
Cheti Chand is a major festival of Sindhi Hindus in India and Pakistan, and it is also celebrated by the Hindu Sindhi diaspora around the world.

4) Bumchu Festival

Context:

Recently, the Bumchu Festival was celebrated in the Tashiding Monastery, located in the state of Sikkim.

About the Festival:

• Bumchu Festival is the Tashiding holy water vase ritual which is a unique and important occasion that draws travelers from all over the world.
• Annual performances of this ancient ceremony are held at the Tashiding Monastery, located in the western part of Sikkim.
• The Bumchu festival commemorates a supernatural occurrence that took place in the 18th century under Chogyal Chakdor Namgyal.
• Bumchu means “pot of sacred water” in Tibetan. The vase is opened during the event, and the water inside is shared among the worshippers.
• The water is thought to have healing qualities and to grant luck and riches to those who drink it.
• The celebration takes place on the 14th and 15th of the first lunar month, which often falls in February or March.
• In Sikkim, the Bumchu festival is a time of intense delight and celebration.
• At the event, pilgrims travel to Tashiding from all around India as well as from close by nations like Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

Tashiding Monastery:

• It is one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites, located on a hilltop overlooking the Rangeet River in Sikkim.
• Guru Padmasambhava, better known as Guru Rinpoche, the great Buddhist guru who brought Buddhism to Tibet, blessed the location of the monastery.
• A Nyingma teacher named Ngadak Sempa Chempo Phunshok Rigzing later founded the monastery in the 17th century.

5) Artworks for the new Parliament building

Context:

The new Parliament building shows that artworks and its installation represent Sanatan parampara and Vastu shastra that continued over thousands of years.

Sanatan parampara broadly refers to Hindu culture, which is believed to have been in continuity for centuries.
Vaastu shastra is the traditional Indian system of architecture based on ancient texts that describe principles of design, layout, measurements, space arrangement, and spatial geometry.

About the Central Vista Redevelopment Project:

• A 3.2-kilometer stretch in Delhi which includes Rashtrapati Bhawan, Parliament House, North and South Block, India Gate, and National Archives among others is the ‘Central Vista Project’.
• For the construction of a new parliament building that will be close to the existing one, the Central Vista Redevelopment Project is the government’s plan.
• It includes an area covered by central administrative buildings and residential buildings at Raisina Hill, New Delhi, India, which is set under revamping.
The planners of the area at which the Parliament was built were Herbert Baker and Edward Lutyens.

Highlights of Ancient Artworks model:

• The new building is going to have six entrances that exhibit guardian statues showing auspicious animals.
• These “auspicious animals” have been chosen based on their importance in Indian culture, vaastu shastra, and traits such as wisdom, victory, power, and success.
• Each animal chosen to be installed in the building possesses a set of affirmations, spreading well-being and harmony.
• Importance of Direction:
• The North: Guarding the ceremonial entrance to the north is the gaja (elephant), which represents wisdom, wealth, intellect, and memory.
• According to vaastu shastra, the northern direction is associated with Mercury, which is the source of higher intellect.
• The South: The southern entrance is the ashva (horse), which is symbolic of endurance, strength, power, and speed — describing the quality of governance.
• The East: Soaring at the eastern entrance is the garuda (eagle), which symbolizes the aspirations of the people.
• In vaastu shastra, the east is associated with the rising sun, representing victory.
• The northeastern entrance: It has hamsa (swan), which represents discernment and wisdom.
• The remaining entrances showcase the Makara (a mythical aquatic creature that is a combination of the body parts of different animals), which represents unity in diversity, and the shardula (a mythical animal that is said to be the most powerful of all living beings), which symbolizes the power of the people of the country.
• Remains of India’s freedom struggle:
• The new building will have six granite statues devoted to personalities involved in the freedom struggle and making of the Constitution, four galleries each for the two Houses, three ceremonial foyers, as many India galleries, and one Constitution gallery.
• Depicting Art and Culture:
• Inside the building, each wall will have a theme reflecting a certain aspect, such as contributions by tribal and women leaders.
• The artworks used to indicate the 5000 years old culture of India.
• There will be an adequate focus on Indian knowledge traditions, the Bhakti tradition, Indian scientific traditions as well as monuments.

6) Sharda Peeth

Home Minister e-inaugurated Mata Sharda Devi Temple dedicated to Goddess Sharda Devi and announced that the government of India will attempt to build a Kartrapur-style corridor to Sharda Peeth as an important step in the direction of discovery of Sharda-civilization and promotion of Sharda-script.
o Union Home Minister said that the government will move forward to open Sharda Peeth on the lines of the Kartarpur corridor.
o Sharda Peeth is an abandoned Hindu temple and ancient center of learning.
o It is located in the village of Sharda in the valley of Mount Harmukh, along the Neelam River in the Pakistani-administered territory of Azad Kashmir. It lies 16 miles to the northwest of the Line of Control.
o As a Centre of Learning: Between the 6th and 12th centuries CE, it was one of the foremost centers of higher learning, hosting scholars such as Kalhana, Adi Shankara, and Vairotsana.
o It is also said to be where Paṇini and Hemachandra completed and stored their writings on Sanskrit grammar.
o Religious significance: Sharda is the most revered religious place for Kashmiri Pandits. They believe that Sharada in Kashmir is a tripartite embodiment of the goddess Shakti: Sharada (goddess of learning), Saraswati (goddess of knowledge), and Vagdevi (goddess of speech).
o It is one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas throughout South Asia that commemorate the location of fallen body parts of the Hindu deity Sati.

7) Prime Minister Of India Gift To the Japanese Prime Minister

The Prime Minister of India presented a sandalwood Buddha statue to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during the latter’s two-day state visit to India.
o Sandalwood Buddha statue made of pure sandalwood has hand carvings along with traditional designs and natural scenes.
o In this posture, Buddha is sitting in ‘dhyana mudra’ under the Bodhi tree.
o The ‘dhyana mudra’ is the mudra of meditation and the attainment of spiritual perfection.
o According to tradition, this mudra derives from the one assumed by the Buddha when meditating under the Bodhi tree before his enlightenment.
o The obverse of the image has an intricate carving of the Bodhi tree.
o The Kadamwood Jali Box in which the statue was encased is also considered auspicious in Indian culture.
o The art of sandalwood carving is an exquisite and ancient craft that has been practiced in Karnataka for centuries.

30 March 2023

International Relations

1) Japan’s Official Development Assistance

Why in News?

Recently, Japan has approved Official Development Assistance (ODA) to India, for a few Key projects.
o India and Japan have had a long and fruitful history of bilateral development cooperation since 1958. In the last few years, the economic cooperation between India and Japan has steadily progressed.

What are the Key Projects under ODA?

Patna Metro Rail Construction Project:
o Rs. 5,509 crores have been approved for Patna Metro Rail Construction Project (I).
o It aims to cope with the increase of traffic demand in Patna by constructing the new metro corridor, thereby contributing to improvement of the urban environment and development of the economy as well as mitigation of Climate Change.
Forest and Biodiversity Conservation in West Bengal:
o Rs. 520 crores approx. have been approved for the Project for Forest and Biodiversity Conservation for Climate Change Response in West Bengal.
o It aims to mitigate and adapt to climate change, conserve and restore ecosystems by ecosystem-based climate change measures, biodiversity conservation and restoration, thereby contributing to sustainable socio-economic development in the State.
Rajasthan Water Sector Livelihood Improvement Project:
o Rs. 1,055.53 crores have been approved for Rajasthan Water Sector Livelihood Improvement Project (II).
o It aims to improve the livelihoods of farmers as well as promote gender mainstreaming in the agriculture and irrigation sector in the State, by improving water use efficiency and agriculture productivity, through the improvement of existing irrigation facilities and agriculture support services.

What are the Other ODAs to India from Japan?

o Delhi Metro is one of the most successful examples of Japanese cooperation through the utilization of ODA.
o India’s Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) project is funded by a soft loan provided by Japan International Cooperation Agency under Special terms for economic partnership (STEP).
o Besides, Japan, and India had committed to building High-Speed Railways in India by introducing Japan’s Shinkansen System.
o India-Japan Nuclear Deal 2016 will help India build the six nuclear reactors in southern India, increasing nuclear energy capacity ten-fold by 2032.

2) IMF Bailouts

Why in News?

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently confirmed a USD 3 billion bailout plan (under Extended Fund Facility (EFF)) for Sri Lanka’s struggling economy.
 It is also negotiating with Pakistan for a USD 1.1 billion bailout plan on account of its severe economic crisis marked by falling currency and price rise.

What are IMF Bailouts?

Bailout: Bailout is a general term for extending financial support to a company/country facing a potential bankruptcy threat.
o It can take the form of loans, cash, bonds, or stock purchases.
o A bailout may (not) require reimbursement but is often accompanied by greater oversight and regulations.
IMF Bailouts: Countries seek help from the IMF usually when their economies face a major macroeconomic risk, mostly a currency crisis (such as the one Sri Lanka is facing).
o Countries seek such assistance from the IMF to meet their external debt and other obligations, to purchase essential imports, and to prop up the exchange value of their currencies.

What is the IMF?

The IMF is an international organization that promotes global economic growth and financial stability, encourages international trade, and reduces poverty.
o It was set up in 1945 out of the Bretton Woods conference.
Originally, the primary goal of IMF was to bring about international economic coordination to prevent competing currency devaluation by countries trying to promote their own exports.
o Eventually, it evolved to be a lender of last resort to governments of countries that had to deal with severe currency crises.
India has sought financial assistance from the IMF seven times but never since 1993. The repayment of all the loans taken from the IMF were completed by May 2000.

How is an IMF Bailout Provided?

Procedure:
o The IMF lends money to troubled economies often in the form of Special Drawing Rights (SDRs).
• SDRs simply represent a basket of five currencies, namely the U.S. dollar, the euro, the Chinese yuan, the Japanese yen, and the British pound.
o This lending is carried out by a number of lending programs such as extended credit facilities, flexible credit lines, stand-by agreements, etc.
o Countries receiving the bailout can use the SDRs for various purposes depending on their individual circumstances.
Conditions:
o A country may have to agree to implement certain structural reforms as a condition to receive IMF loans.
o Criticism of Lending Conditions:
• Believed to be too tough on the public
• Often accused of being influenced by international politics
• Free-market supporters criticize the IMF for being too interventionist
o Acclamation:
• Conditions are essential for successful lending; it may not make sense for IMF to throw money at a country if its faulty policies that caused the crisis remain untouched.
• Countries with poor institutional functioning and high corruption are most likely to misspend the bailout money.

What are the Impacts of Providing IMF Bailouts?

Advantages:

o They ensure the continued survival of the country under difficult economic circumstances and help solve BoP problems without resorting to measures that can be even more harmful to national/international prosperity.
o A complete collapse of the financial system can be avoided when industries too big to fail start to crumble.
o Insolvency of institutions that are needed for the smooth functioning of the overall markets can be avoided.
o In addition to financial support, the IMF can provide technical assistance and expertise to help a country implement economic reforms and strengthen its institutions.

Disadvantages:

o IMF’s strict conditions for economic policy reforms may result in reduced govt spending, increased taxes etc. which can be politically unpopular and may lead to social unrest.
o Seeking an IMF bailout may harm a country's reputation in the eyes of investors and lenders, making it more difficult for the country to access international capital markets.
o Repeated IMF bailouts can create a sense of dependency on external funding and discourage countries from implementing necessary long-term reforms to address their economic problems.
o IMF bailouts may be viewed as an admission of economic failure by a govt, which can lead to political instability and even the collapse of the govt.

3) Renewables Energy potential of Myanmar

Context:

According to Miller Centre for Social Entrepreneurship (MCSE), the report highlighted that Myanmar is one of the least developed countries with the lowest electrification rate in Asia.

Energy needs of Myanmar:

• In 2022, “80 percent of the rural people have no access to grid electricity”.
• Around 26 percent of the population in the country lives in poverty.
• Report stated that most people living in rural areas use candles, kerosene, batteries, and generators due to the inaccessibility of grid electricity. The poverty rate in rural areas is twice that of urban areas.
• Power generation in Myanmar is dominated by gas (57 percent) and hydroelectric power (39 percent).
• The economic growth in such areas has been dampened due to the twin challenges of affordable and reliable electricity. The country’s per capita annual power consumption was 389 kilowatts per hour (kWh) in 2019-20.

Renewables in Myanmar:

• Myanmar has enormous solar energy potential, specifically in its dry zones.
• The estimated potential for wind energy is 33.83 GW; for solar energy, it is 26.96 GW. Effective tapping of these resources can reduce the carbon footprint of the country, as well as lower its dependency on fossil fuels.
• Myanmar has more than 100 GW of hydropower installed capacity potential, according to estimates.
• Around 92 large hydropower potential projects have been identified with a combined installed capacity of 46 GW.
• The four main large rivers flowing across the country, namely, Ayeyarwady, Thanlwin, Chindwin, and Sittaung, house around 200 large dams built for hydroelectricity.

How Can India Help Myanmar?

• Strengthening the India-Myanmar electricity grid connection and accessing the large Indian power market can provide Myanmar access to a reliable supply of electricity.
• This will allow the country to employ resources and kick-start the process of larger South Asia-ASEAN power Grid integration.
• About 3-5 MW of power is currently being supplied to Tamu (Myanmar) from Moreh (Manipur, India) through an 11 kV line between the two countries.

India-Myanmar relations:

• Historical Background of India and Myanmar:
• India has strong cultural affinities with Burma owing to the spread of Buddhism into the region during ancient times.
• These affinities further grew during the colonial period as India and Myanmar together endured imperialism.
• Indian leaders also maintained close relations with it during the freedom struggle which was led by Aung San.
• India’s gateway to South-East Asia: India and Myanmar share a long 1,643 km geographical land border and maritime boundary in the Bay of Bengal. Myanmar shares borders with 4 Indian states – Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh in Northeast India.
• Infrastructural Projects: India is building the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport, a road-river-port cargo transport project, to link Kolkata to Sittwe in Myanmar and then from Myanmar’s Kaladan river to India’s northeast.
• India, Myanmar, and Thailand are building the Asian Trilateral Highway, which will connect India to ASEAN.
• Defence: India-Myanmar Bilateral Army Exercise (IMBAX) is aimed at building and promoting closer relations with armies. Myanmar is a key partner in the fight to end insurgency in India's northeast.

Challenges:

• Internal Security: Indo-Myanmar border is porous and lightly policed which is exploited by terrorist outfits and insurgent groups from North Eastern part of India.
• Bilateral trade between India and Myanmar still falls short of expectations.
• China has asserted itself through its soft power as well as through its trade and economic relations with Myanmar by taking up large infrastructure projects.
• India has found it difficult to counter Chinese influence in Myanmar.
• Lack of basic infrastructure and low trading volume at the Indian border.
• The India Intelligence Agency stated that the smuggling of light arms, drugs and counterfeit currencies has been spotted along the border.

4) Why does Russia want tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus?

Context:

• Russian President has announced that he intends to deploy tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of Belarus appears to be another attempt to raise the stakes in the conflict in Ukraine.

Strategic weapons vs. Tactical nuclear weapons:

• Short-range weapons to destroy enemy-Tactical nuclear weapons are relatively short range and a much lower yield than nuclear warheads fitted to long-range strategic missiles that are intended to destroy enemy troops and weapons on the battlefield.
• Not subject to arms control agreement- Unlike strategic weapons, which have been subject to arms control agreements between Moscow and Washington, tactical weapons never have been limited by any such pacts.
• Stored at a tightly guarded storage- While strategic nuclear weapons are fitted to land- or submarine-based intercontinental ballistic missiles that are constantly ready for launch, tactical nuclear weapons are stored at a few tightly guarded storage facilities in Russia, and it takes time to deliver them to combat units.

Russia’s Plan:

• Provide training- Russia already has helped upgrade 10 Belarusian aircraft to allow them to carry nuclear weapons and their crews will start training to use them.
• Construction of storage facilities-Russia has given Belarus the Iskander short-range missile systems that can be fitted with conventional or nuclear warheads. Russia will help in the construction of storage facilities for nuclear weapons in Belarus.
• Retain control over nuclear weapons-Russia will retain control over any nuclear weapons deployed to Belarus, just like the U.S. controls its tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of its NATO allies.

5) 10th Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa Rinpoche

The Dalai Lama recently recognized an eight-year-old Mongolian boy as the reincarnation of the 10th Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa Rinpoche, one of the most important spiritual leaders in Tibetan Buddhism. The boy’s recognition has generated celebrations among Buddhists in Mongolia, but also negative reactions from secular nationalists and concern among those worried about potential reactions from neighboring China.

Family Background of the Mongolian Boy

According to media reports, the Mongolian boy comes from a family with academic and corporate backgrounds. His father, Altannar Chinchuluun, is a university mathematics professor, while his mother, Monkhnasan Narmandakh, is a national resources conglomerate executive. The boy’s grandmother, Garamjav Tseden, is a former member of the Mongolian Parliament.

Unveiling Ceremony and Attendees

The unveiling ceremony of the Mongolian boy was held on March 8 in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, and was attended by nearly 600 followers. During the ceremony, the Dalai Lama announced that they had found the reincarnation of Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa Rinpoche of Mongolia. This is a major event in Tibetan Buddhism given the Dalai Lama and Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa Rinpoche are believed to be among the most important spiritual leaders in the tradition.

Significance of the Recognition in Tibetan Buddhism

The recognition of the Mongolian boy as the reincarnation of Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa Rinpoche is a significant event in Tibetan Buddhism. The Dalai Lama himself is recognized as the 10th Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa Rinpoche, and his recognition of the boy as the reincarnation of one of his predecessors carries significant weight within the religion.

Tensions with China

Recognitions related to Tibetan Buddhism have often been a point of tension between Tibet and China. This is because Beijing claims sovereignty over Tibet and seeks to take control the recognition of reincarnated leaders. This has caused concerns about China’s reaction to the recognition of the new Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa Rinpoche.

6) 1st G20 Trade and Investment Working Group (TIWG) Meeting

India’s G20 Presidency is conducting the first Trade and Investment Working Group (TIWG) Meeting in Mumbai from March 28th − 30th, 2023. The TIWG Meeting is an important forum for over 100 delegates from G20 member countries, invitee countries, regional groupings, and international organizations to engage in discussions about accelerating global trade and investments.

Trade Finance and Digitalisation

On the first day of the TIWG Meeting, an International Conference on ‘Trade Finance’ was held, where the role of banks, financial institutions, development finance institutions, and export credit agencies in closing the trade finance gap was discussed. The conference also focused on how digitalization and fintech solutions can improve access to trade finance. Eminent speakers from India and abroad have been invited to provide concrete solutions for mitigating the growing trade finance gap.

Experience Zones and Exhibitions

At the conference venue, a wide range of experience zones on spices, millet, tea, and coffee was set up. Additionally, an exhibition on textiles was also on display during the TIWG Meeting. The G20 delegates visited the Bharat Diamond Bourse on the first day of the meeting.

Making Trade Work for Growth and Prosperity

The focus of the TIWG Meeting on March 29th will be on making trade work for growth and prosperity, and building resilient Global Value Chains (GVCs). The highlight will be on realizing shared outcomes for making growth inclusive and resilient, increasing the participation of developing countries and the Global South in GVCs, and building resilient GVCs to withstand future shocks.

Inauguration and Closed-Door Sessions

Across four technical closed-door sessions on March 29th and 30th, the priorities related to global trade and investment, which the Indian Presidency is pursuing, will be discussed.

Integrating MSMEs in Global Trade and Building Efficient Logistics

On March 30th, the two working sessions will focus on integrating MSMEs in Global Trade and building efficient logistics for trade. The Indian Presidency seeks to carry forward the efforts of past G20 Presidencies to ensure the integration of MSMEs into global trade, given their important role in sustaining livelihoods in both developed and developing countries. The discussions will also be held on developing robust logistics infrastructure that could bring down transaction costs both across borders and in the hinterlands.

Building a Shared Understanding

The aim under India’s G20 Presidency is to build a shared understanding of the challenges being faced in accelerating global trade and investment. The TIWG Meeting provides an opportunity for delegates to deliberate on existing opportunities that can be harnessed to formulate human-centric concrete outcomes and deliverables.

31 March 2023

Science & Technology

1) H3N8 and its Presence in China

Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a viral disease that affects birds but can also be transmitted to humans and other animals, including horses and dogs. There are several subtypes of the Influenza A virus that can cause bird flu, with H3N8 being one of them. In this article, we will explore the history of H3N8 and its current cases in China.

What is H3N8 and how is it transmitted?

H3N8 is a subtype of the Influenza A virus that is commonly found in birds and horses. It is also known as the Equine influenza virus and is one of the two viruses that can cause dog flu. It was not recorded in humans until 2022. However, some researchers believe that it might have caused the 1889 pandemic, also known as the “Russian flu” or “Asiatic flu.”
Bird flu is primarily transmitted through contact with infected birds or their feces, saliva, and respiratory secretions. People who handle infected birds or come into close contact with them are at the highest risk of contracting the virus. However, in rare cases, bird flu can also be transmitted from person to person through close contact.

History of H3N8 cases in China

In China, the first case of H3N8 infection in humans was detected back in April 2022, when a 4-year-old boy in central China became seriously ill. The boy’s pets, a dog and a cat, were also infected. The second case was reported in May 2022 when a 5-year-old boy from Hunan province fell ill. Fortunately, he recovered quickly after experiencing only mild symptoms. The country recently recorded an H3N8 case in Zhongshan City.

2) Anchitheriomys buceei – Ancient Beaver Species

Researchers from the Jackson School of Geosciences at the University of Texas at Austin have discovered a new species of ancient beaver in the fossil collections of the university. The species has been named Anchitheriomys buceei after a popular Texas travel center chain.

The Discovery of Anchitheriomys buceei

The new species of ancient beaver was discovered in the fossil collections of the University of Texas at Austin. It is believed to have lived in Texas around 15 million years ago. Anchitheriomys buceei was approximately 30% larger than modern beavers.

Why Anchitheriomys buceei is Named After Buc-ee’s

Anchitheriomys buceei is named after the famous Texas travel center chain, Buc-ee’s. The name honors the beaver’s Texas connection and the popular roadside chain that has become an iconic part of Texas culture. The researchers were inspired to name the new species of beaver after Buc-ee’s due to a chance encounter with a Buc-ee’s billboard. The founders of Buc-ee’s were thrilled to have a prehistoric beaver named after their company and stated that they are proud to be part of Texas history.

The Significance of the Partial Skull Fossil from Burkeville, Texas

The partial skull fossil from Burkeville, Texas, is significant because it is a fusion of bone and brain cast. This was created when sediment naturally seeped into the beaver’s brain cavity, creating a rock replica of the brain. The fossil provides insight into the size and shape of the brain of Anchitheriomys buceei.

Technology Used to Obtain High-Resolution X-Ray Images of the Skull

High-resolution X-ray images of the skull were obtained using Computed Tomography (CT) scanning. This technology allowed researchers to study the internal structure of the skull without damaging the fossil.

The Original Collectors of the Skull and the Intended Name of the New Species

A team of Texas paleontologists in 1941, including Curtis Hesse, originally collected the skull and intended to name it a new species. Unfortunately, Hesse died in 1945 before he could complete his study and publish his findings. The skull remained in the university’s collection until it was rediscovered and studied by the team from the Jackson School of Geosciences.

The Value of Discoveries Made in Existing Museum Collections

Discoveries made in existing museum collections can be just as valuable as new discoveries in the field. The rediscovery and study of the partial skull fossil from Burkeville, Texas, is an example of the importance of collections in museums and universities.

Buc-ee’s: A Brief History

Buc-ee’s was founded in 1982 by Arch “Beaver” Aplin III. The first store was located in Lake Jackson, Texas. Today, Buc-ee’s has over 38 locations across Texas, with plans for expansion to other states. The company is known for its clean restrooms, affordable fuel prices, and wide range of snacks and souvenirs.

3) New Guinea Singing Dog

The New Guinea singing dog is also known as the New Guinea Highland dog. It is a dog species found in the New Guinea Highlands on the island of New Guinea. This breed is one of the few considered “barkless” and known for its unusual “yodel”-like style of vocalizing, hence its common name of “singing dog.”

Origins and Characteristics

Considered an ancient lineage of dog, the New Guinea singing dog was once thought to be a separate species in its own right, under the name Canis hallstromi. However, this species is closely related to the Australian dingo. Living wild in the remote mountains of New Guinea, this breed has adapted to its environment for over 20,000 years, free from contact with people.

Unique Vocalizations

The New Guinea singing dog is unique among canines for its vocalizations. Their howls are similar to both the song of the humpback whale and a yodel. These howls are an important part of their communication with their pack members, and they are able to create a wide range of vocalizations, from soft whimpers to high-pitched yelps.

UK’s Last New Guinea Singing Dog

The last member of an ancient sub-species of dog in the UK, named Kota, recently died in mid-March at Exmoor Zoological Park. Kota was 15 years old when he died. He had been in palliative care for two months after losing his partner Belle four weeks earlier.

Ancestry and Conservation Efforts

New Guinea singing dogs are believed to be the original ancestors of all domestic dogs in the Asian region. As a result, the Singing Dog Conservation Society in the United States has been working to preserve the breed. However, there are currently only six breeding females in the society, with no litters expected until the summer.

4) OneWeb India-2 Mission

Context:

In its second commercial launch, ISRO’s (Indian Space Research Organisation) heaviest launch vehicle LVM-3 (Launch Vehicle Mark 3) will launch a fleet of 36 OneWeb satellites, completing the first generation of the huge broadband constellation.

LVM3-M3/OneWeb India-2 Mission:

• This will be the 18th launch of OneWeb and will add to the UK-based company's (OneWeb) existing constellation of 582 satellites.
• ISRO’s commercial arm NSIL had signed a contract with OneWeb to launch 72 satellites in two phases.
• The first set of 36 satellites was launched in LVM3-M2/OneWeb India-1 mission on October 23, 2022.
• This is the second OneWeb fleet that India is launching. This initiated India’s journey into the commercial heavy lift-off space.

What is OneWeb Constellation?

• OneWeb Constellation operates in an LEO Polar Orbit.
• Satellites are arranged in 12 rings (Orbital planes) with 49 satellites in each plane.
• The orbital planes are inclined to be near polar (87.9 Deg.)
• The orbital planes are 1200 km above the Earth. Each satellite completes a full trip around the earth every 109 minutes.

5) Low-Temperature Thermal Desalination (LTTD) technology

Context:

For supplying portable drinking water, Lakshadweep uses Low-Temperature Thermal Desalination (LTTD) technology which the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) is working at making this process free of emissions.

About the technology:

• The plants are equipped to provide at least 100,000 liters of potable water every day.
• The desalination plants are powered by diesel generator sets — there being no other source of power in the islands.
• LTTD exploits the difference in temperature (nearly 15°C) in the ocean water at the surface and at depths of about 600 feet.
• Such de-pressurized water can evaporate even at ambient temperatures and this resulting vapor when condensed is free of salts and contaminants and fit to consume.
Currently, there were five desalination plants in operation in the Lakshadweep islands.

Issues/concerns:

• The need for diesel power to reduce the water pressure means that the process is not fossil-fuel-free and also consumes diesel.

National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT):

• NIOT, an institute under the aegis of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), has worked for years on harnessing energy from the ocean.
• It is a Chennai-based plant.

6) Cloned Cow-calf

The National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), Karnal has produced cloned female calves of the desi breed Gir.
o Cloned Cow-calf is India’s first cloned Gir female calf named Ganga.
o To clone the Gir, oocytes are isolated from live animals using ultrasound-guided needles, and then, matured for 24 hours under control conditions.
o The somatic cells of elite cows are used as donor genomes, which are fused with OPU-derived enucleated oocytes. Following chemical activation and in-vitro culture, the developed blastocysts are transferred into recipient mothers to deliver the Gir calf.

Cloning:

o The term cloning describes a number of different processes that can be used to produce genetically identical copies of a biological entity.
o Cloning can be natural or artificial.
o Clones can also be produced through artificial means. Biotechnological methods are employed to produce such clones.
o Molecular cloning, where copies of specific gene fragments are produced
o Cellular cloning, where single-celled organisms with the exact genetic content of the original cell are produced in cell cultures.
o Organism cloning, or reproductive cloning, where a multicellular clone is created generally through somatic cell nuclear transfer

01 April 2023

Indian Polity

1) Finance Bill 2023

The Finance Bill 2023 was approved with amendments. o The Lok Sabha passed Finance Bill, 2023 including the setting up of the GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT)

Key Highlights of the bill:

o The withholding tax rate on royalties and fees for technical services paid to non-residents has been raised from 10% to 20%. This may increase the cost of import of technology.
o Options contracts will now attract 0.021% STT from 0.017% earlier and futures will attract a levy of 0.0125%, up from 0.01%
o The Finance Bill has paved the way for setting up GST Appellate Tribunals across the country, with a principal bench in New Delhi and several State benches.
o The Tribunal will be headed by a former Supreme Court judge or a retired Chief Justice of a High Court.
o The stock market has seen an increase in Securities Transaction Tax (STT) on futures and options contracts from April 1, 2023.
o It is to discourage excessive trade in F&O.

Finance Bill:

o It means the Bill ordinarily introduced each year to give effect to the financial proposals of the Government of India.
o It contains some provisions related to taxation and expenditure and additionally contains provisions related to any other matter

2) Disqualification Of Member Of Parliaments

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has been disqualified from the Lok Sabha recently.

Disqualification of Members of parliaments:

o The provision for disqualification is given in Article 102 of the Constitution.
o It specifies that a person shall be disqualified from contesting elections and being a Member of Parliament under certain conditions:
o If he holds any office of profit under the Union or state government (except that of a minister or any other office exempted by Parliament).
o If he is of unsound mind and stands so declared by a court.
o If he is an undischarged insolvent.
o If he is not a citizen of India or has voluntarily acquired the citizenship of a foreign state or is under any acknowledgment of allegiance to a foreign state
o If he is so disqualified under any law made by Parliament.
o Article 102 also authorizes Parliament to make laws determining conditions of disqualifications.
o There are analogous provisions for members of state legislatures.

3) Guillotine

The ongoing stalemate in the Indian Parliament has led to the possibility of the government using ‘guillotine’ to fast-track the passage of the Finance Bill without any discussion in the Lok Sabha.
o This has led to confusion and questions about what exactly the guillotine means in legislative parlance.
o The term guillotine originally referred to an apparatus designed for executions by beheading.
o It was introduced in France during the French Revolution to make capital punishment more reliable and less painful.
o In legislative parlance, guillotine means to bunch together and fast-track the passage of financial business.
o It is a fairly common procedural exercise in Lok Sabha during the Budget Session.
o Once the guillotine is applied, any remaining demands for grants are put to vote without further discussion.
o This ensures that the budget is passed within the allocated time, and the government can continue its work without any delay.

4) Special Courts

Why in News?

Recently, the Supreme Court (SC) has suggested a State-specific approach to setting up special courts for the speedy trial of legislators.
• The SC said that a "one-size-fits-all" approach may not resolve the problem of long pendency of criminal cases involving MPs and MLAs because the burden of cases is different for each state.

What is the Background?

• In 2017, the SC had ordered that special courts be set up across the country to fast-track the long-pending trials of lawmakers.
o Following this, 12 special courts were set up across 11 States exclusively to try sitting MPs and MLAs.
• In September 2020, an SC-appointed amicus curiae (friend of the court), in his two reports, highlighted that despite the best efforts by the court to constitute special courts for trying cases against legislators, close to 4,442 criminal cases involving 2,556 sitting members of Parliament (MP) and members of legislative assemblies (MLAs) are pending.
o These cases have now crossed the 5,000 mark, with 400 of them concerning heinous offenses.

What is a Special Court?

About:

o A Special Court is a court with constrained purview, that manages a specific field of law as opposed to a specific regional ward. In India, these courts are established under the Special Courts Act of 1979.
o In India, there are various special courts that have been established to deal with specific types of cases. These courts have been set up to provide speedy justice and to address the unique legal challenges associated with certain types of cases.

Jurisdiction:

o Special jurisdiction is the Court’s jurisdiction over certain types of cases such as bankruptcy, claims against the government, probate, family matters, immigration, and customs, or limitations on the court’s authority to try cases involving maximum amounts of money or value. Special jurisdiction is also known as limited jurisdiction.
• Special Courts only hear cases in a very narrow jurisdiction and the judges serve for a specific term, while the constitutional court’s main authority is to rule on whether laws that are challenged are unconstitutional, for Example- whether they conflict with constitutionally established rights and freedoms.

Way Forward

• As politics dominate the bureaucracy, and reins in business, civil society, and the media, the country needs governance that is free of the “criminal” virus.
• Ensuring prosecution with public pressure may help. If one political leader is hauled up for giving tickets to large numbers of tainted candidates, something positive may happen.

5) Defamation Law and Disqualification of MPs

Why in News?

Recently, an MP (Member of Parliament) was sentenced to two years in jail in a 2019 Defamation Case over his remarks about another political leader by the Surat Court.
• The case was filed under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 499 and 500, dealing with defamation.

What do IPC sections 499 and 500 say?

• Section 499 of the IPC elaborates on how defamation could be through words – spoken or intended to be read, through signs, and also through visible representations.
o These can either be published or spoken about a person with the intention of damaging the reputation of that person, or with the knowledge or reason to believe that the imputation will harm his reputation.
• Section 500 stipulates imprisonment of up to two years, with or without a fine, for someone held guilty of criminal defamation.

What Is Defamation?

About:

o Defamation is the act of communicating false statements about a person that injure the reputation of that person when observed through the eyes of an ordinary man.
o Any false and unprivileged statement published or spoken deliberately, intentionally, or knowingly with the intention to damage someone's reputation is defamation.
• History of defamation can be traced in Roman law and German law. Abusive chants were capital punishment in Romans.

Defamation Law in India:

o Article 19 of the Constitution grants freedom of speech to its citizens. However, Article 19(2) has imposed certain reasonable exemptions to this freedom such as - Contempt of Court, defamation and incitement to an offense.
o In India, defamation can both be a civil wrong and a criminal offense, depending on the objective they seek to achieve.
• A Civil Wrong sees a wrong being redressed with monetary compensation, while a criminal law seeks to punish a wrongdoer and send a message to others not to commit such acts, with a jail term.
• In a Criminal Offense, defamation has to be established beyond reasonable doubt but in a civil defamation suit, damages can be awarded based on probabilities.

Free Speech v/s Defamation laws:

o It is argued that the defamation laws are a violation of Fundamental Rights guaranteed under Article 19 of the constitution.
• The Supreme Court has ruled that the criminal provisions of defamation are constitutionally valid and are not in conflict with the right to free speech.
o The SC has also held that it is valid to treat defamation as a public wrong and that criminal defamation is not a disproportionate restriction on free speech, because the protection of reputation is a fundamental right as well as a human right.
o The Court relied on the judgments of other countries and reaffirmed the right to reputation as a part of the right to life under Article 21.
• Using the principle of ‘balancing of fundamental rights’, the court held that the right to freedom and speech and expression cannot be “allowed so much room that even reputation of an individual which is a constituent of Article 21 would have no entry into that area”.

What are the Previous Defamation Judgements?

• Mahendra Ram Vs. Harnandan Prasad (1958): A letter written in Urdu was sent to the plaintiff. Therefore, he needed another person to read it to him. It was held that since the defendant knew the plaintiff does not know Urdu and he needs assistance, the act of the defendant amounted to defamation.
• Ram Jethmalani Vs. Subramanian Swamy (2006): The High Court of Delhi held Dr. Swamy for defaming Ram Jetmalani by saying that he received money from a banned organization to protect the then Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu from the case of the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi.
• Shreya Singhal Vs. Union of India (2015): It is a landmark judgment regarding internet defamation. It held unconstitutional Section 66A of the Information Technology Act, 2000 which punishes sending offensive messages through communication services.

What Happens if a Lawmaker/MP is Convicted?

• The conviction may disqualify an MP if the offense for which he is convicted is listed in Section 8(1) of the Representation of the People (RPA) Act of 1951.
o This section includes offenses such as section 153A (offense of promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc., and doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony) or section 171E (offense of bribery) or section 171F (offense of undue influence or personation at an election) and a few others.
• Section 8(3) of the RPA mandates that an MP can be disqualified if convicted and sentenced to at least 2 years of imprisonment.
o However, the section also states that the disqualification takes effect only “after three months have elapsed” from the date of conviction.
o Within that period, the convicted MP can file an appeal against the sentence before the High Court.

Conclusion

• Intentional acts of defamation are also punished with imprisonment which prohibits defaming a person with malice intention. The defamation law is also constitutional and is a reasonable restriction on the right to free speech and expression.
• However, it is no defamation if the acts have done fall within the exceptions provided. Over the seventy-one years of Independence, there have been numerous cases of defamation and the court has interpreted each and every case with utmost care and they serve as precedents.

6) SMART PDS Scheme

Context

The Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD) is envisaging a new and unified scheme to strengthen the PDS technology components by standardization of its operation and implementing data-driven decision-making through data analytics.

About the scheme:

• Full-Form: Scheme for Modernization and Reforms through Technology in Public Distribution System.
• Aim: to transform the entire PDS IT ecosystem by leveraging the usage of the Cloud and new-age technology. Also, to prevent leakage of food grains, and increase the efficiency of the distribution.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
Components of SMART-PDS:
• Smart Ration Card: SMART-PDS is a system where smart ration cards are issued to beneficiaries of the public distribution system, and ration is given through fair price shops on the production of the smart ration card by any member of the beneficiary family.
• Fingerprint Template: The fingerprint template of the beneficiary is recorded in these smart ration cards, which record all transactions.
• Fund allocation: Funds should also be allocated by the state governments, as according to the National Food Security Act, ration cards are issued by the state government.
• Estimation: The expected procurement of coarse grains/millets (Shri Anna) is 7.50 LMT during the KMS 2022-23(Kharif & Rabi) as against the actual procurement of 6.30 LMT during KMS 2021-22.

Need of the initiative:

• With technological advancements, it is essential that the ration shops become digitalized for easy and quick transactions.
• It will also keep the entire process transparent and reduce corruption.

Working of the Smart PDS system:

• To issue smart cards: The smart PDS is a joint operation of the central and state government. However, it is the responsibility of the state governments to issue smart cards.
• The operational responsibility of the ration cards also lies with the state government.
• Allocation of ration: The Centre will only allocate rice, wheat, kerosene, and sugar to the state government and Union Territories under this scheme.
• Distribution: It is the duty of the state governments to distribute the allocated food grains among the citizens.

03 April 2023

Ecology & Environment

1) Verein Klima Seniorinnen Schweiz and Others v. Switzerland

As the impacts of climate change become increasingly severe and tangible, people around the world are looking for ways to hold their governments accountable for inaction on this pressing issue. In Europe, senior citizens in Switzerland have taken the bold step of filing a case against their government in the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR).
The case, known as Verein Klima Seniorinnen Schweiz and Others v. Switzerland, was filed by the Club of Climate Seniors and Marie-Eve Volkoff, who experienced 11 weeks of indoor confinement during the heat waves of 2022. The association and Volkoff claim that the Swiss government’s inadequate response to climate change has violated their right to health, and they are seeking compensation and changes to Swiss climate policy.

Blaming Swiss Authorities for Climate Change Failings

The Club of Climate Seniors has accused the Swiss authorities of various climate change failings, including insufficient measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, a lack of preparedness for extreme weather events, and insufficient support for vulnerable populations. During the heat waves in 2022, many elderly people, including the women involved in the case, experienced shortness of breath, nausea, and even loss of consciousness.

The European Court of Human Rights

The European Court of Human Rights, which is based in France’s Strasbourg, is an international court. It hears cases related to human rights violations under the European Convention on Human Rights, which is ratified by the court’s 46 member states.

Similar Climate Change Cases

The Swiss case is not the only legal action being taken against a government for climate change inaction. In France, former mayor Damien Careme has filed a case against the French government in the ECHR, alleging that its insufficient climate policy violates the rights of future generations. Corinne Lepage, the former French ecology minister, is one of Careme’s lawyers.
Greenpeace, an international environmental organization, issued a statement in support of the Swiss climate change case, calling it “a wake-up call for governments around the world to take urgent action to address the climate crisis.”

2) First Urban Climate Film Festival

The National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), a Central Autonomous Body under the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, is organizing the Urban Climate Film Festival under the CITIES program. The festival aims to create wider awareness of the impact of climate change on life in cities and engage the public in the dialogue on sustainable urban development.

Supporting International Organizations and Selected Films

The French Development Agency (AFD) and the European Union provided support for the festival, which has received films from over 20 countries. A jury shortlisted 27 films, and 11 were selected for showcasing in the festival.

Screening in Five Cities

The selected films will be screened in five cities, allowing a wider audience to engage with the message of the festival. The festival will not only raise awareness about climate change and sustainable urban development but also inspire people to take action.

3) CITIIS Program and Sustainable Urban Infrastructure Projects

The CITIIS program aims to assist 12 Smart Cities in India implement innovation-driven and sustainable urban infrastructure projects. By organising the Urban Climate Film Festival under the CITIIS program, NIUA is promoting the program’s approach to urban infrastructure projects.

National Institute of Urban Affairs

The National Institute of Urban Affairs is a Central Autonomous Body under the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs that undertakes multi-disciplinary research, policy planning, and advocacy in the domain of urban development. NIUA’s work is vital in promoting sustainable urban development in India.

U20 and Urban Engagement Group of G20

The U20 is the urban engagement group of G20. It brings together mayors from the world’s largest cities to develop policies and solutions to global issues such as climate change, urban infrastructure, and social inclusion. The Urban Climate Film Festival organized by NIUA aligns with the U20’s objective of enabling sustainable urban development.

4) Aravalli Green Wall Project

On March 25th, 2023, the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, inaugurated the Aravalli Green Wall Project. The project aims to green the 5 km buffer area around the Aravalli Hill Range in four states – Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Delhi. The project was launched on the International Day of Forests and is a part of the National Action Plan to Combat Desertification and Land Degradation Through Forestry Interventions.

The Objective of the Aravalli Green Wall Project

The Aravalli Green Wall Project aims to improve the ecological health of the Aravalli range, prevent land degradation, combat desertification, improve biodiversity, mitigate climate change, and promote sustainable development. The initial phase of the project focuses on the rejuvenation of 75 water bodies in the Aravalli landscape, starting with five water bodies in each district of the Aravalli landscape. The project aims to develop a synergy between restoration, socio-economic factors, and development activities to ensure that both conservation and development can be achieved.

The Role of Society for Geoinformatics and Sustainable Development and IMGurgaon

To mobilize people for Shramdaan for the revival of water bodies, the project has engaged the Society for Geoinformatics and Sustainable Development and NGO, IMGurgaon. Shramdaan is a voluntary contribution of labor or effort. The Society for Geoinformatics and Sustainable Development is responsible for mobilizing people for Shramdaan for the revival of water bodies at Bandhwadi, and IMGurgaon for the revival of water bodies at Ghata Bundh.

5) Capulopsyche keralensis: Bagworm Moth Species

Researchers from the Zoology Department at St. Thomas College Thrissur have discovered the bagworm moth from the coffee plantations of Kerala.

o The newly found bagworm moth species was named Capulopsyche keralensis. Capulo means coffee and psyche means moth or butterfly.
o The name, therefore, translates as ‘Coffee moth of Kerala’ as it was found in coffee plantations.
o Capulopsyche keratosis belongs to the moth family psychidae, which consists of very small moths.
o It is characterized by the case-building behavior of larvae and a high degree of sexual dimorphism.
o Females of many psychid species never develop into a moth and retain larval appearance.
o This is the first genus and species of the subfamily Taleporiinae reported from India.
o The subfamily Taleporiinae is characterized by extreme sexual dimorphism.
o The females are pale yellowish, wingless, with short legs and antennae.
o The larvae of this species were found scraping on the bark of trees, they seem to feed on the bark tissues and depositions (algae) on the bark.

6) Bandipur Tiger Reserve: 50 Years As a Project Tiger Reserve

Bandipur Tiger Reserve recently completed 50 years as a Project Tiger Reserve.

o Bandipur Tiger Reserve was established in the 1930s as a wildlife sanctuary, which became a tiger reserve in 1973 under Project tiger.
o It is situated in two contiguous districts (Mysore and Chamarajanagar) of Karnataka and located at the tri-junction area of the States of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
o Bandipur Tiger Reserve is surrounded by:
o Nagarahole Tiger Reserve (Tamil Nadu) in the North West (Kabini Reservoir separates the two).
o Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (Tamil Nadu) in the South.
o Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala) in the South West.
o This area has the River Kabini in its north and River Moyar in its south.
o It comprises diverse vegetation of dry deciduous to tropical mixed deciduous. It includes rosewood, Indian kino tree, sandalwood, Indian laurel, clumping bamboo, giant clumping bamboo, etc.
o It is a shelter for the largest population of wild Asian elephants in South Asia. It comprises other mammals such as the Bengal tiger, gaur, sloth bear, golden jackal, dhole, four-horned antelope, etc.

Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary

Officials recently said the forest and wildlife department will develop a second native seeds nursery at the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary.

About Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary:

• Location:
o The sanctuary covers a 32.71 square km area on the Southern Delhi Ridge of the Aravalli hill range on the Delhi-Haryana border lies in Southern Delhi and northern parts of the Faridabad and Gurugram districts of Haryana state.
o It is also part of the Sariska-Delhi Wildlife Corridor, which runs from the Sariska Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan to Delhi Ridge.
• Vegetation: Dry deciduous,
• Flora: Consists of Prosopis juliflora as the dominant exotic species and Diospyros Montana as the dominant native species in the sanctuary.
• Fauna: Golden Jackals, Striped-Hyenas, Indian crested-Porcupines, Civets, Jungle Cats, Snakes, Monitor Lizards, Mongoose, etc.

Key Facts about Aravalli Hills:

• It is one of the oldest fold mountains of the world which runs in a southwest direction, starting near Delhi, passing through southern Haryana and Rajasthan, and ending in Gujarat.
• The highest peak is Guru Shikhar at 1,722 meters (5,650 ft).
• Three major rivers originate from the Aravali hills, namely Banas, Sahibi, and Luni River (which flows into the Rann of Kutch).

7) Eravikulam National Park

According to Eravikulam National Park (ENP) officials, a Fernarium has been established within the park, and this is the first time such a fern collection has been established in the hill station.

About Eravikulam National Park:

• It is situated in the Kannan Devan Hills of the southern Western Ghats of
• This is also the land of “Neelakurinji”, the flower that blooms once in twelve years.
• The Anamudi peak is situated on the southern side of the Park.
• Flora: The major part of the park is covered with rolling grasslands, but several patches of shola forests are also found in the upper part of the valley.
• Fauna: The Nilgiri Tahr, Gaur, Sloth Bear, Nilgiri Langur, Tiger, Leopard, Giant Squirrel, and wild dog are common.

What is a Fern?

• Ferns are part of the Epiphytic family. They grow naturally in a soilless condition.
• The plants obtain water and nutrients through leaching from trees.

What are Epiphytes?

• An epiphyte is a plant that does not place roots in the ground to grow but on the surface of other plants.

04 April 2023

Government Initiatives & Schemes

1) New India Literacy Programme

Education is the foundation of a progressive society, and India has recognized the need to improve its literacy rates for economic and social development. The Indian Government has launched a new scheme, the New India Literacy Programme (NILP), to address the issue of adult illiteracy in the country. The scheme is a significant step towards empowering non-literates and enabling them to become self-sufficient. Let’s take a closer look at the scheme and its components.

Financial Outlay and Target Group

The financial outlay of NILP for the five-year implementation period is Rs.1037.90 crore, with Rs.700.00 crore as the Central share and Rs.337.90 crore as the State share. The scheme seeks to educate around 5 crore non-literates in the age group of 15 years and above.

Components of the Scheme

The NILP scheme has 5 components i.e., Foundational Literacy and Numeracy, Critical Life Skills, Vocational Skills Development, Basic Education, and Continuing Education. The Foundational Literacy and Numeracy component focuses on the basics of reading, writing, and numeracy. The Critical Life Skills component focuses on functional literacy, including digital literacy and financial literacy. The Vocational Skills Development component focuses on imparting job-oriented skills to the beneficiaries. The Basic Education component aims to provide basic education to adults who have missed out on formal education. The Continuing Education component focuses on providing education to those who have completed the basic education component.

Identification of Beneficiaries and Mode of Implementation

Door-to-door surveys are conducted on a mobile app in the States/UTs to identify the beneficiaries of this scheme. The primary mode of implementation for the NILP scheme is the online mode, making it accessible to beneficiaries across the country.

Teaching and Learning Resources

The National Council of Educational Research and Training has developed a curriculum for adult learners that they can master within 200 hours of teaching. The curriculum consists of four books, which cover topics such as reading, writing, arithmetic, and critical life skills. The teaching and learning resources are provided through the DIKSHA platform of NCERT.

Volunteer-Driven Scheme

The NILP scheme is a volunteer-driven scheme that aims to mobilize volunteers across the country to teach non-literates. The scheme aims to train 10 lakh teachers to teach one crore adults.

2) Mukhyamantri Vriksh Sampada Yojana

The Need for Tree Plantations in Chhattisgarh

The Chief Minister Tree Wealth Scheme

Benefits of the Scheme

Implementation of the Scheme

3) What is Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) Scheme?

The Odisha state government recently extended another round of funds to Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) for undertaking the Kharif operation.

About KALIA Scheme:

• It was launched by the Odisha Government in December 2018, to reduce poverty and accelerate agricultural prosperity.
• The KALIA scheme supports cultivators, small farmers, and landless agricultural laborers.
• It provides payments to farmers to encourage cultivation and associated activities.

Benefits:

➢ Assistance for cultivation:

• It gives financial assistance of Rs.25,000 for a farm family (small and marginal farmers) over five seasons to purchase inputs like fertilizers, seeds, and pesticides.
• The farm family can also use the financial assistance towards labor and other investments.

➢ Assistance for livelihood:

• The assistance for livelihood provides financial assistance of Rs.12,500 to all landless agricultural households for allied agricultural activities like mini-layer units, small goat rearing units, duckery units, mushroom cultivation, fishery kits for fishermen and bee-keeping, etc.

➢ Assistance for vulnerable agricultural households:

• The vulnerable cultivators or landless agricultural laborers will get financial assistance of Rs.10,000 per family every year to enable them to take care of their sustenance.

➢ Life insurance for cultivators and landless agricultural laborers:

• It provides a life insurance cover of Rs.2 lakh to cultivators and landless agricultural laborers between 18-50 years.
• It also provides a personal accident cover of Rs.2 lakh.

➢ Interest-free crop loan:

• The KALIA scheme will provide crop loans up to Rs.50,000 at 0% interest for the vulnerable landless labourers, sharecroppers, cultivators, and agricultural families identified by Gram Panchayats.

4) What is the Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme?

The recently announced Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) has added the Prime Minister Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel Parks (PM MITRA) scheme as an additional scheme eligible for benefits under the Common Service Provider Scheme of the Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme (EPCG).

About Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme:

• It is a trade promotion scheme implemented by the Indian government.
• It allows the duty-free import of capital goods for the purpose of export production in India.
• It was first operationalized on 1 April 2015.
• Aim: To encourage the production of goods for export by providing import duty concessions on capital goods.
• The EPCG scheme is administered by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and is governed by the Foreign Trade Policy of India.
• Features:
o EPCG Scheme allows the import of capital goods for pre-production, production, and post-production at zero customs duty.
o It covers manufacturer exporters with or without supporting manufacturer(s), merchant exporters tied to supporting manufacturer(s), and service providers.
o Second-hand goods of any nature will not be permitted under the EPCG scheme.

What is the PM MITRA Scheme?

• It will offer the opportunity to create an Integrated Textiles Value Chain, right from spinning, weaving, processing/dyeing, and printing to garment manufacturing, etc., at one location and will reduce the logistics cost of the Industry.
• PM MITRA Parks will help in creating world-class industrial infrastructure that would attract large-scale investment, including foreign direct investment (FDI), and encourage innovation and job creation within the sector.
• Special Purpose Vehicles owned by the Centre and State Government will be set up for each park which will oversee the implementation of the project.
• Funding:
o The Ministry of Textiles will provide financial support in the form of Development Capital Support up to Rs. 500 crores per park to the Park SPV.
o A Competitive Incentive Support (CIS) of up to Rs 300 crore per park to the units in PM MITRA Park shall also be provided to incentivize speedy implementation.
o State governments will provide a contiguous and encumbrance-free land parcel of at least 1000 acres of land.

5) New India Literacy Programme: Written Reply In The Rajya Sabha

The Minister of State for Education provided information about the New India Literacy Programme (NILP) in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.
o The Government has launched the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “New India Literacy Programme” (NILP) for implementation during five years from the FYs 2022-23 to 2026-27 with a financial outlay of Rs.1037.90 crore.
o The scheme aims to cover a target of 5.00 crore non-literates in the age group of 15 years and above.
o The scheme has five components:
o Foundational Literacy and Numeracy
o Critical Life Skills
o Vocational Skills Development
o Basic Education
o Continuing Education
o Door-to-door surveys on a mobile app are conducted by surveyors in the States/UTs to identify beneficiaries.
o Non-literates can also register directly through a mobile app.
o The scheme is mainly based on volunteerism for teaching and learning, and volunteers can register through the mobile app.
o The scheme is implemented predominantly through the online mode and is based on technology.
o The teaching and learning material and resources are available on the DIKSHA platform of NCERT and can be accessed through mobile apps.
o Modes like TV, Radio, Samajik Chetna Kendra, etc. are also used for the dissemination of Foundational Literacy and Numeracy.
o All non-literates above 15 years of age are eligible to avail of the benefits of the scheme.

6) PMFME Scheme

The Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) is implementing a centrally sponsored PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme (PMFME) Scheme for providing financial, technical, and business support to micro food processing enterprises in India.
o This scheme is a part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan – Vocal for Local Initiative in the food processing sector.
o The PMFME scheme aims to enhance the competitiveness of new and existing individual micro-enterprises in the unorganized segment of the food processing industry and promote the formalization of the sector.
o The PMFME scheme is operational for a period of five years from 2020-21 to 2024-25 with an outlay of Rs. 10,000 Crore.
o The scheme adopts the One District One Product (ODOP) approach to reap the benefit of scale in terms of procurement of inputs, availing common services, and marketing of products.
o Other Focus areas

05 April 2023

Geography

1) Changing Western Disturbances

Why in News?

According to recent studies, the changing character of Western Disturbances might be the primary cause of the abnormal winter seasons in India.
• India has not experienced a normal winter season in the past three years. The second wettest season in the country after the monsoons has remained unusually dry and hot.

How have Western Disturbances Affected Winters in India Recently?

• The northwest region of India, which receives almost 30% of its annual rainfall during the winter season, saw an 83% and 76% rainfall deficit in December 2022 and February 2023 respectively.
• The absence of Western Disturbances caused the north Indian plains to experience severe cold waves and cold days in December 2022 and most of January 2023 due to the cold northern winds flowing down from the Himalayas.
• Western Disturbances are also responsible for hailstorms that damage standing crops, fog events that interrupt air, rail, and road services, and cloud bursts that result in flash floods.

What are Western Disturbances?

About:

o Western Disturbances are a series of cyclonic storms that originate in the Mediterranean region, and travel over 9,000 km to bring winter rains to northwest India.
• A Western Disturbance collects moisture from the Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea, and Caspian Sea and traverses over Iran and Afghanistan before hitting the western Himalayas.
o While the storm systems occur throughout the year, they travel to India mostly between December and April because the trajectory of the subtropical westerly jet stream, which transports them, shifts during the winter months to the rim of the Himalayas.
• For the rest of the year, the jet stream travels from above the Himalayas to the Tibetan Plateau and China. Its trajectory changes as per the position of the Sun.

Significance for India:

o Western Disturbances are the primary source of snowfall that replenishes the Himalayan glaciers during winter.
• These glaciers feed major Himalayan rivers like the Ganga, Indus, and Yamuna as well as myriad mountain springs and rivulets.
o These low-pressure storm systems help farmers in India grow their rabi crops.

Issues:

o The Western Disturbances are not always the harbingers of good weather. Sometimes WDs can cause extreme weather events like floods, flash floods, landslides, dust storms, hail storms, and cold waves, destroying infrastructure and impacting lives and livelihoods.

How Western Disturbances Are Affected by Other Climatic Phenomena?

La Nina Event:

o For the past three years, the world has been in a La Niña phase, which refers to the cooling of ocean surface temperature in the Pacific Ocean.
• It weakens the temperature gradient for the formation of Western Disturbances as it reduces the temperature of the hot tropical air.

North Atlantic Oscillation:

o Western Disturbances are also influenced by the North Atlantic Oscillation, a random fluctuation of air pressure over the North Atlantic Ocean due to a high-pressure region above the Azores Islands in the central North Atlantic and a low-pressure region over Iceland.
• Due to this, the weather system is currently in a negative phase, as both low- and high-pressure systems are weak, and it makes Western Disturbances 20% less frequent and 7% less intense than a positive phase.

Subtropical Jet Stream:

o The northward shift of the subtropical westerly jet stream not only reduces the chance of Western Disturbances striking India but also increases the chance of them affecting higher latitudes such as the Tibetan Plateau or even as far up as China and Russia.
• This could indirectly affect the southwest monsoon, which accounts for 80% of India’s annual rainfall.

Interaction with Southwest Monsoon:

o The warming of the Arctic region makes the polar front jet wavier, causing Western Disturbances to visit India more frequently during summers.
o Western Disturbances during summer, monsoon, and post-monsoon periods increase the chances of them interacting with the southwest monsoon and other associated local convection systems such as tropical depressions that travel northward from either the Bay of Bengal or the Arabian Sea.
• Such interactions can cause catastrophic weather disasters.
• For instance, In May 2021, a remnant of the extremely severe cyclone Tauktae, which made landfall along the Gujarat coast, travelled all the way to Delhi and interacted with a Western Disturbance to cause heavy rainfall in Delhi and its vicinity.

2) Upward Lightning

Brazilian researchers recently succeeded in taking pictures of the Upward Lightning Phenomenon.
o Upward lightning is a phenomenon whereby a self-initiated lightning streak develops from a tall object that travels upward toward an overlaying electrified storm cloud.
o For this to happen, storm electrification and the resulting presence of a cloud charge region are enabling factors.
o The vertical elevation of a tall object accentuates the electric field locally on the ground, resulting in conditions favorable for the initiation of an upward streak (called a leader) from a tall object, which can also develop in response to an electric field change created by a nearby preceding lightning flash.
o Upward lightning typically has a lower intensity and duration compared to downward lightning.
o It also has a higher frequency of occurrence during thunderstorms
o Upward lightning can cause damage to structures such as buildings and towers by creating an electrical surge that can overload electrical systems and cause fires or explosions.
o Upward lightning can also pose a risk to aviation, particularly for planes that fly close to tall structures during thunderstorms.
o This can cause electromagnetic interference, affecting communication and navigation systems.

3) Key Facts about Nathu La Pass

A massive avalanche recently struck the popular Nathu La mountain pass in Sikkim, trapping several tourists.

About Nathu La Pass:

• Location: It is a mountain pass in the Himalayas in the East Sikkim district.
• Altitude: It is situated at an altitude of 4302 m and is one of the highest motorable roads in the world.
• Nathu means "listening ears", and La means "pass" in Tibetan. It forms a part of an offshoot of the ancient Silk Road.
• Nathu La connects the Indian state of Sikkim with China's Tibet Autonomous Region.
• It is guarded on both sides by Chinese and Indian soldiers.
• Nathu La is one of the three open trading border posts between India and China; the other two are in Himachal Pradesh (Shipkila) and Uttarakhand (Lipulekh).
• Sealed by India after the 1962 Sino-Indian War, Nathu La was re-opened in 2006 following numerous bilateral trade agreements.

4) Nevado del Ruiz Volcano

Recently, People living on the upper slopes of the Nevado del Ruiz volcano in Colombia are being evacuated after an increase in seismic activity.

About Nevado del Ruiz Volcano:

• Nevado del Ruiz is an ice-clad stratovolcano located in the Andes Mountains of Colombia, South America.
• It is part of the former Ruiz-Tolima volcanic complex as well as the dangerous Pacific Ring of Fire.
• Previous eruption
o The volcano has erupted several times in the past, with the most catastrophic eruption occurring on November 13,
o Since the 1985 eruption, has remained active, with several smaller eruptions occurring in the years following the disaster.

What is a stratovolcano?

• Stratovolcano is also called a composite volcano.
• This volcanic landform is characterized by a conical shape formed by layers of volcanic material deposited during successive volcanic eruptions.
• These volcanoes tend to slope gently at the base but rise quickly near the summit to form tall mountain peaks.
• They are typically found above subduction zones, and they are often part of large volcanically active regions, such as the Ring of Fire that frames much of the Pacific Ocean.

Key facts about the Pacific Ring of Fire:

• It also known as the Circum-Pacific Belt is a path along the Pacific Ocean characterized by active volcanoes and frequent earthquakes.
• Its length is approximately 40,000 kilometers (24,900 miles).
• It traces boundaries between several tectonic plates—including the Pacific, Juan de Fuca, Cocos, Indian-Australian, Nazca, North American, and Philippine Plates.

5) Mount Kilimanjaro

Recently, the Union Information and Broadcasting Minister congratulated Anjali Sharma of Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh for conquering Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa, wearing Luanchari.

About Mount Kilimanjaro:

• Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s tallest mountain and the world’s largest free-standing mountain (which means not part of a mountain range) located in
• It has three main volcanic peaks namely: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira.
• Amongst these three peaks, Kibo is the tallest of the three volcanic formations which is also a dormant volcano while the other two are extinct volcanoes.
• The mountain is also known for its snow-capped peak.
• The mountain has five main vegetation zones from the lowest to the highest point: Lower slopes, montane forest, heath and moorland, alpine desert, and summit.
• The Kilimanjaro National Park was named a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage site in 1987.

Key Facts about Volcano

• A volcano is an opening in a planet’s crust through which molten rock, hot gases, and other materials erupt.
• Volcanoes often form a hill or mountain as layers of rock and ash build up from repeated eruptions.
• Volcanoes are classified as
o Active volcanoes: These have a recent history of eruptions; they are likely to erupt again.
o Dormant volcanoes: These have not erupted for a very long time but may erupt at a future time.
o Extinct volcanoes: These are not expected to erupt in the future.

6) Heat Index: IMD

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is planning to introduce a ‘heat index’ warning system in Delhi and other parts of the country.
o The IMD has conducted a study on the impact of meteorological factors on heatwaves and the “heat wave hazard zonation” of the country.
o According to “Hot Weather Analysis over India,” IMD revealed that the mechanism by which heat impacts humans is complex; it is a result of the interactions between temperature, radiation, wind, and humidity.
o There is strong experimental evidence that physiologic stress from high temperatures is greater if humidity is higher.
o Heat Index will calculate the temperature along with the humidity levels to provide a more accurate measure of what the temperature actually feels like.
o In the US, the heat index is color-coded to provide warnings based on the impact of the heat index.
o The IMD is planning to introduce a similar color-coded warning system in India.
o A heatwave is a period of abnormally high temperatures, a common phenomenon in India during the months of May and June and in some rare cases even extends till July.
o The Heatwave is considered when the maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 40°C for Plains and at least 30°C for Hilly regions.

06 April 2023

Defence & Security

1) India-Sri Lanka Bilateral Maritime Exercise – SLINEX-2023

SLINEX-2023 is the 10th edition of the annual India-Sri Lanka Bilateral Maritime Exercise. The exercise is aimed at improving mutual understanding, enhancing interoperability, and exchanging best practices/procedures in multi-faceted maritime operations between both Navies.
The exercise features two phases i.e., the Harbour Phase and the Sea Phase. The Harbour Phase is being organized in Colombo, Sri Lanka from April 3-5, followed by the Sea Phase from April 6-8, off Colombo.

Bilateral Cooperation and the Importance of SLINEX-2023

India and Sri Lanka have a long-standing bilateral relationship, particularly in the maritime domain. The cooperation between the two nations has been robust, covering various areas such as political engagement, economic and commercial ties, people-to-people connections, and cultural exchanges.
The bilateral naval exercise, SLINEX-2023, is a testament to the strong ties between the two countries. It aims to further enhance the cooperation between the two navies and reinforce the shared values and bonds of friendship and camaraderie.

Participation and Highlights of SLINEX-2023

Deputy High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka Vinod Jacob took part in the opening of the exercise on April 3. He highlighted the importance of the exercise and its firsts – the first SLINEX held after the COVID-19 pandemic, the first after the Indian Navy changed its Ensign, and the first with the participation of the Air Force and Special Forces.
The Indian Navy is represented by INS Kiltan, an Advanced Anti-Submarine Warfare Corvette, and INS Savitri, an Offshore Patrol Vessel. The Sri Lanka Navy is represented by SLNS Gajabahu, an Advance Offshore Patrol Vessel, and SLNS Sagara, an OPV.
Besides these vessels, the exercise will also feature Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft and Indian Navy Chetak helicopter, Sri Lanka Air Force Dornier, and BEL 412 helicopters. The special forces of the two navies will also participate in the exercise.
The SLINEX’s previous edition was organized in Visakhapatnam from March 7-12 last year. This year’s exercise is expected to further strengthen the bilateral ties and cooperation between the two navies.

2) Rs 19,600 Crore Defence Contracts for NGOPVs and NGMVs

On March 30, 2023, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed contracts with Indian shipyards for the acquisition of 11 Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs) and six Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMVs) at an overall cost of approximately Rs 19,600 crore. This acquisition will give a boost to India’s self-reliance in the defense sector.

Contracts for Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels

The contract for the acquisition of 11 NGOPVs under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category was inked with Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata and Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL). The contract is worth Rs 9,781 crore. Seven of the 11 ships will be indigenously designed, developed, and manufactured by GSL, while the remaining four will be by GRSE. The delivery of the ships is scheduled to commence in September 2026.
The NGOPVs will enable the Indian Navy to maintain its combat capability and meet various operational requirements, including Anti-Piracy, Counter-Infiltration, Anti-Poaching, Anti-Trafficking, Non-Combatant Evacuation Operations, Search and Rescue (SAR), and Protection of Offshore Assets, among others. The construction of these ships will generate employment of 110 lakh man-days over a period of seven and half years, providing a significant boost to the country’s economy.

Contracts for Next Generation Missile Vessels

The contract for the acquisition of six NGMVs was signed with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) at a cost of Rs 9,805 crore. The delivery of these vessels will start in the year 2027. The NGMVs will be heavily armed war vessels incorporating stealth, high speed, and offensive capability. The key role of these ships will be to provide offensive capability against adversary warships, merchantmen, and land targets.
The NGMVs will be involved in conducting Maritime Strike Operations, Anti Surface Warfare Operations. These vessels will be a potent instrument of sea denial for enemy ships, especially at choke points. In a defensive role, they will be used for Local Naval Defence operations and seaward defense of the Offshore Development Area. The warships’ construction will generate jobs of 45 lakh man-days over a period of 9 years.

Encouraging Indigenous Manufacturing

With the majority of the equipment and systems sourced from indigenous manufacturers, these vessels will be a proud flag bearer of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat.’ The indigenous manufacturing of these vessels will encourage the active participation of Indian shipbuilding and associated industries, including MSMEs.

High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems

The United States recently announced an additional package of military aid to Ukraine, totaling $2.6 billion, which includes additional ammunition for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS).
o High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) is a light multiple rocket launcher.
o It is manufactured by Lockheed Martin Corporation, a US-based security and aerospace company.
o It is an air-transportable wheeled launcher mounted on a 5-ton Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV).
o It can fire six guided missiles in quick succession.
o Himars fires GPS-guided missiles which can be more accurately targeted.
o The missiles supplied to Ukraine have a range of up to 50 miles (80 km).
o Himars can also fire a single Army Tactical Missile System missile, which has a range of 186 miles (300 km).

3) Amogha-III : Anti-Tank Guided Missile

The indigenous Anti Tank Guided Missile, Amogha-III tests were announced as successful.
o Amogha-III is an indigenous missile.
o It is developed under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP).
o It has a fire-and-forget capability.
o Fire-and-forget capability means it does not require external intervention after launch.
o The missile features dual-mode Imaging Infra-Red (IIR) Seeker systems with a range of 200 to 2500 meters.
o It showcases a tandem warhead, consisting of two separate explosive charges that are detonated in sequence.
o The first charge, known as the precursor charge, penetrates the target’s armour, creating a hole.
o The second charge or the main charge then detonates inside, maximizing damage inflicted on the target.
o One of the unique features of the missile is it has both top and direct attack modes.

4) What is Mark 54 Anti-Submarine Torpedo?

Top government officials recently hinted that India is going to sign a weapons deal with the United States to buy American weapons, including Mark 54 anti-submarine torpedoes.

About Mark 54 Anti-Submarine Torpedo:

• The MK 54 lightweight torpedo is the primary anti-submarine warfare weapon used by U.S. Navy surface ships, fixed-wing aircraft, and helicopters.
• It was developed by Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems in collaboration with the US Navy.
• It was previously known as Lightweight Hybrid Torpedo (LHT).
• It is used in both deep and shallow waters, as well as in acoustic environments.
• It is capable of tracking, classifying, and attacking underwater targets.
• Features:
o The torpedo has a length of 2.71m, a diameter of 32.3cm, and a weight of 275.7kg.
o The warhead carried by the weapon is highly explosive and weighs 43.9kg.
o It is powered by a reciprocating external combustion engine, which burns Otto II liquid fuel.
o The propulsion system allows the torpedo to cruise at a speed of 74.1km per hour.
o MK 54 torpedoes are equipped with processing algorithms that help them in detecting false targets or countermeasures and then hunt the identified threats.

5) Weapon Locating Radars Swathi (Plains)

India, like many countries, faces threats from artillery and rocket fire across its borders. To counter this, India developed the Weapon Locating Radar (WLR) Swathi, a mobile artillery-locating, phased array radar system. Recently, the Ministry of Defence signed a contract with BEL to procure the WLR Swathi, with a cost of over Rs 990 crore.

Development and Purpose

The WLR Swathi has been jointly developed by the Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). Its main purpose is to detect and track incoming artillery rounds, mortars, and rockets, and locate their launchers. It achieves this through a phased array antenna system that scans the sky, searching for incoming rounds. When the radar detects incoming artillery, it calculates the point of origin for counter-battery fire. The WLR Swathi’s secondary role is to provide fire corrections to the counter-battery fire by tracking and observing the fall of shots from friendly guns.

Capabilities

The WLR Swathi has an impressive range, with a detection range of up to 30 km for large caliber artillery rounds and up to 40 km for unguided rockets. It can track up to 7 targets simultaneously and is capable of tracking rounds fired at both low and high angles. The radar array has a maximum scanning sector of 90°, and the scanning sector can be changed in response to threats by rotating the whole array by 135° on either side within 30 seconds.
The WLR Swathi can store up to 99 target locations with broad digital map displays. The data-linking feature allows for remote operation and better situational awareness at higher echelons of the command hierarchy. The WLR Swathi’s advanced capabilities make it a vital tool in India’s defense arsenal.

6) Next-Generation Maritime Mobile Coastal Batteries (Long Range)

The defense ministry recently signed a deal worth over Rs 1,700 crore for the procurement of the Next Generation Maritime Mobile Coastal Batteries (Long Range), commonly known as NGMMCB (LR). This deal, in combination with the BrahMos missiles, will strengthen Indian Navy’s maritime strike capabilities along the coast.

What is the NGMMCB (LR)?

The Next Generation Maritime Mobile Coastal Batteries (Long Range) is a weapon system designed to be mobile in the battlefield. It will be deployed along the Indian coast. The NGMMCB (LR) is equipped with supersonic BrahMos missiles, which can be used to target enemy platforms operating close to the Indian coast. This weapon system will significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s maritime strike capability.

Make in India Initiative

The NGMMCB (LR) is part of the ‘Make in India’ initiative, which is aimed at encouraging domestic manufacturing and production and achieving self-reliance. The NGMMCB (LR) is being developed and produced indigenously by BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL). This initiative will not only boost the Indian Navy’s defense capabilities but will also boost the country’s economy.

Delivery Schedule

The delivery of the NGMMCBs is scheduled to commence from 2027. Once delivered, the NGMMCB (LR) will be deployed from Mumbai to Gujarat. This weapon system will be linked to the Coastal Radar chain and various other systems, as well as a multi-tiered patrol and surveillance mechanism.

Benefits of the NGMMCB (LR)

The long-range subsonic cruise missiles, installed on hostile warships, can be used to launch attacks on ports and other naval installations. The NGMMCB (LR) batteries will be useful in repelling such coordinated sea attacks by forcing hostile warships to stay away from the coastline. Sea-skimming missiles that are launched from warships are difficult to detect when launched from near the cost. However, the NGMMCB (LR) batteries will force hostile warships to stay away from the coastline. This enables the early launch and interception of sea-skimming missiles.

The Coastal Radar Chain

The Coastal Radar chain linked to NGMMCB (LR) will boost India’s coastal defense capabilities. The Indian Navy’s existing Mobile Missile Coastal Battery (MMCB) Squadrons currently rely on older Soviet-era SSMs. The NGMMCB (LR) will significantly enhance the capabilities of these squadrons.

07 April 2023

Indian Economy

1) India’s Economic Growth Rate Forecast: World Bank

The World Bank has released a report titled “South Asia Economic Focus: Expanding Opportunities: Toward Inclusive Growth,” which provides an economic forecast for India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan.

Major Highlights of the World Bank Report:

o India’s growth rate has been downgraded to 6.3% for FY 2023-24, and the report cites high borrowing costs and slower income growth as the primary reasons for this downgrade.
o The female labour participation rate and the size and productivity of the informal sector are also concerns in India.
o However, the services sector and the construction sector are the fastest-growing industries in India, with strong investment growth and high business confidence.
o India’s growth rate is expected to grow at 6.4% in FY 2024-25, which is an upgrade of 0.3 % points from the previous forecast.
o Sri Lanka experiencing a contraction of -4.3% in 2023 and negotiating a USD 3 billion loan from the IMF, while Pakistan is forecasted to have a growth rate of 0.4% for the year ending June 30, 2023.

2) Foreign Trade Policy 2023:

The Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and Textiles has launched the Foreign Trade Policy 2023.

The Key Approach to the Foreign Trade Policy is based on 4 pillars:

o Incentive to Remission,
o Export promotion through collaboration – Exporters, States, Districts, Indian Missions,
o Ease of doing business, reduction in transaction cost, and e-initiatives and
o Emerging Areas – E-Commerce Developing Districts as Export Hubs and streamlining SCOMET policy.

Features of Foreign Trade Policy 2023:

o The new policy will have no sunset date (ending date) and will be tweaked based on the emerging world trade scenario and industry feedback. While the policy will be open-ended, the schemes sanctioned under it will be time-bound.
o There are no major new schemes, barring a one-time amnesty under the existing Advance Authorisation and Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) schemes, that allow imports of capital goods subject to specified export obligations.
o The Policy had opened up a new area of potential exports called “merchanting trade”.
o Merchanting trade refers to the shipment of goods from one foreign country to another foreign country without touching Indian ports, involving an Indian intermediary. This will also enable exports of restricted goods
o Four towns in Uttar Pradesh — Faridabad, Moradabad, Mirzapur, and Varanasi — were announced as centers of export excellence for their performance in the apparel, handicrafts, handmade carpets, and handlooms, respectively.
o It is also looking to lower qualification thresholds for star ratings which recognize exporters based on export performance.
o The importance of simplifying the SCOMET( Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment, and Technologies) Licensing Procedure which aims at streamlining the export of dual-use items.
o Special one-time Amnesty Program for Export Obligations Default.
o The dairy industry will be excused from maintaining average export obligations under the new foreign trade strategy, and a particular advance authorization procedure has been extended to textiles and clothing.

3) Mahila Samman Savings Certificate 2023

Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC) 2023 has been notified. o It is a one-time small savings scheme for women to commemorate celebrations of 75 years of Independence.
o It will be made available for a two-year period up to March 2025.
o It will be under the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
o The small saving certificate will have a fixed interest rate of 7.5% for two years.
o The deposit can be made in the name of a woman or a girl child.
o The maximum deposit amount has been kept at ₹2 lakhs and the scheme will have a partial withdrawal facility as well.
o Application for opening an account under the scheme can be made by a woman for herself or by the guardian on behalf of a minor girl.
o Any number of MSSC accounts can be opened by a woman, or in the name of a minor girl by the guardian, subject to the maximum limit of Rs 2 lakh.
o The Government has notified 7.5% interest on deposits in an MSSC account.
o The interest will be compounded on a quarterly basis and credited to the account.
o The notification said that the deposit shall mature on completion of two years from the date of the deposit.
o The eligible balance may be paid to the account holder on an application in Form-2 submitted to the accounts office on maturity.

4) India and Malaysia Agree to Settle Trade in Indian Rupees

Why in News?

India and Malaysia have agreed to settle trade in Indian rupees. This mechanism is expected to enhance India-Malaysia bilateral trade which touched USD 19.4 billion during 2021-22.
• Malaysia is the third largest trading partner of India in the ASEAN region, after Singapore and Indonesia which account for USD 30.1 billion and USD 26.1 billion in bilateral trade with India respectively.

What is the Significance of India's Move to Settle Trade in the Indian Rupee?

About:

o In July 2022, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) allowed the settlement of international trade in Indian rupees.
o In December 2022, India saw its first settlement of foreign trade in rupee with Russia – as part of the 'International Settlement of Trade in Indian Rupee' mechanism initiated by the RBI.
o In March 2023, banks from 18 countries were allowed by the RBI to open Special Rupee Vostro Accounts (SRVAs) to settle payments in Indian rupees.
• It includes: Botswana, Fiji, Germany, Guyana, Israel, Kenya, Malaysia, Mauritius, Myanmar, New Zealand, Oman, Russia, Seychelles, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda, and the United Kingdom.

Benefits of Trading in Indian Rupees:

o Controlling Depreciation of Rupees:
• India is a net importer and the value of the Indian rupee has been declining consistently.
• Using the rupee for international trade transactions will help check the flow of dollars out of India and slow the depreciation of the currency albeit to a “very limited extent.
• Thus most importantly, the move is expected to reduce the pressure on India’s forex reserves.
o Better Pricing for Goods and Services:
• With the ability to invoice trade in Indian rupees, Indian traders can achieve better pricing for their goods and services.
• Also, this mechanism is expected to benefit both sides of the trade by reducing currency conversion spreads.
o Towards Global Acceptance of Rupees:
• International trade settlements in the rupee are expected to gradually contribute to the global acceptance of the currency and later make it possible to repay loans taken from fund banks like the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

Challenges:

o Volatility of the Indian Rupee:
• The Indian rupee is known to be volatile and subject to fluctuations in the foreign exchange market, which may make it less attractive as a settlement currency for some international traders.
o Complications in Controlling Domestic Supply:
• RBI’s report warns that the ‘internationalization’ of the rupee can potentially limit the ability of the central bank to control the domestic money supply and influence interest rates as per the domestic macroeconomic conditions.
• Ultimately, it may lead to complications in terms of formulating the monetary policy.
o Competition with Other Currencies:
The Indian rupee may face competition from other major currencies, such as the US dollar, Euro, and Yen, which are already widely accepted for international trade settlements.

What is a Vostro Account?

• It is an account that domestic banks hold for foreign banks in the former’s domestic currency, in this case, the rupee.
o Domestic banks use it to provide international banking services to their clients who have global banking needs.
• The bank holding the Vostro account acts as a custodian of the foreign bank's funds and provides various services such as currency conversion, payment processing, and account reconciliation.

Conclusion

India's willingness to take concrete steps towards the de-dollarisation of its international trade and to make the rupee a tradable currency is a significant step towards the internationalization of rupees. But India must increase its exports, supported by critical reforms that include capital account convertibility, and deepening financial markets to manage the large-scale inflow and outflow of capital.

5) Corporate Debt Market Development Fund

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has introduced the ‘Corporate Debt Market Development Fund’ to prevent a financial crisis.
o The ‘Corporate Debt Market Development Fund (CDMDF) is a backstop facility for specified debt funds during market dislocations.
o The fund is intended to provide liquidity support in the event of a financial crisis.
o It aims to instill confidence amongst the participants in the corporate bond market and to generally enhance secondary market liquidity.
o The proposed CDMDF will have an initial corpus of Rs 3,000 crore contributed by mutual funds.
o The government has approved 10-time leverage of the fund (Additional corpus), thus CDMDF may raise funds up to Rs 30,000 crore.
o Contributions to the fund can be done by the specified debt-oriented mutual fund schemes and asset management companies of mutual funds.
o This fund is guaranteed by the National Credit Guarantee Trust Company (NCGTC) and the backstop facility will be managed by SBI Mutual Fund.
o Specified mutual fund schemes will have access to the fund for selling securities during market dislocation.
o This access is proportional to the contribution made to the fund at a mutual fund level.

08 April 2023

Agriculture

1) National Mission On Natural Farming

The Government of India has launched the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) as a separate and independent scheme to promote chemical-free and climate-smart agriculture.
o The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) has been formulated by upscaling the Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP) to promote natural farming across the country.
o NMNF will cover a 7.5 lakh hectare area by developing 15,000 clusters.
o The farmers willing to implement natural farming on their fields will be registered as cluster members, each cluster shall comprise 50 farmers or more with 50-hectare land.
o Also, each cluster can fall into one village or spread across 2-3 nearby villages under the same gram panchayat.
o Under NMNF, farmers will receive a financial assistance of ₹15,000 per hectare per year for three years for the creation of on-farm input production infrastructure.
o However, the incentives would be provided to farmers only when they commit to natural farming and have actually taken it up.
o If a farmer defaults or does not continue with natural farming, subsequent installments shall not be disbursed.

Natural Farming:

o Natural farming is a chemical-free farming method based on locally available resources.
o It promotes traditional indigenous practices, which give freedom to farmers from externally purchased inputs.
o The major stress of natural farming is on-farm biomass recycling with biomass mulching, use of on-farm desi cow dung-urine formulation, managing pests through diversity, on-farm botanical concoctions, and exclusion of all synthetic chemical inputs directly or indirectly.

2) India’s Dairy Sector

Why in news?

The Centre has reportedly been considering the import of butter and ghee as the country is facing a milk shortage.

What is the significance of milk and dairy products?

• Milk and milk products are rich in protein.
• They are a key source of calcium, vitamins, and protein for a large vegetarian population in India.
• Dairy industry strengthens the rural economy.
• It acts as a source of income for farmers and potential for women empowerment.

What is the present status of the dairy sector in India?

Milk has a weightage of 6.6% in the consumer price index, any spike could have a reasonable implication on headline inflation.
• According to Food and Agriculture Organization Corporate Statistical Database (FAOSTAT), India is the highest milk producer in the world contributing 24% of global milk production.
• Top milk-producing states - Rajasthan (15.05%), Uttar Pradesh (14.93%), and Madhya Pradesh (8.6%)
• Indian dairy sector has an annual growth trend of 5-6 %.
• In 2022, there was a 39% jump in exports of dairy products.
• Key export destinations - Bangladesh, UAE, Bahrain, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.

What are the challenges in dairy sector?

• COVID - It led to a crash in prices and demand destruction which led to the inability of dairy farmers to invest in their cattle.
• Lumpy skin disease (LSD) has led to a death count of 1.9 lakh cattle which made capital losses for dairy farmers.
• Fodder inflation – According to ICAR scientists, fodder and feed account for 70 % of the cost of milk.
• Fodder inflation at 30% has been a critical factor for soaring milk prices.
• Milk shortage - Dairy product demand is growing rapidly with rising population, incomes, urbanization, and changing diets.
• Investment – There is a need for investment in supply chains in this capital-intensive business.
• Cooperatives – They revolutionized dairying, but due to a variety of factors their success has not gone beyond Gujarat and Karnataka.
“The private dairy sector has surpassed the combined capacity of the dairy cooperatives and government dairies in the past 20 years” - 2022-23 Annual Report of the Ministry of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.

What efforts were taken by the government to boost the dairy sector?

• National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) – It is monitoring the supply-demand gap in dairy products along with the Central government.
• Operation Flood - It was launched in 1970 by National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).
• It transformed India from a milk-deficient into the world's largest milk producer.
• Dr. Verghese Kurien was the architect of Operation Flood.
• Rashtriya Gokul Mission – It aims to genetically improve the cattle population and promote and conserve indigenous cattle breeds.
• National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD) - It aims to strengthen infrastructure for the production of high-quality milk as well as for the procurement, processing, and marketing of milk and milk products.
• Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme (DEDS) – It aims to create self-employment opportunities in the dairy industry.
• The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) is carrying out the programme.

3) Open-Source Seeds Movement

Why in News?

With declining public sector breeding and the rising dominance of the private sector in the seed sector, the concept of Open-Source Seeds becomes increasingly relevant.
• 'Open-Source seeds' was first suggested by a Canadian plant breeder - T.E. Michaels in 1999 based on the principles of Open-Source Software.
• Farmers have been sharing and innovating on seeds for centuries without claiming exclusive rights or intellectual property, similar to how programmers have been sharing and innovating on software.

What is Open-Source Software?

• OSS is software whose source code is made available to the public for anyone to view, modify, and distribute under an open-source license. This license typically allows users to access and modify the source code, as well as to redistribute the software without any restriction on its use or distribution.
o The concept of OSS originated in the 1980s, but gained wider recognition and popularity in the 1990s, thanks to the efforts of the Free Software Foundation (FSF) and the Open Source Initiative (OSI).
• The benefits of OSS include the ability to customize the software to meet specific needs, a reduced cost of ownership, and the potential for greater security due to the increased transparency of the source code. In addition, OSS can foster innovation by allowing developers to build on existing software and improve it.

What are Plant Breeders’ Rights?

• The growth of the commercial seed industry, scientific plant breeding, and the advent of hybrid seeds led to the establishment of Plant Breeders' Rights (PBR) in many countries.
• Under the PBR regime, plant breeders and developers of new varieties have the exclusive right to demand royalties on seeds and legally enforce PBRs.
• This limited the rights of farmers to use and reuse seeds and restricted their ability to innovate.
• The establishment of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 1994 and the Trade-Related IPR Agreement (TRIPS) cast a global IPR regime over plant varieties.
o TRIPS required countries to provide at least one form of IP protection for plant varieties, which raised concerns about the freedom to innovate.
• The Green Revolution was spearheaded by public-sector breeding institutions and seeds were available as ‘open pollinated varieties’, or as reasonably priced hybrids with no restrictions on farmers to cultivate, reuse and share.
• But the genetic revolution in agriculture was led by the private sector, with seeds mostly made available as hybrids and/or protected by strong IPRs.

How is IP Protected in Agriculture?

• There are two forms of IPR protection in agriculture: plant breeders' rights and patents.
• Together, they restrict farmers’ rights and the freedom to develop new varieties using germplasm from IP-protected varieties.
• They have thus further consolidated the seed sector and increased the number of plant varieties covered by IPRs.

What are Open-Source Seeds?

Need:

o The high prices of genetically modified seeds and IP claims triggered many problems, including the State’s intervention on Bt cotton seeds in India. As public sector breeding declined and the private sector began to dominate the seed sector, the need for alternatives became keenly felt.
o This is when the success of open-source software inspired a solution

Open-Source Model:

o An open-source model was proposed in 2002 by scientists for seeds and plant varieties, calling it the “BioLinux model”, and scholars and civil-society members alike discussed and built on it.
o In 2012, Jack Kloppenburg launched the Open-Source Seeds Initiative (OSSI) in Wisconsin.
o It can be used in farmer-led seed conservation and distribution systems. There is many traditional-variety conservation and sharing initiatives in India, including those involving farmers.
o It can also be used to promote farmer-led participatory plant-breeding exercises.
o Traditional varieties often lack uniformity and aren’t of excellent quality. Open-source principles can help overcome these two challenges by facilitating testing, improvisation, and adoption – all of which will ultimately be beneficial to India’s food security and climate resilience.

Are there such Initiatives in India?

• In India, the Hyderabad-based Centre for Sustainable Agriculture (CSA), part of the Apna Beej Network, developed a model incorporated into an agreement between CSA and the recipient of the seed/germplasm. It is trying to use this approach through three farmer-producer organizations (FPOs).
• Worldwide, the number of seed firms using open-source models and the crop varieties and seeds made available thereunder is small but growing. India is yet to test and adopt it widely.
• Under the Plant Variety Protection and Farmers’ Rights Act (PPVFRA) 2001, farmers can register varieties as ‘farmer varieties’ if they meet certain conditions, and have the right to reuse, replant, and exchange seeds.
• However, they can’t breed and trade in varieties protected under the Act for commercial purposes.

Way Forward

• Using the open-source approach will enable farmers to gain more rights over germplasm and seeds and facilitate innovation.
• So, there is a need to test this approach with farmers and the three FPOs can take the lead.

4) Nano Fertilisers

Why in News?

The Department of Fertilisers conducted an audit which revealed a variation of 25-50% in the reduction of nitrogen use after the application of nano urea.
• The use of nano urea can help the government save approximately USD 3 billion (around Rs 24,687 crore) in subsidy bills annually and reduce India's dependence on urea imports.

What is Nano Fertilisers?

About:

o Nano fertilizers are highly efficient types of fertilizers that provide nutrients like nitrogen to crops through fine granules.
• Nitrogen is an essential macronutrient for plant functions, and urea is one of the most concentrated nitrogenous fertilizers.

Nano Urea Liquid:

o Nano urea liquid was developed in 2022 by Indian Farmers and Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO) to replace conventional urea and reduce its requirement by 50%.
• The government has heavily promoted the use of nano fertilizers since its development.

Significance:

Reduce Losses:

• Nano fertilizers exploit the nanoscale porous domains on plant surfaces to deliver nutrients, improve the effectiveness of nitrogen delivery, and reduce losses to the environment.

Increase Farmers’ Income:

• It is easy on the pocket of farmers and will be effective in increasing farmers' income. It will also significantly bring down the cost of logistics and warehousing.
• A small bottle of 500 milliliters of nano urea spray is said to be a substitute for a full bag of 45 kilograms of urea.

Making Crops Stronger:

• It will also reduce the excess use of Urea application in the soil and will make the crops stronger, and healthier and protect them from lodging effects.
• Lodging is the bending over of the stems near the ground level of grain crops, which makes them very difficult to harvest and can dramatically reduce yield.

Challenges:

o Cost: The cost of producing nano-fertilizers is higher than conventional fertilizers due to the advanced technology and production methods used.
• This has made them unaffordable for small farmers and resulted in limited access to this technology.
o Quality Control: The production of nano-fertilizers requires strict quality control measures to ensure their effectiveness and safety.
• However, the lack of standardized regulations for their production and distribution has resulted in poor quality control and inconsistent results.
o Environmental Concerns: There are concerns about the potential environmental impact of nano-fertilizers, such as their long-term effects on soil health, water quality, and ecosystem balance.
• These concerns must be addressed through proper testing and regulation to ensure their sustainable use.

What are Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited?

About:

o It is one of India's biggest cooperative societies which is wholly owned by Indian Cooperatives.
o Founded in 1967 with just 57 cooperatives, today it is an amalgamation of over 36,000 Indian Cooperatives with diversified business interests ranging from General Insurance to Rural Telecom apart from its core business of manufacturing and selling fertilizers.

Objective:

o To enable Indian farmers to prosper through a timely supply of reliable, high-quality agricultural inputs and services in an environmentally sustainable manner and to undertake other activities to improve their welfare.

Conclusion

Nano fertilizers have the potential to improve crop yields, reduce input costs for farmers, and save the government on subsidy bills and urea imports. However, long-term effects on nutritional quality, bio-safety, efficacy, and reliability require further research and thorough audit of field trials to establish the effectiveness and safety of using nano fertilizers on crops.

10 April 2023

Sports

1) Who was Salim Durani?

On April 2 this year, former Indian cricketer Salim Durani passed away at the age of 88 in Gujarat’s Jamnagar. He underwent a surgery for thigh bone fracture in January 2023.

Durani’s Cricket Career

Salim Durani, born in Kabul, Afghanistan, was a left-arm orthodox bowler and a handy batsman who played 29 Tests for India. He made his Test debut against Australia at the beginning of 1960 at Mumbai’s Brabourne Stadium and played his last international match against England in February 1973.
Durani had an impressive cricketing career with the ability to demolish any bowling attack on his day. He had a Test batting average of 26.04 and scored 1,202 runs, including one century and seven fifties in the 50 innings he played for the country. Durani’s highest score in Test cricket was 104, and he had a career first-class batting average of 33.37.

India’s Triumphs Under Durani’s Leadership

Salim Durani was a key player in India’s historic victory against England in the Test series in 1961-62. India beat the visitors 2-0 in the five-Test series, and it was Durani who starred with the ball, taking 18 wickets in India’s two victories in Calcutta and Madras. He also played a major part in India’s victory against the West Indies in Port of Spain.

Durani’s Impact on the Cricketing World

Durani was known for his fine dressing style and swagger, which added to his charismatic personality. He had a special relationship with the crowd, who once expressed their ire after he was dropped from the team for a match in Kanpur, and carried banners and placards that read ‘No Durani, no test!’.
Salim Durani was the first in India to win Arjuna Award in cricket. The award is bestowed by the Sports Ministry to recognize outstanding achievements in the field of sports. Durani was a tall man and could get the ball to lift and turn on any surface with a bit of help, making him a formidable opponent.

Durani’s Contribution to Indian Cinema

Besides cricket, Durani gained fame with the Bollywood film ‘Charitra’ in 1973 opposite the famous actress of the ’70s and ’80s, Praveen Babi. His charming personality and screen presence impressed many, making him an overnight sensation in the Indian film industry.

11 April 2023

Social Justice & Social Issues

1) Wide Disparities in Human Development in India

Why in news?

Despite increased awareness about suicide rates are increasing and have to be addressed.

What is HDI?

• Human development index (HDI) is a composite statistical measure to evaluate and compare the level of human development in different regions around the world.
• HDI was created by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 1990
• The dimensions of HDI are
1. Long and healthy life
2. Knowledge
3. A decent standard of living
• HDI scores range from 0 to 1, with higher values indicating higher levels of human development.

What is the status of the subnational HDI of India?

63 million people are pushed into poverty because of healthcare costs every year - almost two people every second
• There are wide disparities in human development across the states in India
According to the Human Development Report of 2021-22
• The five States with the highest HDI scores are Delhi, Goa, Kerala, Sikkim, and Chandigarh.
• The bottom five States are Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Assam, with medium levels of human development.
• Despite having the highest SGDP per capita among larger States, Gujarat, and Haryana have failed to translate this advantage into human development and rank 21 and 10, respectively
According to the Human Development Report of 2021-22, India ranks 132 out of 191 countries, behind Bangladesh (129) and Sri Lanka (73).

What are the reasons for the wide disparities among the states?

• Income inequality - The top 10% of the Indian population holds over 77% of the wealth.
• Low quality in service provided by government - While the country has achieved near-universal enrolment in primary education, the quality of education remains low.
• Healthcare - Healthcare is considered a luxury good that causes a financial burden to the poor.

What is the need of the hour?

• Healthcare infrastructure - Robust healthcare infrastructure is needed to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities.
• High literacy rates – High literacy rates are essential for human development.
• Social protection schemes – There is a need for more social protection schemes.

2) A Sustainable Model for Women’s Leadership

Why in news?

It is the right time to build a sustainable model for women empowerment considering 900 million adolescent girls across the world.

What is the status of women’s leadership?

• According to the Women’s World Atlas, only four countries have achieved parity between women and men in parliament.
• The world is home to 900 million adolescent girls and young women poised to shape the future of work and growth.
• The World Bank notes that over 43% of Indian STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) graduates are women.

How significant is women’s leadership?

• Women's leadership is crucial to tackling the climate crisis.
• Women leadership leads to peaceful foreign diplomacy cutting across borders.
• In government at national and local levels, women leaders are associated with fewer deaths and faster action.
• In companies, women leaders have proven to be motivating and communicative during any crisis.

What are the key elements for women’s leadership?

• ICT - Women at all levels of society must have included in Information and Communications Technology (ICT).
• Bodily autonomy – Women need to be empowered to make decisions about their bodies.
• Shared responsibility within the household – It is crucial for us to recognize, reduce and redistribute unpaid care and domestic work, so that women may enjoy economic opportunities and outcomes on an equal footing to men.
• Educational Technology solutions - gives us tools to bridge part of the accessibility gap in education through hybrid learning models.
• Beyond comfort zone - Moving beyond one's comfort zone is critical for women leaders as it helps build resilience and confidence.
• Dismantling stereotypes - Actively countering stereotypes and advocating for the inclusion of women in all fields.
• Sporting activities - The inclusion of adolescent girls and young women in sports can build their self-confidence, strengthen self-belief, and impart the nuances of teamwork.
• Providing employability – a multi-pronged approach is needed in enhancing women’s employability.

What are the barriers to women’s leadership?

• Gender norms that disproportionately allocate domestic and care responsibilities to women
• Representation of men as leaders of STEM (Science, Technology Engineering, and Mathematics), finance, and entrepreneurial fields
• Inadequate maternity leave
• Lack of childcare facilities in the workplace

Limiting Salt Intake

Why in News?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a daily intake of fewer than 5 grams of salt for adults, but an average Indian's sodium consumption is more than double that amount.
• The WHO has set a goal for member states to reduce population sodium intake by 30% by 2025, but progress has been slow. India's sodium score of 2 out of 4 indicates the need for more rigorous efforts to address this health concern.
• The WHO recently published the ‘Global Report on Sodium Intake Reduction,’ which sheds light on the progress of its 194 member states towards reducing population sodium intake by 30% by 2025.

What is the Need for Limiting Salt Intake?

• Excessive salt intake can have dangerous consequences such as Hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
• Reducing sodium intake is important because it is strongly correlated with lower blood pressure, which can lead to a decrease in Cardiovascular Diseases.
o Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality worldwide and is responsible for a significant economic impact on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as India.
• Cardiovascular disease and hypertension are significant challenges in India due to several factors, including rising mortality rates, higher prevalence in men, particularly in southern states, and a large pre-hypertensive population.
• The 2020 Report on Medical Certification of the Cause of Death shows that circulatory system diseases account for 32.1% of all documented deaths in India, with hypertension being a major risk factor.
• The World Economic Forum projects that the Indian economy alone faces losses surpassing USD 2 trillion between 2012 and 2030 because of cardiovascular disease.

What are the Related Initiatives?

Eat Right India Campaign:

o It was launched by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), aiming to transform the Indian food system and ensure that everyone has access to safe, nutritious, and sustainable food.

Aaj Se Thoda Kam Campaign:

o FSSAI has initiated the 'Aaj Se Thoda Kam' social media campaign. Despite these efforts, the average sodium consumption of Indians remains alarmingly high. Studies have found that the typical daily intake of sodium in India is around 11 grams, which is much higher than the recommended intake of 5 grams per day.

Why is Salt Consumption Important?

• Salt as a Sodium chloride is an essential nutrient that plays several important roles in the body.
• Sodium is an electrolyte that helps to regulate the balance of fluids in the body and aids in the transmission of nerve impulses and muscle contractions.
• Salt consumption is important for maintaining the proper bodily function, but excessive intake can have negative health consequences, making it important to consume salt in moderation.

How can the Related Challenges be Addressed?

• India needs a comprehensive national strategy to reduce salt consumption, with a multi-pronged approach that engages consumers, industry, and the government. Collaboration between state and union governments is essential to combat hypertension caused by excessive sodium intake.
• Reducing sodium consumption has been identified as a highly cost-effective strategy to prevent Non-Communicable, which are responsible for the majority of deaths worldwide.
o A report suggests that implementing policies to reduce sodium consumption could save an estimated seven million lives globally by 2030.
• The sodium reduction policy is crucial to achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of reducing deaths from NCDs.

4) Protection of Domestic Workers in India

Why in news?

In recent times, the violence against domestic workers has increased drastically.

Who are domestic workers?

• Domestic workers - According to International Labour Organisation, domestic workers are those workers who perform work in or for a private household or households.
• They provide direct and indirect care services, and as such are key members of the care economy
• Domestic work - According to ILO, domestic work refers to housework such as sweeping, cleaning utensils, washing clothes, cooking, caring for children, and such other work which is carried out for an employer for remuneration.
• Status of domestic workers in India - As of 2012, 39 lakh people were employed as domestic workers, of which at least 26 lakhs were women
• A Bengaluru-based study in 2016 found 75% of domestic workers were from Scheduled Castes, 15% from OBCs, and 8% from Scheduled Tribes.
• More than 12.6 million domestic workers in the country are minors, with 86% of them being girls.
• Moreover, 25% of underage domestic workers were below 14 years.

What are the issues faced by domestic workers?

• Informal in nature
• Unpaid and underpaid
• Have no legal contract
• Have ill-defined work hours
• Face discrimination and violence, sexual harassment, and exploitation
• Face discrimination at the hands of placement agencies (agencies recruiting domestic workers) and/or traffickers
• Violence against domestic workers
• Ambiguity over domestic worker’s data

What are the international measures to protect domestic workers?

• Domestic Workers Convention (No. 189) - ILO enacted Domestic Workers Convention (No. 189) in 2011 to protect domestic workers.
• International Domestic Workers Day - June 16th, celebrating the 2011 passage of the International Labour Organization Convention 189 for Decent Work for Domestic Workers.
• Your Work Is Important - ILO has launched a campaign “Your Work Is Important” to generate public awareness The ILO Forced Labour Convention, 1930 defines forced labour as work that is “exacted from any person under the menace of any penalty” and which is “not offered voluntarily”.

What are the measures taken by the Indian government?

• There is no dedicated law or policy to regulate people working in the domestic work sector.
• Unorganized Sector Social Security Act, 2008 – The Act provided the first legal recognition meant to provide social welfare to workers—including domestic workers.
• Code on Social Security, 2020 – The code replaced the Unorganized Sector Social Security Act, of 2008, and is yet to take effect.
• Child Labour Act, 1986 - The Indian government prohibited minors from entering domestic housework in 2006, listing it as a form of “hazardous child labour”.
• Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 - Includes domestic workers as a specific category of workers – with the house as a designated workplace.
• Minimum Wages Act, 1948 – Only certain States such as Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Tripura have included domestic workers in the schedule of the Minimum Wages Act.
• Domestic Workers (Registration, Social Security and Welfare) Bill in 2008 - The National Commission of Women proposed the bill.
• Domestic Workers’ Welfare Bill 2016 - Recognised a private household as a workplace and broader definition of “wages”.
• Both the 2008 and 2016 bills have not been passed yet.
• National Domestic Worker Policy - Proposed by the Labour Ministry in 2019 to regulate placement agencies and include domestic workers under existing laws.
• India is a signatory to ILO’s 189th convention, known as Convention on the Domestic Workers but has not ratified it yet.

What is the need of the hour?

• The placement agencies need to be regulated.
• The government needs to link up with social workers for protecting the domestic.
• The domestic workers' protection act needs to be passed.
• There is a need for authentic data for domestic workers.

12 April 2023

Arts & Culture

1) Ladakh’s Wood Carving

The recent granting of a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Ladakh’s wood carving has brought a significant boost to the region’s cultural traditions and local economy. The GI tag has been given by the GI Registry in Chennai, which is responsible for registering products under the GI Act, of 1999.

Promotion of Cultural Traditions and Benefitting Artisans

The GI tag is a type of intellectual property right that identifies a product as originating from a specific geographical location and possessing certain qualities, characteristics, or reputation that are due to that location. Ladakh’s wood carving is famed for its complex designs and distinctive patterns, which are mostly inspired by Buddhist themes and motifs. The wood carvings are made from local wood such as willow and apricot and are often used for decorating doors, windows, and other household items.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed happiness about the recent granting of a GI tag for Ladakh’s wood carving, stating that the move will popularize Ladakh’s cultural traditions and benefit artisans. Member of Parliament in Lok Sabha from Ladakh, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, also tweeted about the granting of the GI tag.

Unique Identity and Origin of a Product

The GI registration ensures that the product has a unique identity and origin, and it cannot be duplicated or sold under the same name by any other manufacturer from a different region. This protection ensures that consumers get genuine and authentic products. The GI tag is granted based on the provisions of the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, by the Geographical Indication Registry under the Department of Industry Promotion and Internal Trade.

Boosting the Local Economy

The recognition of Ladakh’s wood carving as a GI product is likely to boost the local economy by promoting tourism and creating employment opportunities for artisans. Tourists are drawn to authentic and unique products that are not available elsewhere, and the GI tag ensures that Ladakh’s wood carving fits that bill. With the recognition, artisans will be able to charge a premium price for their products, which will help in improving their livelihoods.

Protection of Traditional Knowledge and Skills

The recognition of Ladakh’s wood carving as a GI product will also protect the traditional knowledge and skills of wood carving, ensuring that it is passed down to future generations. The GI tag is an important step in preserving the cultural heritage of a region and ensuring that it continues to thrive and flourish in the future.

2) Mahavir Jayanti – Celebrating the Birth of Mahavir

Mahavir Jayanti is an essential religious festival celebrated by the Jain community worldwide. It marks the birth of Lord Mahavir, the twenty-fourth and last Tirthankara (supreme preacher) of present Avasarpiṇī in Jainism.

Who is Lord Mahavir?

Lord Mahavir was born in 599 BC in Kundalagrama, Bihar, India, as Vardhamana Mahavira. He was the son of King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala. Before his birth, Queen Trishala had 16 dreams interpreted by astrologers, which signified the coming of a great soul. Lord Mahavir sacrificed all worldly pleasures and chose an ascetic path when he was 30 years old. He spent twelve years in meditation and self-realization, after which he attained Kevala Jnana or perfect knowledge.

The Significance of Mahavir Jayanti

Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated every year in either March or April, depending on the Gregorian calendar. This year, it fell on April 4, 2023. It is a significant event for the Jain community as it marks the birth of their most prominent religious figure, Lord Mahavir. On this day, people engage in charitable acts, prayers, pujas, and fasts as a way to show their respect for Lord Mahavir and his teachings.

Celebrations of Mahavir Jayanti

On the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, ancient Jain temples across India witness large number of practitioners paying their respects and taking part in the celebrations. One of the most significant events of the day is the Rath Yatra, a procession where the idol of Lord Mahavir is carried out on a chariot, and religious rhymes are recited. Additionally, many temples offer Abhishek, a ceremonial anointment given to statues of Lord Mahavir.

The Teachings of Lord Mahavir

Lectures by monks and nuns on Mahavir Jayanti preach the path of virtue as defined by Lord Mahavir. Lord Mahavir developed a five-fold path consisting of ‘Ahimsa’ (non-violence), ‘Asteya’ (non-stealing), ‘Brahmacharya’ (celibacy), ‘Satya’ (truthfulness), and ‘Aparigraha’ (non-possession) for all householders to follow. These teachings are still relevant and continue to influence Jainism today.

The Promise of Mahavir Jayanti

On Mahavir Jayanti, people promise to remember the teachings of Lord Mahavir and not hurt anyone in the future, knowingly and unknowingly. This promise is a reminder of the importance of non-violence and the significance of Lord Mahavir’s teachings in modern society.

3) J & K’s Basohli paintings get GI Tag

Context

Recently, the Basholi (Basoli) paintings received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag following approval of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, Jammu.

About

• Basholi painting is a reputed school of miniature paintings.
• The Basohli painting of Kathua is the first independent GI-tagged product from the Jammu region.
• Basohli painting, a school of Pahari miniature painting that flourished in the Indian hill states during the late 17th and 18th centuries, is known for its bold vitality of color and line.
Basholi is a town in Kathua district in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, India.

Key features:

• These paintings are known for their vivid, evocative colors, bold lines, and deep-set facial patterns.
• It was founded by Raja Bhupat Pal in the 16th century.
• Basholi paintings are considered the first school of Pahari paintings, many of which have evolved into the much more detailed and widespread style of the Kangra painting school.

Geographical Indication (GI) tag:

• The GI is a form of intellectual property right that identifies goods originating from a specific geographical location and having distinct nature, quality, and characteristics.
• The Geographical Indication is recognized by the World Trade Organization.
• India became a signatory to this convention, when, as a member of WTO, it enacted the Geographical Indications (Registration and Protection) Act, of 1999, which came into effect on September 15, 2003.

Paintings in India:

• Principles of Indian Paintings:
• Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism were three new religions that emerged in India, and they all provided important sources of inspiration for artists.
• The development of Indian Paintings has been significantly influenced by various factors, including India’s deep-rooted history and culture.
• In the famous paintings of India, spiritual themes, noble ideals, and common beliefs are depicted.
• In the third century AD, Vatsyayana wrote about the six main shadanga or principles of Indian painting in his work Kamasutra. These were:
• Various Forms: Rupabheda
• Emotional immersion: Lavanyayoganam
• Combining colors to simulate modeling effects: Varnikabhanga
• The proportion of the object or subject: Pramanam
• The portrayal of the subject’s likelihood: Sadrisyan
• The use of color to create luster and gleam: Bhava

Miniature Indian Paintings:

• When India first came into contact with the Islamic civilization, miniature painting finally reached its full potential.
• Indian painting underwent a new stage of development during the Mughal Empire when the workshops were created at the Imperial court.
• From there, artworks like illustrated manuscripts, book miniatures, portraiture, celebratory or genre scenes, and many others spread throughout India.
• Key features of miniature paintings:
• Miniature Indian paintings are characterized by small and detailed paintings.

Some famous miniature paintings include:

• Ragamala (1680 AD)
• Bhairavi Ragini Painting
• Bani Thani (Monalisa of India) by Nihâl Chand and Radha and Krishna of Kishangarh
• Gita Govind, Palm Leaf Painting
• Human figures are mostly seen in side profiles, bulging eyes, slim waists, pointed noses, etc.
• Different colors were used for different characters, and various bases were used.
• Often painted on paper, clothes, palm leaves, etc.
• The characteristics of Miniature painting varied in different regions of the country.

4) Head of the Janang Tradition of Tibetan Buddhism

The Dalai Lama has named a US-born Mongolian boy as the 10th Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa, the head of the Janang tradition of Tibetan Buddhism and the Buddhist spiritual head of Mongolia.
o This announcement has brought attention back to the larger question of the Dalai Lama’s own reincarnation, which is a civilizational struggle between China and Tibetans over who controls Tibetan Buddhism.
o Reincarnation in Tibetan Buddhism: According to Tibetan Buddhist tradition, the spirit of a deceased lama is reborn in a child, which secures a continuous line of succession through successive re-embodiments.
o Dalai Lama is a title given by the Tibetan people for the foremost spiritual leader of the Gelug or “Yellow Hat” school of Tibetan Buddhism, the newest of the classical schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
o The 14th and current Dalai Lama is Tenzin Gyatso.

5) Saurashtra-Tamil Sangam

Context

Overwhelmed by the ‘success’ of the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam, the Union government is set to hold the Saurashtra-Tamil Sangam in Gujarat which will be followed by the Kedarnath-Tamil Sangamam.

About Saurashtra-Tamil Sangam (STS):

• The Saurashtra Tamil Sangam aims to rediscover, reaffirm and celebrate the over 1,000-year-old emigration and contribution of Saurashtrian Tamils.
• It is a program that highlights the oneness of India's culture by narrating untold histories of how a community emigrated to Tamil Nadu and their contributions to the country.
• The Saurashtra Tamil Sangam will be held at Somnath, Dwarka, and other places in Gujarat to connect Tamil Nadu and Saurashtra.
• It will celebrate the civilizational links between people from the southern part of the country and the People from Saurashtra and Kedarnath in the north.
• It is a unique attempt where States shared their culture, civilization, and heritage with each other, and the country is united in soft power.
• The STS is the second such programme under the ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ initiative.
• The first one was the ‘Kashi Tamil Sangamam’, a month-long event held last year to “rediscover” links between Varanasi and Tamil Nadu.

Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat

• The initiative ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ was announced in 2015.
• The program aims to actively enhance interaction between people of diverse cultures living in different States and UTs in India, with the objective of promoting greater mutual understanding among them.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Education

Background

• Originally from the Gujarat region, the Saurashtrian community now mostly resides in the southern states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.
• Their migration to the southern parts of the country is believed to be primarily a result of the desecration of the Somnath Temple, their religious center, by Mahmud Ghazni in 1024.
• Many Saurashtrians also came to Tamil Nadu in the 17th century as royal silk weavers to the Nayak kings.
• According to reports, there are about 25 lakh people of Gujarati origin living in Tamil Nadu and over 12 lakh Saurashtrians in the state with a majority of them settled in Madurai, Thanjavur, and Salem.

Kedarnath-Tamil Sangamam

• Kedarnath is one of the four sacred shrines of Shiva among the Char Dham (four shrines).
• The Char Dham also comprises Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri temples.
• It is situated on the banks of Mandakini, 3,583 meters above sea level.
• It is the eleventh out of 12 jyotirlingas (shrines dedicated to Shiva) in India.
• Tamilians were ardent Shiva worshippers, and every year thousands of people from TN and other southern States, including Karnataka and Kerala visited Kedarnath during the yatra.
• People from the south also visited the Badrinath shrine in large numbers, to perform Pind Daan and Tarpan (part of the last rites in Hinduism), at the Brahm Kapal temple situated in Badrinath.

13 April 2023

International Relations

1) Saudi Arabia’s Quest for strategic autonomy

Context

The present condition of Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy with changing dynamics and shifting to an Expansionist policy can change the situation for countries in South Asia as well as in Central Asia.

Background

• Saudi Arabia is a nation with a foreign policy which has always centred on Iran.
• It is now reaching out to old rivals, holding talks with new enemies and seeking to balance between great powers.

How is Saudi foreign policy changing?

• For years, the main driver of Saudi foreign policy was the kingdom’s hostility towards Iran.
• This has resulted in proxy conflicts across the region.
• As Saudi Arabia is India's fourth largest trading partner and more than 18% of India's crude oil imports are sourced from Saudi Arabia.
• It becomes important to look at its foreign policy as a benchmark for India’s changing concerns in West Asia.

Global influence:

The Saudi economy is the largest in the Middle East; the world's eighteenth-largest economy by nominal GDP and the seventeenth-largest by PPP.

Saudi’s expansionist approach:

• Recently, Saudi Arabia has announced a deal, after China-mediated talks, to normalise diplomatic ties with Iran.
• Soon after, there were reports that Russia was mediating talks between Saudi Arabia and Syria, which could lead to the latter re-entering the Arab League before its next summit, scheduled for May 2023 in Saudi Arabia.
• Recently, the Saudi-Omani delegation travelled to Yemen to hold talks with the Houthi rebels for a permanent ceasefire.
• All these moves mark a decisive shift from the policy adopted by Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman.
• This is happening at a time when Saudi Arabia is also trying to balance between the U.S., its largest arms supplier, Russia, its OPEC-Plus partner, and China, the new superpower in the region.

Reasons for Saudi’s shift:

• China has offered to mediate between Tehran and Riyadh; the Saudis found it as an opportunity and seized the deal.
• Iran would continue to drive Saudi Arabia’s security concerns and strategic calculus.
• But Saudi Arabia’s response to the Iran problem has shifted from strategic rivalry and proxy conflicts to tactical de-escalation and mutual coexistence.

What are the implications for the region?

• The challenge before Saudi Arabia is to retain the course of autonomy without irking the U.S. beyond a point.

Impacts on India:

• Saudi’s closeness with China:
• The unexpected diplomatic rapprochement with Iran, brokered by China has highlighted the renewed pragmatism of Saudi Arabia, a leader criticised in the past for erratic decisions that have led the ultra-conservative kingdom into an endless war in Yemen, an aggressive blockade of neighbouring Qatar and a bitter rivalry with Iran, its regional nemesis.
• Also, Saudi Arabia strengthens its bilateral relations with China, its main trading partner.
• Russia and Saudi Arabia:
• Ties between the two countries expanded following the launch of the OPEC+ oil production deal in 2016 and King Salman bin Abdulaziz's historic first visit to Moscow in October 2017.

2) What is Orion Wargame?

France is hosting the multinational wargame codenamed Orion, which is expected to be held from the third week of April to May 5. This exercise will involve various countries, including India, and will test their combat capabilities in a simulated war scenario.

Background of the Wargame

The backdrop of this wargame is the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, where NATO led by the US is opposing Russian moves against Ukraine. The aim of the exercise is to test the preparedness of the participating countries’ air forces and their ability to operate in a multi-national environment.

Indian Participation in Orion

The Indian Air Force (IAF) will participate in Orion with its Rafale fighter jets from the Western Air Command’s Golden Arrows squadron. The IAF has already inducted 36 Rafales, and these fighter planes have participated in wargames with foreign countries earlier, including Desert Knight with the French Air Force in Jodhpur.

Other Participating Countries

Apart from India, several other countries are taking part in the wargames with their fighter planes. These include France, NATO, and other allies. The exercise is significant for the French defence forces as it is reportedly the largest-ever multinational exercise they have carried out. This wargame involves not only their Air Force but also their Army and Navy along with their allies, the US and the UK.

Number of Participants

Some 7,000 NATO troops have reportedly participated in the drill involving the land forces of their NATO allies. The exercise will take place in France and will involve a range of combat capabilities from air-to-air combat to ground attacks.

Exercise Copeindia

Another exercise involving India is Exercise Copeindia, which is going to take place in West Bengal. The American F-15 fighter planes are also expected to participate in this drill. However, there may be some changes in their availability of schedule due to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.

3) What is Hikikomori?

Hikikomori is a social phenomenon affecting people of all ages in Japan, where individuals withdraw from society and remain isolated for extended periods.

Origins and Definition of Hikikomori

The term Hikikomori was coined in the 1990s in Japan to describe the phenomenon of social withdrawal. Hikikomori is not a clinical diagnosis but rather a social issue that affects individuals who choose to isolate themselves from society due to various reasons, including social anxiety, depression, academic pressure, and bullying.

Prevalence of Hikikomori in Japan

Hikikomori is a widespread issue in Japan, with an estimated 1.5 million working-age people living in isolation. Typically, people with Hikikomori withdraw from society for a period of six months or longer, with the most common reasons being unemployment, depression, academic pressure, and bullying in school or the workplace.

Filial Piety and Japan’s Work Culture

Filial piety, the respect for one’s parents and elders, is an essential part of Japanese culture. Children often feel a sense of obligation to care for their parents in old age, which can cause feelings of guilt and anxiety. Additionally, Japan’s work culture is intense and all-consuming, with long working hours, high levels of stress, and limited opportunities for career advancement. The combination of these factors can contribute to the prevalence of Hikikomori among individuals who feel overwhelmed and unable to cope with societal pressures.

Consequences of Hikikomori

The consequences of Hikikomori are significant and far-reaching. Social isolation can lead to a lack of employment opportunities, financial hardship, and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety disorders. Moreover, the longer an individual remains in isolation, the harder it becomes to reintegrate into society.

Addressing Hikikomori in Japan

The Japanese government has recognized the severity of Hikikomori and has implemented various initiatives to address this issue. These include counselling services, support groups, and financial assistance for individuals and families affected by Hikikomori. While progress has been made, addressing Hikikomori remains a complex and ongoing issue.

4) Hay Fever in Japan

Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has recently vowed to tackle hay fever, a pollen allergy that affects a significant portion of the Japanese population. In a recent parliamentary committee, Kishida referred to hay fever as a “social problem” and pledged to work with ministers to devise a response to the issue. In this article, we will explore the prevalence of hay fever in Japan and the measures being taken to address it.

What is Hay Fever?

Hay fever is a pollen allergy that typically causes itchy, watery eyes and sneezing. It is usually caused by the pollen of specific plants or trees, and its symptoms can range from mild to severe. Hay fever is a common ailment in many parts of the world and is estimated to affect up to 30% of the global population.

Prevalence of Hay Fever in Japan

In Japan, hay fever is particularly prevalent, with approximately 40% of the population experiencing symptoms. The main culprits responsible for the outbreak of hay fever in Japan are cedar and cypress trees, which are widely planted throughout the country.

Postwar Reforestation Program

The prevalence of hay fever in Japan can be traced back to a postwar reforestation program that aimed to help the country’s construction industry by planting trees at a rapid rate. As a result, Japanese forests were left to grow in density, causing an influx of pollen and misery for those affected by hay fever.

Mask-Wearing in Japan

Many people in Japan continue to wear masks outside, despite the recent lifting of government guidelines advising people to wear face coverings to prevent the spread of Covid-19. This is in part due to the prevalence of hay fever, with masks being used as a means of protection against both pollen and Covid-19.

Kishida’s Plan

The Japanese government under Kishida is expected to address the issue of hay fever by logging and replanting forests with trees that shed less pollen. Additionally, the government is also reportedly promoting a type of rice that is said to alleviate hay fever symptoms. The plan aims to provide relief to hay fever sufferers and reduce the impact of hay fever on the productivity of the Japanese workforce.

Recent Sales Surge

This year’s pollen season has sparked a surge in sales of antihistamine and other products, with some shops reporting a doubling in sales compared to the first three months of 2022. The sales of treatments such as anti-inflammatory nasal sprays and anti-allergy eyedrops spiked because of this issue.

Environment Ministry Warning

The environment ministry recently warned that Tokyo and eleven other prefectures would witness their highest cedar pollen counts for 10 years. This has prompted several companies to provide “hay fever allowances” to employees to spend on prescription treatments and clinic visits.

5) Idaho’s Abortion Trafficking Law

On April 5, Idaho Gov. Brad Little signed into law House Bill 232, which creates a new crime called “abortion trafficking.” The law makes it illegal for adults to get abortion drugs for a minor or to “recruit, harbor or transport the pregnant minor” across state lines to terminate a pregnancy without parental consent. The law also prohibits anyone from helping a minor get an abortion by supplying them with drugs or helping them across state lines to terminate a pregnancy without parental consent. The new law takes effect on the 1st of July this year.

New Crime: Abortion Trafficking

The new crime, “abortion trafficking,” carries a potential jail sentence of two to five years. The Idaho attorney general has the power to bring charges against people accused of violating the law, even if the county prosecutor chooses not to pursue criminal charges. The law specifically targets only the portion of a trip that occurs within the state when seeking abortion services from an out-of-state provider. It does not limit an adult woman from obtaining an abortion in another state.

Reaction to the Law

Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates-West condemned the law, calling it “despicable,” and vowed to stop it. Idaho is one of 36 U.S. states that mandate parental involvement regarding a minor’s decision to have an abortion. However, Washington, Oregon, and California have been presented as safe havens for women seeking abortions.

14 April 2023

Science & Technology

1) What is CL-Flam?

IIT Indore, NASA-Caltech, and Sweden’s University of Gothenburg have collaborated to develop a low-cost camera setup called CL-Flam, which can revolutionize scientific imaging. This device has the capability of capturing multispectral images of four chemical species in a flame using a single DSLR camera, unlike the previously complex system that required four cameras. Now, the international team is looking to explore the device’s applications in biomedical imaging, ultrafast imaging, multidimensional, and other advanced studies.

Improvement in Combustion Engines

The primary objective of this research was to study the combustion of fuels and improve the efficiency of engines and burners while reducing carbon emissions. The elements released due to fuel combustions in industrial burners and engines can be studied by analyzing the images captured by the CL-Flam device. Such analyses will help companies make necessary improvements in engines and burners to ensure optimum and environment-friendly use of fuels during combustion.

Methodology

The structured illumination method has been used by researchers to achieve the simultaneous imaging of multiple species. It enables imaging of low-intensity species like CH* using a DSLR camera, which typically requires intensified CCD cameras.

Market Launch

The smart camera will be launched in the market through a start-up, providing a low-cost, effective, and environmentally friendly solution for combustion analysis. The device will be beneficial to industries dealing with fuel combustion and emissions.

2) Water Footprint of Large AI Models

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized the world by providing unprecedented benefits to industries ranging from healthcare to finance. However, a recent study by the University of Colorado Riverside and the University of Texas at Arlington, titled “Making AI Less Thirsty,” sheds light on an aspect of AI that has remained under the radar – its water footprint.

Measuring the “water footprint” of AI models

The study aims to measure the “water footprint” of large AI models like OpenAI’s ChatGPT. It found that the water consumed to run ChatGPT, which is used by billions of users worldwide, is “extremely large.” The study highlights the importance of addressing the water footprint of AI models in order to address the global water crisis.

Withdrawal and consumption

The study distinguishes between “withdrawal” and “consumption.” Withdrawal refers to the physical extraction of water from rivers, lakes, and other sources, while consumption relates to water loss due to evaporation when used in data centers. According to a recent study, a conversation comprising 20-50 questions with the AI chatbot in a single system may consume a “500 ml bottle of water.”

Water usage concentration

According to the researchers, when addressing consumption in this context, “water cannot be recycled,” which is where most of the AI’s water usage is concentrated. The water consumed also refers to clean freshwater used for generating electricity as well as for cooling servers to run AI models. The study claims that while training GPT-3 alone, Microsoft may have consumed a staggering 700,000 liters of water, which is the same amount used to make 370 BMW cars.

Water use in less energy-efficient data centers

The study highlights that if the data had been generated in the tech giants’ less energy-efficient data centers in Asia, water use may have increased threefold. The number is predicted to surge with the newly-launched GPT-4 AI system since it has a larger model size.

3) Vegetable Production System (Veggie)

On April 15, 2023, SpaceX’s commercial resupply services will transport tomatoes grown on the Vegetable Production System (Veggie) aboard the International Space Station (ISS) back to Earth. These tomatoes were grown as part of the Veg-05 experiment, which probed the impact of light quality and fertilizer on fruit production, microbiological safety, and nutritional value. The aim of the Veggie system on the ISS is to develop a ‘pick-and-eat’ fresh vegetable component to food on the space station, in order to bring fresh produce to the astronauts’ diet.

The Veggie System

The Veggie system is a plant growth unit aboard the ISS. Salad plants such as leafy greens and dwarf tomatoes were cultivated in the Veggie chambers, with each crop grown under two different LED lighting setups. They were grown using plant “pillows” – sacks with a wicking surface filled with soilless substrate and fertilizer. The crops were nurtured by the crew for 104 days, who opened wicks to assist seedlings sprouting, provided water, thinned the seedlings, pollinated them, and kept an eye on their health and development.

The Benefits of Fresh Produce in Space

The degradation of vitamins and the quality of packaged food over time is a significant challenge for long-duration missions into deep space. To solve this problem, growing a supplemental food crop is a solution. The goal of this study is to establish horticulture standards to obtain high yields of secure, nutritious dwarf tomato fruit to augment a space diet of pre-packaged food. By providing fresh produce to astronauts on long-duration missions, NASA is working towards enhancing the nutritional value of their diet and, in turn, their overall health and well-being.

4) New detailed map of dark matter

Context

Researchers have created a detailed map of the ‘hidden’ dark matter that makes up 85 percent of the universe and mentioned that it agrees with Einstein’s theory of gravity.

What is dark matter?

• It is a hypothetical form of matter thought to account for approximately 85% of the matter in the universe.
• It forms the skeleton on which galaxies form, evolve, and merge.
• Dark matter is made up of particles that do not have a charge.
• So, these particles are “dark”, namely because they do not emit light, which is an electromagnetic phenomenon, and “matter” because they possess mass like normal matter and interact through gravity.
Evidence for dark matter: It comes from calculations showing that many galaxies would fly apart, that they would not have formed, or that they would not move as they do if they did not contain a large amount of unseen matter.

About the map:

• Published by:
• This research was presented at Future Science with CMB x LSS, a conference being held at the Yukawa Institute for Theoretical Physics, Kyoto University.
• Researchers from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom used a ground-based telescope, Atacama Cosmology Telescope (ACT).
• The “baby picture of the universe” has been projected which consists of cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation or fossil radiation left over after the Big Bang.

Key findings:

• It proved that the Gravitational field generated by these massive objects bends and distorts light that passes through them.
• Unlike normal matter that constitutes all stars and galaxies; dark matter does not absorb, reflect or emit light.
• Dark matter only seems to interact with gravity, making it challenging to detect.
• Being invisible, researchers observe how dark matter interacts with the gravity of massive objects such as galaxy clusters and lumps of dark matter.
• The clumps of dark matter magnify the appearance of objects that lie behind.
• The researchers look for this characteristic magnification in the CMB image to map the dark matter.
• The new findings agree with the standard model of cosmology based on Einstein's theory of gravity.

Einstein's theory of gravity:

• According to the theory, he proved that a mass can prod space plenty. It can warp it, bend it, push it, or pull it.
• Gravity was just a natural outcome of a mass's existence in space.
• According to relativity, anything that can happen inside of a box picking up speed — i.e., accelerating — also happens in the presence of gravity.
• For example, a horizontal laser inside an elevator that’s accelerating upward. As the light travels sideways, the elevator rises, causing the beam to strike a spot on the wall slightly lower than where it started.
• If the elevator accelerates quickly enough, the beam visibly bends toward the floor.
• Einstein showed the same thing happens to a beam inside a stationary elevator within a powerful gravitational field; gravity bends the light.
• Similarly, he expected a beam of starlight should bend when passing through the sun’s gravity.

Theory of Einstein vs. Newton:

• Isaac Newton described gravity as a force, an invisible rubber band that pulls together objects with mass. Newton’s math did a good job of predicting how everything from projectiles to planets moved — but it kept gravity separate from acceleration.
• This link was established by Einstein in his theory.
• Einstein argued that gravity isn’t a force at all.
• He described it as a curvature of time and space caused by mass and energy.

5) NASA launches device to monitor air pollution from space

Context

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket successfully launched from Florida carrying a new NASA device that can track air pollution over North America.

About the technology:

• The Tropospheric Emissions Monitoring of Pollution (TEMPO) instrument will allow scientists to monitor air pollutants and their emission sources from space more comprehensively than ever before, down to the neighborhood level.
• NASA’s TEMPO project manager, the instrument will measure pollution and air quality across greater North America on an hourly basis during the daytime.
• A unique feature of TEMPO, which is about the size of a washing machine and has been described as a chemistry laboratory in space, is that it will be hosted on an Intelsat communications satellite in geostationary orbit.

How it is different?

• TEMPO will be able to measure atmospheric pollution down to a spatial resolution of 4 square miles (10 square kilometers), or neighborhood level.
• Existing pollution-monitoring satellites are in low Earth orbit, which means they can only provide observations once a day at a fixed time.

Significance:

By monitoring the effects of everything from rush-hour traffic to pollution from forest fires and volcanoes, NASA data will help improve air quality across North America and protect our planet.

6) International Aviation Safety Assessment

The aviation safety regulator of the U.S. – the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), has retained the “Category 1” status for India’s aviation safety oversight following a review.

o The FAA conducted the International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) program over a one-year period, which included physical audits and a further review in 2022.
o This assessment determines whether a country’s aviation safety oversight standards comply with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) safety standards.
o The FAA has informed the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) that India meets the international standards for aviation safety oversight of the Chicago Convention and its Annexes and continues to retain FAA IASA Category 1 status which was last assessed in July 2018.
o The countries listed under ‘Category-1’ meet the ICAO standards for safety oversight of civil aviation.

7) Trojan Asteroids

NASA’s Lucy spacecraft first time caught a glimpse of the Jupiter and Trojan asteroids.

o Trojan asteroids are mysterious space rocks that have been gravitationally trapped in Jupiter’s orbit around the Sun for billions of years
o These are thought to be remnants of the primordial material that formed the outer planets.
o They orbit the Sun in two loose groups, with one group leading ahead of Jupiter in its path, and the other trailing behind.
o They are clustered around the two Lagrange points equidistant from the Sun and Jupiter, the Trojans are stabilized by the Sun and its largest planet in a gravitational balancing act.
o Lucy Mission was launched by NASA from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida in 2021.
o It is a 12-year mission that will take close observations of nine of Jupiter’s Trojans and two main belt asteroids along with that.
o It is the first spacecraft sent to study the Trojan asteroids, which orbit the Sun in the same path that the planet Jupiter takes.
o It has recently captured the images of Eurybates, Polymele, Leucus, and Leucus asteroids.

15 April 2023

Indian Polity

1) Panel to review PPP mode of schools

Context

Recently, the Government of Gujarat has announced for a 10-member panel to resolve ‘differences’ over the proposed PPP mode of schools.

About

• Aim: The State government has formed the panel to resolve the concerns of various school management and teachers’ bodies against the four new schemes of schools announced by the education department on public-private partnership (PPP) mode.
• The move came after a representation of around 40 members of various state-level associations of schools, teachers, and principals met to voice their concerns about the proposal for the inclusion of private player collaboration.

The PPP proposal:

• The education department of the State has proposed four different types of schools from Class 6 onwards in the upcoming academic session of 2023-24:
• Gyan Setu Day Schools,
• Gyan Setu Residential School,
• Gyan Shakti Residential Schools and
• Raksha Shakti Residential Schools
• Land grants:
• Land may be procured by the private entity on its own. However, the State Government will be requested to assist the private entity in securing the required land.
• The state governments will also be requested by the Central Government to make available required land on a lease basis to private entities wherever possible subject to the condition that the lease period should be for a minimum period of 25 years.
• Affiliation to the Board:
• The schools will be affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).
• In exceptional circumstances, affiliation by other national Boards may also be considered.
• Role of State Government:
• The State Government would facilitate the availability of land for the school.
• It may also consider providing financial support beyond the initial 10-year period which is committed by the Central Government.
• It would also be requested to provide uniforms, textbooks, and mid-day meals as applicable in government schools.
• The State Government may also consider providing transport subsidies or free transport for students to come from different parts of the blocks to the school and back.

Need for such a move:

• These schools will provide coaching for competitive entrance exams such as JEE, NEET, and NDA.
• They will be in multiple mediums and will use the latest education techniques and technology.

Estimated Benefits:

Some of the reasons for adopting the PPP approach for setting up model schools are as follows:
• Possibility of setting up a much larger number of schools than what the public outlay can support, through contribution to capital expenditure from private partners;
• Functional efficiency of private entities enabling early delivery of quality education;
• Risk of project completion and delivery of agreed outputs will be borne by the private entity;
• Public funds would be expended only upon delivery of agreed outcomes; and
• Private sector efficiency in the context of a long-term agreement is expected to optimize on life-cycle costs and improve on the quality of education, including the school infrastructure.

2) Mission to map rural India’s cultural assets

Context

In a bid to harness the unique cultural heritage of rural India, the government has identified and documented distinctive features of more than one lakh villages across the country under the ‘Mera Gaon meri Dharovar’ programme.

About the development:

• In this initiative of cultural asset mapping, villages have been broadly divided into seven-eight categories based on;
• Whether they are important ecologically, developmentally and scholastically,
• If they produce a famous textile or product, and
• If they are connected to some historical or mythological events such as the Independence struggle or epics like the Mahabharata.
• For example:
• The ecological category includes the Bishnoi village near Jodhpur in Rajasthan, which is a case study for living in harmony with nature, and Uttarakhand’s Raini village, which is famous for the Chipko movement.
• There are also villages that have developmental importance like Modhera in Gujarat, which is the first solar-powered village in India.
The NMCM aims to develop a comprehensive database of art forms, artists, and other resources across the country.
Though launched by the Culture Ministry in 2017, the programme got off to a slow start and was handed over to the Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts (IGNCA) in 2021.
• The villages under the historical category include Kandel in Madhya Pradesh, the site of the famous ‘Jal Satyagraha’, and the villages of Hanol in Uttarakhand and Vidurashwathar of Karnataka, which is linked to the Mahabharata.
• The entire exercise has been carried out by the National Mission for Cultural Mapping (NMCM).

Mera Gaon meri Dharovar programme:

• Launched by: Our PM launched on July 25, 2015, in Patna.
• Implemented by:
• The Ministry of Culture has partnered with the Common Services Centres (CSC), under the Ministry of Electronics & IT (MEITY).
• Aim: The survey seeks to document the cultural identity at the village level by involving citizens to share what makes their village, block, or district unique.
• Data collection:
• Under the survey, a CSC Village Level Entrepreneur called VLEs will conduct meetings with citizens at the villages and then upload interesting facts about their village, its places of interest, customs, and traditions, famous personalities, festivals and beliefs, art, and culture, etc., on to the application.
• Village level Cultural asset mapping shall be undertaken through Field Surveys involving Respondents.
• CSC Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLE) shall be deployed for the same across all villages in the country.

Other related government schemes:

• Kala Sanskriti Vikas Yojana,
• Scheme for Safeguarding the Intangible Cultural Heritage, and
• Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.

3) Public Interest Immunity Claims Proceeding

The Supreme Court of India ruled on the use of sealed cover proceedings in courts and the telecast ban of a Malayalam channel.
o The Court criticized the government for silencing voices in the media and reducing constitutional rights and procedural guarantees of a fair hearing.
o The Court also devised an alternative procedure for Public Interest Immunity claims proceedings to replace the use of sealed covers.
o The Supreme Court evolved the “less restrictive” Public Interest Immunity (PII) claims proceedings as an “alternative” to the sealed cover proceedings while dealing with state requests for confidentiality.
o The PII proceedings would be a “closed sitting,” but a reasoned order allowing or dismissing the PII claim of the state should be pronounced in open court.
o The court will appoint an amicus curiae, which means “friend of the court”, to act as a bridge between the parties involved in public interest immunity claims.
o The court-appointed amicus will be given access to the materials sought to be withheld by the state and allowed to interact with the applicant and their lawyer before the proceedings to ascertain their case.
o The amicus curiae will not interact with the applicant or their counsel after the public interest immunity proceeding has begun and the counsel has viewed the document sought to be withheld.
o The amicus “shall to the best of their ability represent the interests of the applicant” and would be bound by oath to not disclose or discuss the material with any other person.

4) National Party Status to Aam Aadmi Party

The Election Commission grants national party status to Aam Aadmi Party.
o The Election Commission has recognized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) as a national party and withdrew the national party status of the All India Trinamool Congress, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), and the Communist Party of India (CPI).
o The EC has also removed state party status granted to Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) in Uttar Pradesh, Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS) in Andhra Pradesh, People’s Democratic Alliance in Manipur, Pattali Makkal Katchi in Puducherry, Revolutionary Socialist Party in West Bengal and Mizoram People’s Conference in Mizoram.
o Now the country has Six national parties- Bahujan Samaj Party, Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP), National People’s Party (NPP), Communist Party of India (Marxist), Congress, and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

National Party Status:

o According to the Election Commission, any of these three conditions need to be met if a party is to be called a “national party”.
o A party’s candidates in a minimum of four states must get at least 6 percent of the total votes polled in each of those states in the last national election. In addition to this, it should have won four seats in the Lok Sabha.
o A party should win a minimum of 2 percent of the total seats in the Lok Sabha. The party’s candidates should have been elected from not less than three states.
o A party is recognized as a “state party” in at least four states.

5) Indian Space Policy, 2023

Context

The government has approved the Indian Space Policy 2023 which seeks to institutionalize private-sector participation in the space sector.

About the Policy:

• The Space Policy would focus on increasing the participation of private players.
• ISRO focusing on research and development of advanced space technologies.
• It also delineated the roles and responsibilities of ISRO, space sector PSU NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), and the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe).
The INSPACe, created recently, will be the interface between Indian Space Research Organisation and non-governmental entities.

Key features:

• The policy will allow the private sector to take part in end-to-end space activities that include building satellites, rockets, and launch vehicles, data collection, and dissemination.
• Now, the strategic activities related to the space sector will be carried out by NSIL, under the Department of Space, which will work in a demand-driven mode.
• The policy also spells out the framework for the private sector to use ISRO facilities for a small charge and encourages them to invest in creating new infrastructure for the sector.

India’s Space Sector:

• The Indian Space Sector has been globally recognized for building cost-effective satellites, and now India is even taking foreign satellites into space.
• ISRO is the 6th largest space agency in the world and holds an exceptional success rate.
• With over 400 private space companies, India ranks fifth globally in no. of space companies.

Recent Developments in India’s Space Sector:

• Defence Space Agency: India has recently set up its Defence Space Agency (DSA) supported by the Defence Space Research Organisation (DSRO) which has the mandate to create weapons to “degrade, disrupt, destroy or deceive an adversary’s space capability".
• Also, the Indian Prime Minister launched the Defence Space Mission at the Defence Expo 2022, Gandhinagar.
• Expanding Satellite Manufacturing Capabilities: India’s satellite-manufacturing opportunity will reach USD 3.2 billion by the year 2025 (in 2020 it was USD 2.1 billion)
• SAMVAD Program: To encourage and nurture space research among young minds, ISRO launched its Student Outreach Program called SAMVAD at its Bengaluru facility.

17 April 2023

Ecology & Environment

1) Banking on Climate Chaos Report

On April 12, 2023, environmental organizations released the “Banking on Climate Chaos” report, which details the world’s largest banks’ spending on fossil fuel project financing since the Paris Agreement. The report reveals some shocking figures and highlights the urgent need to shift towards sustainable financing.

Highlights of the Report

• World’s 60 largest banks have spent a staggering $5.5 trillion or Rs 4,49,36,265 crore on financing fossil fuel projects since the Paris Agreement was signed in 2016. This figure alone demonstrates the scale of the issue at hand and highlights the need for swift action.
• United States was the top financier of fossil fuels, providing 28% of total financing in the fossil fuel sector in 2022.
• Ten banks that had the highest spending on fossil fuels from 2016-2022 include JPMorgan Chase & Co, Citibank NA, Wells Fargo & Company, Bank of America Corporation, and others.
• As much as $673 billion was spent on fossil fuel financing in just 2022, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
• BNP Paribas, which lent the highest amount in Europe, financed $20.8 billion worth of fossil fuel entities in 2022.
• Canada and Japan were the top financiers for fossil fuels from 2020-2022, revealing the need for these countries to take bold action to shift towards renewable energy sources.
• G7 countries provided $73 billion in public finance for fossil fuels from 2020-2022, which calls into question their commitment to the Paris Agreement.
• Danske Bank decided in 2023 to end fossil fuel refinancing of old oil and gas exploration and production projects and new long-term financing for the same, especially for companies that lack a credible transition plan based on the Paris Agreement.

2) River Rejuvenation

Why in News?

The 7.2 Km Kuttamperoor River in Alappuzha, Kerala has been rejuvenated after over a 6-year effort through public participation and government intervention.
• It was dead for more than a decade due to waste dumping, encroachments, and other human activities.
• It has been rejuvenated by deepening the channel, removing encroachments, and constructing bunds on both sides. The revival of the Kuttamperoor River is expected to help control floods in the region.

What is River Rejuvenation and its Impact?

About:

o River rejuvenation is the process of reviving or restoring the natural flow and health of a river that has been damaged due to human activities such as waste dumping, encroachment, and pollution. The process involves removing pollutants, cleaning up riverbeds, and restoring the natural environment around the river.

Impacts:

o It can help to restore the natural habitats of plants and animals, promote biodiversity, and provide cleaner water for drinking and irrigation.
o Reviving rivers can also boost tourism in the region and improve the livelihoods of people who depend on the river for their livelihoods.
o Furthermore, river rejuvenation can help to control floods and reduce the damage caused by them. A healthy river can absorb excess water during heavy rains and prevent flooding in downstream areas. This can save lives and property and reduce the economic impact of floods.

Initiatives:

o In 2022, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change released Rs. 19,000–crore in Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) on the rejuvenation of 13 major rivers through forestry interventions.
• These 13 rivers are Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, Sutlej, Yamuna, Brahmaputra, Narmada, Godavari, Mahanadi, Krishna, Cauvery, and Luni.

What are the Other Examples of the River Rejuvenation Project?

• Rhine River: The Rhine River in Europe was once highly polluted but has since undergone a massive clean-up effort that has transformed it into a vibrant and thriving ecosystem.
• Singapore River Clean-up: The Singapore River Clean-up is another successful example of a river rejuvenation project. The project involved cleaning up the highly polluted river and transforming it into a major tourist attraction and a hub of cultural and social activities.
• Thames River Restoration: The Thames River Restoration project in London, UK, has led to the revival of the river's ecology and the creation of new habitats for wildlife.
• Ganga Action Plan: In India, the Ganga Action Plan is an ongoing project aimed at cleaning up and rejuvenating the highly polluted Ganga River. The project involves a range of interventions, including the construction of sewage treatment plants, the creation of green belts along the riverbanks, and the promotion of eco-friendly activities.

3) Garra Laishrami: New Species

Researchers from the Central University of Odisha (CUO) and the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have recently found rare freshwater fish in the Koraput district.

o Garra Laishrami is a new cyprinid fish species of the Garra genus found in the Kolab River.
o These are characterized by the presence of a gular disc developed from tissues of the gular region that exhibit variation in the size, shape, and arrangement of the snout tubercles.
o It is usually found under rocks, stones, and boulders of torrential streams and rivers.
o Geographical distribution: Borneo, southern China, and southern Asia through Middle East Asia, Arabian Peninsula, and East Africa to West Africa.

4) Siren sphagnicola: Eel Like Aquatic Species

Siren sphagnicola is a recently discovered species of elongate, eel-like aquatic salamanders that inhabit seepage areas in the eastern Gulf Coastal Plain of the United States.

o Sirens are elongate, eel-like aquatic salamanders belonging to the family Sirenidae.
o This family belongs to the order Caudata (salamanders) and currently comprises two genera, Siren and Pseudobranchus.
o All living sirens possess external gills with comb-like filaments, lidless eyes, and laterally compressed tails with fin blades.
o Additionally, they lack pelvic girdles and associated hindlimbs, a trait unique within salamanders.
o Despite the abundance of Siren in some aquatic habitats, relatively little research has been conducted on interspecific differences in the natural history and phylogeography of this genus.

5) Idu Mishmis And Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary: Report

National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) announced that the Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh would soon be notified as a tiger reserve.
o This move has caused unrest among the Idu Mishmi tribe who feel that a tiger reserve would “hinder their access” to the forest.
o Idu Mishmi is a sub-tribe of the Mishmi group in Arunachal Pradesh and neighboring Tibet, primarily living in the Mishmi Hills bordering Tibet.
o Their ancestral homelands are spread over the districts of Dibang Valley and Lower Dibang Valley as well as parts of Upper Siang and Lohit.
o The Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh in India.
o The sanctuary is named after the Dibang River, which flows through it.
o It is considered a biodiversity hotspot and is part of the Eastern Himalayas Endemic Bird Area.
o The sanctuary has a diverse range of flora, including tropical evergreen forests, subtropical broadleaf forests, alpine meadows, and subalpine coniferous forests.
o Some of the important tree species found here include oak, rhododendron, bamboo, and fir.
o The Sanctuary is home to several rare and endangered species of animals, including the Mishmi takin, musk deer, goral, clouded leopard, snow leopard, and tiger.
o It is also home to several bird species such as the Satyr tragopan, Blyth’s tragopan, and Temminck’s tragopan.
o The sanctuary is home to several indigenous communities, such as Idu Mishmi.
o The Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary was notified in 1998 to protect its rich biodiversity.

18 April 2023

Government Initiatives & Schemes

1) Vibrant Villages Programme

On April 7 this year, Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled the Vibrant Village program at Kibithu, a remote village located at an altitude of 9,000 feet above sea level, near the India-China border in Arunachal Pradesh. This program aims to transform rural areas into self-sufficient and prosperous communities.

Kibithu Village: The Gateway to the Land of the Rising Sun

Kibithu is the easternmost village of India and is considered the gateway to the Land of the Rising Sun, Arunachal Pradesh. Despite its strategic location, the village lacks basic amenities such as electricity, healthcare facilities, and proper roads. These factors make it difficult for the residents to access necessary services.

The Vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat: Self-Reliant India

The Vibrant Village program aligns with the government’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, which aims to make India self-reliant and self-sufficient. The program will help enhance the rural population’s quality of life and promote the overall economic growth and development of these regions. The government has allocated funds for the successful implementation of this initiative in a phased manner.

Impact of the Vibrant Village Program

The program aims to revolutionize rural India by providing access to basic amenities and promoting economic growth and development. The construction of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure will enhance connectivity, making it easier for people to access essential services. The provision of electricity and access to clean drinking water will improve the quality of life of people living in rural areas. Skill development programs will create employment opportunities for local residents, promoting economic growth and development.

2) Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS)

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare recently hiked consultation charges and room rents under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS).

About Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS):

• It gives healthcare facilities to registered employees and pensioners of the Central Government of India.
• The enrolled members are provided reimbursement and cashless facilities under this scheme.
• Some of the facilities offered under CGHS are OPD treatment and medication costs, indoor treatment and/or investigations at government or CGHS-impanelled hospitals, maternity and child health services and family welfare, medical consultation, and dispensing medicines for AYUSH.
• It covers health care under different systems of medicine, such as Allopathy, Homeopathy, Ayurveda, and Unani.
• CGHS beneficiaries can undergo treatment at any impaneled private hospital of their choice.

3) A-HELP Program

Recently, the ‘A-HELP’ (Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of Livestock Production) programme was launched in the State of Uttarakhand.

About A HELP Program:

• It is an initiative of the Union Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, and the Ministry of Rural Development.
• ‘A-HELP’ are community-based women activists, who assist veterinarians in local departmental activities help livestock farmers to take loans for entrepreneurship development, fill out applications, mark the ear tagging of animals and register them in the INAF portal and help with insurance, etc.
• They assist in implementing various schemes and in providing information to the farmers at the grassroots level.
• They will give vital contributions to preventing various infectious diseases of animals, artificial insemination under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM), tagging animals, and animal insurance.

Key Facts about the Rashtriya Gokul Mission

• It is being implemented for the development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds since December 2014.
• It is continued under the umbrella scheme Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojana from 2021 to 2026.
• Objectives
o To enhance the productivity of bovines and increase milk production in a sustainable manner using advanced technologies.
o To propagate the use of high genetic merit bulls for breeding purposes.
o To enhance Artificial insemination coverage through strengthening the breeding network and delivery of Artificial insemination services at farmers' doorstep.
o To promote indigenous cattle & buffalo rearing and conservation in a scientific and holistic manner.

4) National Credit Framework

The Central Government has recently notified the National Credit Framework (NCrF) to integrate learning at multiple axes.

About National Credit Framework:

• It is an umbrella framework for skilling, re-skilling, up-skilling, accreditation & evaluation encompassing our people in educational & skilling institutions and the workforce.
• The framework was developed by a high-level committee, including members from the UGC, AICTE, National Council for Vocational Education and Training, NCERT, CBSE, and other educational departments.

How will Credit Framework work?

• Every academic assessment right from elementary school level to higher education as well as for vocational training and skill development courses acquired can be credited and accumulated in the Academic Bank of Credit (ABC).
• As per the framework, even experiential learning including relevant experiences and proficiency/ professional levels and online, digital and blended learning will be credited.
• Nothing is left unmeasured, as outside of classroom learning, sports, and games, yoga, physical activities, performing arts, handicrafts, bag fewer days will also be part of it.
• The framework has divided the learning ecosystem into eight levels, assigning credits based on learning hours and assessments from Class 5 all the way up to the Ph.D. level.
• Till Class 12, each subject is assigned 240 hours for self-study at the school level.
• Vocational education and skill training from levels 1 to 8 are also part of the framework.
• As per this system the final certificate/ degree will be awarded post the accumulation of the required number of types of courses and the associated credits.
• At any point in time, the overall credit points accumulated by a student shall be calculated as ‘total credit points earned’ multiplied by the ‘weightage assigned to the relevant experience acquired by the student’.
• Significance:
o It empowers the students with flexibility in the choice of courses and imaginative and flexible curricular structures with the creative combination of disciplines.

5) Animal Pandemic Preparedness Initiative

The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying has launched an Animal Pandemic Preparedness Initiative (APPI) under One Health Approach to address the threat of diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.
o One Health approach recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
o The Ministry has also launched Animal Health System Support for One Health (AHSSOH) project, funded by the World Bank.
o Animal Pandemic Preparedness Initiative (APPI) is in line with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global One Health strategy, which emphasizes the importance of multisectoral collaboration in addressing the threat of zoonotic diseases.
o It will help to improve veterinary services and infrastructure, disease surveillance capabilities, early detection and response, build the capacity of animal health professionals, and awareness among farmers through community outreach.
o The initiative aims to enhance India’s preparedness and response capabilities to prevent and control zoonotic diseases, thereby safeguarding the health of both animals and humans.

6) Jivhala Scheme: Maharashtra Govt

Jivhala scheme offers loans to Yerwada jail inmates in Maharashtra.
o Jivhala scheme is a loan scheme named Jivhala launched by the Maharashtra Department of Prisons.
o It is for the inmates who are serving sentences in various jails across Maharashtra.
o The scheme, was implemented by the Department of Prisons and Maharashtra State Cooperative Bank.
o It has been started in Pune’s Yerawada Central Jail.
o The credit scheme, named Jivhala, means affection in Marathi.
o It is primarily for inmates who are undergoing a prison sentence of more than three years.
o In the initial phase of this scheme, a Rs 50,000 loan will be given.
o The interest rate that will be applicable is 7%.
o Out of the interest that will be earned by the bank, 1 percent will be contributed by the bank to the prisoners’ welfare fund.
o For issuing this loan no guarantor or mortgage is required

19 April 2023

Geography

1) Polar Crown Prominences

An Argentina-based astronomer captured a structure that looked like a wall of plasma on the surface of the sun.
o Polar crown prominences (PCP) are similar to normal solar prominences, which are loops of plasma, or ionized gas, that is ejected from the solar surface by magnetic fields.
o They occur near the sun’s magnetic poles at latitudes between 60 and 70 degrees North and South,
o Due to the much stronger magnetic fields near the poles they collapse back towards the sun.
o This collapse back to the sun has earned them the nickname “plasma waterfalls.”
o Solar prominence is a large, bright feature extending outward from the Sun’s surface.
o These are anchored to the Sun’s surface in the photosphere, and extend outwards into the Sun’s hot outer atmosphere, called the corona.
o It forms over timescales of about a day, and stable prominences may persist in the corona for several months, looping hundreds of thousands of miles into space.
o The red-glowing looped material is plasma, a hot gas comprised of electrically charged hydrogen and helium.

2) Bishnoi Community: Protest

People from the Bishnoi community are protesting against the “widespread” felling of Khejri trees for setting up solar power plants in Rajasthan.
o Bishnoi community belongs to a Hindu religious sect found in the Western Thar Desert and some northern states of India.
o They trace their origins to the teachings of Guru Jambhesvara who was born to a Panwar Rajput family in 1451 AD at Peepasar village of Nagore district in Western Rajasthan.
o They strictly forbid the harming of trees and animals.
o They believe in protecting the environment and can die doing it so.
o The person of this community are inspired and gets inspiration from Amrita Devi, a Bishnoi woman who was killed in 1730 while trying to protect a grove of khejri trees.
o Khejri tree is considered a sacred tree in Rajasthan.
o It is also called jaunt or janti in areas like Alwar, Sikar, and Jhunjhunu,
o It is a nitrogen-fixing tree that enhances the fertility of the soil.
o The fruit is used to make the very popular local dish ‘Sangri’

3) Zojila tunnel and connectivity to Ladakh

Context

Recently, the Union Road Transport and Highways Minister inspected the under-construction Zojila tunnel, which will establish all-weather connectivity between the Union Territories of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir.
• It claims to be Asia’s longest tunnel and will prove significant for the region’s development.

About

• Currently, the commute between Srinagar and Leh, takes over 10 hours on a good day and passes through extremely inhospitable terrain.
• The Zojila Pass is a high mountain pass through which one has to travel in order to make the journey.
• During harsh winters, this route is closed due to fears of avalanches, landslides, and slippery roads, with areas beyond the pass cut off from the rest of the country for at least five months.
• With the Zojila pass shut, air connectivity is the only option, and airfares can skyrocket to over Rs.40, 000 during peak winter months.

Zojila Tunnel Construction:

• The Zojila tunnel will be India’s longest road tunnel and is expected to be Asia’s longest bi-directional tunnel, boasting a length of 14.15 km.
• A connecting tunnel from Z-Morh on NH1 to the Zojila tunnel will be built in the Zojila Ghats between Sonmarg and Kargil.
• This involves the development and expansion of the 18.475-km highway between Z-Morh to Zojila.
• A 3-km stretch will be expanded; the rest will be newly developed.
• The highway will have two twin-tube tunnels, five bridges, and two snow galleries.
• The work on the entire 33-km span is spread between two union territories – Jammu and Kashmir; and Ladakh.
• The tunnel is being built at a cost of more than 4, 600 crores. It is expected to be completed by December 2023.

The Zojila Pass:

• Zojila Pass connects Srinagar and Leh.
• Located in the Kargil district of Ladakh, it connects the Union Territories of Ladakh and Kashmir.
• Also known as the “Mountain Pass of Blizzards”, it runs at an altitude of 3,528 meters.
• It lies in the Zaskar range of the Greater Himalayas.
• The pass connects the Kashmir Valley to its west with the Dras and Suru Valleys to its northeast and the Indus Valley further east.

Significance:

• The upcoming Zojila tunnel will provide perennial connectivity between Ladakh and the rest of the country.
• The pass is critical for the Indian Armed Forces' operational preparedness in the region especially amid China’s border disputes.

4) Galapagos Islands

Recently, a scientific expedition has discovered a previously unknown coral reef with abundant marine life off Ecuador's Galapagos Islands.

About Galapagos Island:

• Location: It is situated in the Pacific Ocean some 1,000 km from the Ecuadorian coast.
• It is distributed on either side of the Equator with an underwater wildlife spectacle with abundant life.
• Geology of the Island:
o It begins at the sea floor and emerges above sea level where biological processes continue.
o Three major tectonic plates Nazca, Cocos, and Pacific meet at the basis of the ocean, which is of significant geological interest.
o In comparison with most oceanic archipelagos, the Galapagos are very young with the largest and youngest islands, Isabela and Fernandina, with less than one million years of existence, and the oldest islands, Española and San Cristóbal, somewhere between three to five million years.
• It is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978.
• Mount Azul at 5,541 feet is the highest point of the Galapagos Islands.

Key Facts about Coral Reefs

• Corals are marine invertebrates or animals not possessing a spine.
• Each coral is called a polyp and thousands of such polyps live together to form a colony, which grows when polyps multiply to make copies of themselves.
• Corals share a symbiotic relationship with single-celled algae called zooxanthellae.
• The algae provide the coral with food and nutrients, which they make through photosynthesis, using the sun’s light.
• In turn, the corals give the algae a home and key nutrients. The zooxanthellae also give corals their bright color.

5) Kudremukh Range

Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Limited (KIOCL) recently sought post-facto approval for submerging 700 acres of forest in the Kudremukh Range at the heart of Western Ghats about 20 years ago.

About Kudremukh Range:

• Location: It is located in the Western Ghats in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka.
• These broad hills overlook the Arabian Sea and are connected by deep valleys and sharp cliffs.
• It is also known as the Horse Face Range (the literal meaning of Kudremukh in Kannada is horse-faced).
• It got its name from its main peak, Kudremukh Peak (1892 meters), which has a marked similarity to the face of a horse.
• Kudremukh National Park, the second largest wildlife protected area in the Western Ghats, is located in these ranges.
• It is believed that Kudremukh served as a landmark for sailors on the western coast for over 2000 years.

Key Facts about Kudremukh National Park:

• Location: It is spread across 600.57 sq km. in the Chikkamagaluru and Dakshina Kannada districts of Karnataka.
• Vegetation: Dense forest cover primarily consists of semi-evergreen and evergreen trees.
• Flora:
1. Rare flora on the edge of extinction, such as the Nilambur Cobra Lily and the South Indian Jewel Orchid, can be found here.
2. In addition, there are many trees, including eucalyptus, acacia, silk oaks, casuarinas, and others.
• Fauna:
1. It houses a variety of wildlife such as the leopard, Malabar giant squirrel, sloth bear, gaur, sambar, jackal, mongoose, tiger, wild dog, common langur, etc.
2. It is home to a variety of birds, such as the Malabar trogon, the Malabar whistling thrush, and the imperial pigeon.

About Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Limited (KIOCL):

• KIOCL Limited (Formerly known as Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Limited) is a flagship Company under the Ministry of Steel, Govt. of India
• It was formed on 2 April 1976 for the mining and beneficiation of low-grade iron ore at Kudremukh, Karnataka, India.
• It has over four decades of experience in operating Iron Ore Mining, Beneficiation, and Iron–Oxide Pelletisation in the Country.

6) Sea of Japan

Russia's Pacific Fleet recently conducted naval defense drills in the Sea of Japan.

About the Sea of Japan:

• Sea of Japan (East Sea) is a marginal sea of the western Pacific Ocean.
• It is located in Eastern Asia that is bounded by Japan and Sakhalin Island to the east and by Russia and Korea on the Asian mainland to the west.
• Its area is 377,600 square miles (978,000 square km).
• The sea itself lies in a deep basin, separated from the East China Sea to the south by the Tsushima and Korea straits and from the Sea of Okhotsk to the north by the La Perouse (or Sōya) and Tatar straits.
• To the east it is also connected with the Inland Sea of Japan by the Kanmon Strait and to the Pacific by the Tsugaru Strait.
• It influences the climate of Japan because of its relatively warm waters.
• There are no large islands in the Sea of Japan. Except for the South Korean island of Ulleungdo, all the other small islands are situated near the eastern coast of the sea.
• Major Ports:
o Russia: Vladivostok, Sovetskaya Gavan, Nakhodka, Alexandrovsk-Sakhalinsky, and Kholmsk.
o North Korea: Hamhung, Chongjin, and Wonsan.
o Japan: Niigata, Tsuruta and Maizuru.

20 April 2023

Defence & Security

1) Authority Holding Sealed Particulars

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently approved a proposal for industry-friendly reforms related to the Authority Holding Sealed Particulars (AHSP).

What is AHSP?

The AHSP is responsible for generating, maintaining, updating, or declaring obsolete the entire history and technical information of defense products. So far, the Directorate General of Quality Assurance (DGQA) was the AHSP for the majority of the defense items that were designed and developed by the various defense public sector undertakings and private industries.

Why are reforms necessary?

The existing procedures related to the AHSP have bottlenecks. Liberalization of the AHSP procedures to make them more industry-friendly will ensure timely improvements in defense products and technologies as per the changing times. It will allow defense companies to own and account for their final designs and specifications as AHSP. This will enable them to develop products, systems, sub-systems, and components using their own indigenous capabilities (excluding critical stores) more quickly and efficiently.

Simplified mechanism for decision-making

In the event of any change in the sealed particulars, a simplified mechanism representing all stakeholders concerned, including the industry, will make a decision. The DGQA will notify the detailed procedure within two months.

Examination and rationalization of AHSPs by DGQA

The DGQA has been directed to probe all AHSPs and rationalize the entire list within two months. The ministry has advised the DGQA to transfer the AHSP to the industry at the earliest. This move is another significant step taken by the Indian government to encourage ease of doing business.

Aim of the reforms

The government’s aim behind these reforms is to enable timely improvements in products and technologies based on the changing situations. With these industry-friendly reforms, Indian defense companies will be able to make the necessary changes and improvements to their products, which will help boost their overall competitiveness. The reforms will create a conducive environment for the industry to innovate and make significant contributions to the defense sector, leading to the growth of the Indian defense industry.

2) Army Commanders’ Conference – Update (April 2023)

The Indian Army conducts the Army Commanders’ Conference (ACC) biannually to discuss critical matters related to security and other related aspects. The first edition of the ACC for the year 2023 is being organized from April 17 to 21. The conference will be conducted in a hybrid format, taking advantage of available technology to ensure secure communication. Army Commanders and other senior functionaries attended the conference virtually on the first day. It is followed by physical meetings in Delhi to balance detailed deliberations on matters.

Agenda and Updates

The first day of the conference included discussions on agenda points sponsored by various Command Headquarters. This will be followed by an update from Commander-in-Chief Andaman and Nicobar Command and sessions by Principal Staff Officers of the Army Headquarters. The conference will also review the progress made on the activities charted out as part of the ‘Year of Transformation-2023.’ Additionally, advancements in the Agnipath scheme, digitization and automation initiatives, Combat Engineers' tasks, work aspects, and budget management will also be discussed.

Security and Operational Preparedness

Apart from the review of the Army’s progress, the apex leadership of the Army will brainstorm on the current and emerging security scenarios. The operational preparedness of the force will also be reviewed during the conference.

Equipment Display and Talks

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is expected to address the biennial conference on 19th April. During his speech, he will also review an equipment display focusing on niche technology, innovation, solutions for surveillance, Artificial Intelligence, training, robotics, virtual reality, and operational logistics. The conference will also feature a talk on the future contours of India-China relations by Vijay Gokhale, former Foreign Secretary. Vijay Gokhale is a renowned diplomat and has a deep understanding of India’s foreign policy.

3) Naval Defence Drills In The Sea Of Japan

Russia’s Pacific Fleet recently conducted naval defense drills in the Sea of Japan.

o Sea of Japan is a marginal sea of the western Pacific Ocean.
o It is located in Eastern Asia that is bounded by Japan and Sakhalin Island to the east and by Russia and Korea on the Asian mainland to the west.
o Its area is 377,600 square miles (978,000 square km).
o The sea itself lies in a deep basin, separated from the East China Sea to the south by the Tsushima and Korea straits and from the Sea of Okhotsk to the north by the La Perouse (or Sōya) and Tatar straits.
o To the east it is also connected with the Inland Sea of Japan by the Kanmon Strait and to the Pacific by the Tsugaru Strait.
o It influences the climate of Japan because of its relatively warm waters.
o There are no large islands in the Sea of Japan. Except for the South Korean island of Ulleungdo, all the other small islands are situated near the eastern coast of the sea.

4) Pralay Missile: India To Buy 250 More Missile

India is going to buy 250 more Pralay ballistic missiles for the services to strengthen them on the northern borders, further boosting the firepower of the defense forces.
o Pralay missile is a quasi-ballistic surface-to-surface missile.
o It can hit targets 150-500 km away.
o The missile can carry 350-700 kg of high-grade explosives.
o It is developed by the Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO)
o It is powered by a solid propellant rocket motor and other new technologies.
o The missile guidance system includes state-of-the-art navigation and integrated avionics.
o It can change its path after covering a certain range in mid-air.
o Ballistic Missiles are launched directly into the upper layers of the earth’s atmosphere.
o They travel outside the atmosphere, where the warhead detaches from the missile and falls towards a predetermined target.

5) ITBP Battalions in Arunachal Pradesh

In a recent development, the Indian government has announced that it will station six out of the seven Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) battalions in Arunachal Pradesh, the northeastern border state of India, to counter China’s maneuvers. The decision was made in February when the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved a proposal to hire 9,400 personnel for the ITBP. The move comes after the 2020 standoff between Indian and Chinese forces, which led to an increase in their military presence along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Earmarking ITBP Battalions for Arunachal Pradesh

The decision to station six out of the seven ITBP battalions in Arunachal Pradesh is a major push by the Indian government to counter Chinese presence in the region. The move is expected to augment India’s military presence along the LAC and ensure that any attempt by China to indulge in frequent transgressions is thwarted. The new battalion and sector headquarters are expected to be put in place by 2025-26.

Border with China and Other Countries

India shares a 3,488-km border with China, and the middle sector lies between Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh on the Indian side and the Tibet autonomous region on the Chinese side. The eastern sector lies between Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and the Tibet autonomous region on the Chinese side. Apart from China, Arunachal Pradesh shares borders with Myanmar and Bhutan. The total length of Arunachal Pradesh’s international border is 1,863 kilometers.

Recent Tensions with China

In December 2020, Indian and Chinese soldiers clashed in the Yangtze near Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, where troops from both sides exchanged blows after hundreds of Chinese soldiers transgressed into India’s side of the boundary. According to India, China is in illegal occupation of 38,000 sq km in Ladakh and claims 90,000 sq km in Arunachal Pradesh. The undemarcated LAC has been a constant source of tension between the two countries.

Vibrant Village Programme

Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently visited Arunachal Pradesh to launch the Vibrant Village Programme. Under this scheme, 2,967 villages in 46 blocks of 19 districts abutting the northern border in Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Ladakh have been identified for comprehensive development. As many as 662 villages have been identified for priority coverage in the first phase/ These include 455 villages in Arunachal Pradesh.

21 April 2023

Indian Economy

1) National Technical Research Organisation

The Central Government recently appointed the former Special Protection Group (SPG) chief as the Chairman of the National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO).
o National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO) is a technical intelligence Agency under the National Security Advisor in the Prime Minister’s Office, India.
o It was formed in 2004 to strengthen the country’s national security apparatus.
o It is under the direct control of the Prime Minister’s Office and operates as an autonomous organization.
o Objective is to gather technical intelligence, which involves intercepting and analyzing communications signals, imagery intelligence, and cyber intelligence.
o It also provides technical assistance to other intelligence agencies in the country, including the Intelligence Bureau and Research and Analysis Wing.
o It is responsible for maintaining a database of information related to technology and developing advanced tools and techniques for intelligence gathering.
o It also conducts research and development activities in the field of technical intelligence.
o NTRO is headed by a Chairman who reports directly to the Prime Minister of India.
o Its headquarters is located in New Delhi, and it has operational centers in various parts of the country.

Special Protection Group (SPG):

o It is entrusted with the task of providing proximate security to the Prime Minister of India, the former Prime Minister and their immediate family members.
o It was formed in 1985 after the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi as an executive body on the recommendation of the Birbal Nath committee.
o Later on, it became a statutory body under Special Protection Group Act 1988.

2) Limited Purpose Clearing Corporation

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) put in place a dispute resolution mechanism for Limited Purpose Clearing Corporation (LPCC) to settle disputes and claims arising out of transactions cleared by it.
o It is an entity established to undertake the activity of clearing and settlement of repo transactions.
o The mechanism will be used
o To settle disputes between clearing members;
o Contention between the clearing members and their clients
o Differences between the LPCC and its vendors
o Disputes between clearing members or its clients and the LPCC.
o The disputes arising between clearing members of the LPCC will be settled by conciliation and/or by an arbitration panel consisting of three clearing members, other than the clearing members who are party to the dispute.
o The decision of the arbitration panel would be final and binding on the parties.
o In case a clearing member or the LPCC is not satisfied then the disputes would be resolved under the procedure laid down in the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007.

3) Stablecoins

The United States Congress recently made an attempt to create a legislative framework for the increasingly popular stablecoins.
o Stablecoins are cryptocurrencies whose value is pegged, or tied, to that of another currency, commodity, or financial instrument.
o Stablecoins aim to provide an alternative to the high volatility of the most popular cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC).
o Unlike cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, stablecoins’ prices remain steady, in accordance with whichever fiat currency backs them.
o Stablecoin are open, global, and accessible to anyone on the internet.
o They’re fast, cheap and secure to transmit.

Cryptocurrency:

o Cryptocurrencies are digital or virtual currencies in which encryption techniques are used to regulate the generation of their units and verify the transfer of funds.
o These currencies operate independently of a central bank.
o The economic transactions underlying cryptocurrency are decentralized, distributed and disbursed.
o The first and most famous cryptocurrency, bitcoin was introduced in 2009.

4) Mission 50K-EV4ECO

Context:

Recently, SIDBI launched a new financing solution for electric vehicle space under the scheme ‘Mission 50K-EV4ECO’.

About Mission 50K-EV4ECO:

• Objective: to promote the growth and development of the value chain of India’s electric vehicle industry.
• It is expected to promote EV adoption and strengthen associated infrastructure in the country.
• The project prioritizes the uptake of 2-wheeler, 3-wheeler, and 4-wheeler EVs through direct and indirect lending.
• The objective of this scheme is to provide access to affordable financing for electric vehicles and to develop charging infrastructure, including battery swapping.
• The scheme is the precursor to the EVOLVE scheme by SIDBI-World Bank.
• It provides better financing terms and other solutions to address the issues faced in the EV ecosystem in India.

Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI):

• SIDBI was set up in 1990, under an Act of the Indian Parliament.
• Headquarters: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
• Chairman & Managing Director: Shri Sivasubramanian Ramann
• It acts as the Principal Financial Institution for the Promotion, Financing and Development of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) sector as well as for the coordination of functions of institutions engaged in similar activities.
• The Shares of SIDBI are held by the Government of India and twenty-two other institutions / public sector banks/insurance companies owned or controlled by the Central Government
• MISSION: To facilitate and strengthen credit flow to MSMEs and address both financial and developmental gaps in the MSME eco-system.
• VISION:
o To emerge as a single window for meeting the financial and developmental needs of the MSME sector to make it strong, vibrant, and globally competitive.
o To position SIDBI Brand as the preferred and customer-friendly institution and
o For enhancement of shareholder wealth and highest corporate values through a modern technology platform.
• SIDBI is implementing the PSIG programme funded by UK Aid through Department for International Development (DFID), UK.
• SIDBI has been implementing the “Poorest States Inclusive Growth (PSIG) Program”.
• It is funded by UK Government through the Department for International Development (DFID), UK since April 2012.
• The program aimed at enhancing income and employment opportunities of the poor, especially women, in the four poorest States of Bihar, MP, Odisha, and UP by enabling the target group to participate and benefit from wider economic opportunities and growth.
• The program has come to a successful end in March 2020. To take the PSIG legacy forward, Swavalamban Resource Facility (SRF) has since been launched within the P&D Vertical of the Bank.

5) What is the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)?

The Indian Government will carry out a sectoral analysis to see how the European Union’s (EU’s) proposed carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) is set to affect the Indian industry

About Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM):

• What is it? It is a proposed European Union (EU) tariff on carbon-intensive products.
• Purpose: To put a fair price on the carbon emitted during the production of carbon-intensive goods that are entering the EU, and to encourage cleaner industrial production in non-EU countries.
• The CBAM will ensure the carbon price of imports is equivalent to the carbon price of domestic production.
• If implemented as planned, EU importers will have to buy carbon certificates corresponding to the carbon price that would have been paid in the EU, if the goods had been produced locally.
• The price of the certificates would be calculated according to the auction prices in the EU carbon credit market.
• The number of certificates required would be defined yearly by the number of goods and the embedded emissions in those goods imported into the EU.
• Companies in countries with a domestic carbon pricing regime equivalent to the EU’s will be able to export to the EU without buying CBAM certificates.
• CBAM will initially cover several specific products in some of the most carbon-intensive sectors at risk of "carbon leakage": iron and steel (including some downstream products such as nuts and bolts), cement, fertilizers, aluminium, electricity and hydrogen.

22 April 2023

Agriculture

1) Tea Mosquito Bug Infestation

India is the world’s second-largest tea producer after China. However, the tea industry in India has been facing a major setback due to the infestation of tea mosquito bugs. These pests, which are a type of mirid bug, feed on tender tea leaves and cause extensive damage to the tea bushes. This has led to a significant decline in tea production, especially in the Valparai region of Tamil Nadu, where production has fallen by around 50 percent over a decade.

Impact of Tea Mosquito Bug Infestation

Tea mosquito bug infestation is threatening the very existence of tea plantations and the situation is worsened by the rising cost of inputs and employee wages. For instance, the pest infestation resulted in the Valparai tea region witnessing a fall in production from 30 million kg in 2009-10 to 16.73 million kg in 2021-22.

Limited Choice of Pesticides

The tea growers in impacted areas are spending around ₹12,000 per hectare on pesticide application each year. However, the control of the pest is poor due to the lack of effective molecules available to control the pest. The problem is further exacerbated by the limited choice of pesticides available to tea growers. The Tea Board has imposed restrictions on the use of certain pesticides after the formation of the Plant Protection Code (PPC) in 2014, with the objective of making Indian tea safer and free of harmful residue. Consequently, only 7 pesticides are approved for use in South India, and planters are unable to implement effective control measures.

Rapid Spread to Higher Elevation Plantations

The tea mosquito bug was once considered a wet weather pest and was earlier restricted to plantations in low elevations. However, the pest is now spreading rapidly to higher-elevation plantations too. The situation has put the tea industry in India at risk, as tea is a major export commodity for the country. Therefore, the government needs to take immediate measures to control pest infestation and safeguard the tea industry.

2) National Agriculture Market

Prime Minister recently said that with the help of the National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) portal, the farmers will be able to decide the place, time and price of selling their products, and reduce the burden on the consumers.
o National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) is a pan-India electronic trading portal which networks the existing APMC mandis to create a unified national market for agricultural commodities.
o It was launched on 14th April 2016, and is completely funded by the Government of India.
o Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC) is the lead agency for implementing eNAM under the aegis of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India.
o Vision is to promote uniformity in agriculture marketing by streamlining procedures across the integrated markets, removing information asymmetry between buyers and sellers and promoting real-time price discovery based on actual demand and supply.
o Mission: Integration of APMCs across the country through a common online market platform to facilitate pan-India trade in agriculture commodities, providing better price discovery through a transparent auction process based on the quality of produce along with timely online payment.
o Features:
o A National e-market platform for transparent sale transactions and price discovery in regulated markets, kisan mandis, warehouses and private markets.
o Liberal Licensing of traders/buyers and commission agents by State authorities without any pre-condition of physical presence or possession of shop/premises in the market yard.
o One license for a trader is valid across all markets in the State.
o Harmonization of quality standards of agricultural produce and provisions of assaying (quality testing) infrastructure in every market to enable informed bidding by buyers.
o Restriction of agriculture Produce Marketing Committee’s (APMC) jurisdiction to within the APMC market yard/sub yard instead of a geographical area (the market area) at present.
o Single point levy of market fees, i.e. on the first wholesale purchase from the farmer.

3) Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF)

Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) in Andhra Pradesh has yielded more produce than conventional methods.
o Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) is a method of chemical-free agriculture drawing from traditional Indian practices.
o It was originally promoted by agriculturist and Padma Shri recipient Subhash Palekar.
o He developed it in the mid-1990s as an alternative to the Green Revolution’s methods driven by chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and intensive irrigation.
o Objective is to bring down the cost of production to nearly zero and return to a pre-green revolution style of farming.

4) Global Food Policy Report 2023

Recently, the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) published Global Food Policy Report, 2023 which said that investing in early warning systems is essential to save lives, livelihoods and money.

Key highlights of the report:

• The report called for a more proactive response to food system shocks with a focus on three key areas:
o Crisis prediction and preparation
o Building resilience before and during crises
o Making crisis response supportive and inclusive of women, forced migrants and other vulnerable groups.
• It advocated for strengthening agrifood value chains to support livelihoods and food security during crises.
• It advised governments to maintain a business environment that fosters flexibility, and technical and financial innovation.

Key facts about the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI)

• It was established in 1975 and provides research-based policy solutions to sustainably reduce poverty and end hunger and malnutrition in developing countries.
• Headquarters: Washington, D.C.
• It is a research center of CGIAR, which is the world’s largest agricultural innovation network.
• Its research focuses on five strategic research areas:
o Fostering Climate-Resilient and Sustainable Food Supply
o Promoting Healthy Diets and Nutrition for Al
o Building Inclusive and Efficient Markets, Trade Systems, and Food Industry
o Transforming Agricultural and Rural Economies
o Strengthening Institutions and Governance

5) Farm Distress Index

Context:

Recently, Farm Distress Index reported farm distress in different parts of the country.

About Farm Distress Index:

• Farm Distress Index is developed by Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture (CRIDA).
o CRIDA:
• It is an institute under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research.
• It was established. 1985
• HQ: Hyderabad
• It is a constituent organization of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), an autonomous body of the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India.
• It is part of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) funded project on ‘Farmers Distress and Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)’.
o Farm Distress Index is an early warning system based on a 21-question survey that captures the financial, economic, and emotional health status of farmers in vulnerable areas.
o The index can sense imminent distress at least 3-4 months ahead of its actual occurrence.
o Significance: This index can be used by policymakers and the government to plan and design a timely and targeted method of supporting distressed farmers.
o Farm distress continues to be reported from different parts of the country.
o Left unattended, the distress can lead to suicides by farmers.

24 April 2023

Social Justice & Social Issues

1) Juvenile Justice Act: How can a juvenile be tried as an adult in court?

Why in News?

• The National Commission for Protection of Children (NCPCR) has recently issued guidelines for conducting a preliminary assessment by the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 (JJ Act, 2015).
• This preliminary assessment is to ascertain whether a juvenile can be tried as an adult.

How does a Child get Tried as an Adult?

• Replacing the JJ Act 2000, the Act of 2015 provided (for the first time) for trying juveniles in the age group of 16-18 as adults in cases of heinous offenses.
• The Act has categorized the offenses committed by children into three categories - petty offenses, serious offenses, and heinous offenses.
• Section 15 of the JJ Act: In case of a heinous offense allegedly committed by a child (in the age group of 16-18), the JJB shall conduct a preliminary assessment regarding -
o His mental and physical capacity to commit such offense,
o Ability to understand the consequences of the offense and
o The circumstances in which he allegedly committed the offense.
• Section 18 (3) of the JJ Act: If the JJB, after preliminary assessment, passes an order that there is a need for a trial of the said child as an adult, then the JJB may order the transfer of the case to the Children’s Court.
• Thus, the sole objective of having such a preliminary assessment is to determine whether a child within the age group of 16-18 years should be tried as an adult in case of heinous offenses.

What are the Responsibilities of the JJB?

• The JJB shall be responsible for the preliminary assessment and provide the child, the child’s family, and their counsel a copy of the order.
• In case the JJB does not have at least one member who is a practitioner with a degree in child psychology or child psychiatry, the JJB shall take the assistance of psychologists or experts.
• The child should also be provided with a legal aid counsel through the District Legal Services Authority who shall be present during the preliminary assessment.
• Experts, who have the required qualification to assist the JJB, to undergo training concerning Section 15 of the JJ Act, 2015
• During the preliminary assessment, the Board and experts shall also analyse and take into consideration the Social Investigation Report (SIR)/Social Background Report (SBR).
o SIR is prepared by the Probation officer or Child Welfare Officer or any social worker after interaction with the child or child’s family.

What are the Issues with the Process?

• The NCPCR is under a statutory obligation under the JJ Act, 2015 to monitor the proper implementation of the provisions of the Act.
• The guidelines have been made to remove any ambiguity and to clarify the steps that need to be followed while conducting the preliminary assessment.
• However, the major issue remains the implementation and absorption of these principles in the system.
• A lot of principles that have been made a part of the Act have not been given due prominence by the JJB as well as by the Children’s Court.

2) Intensified Crackdown with the aim to make India drug-free by 2047

Why in the news?

• Aiming to make India drug-free by 2047, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) plans to link recovery and usage of narcotics and banned substances in a particular area to the annual appraisal report of a District Superintendent of Police.

Drug menace in India

Reasons for Widespread Drug Abuse in India

• To escape from hard realities of life
o The disintegration of the old joint family system, decline of old religious and moral values, etc. lead to a rise in the number of drug addicts who take drugs to escape hard realities of life.
• Loosening of the traditional methods of social control
o The loosening of the traditional methods of social control left an individual vulnerable to the stresses and strains of modern life.
• Peer pressure
o Many youths start using drugs under pressure from their friends, seniors at educational institutions, or members of their informal groups.
• Easy Availability
o India has situated in the sense that on its west is the ‘Golden Crescent’ and on its east is the ‘Golden Triangle’.
 Golden Crescent - Iran-Afghanistan-Pakistan
 Golden Triangle - Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar
o The usage of drugs in India is increasing, particularly in the border areas due to their porous nature.
• Economic prosperity
o The agricultural reforms and other industrial activity have led to an increase in income in regions like Punjab, Haryana, Maharashtra etc.
o Increase in disposable money and easy availability of drugs has led to an increase in their use.

Steps taken

• Article 47 of the Indian Constitution directs the State to endeavor to bring about prohibition of the consumption of intoxicating drugs injurious to health.
• India is a signatory to
o Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs 1961, as amended by the 1972 Protocol,
o Conventions on Psychotropic Substances, 1971 and
o United Nations Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, 1988.
• Legislative steps:
o Enacted Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940,
o Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985 and
o The Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1988.
• Institutions involved
o The Narcotics Control Bureau was created in 1986 as a nodal agency to fight against this menace.
o Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJE) are involved with alcohol and drug demand reduction policies and drug de-addiction programme.

News Summary: Intensified Crackdown with the aim to make India drug-free by 2047

Intensified crackdown against drugs

• Opium and cannabis cultivation targeted
o Opium and cannabis cultivation in areas the size of over 89,000 football fields has been destroyed in the past three years.
o According to the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), in the past three years, 35,592 acres of poppy cultivation and 82,691 acres of cannabis cultivation has been destroyed across the country.
o The States where the crops were destroyed are:
 Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Odisha, Tripura, and Telangana.
• Fixing accountability
o MHA is planning to link recovery and usage of narcotics and banned substances in a particular area to the annual appraisal report of a District Superintendent of Police.
o This will bring accountability and fix responsibility.
• Use of technology
o The MHA has constituted a study group to analyse the use of drones in the destruction of illegal crops in remote areas.
o The NCB also shares satellite images with the affected States.
o On the National Narcotics Coordination portal (NCORD), the source and destination of drugs are highlighted too, and information up to the district levels is maintained.
o Another database, called NIDAAN, has the photographs, fingerprints, court orders, information and details of all suspects and convicts arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act so far.
 This can be accessed by State and Central law enforcement agencies.
• Liberal application of the PITNDPS Act
o The Ministry is encouraging the liberal application of the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (PITNDPS), 1988.
 Earlier, this act was not being used much.
o This includes a provision to detain an individual for up to two years without a court’s intervention.
• Tackling the issue of dark net and cryptocurrency
o The use of the ‘dark net’ and cryptocurrency in illegal drugs is increasing, and in 2020, 2021 and 2022, NCB investigated 59 such cases.
o A sub-group on the counter-terrorism portal, the Multi-Agency Centre (MAC), has been created to share inputs on the use of the dark net and cryptocurrency for trade in narcotics.
• Anti-Narcotics Task Forces (ANTF)
o All States have created dedicated Anti-Narcotics Task Forces (ANTF). The first-ever conference of State ANTFs was held on April 19-20.
• Destruction of seized drugs through proper process
o Unless seized drugs were destroyed through the proper process, there will be chances of rotation of drugs due to corruption.
o Recently, the Minister of Home Affairs said that the destruction should be held in public.
o So far, 6.7 lakh kilograms of drugs have been burnt by government agencies.
• Alternate livelihood schemes
o State governments have also launched alternate livelihood schemes for farmers growing poppy illegally.
o They also provide cash incentives to destroy illegal crops.

4) Covid set to delay 2021 Census by at least 3 years

Why in the news?

• India’s Census enumeration that was scheduled to take place in 2021 has been pushed to 2024-25 until further orders.
• The exercise, including extensive fieldwork, was postponed due to the outbreak of Covid-19 in 2020.

Census in India

• Population Census provides basic statistics on the state of human resources, demography, culture and economic structure at local, regional and national levels.
• Beginning in the year 1872, when the first census was conducted non-synchronously, the census enumeration exercise in India is carried out every 10 years.
o The first synchronous census was taken under British rule in 1881, by W.C. Plowden, Census Commissioner of India.
• The responsibility of conducting the decadal census rests with the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India, Ministry of Home Affairs.

Legal/Constitutional Basis of Census

• Population census is listed in Union List (entry 69) of the Seventh Schedule in the Indian Constitution.
• Census is conducted under the provisions of the Census Act, of 1948.

Process of census enumeration

• The Census Operations in India have been carried out in two phases:
o House listing and Housing Census and
o Population Enumeration.
• The Population Enumeration follows the Housing Census within a gap of six to eight months.
• In the Population Enumeration phase each person is enumerated and her/his individual particulars like Age, Marital status, Religion, mother tongue etc. are recorded

Some of the features of the upcoming census

• The ensuing decadal Census of India will be the 16th in a series and the 8th after independence.
• In the history of the Indian Census, for the first time, the Census data will be collected digitally i.e., on Mobile App in the ensuing census.
• Also, a self-enumeration facility will be provided for the first time in the forthcoming Census.

News Summary

• In a letter sent to all states and Union Territories, the office of the Registrar General of India (RGI) has extended the deadline of freezing of administrative boundaries to June 30, 2023.
• The Census enumeration can begin only a few months after administrative boundaries are frozen.
• However, with the General Election scheduled early next year, the possibility of this exercise taking place this year stands ruled out.

Requirements before Census exercise

• Before every Census, every state is required to provide information to the Registrar General of India (RGI) on changes in the number of notified districts, villages, towns and other administrative units since the previous Census.
o The RGI is the head of the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner.
o It is responsible for conducting the decennial Census of India and maintaining the Civil Registration System in the country.
o The Registrar General of India serves as the principal advisor to the Government of India on all matters related to the registration of births, deaths, and marriages.
o The office also collects and analyzes demographic and socio-economic data for policy planning and implementation purposes.
• Boundaries of administrative units are frozen at least three months before the Census exercise begins.
o As per Rule 8(iv) of Census Rules, 1990, the boundaries of the administrative units shall be frozen from the date intimated by the Census Commissioner, which shall not be earlier than one year from the Census reference date.
• In this period, the data is compiled and shared with RGI for preparatory work on the Census.
• Also, Census work is preceded by the house-listing enumeration.

5) Hakki-Pikki tribes

Why in the news?

• More than 181 members of the Hakki Pikki tribal community from Karnataka are stuck in violence-hit Sudan, even as the government is making efforts to bring them back.

Who are the Hakki Pikki?

About

o The Hakki Pikki is a tribe that lives in several states in west and south India, especially near forest areas.
o Hakki Pikkis (Hakki in Kannada means ‘bird’ and Pikki means ‘catchers’) are a semi-nomadic tribe, traditionally of bird catchers and hunters.

Population

o According to the 2011 census, the Hakki Pikki population in Karnataka is 11,892.
o They live majorly in Davangere, Mysuru, Kolar, Hassan and Shivmogga districts.
o In different regions, they are known by different names, such as Mel-Shikari in northern Karnataka and Maharashtra.

Clans

o The Hakki Pikki move in groups from place to place in search of livelihood.
o They are divided into four clans, called Gujaratia, Panwar, Kaliwala, and Mewaras.
o These clans can be equated with castes in traditional Hindu society.
o In the olden days, there was a hierarchy among the clans, with the Gujaratia at the top and the Mewaras at the bottom.

Language

o Despite being surrounded by Dravidian languages and living in southern India, the community speaks an Indo-Aryan language.
o Their mother tongue was designated 'Vaagri' by scholars. They communicate in 'Vaagri' at home but speak in Kannada when conducting daily business.
 UNESCO has listed 'Vaagri' as one of the endangered languages.

Where do they live?

• Hakki Pikki people are believed to hail originally from the bordering districts of Gujarat and Rajasthan.
• As per the researchers, they came to the south in search of game.

What were their traditional jobs, and what do they do now?

• Traditionally, Hakki Pikkis lived in forest areas, leading a nomadic life for nine months a year and coming back to their permanent camps for three.
• Earlier, men of the tribe would hunt while women begged in villages. But as the wildlife protection laws became stricter, the Hakki Pikkis in Karnataka started selling spices, herbal oils, and plastic flowers in local temple fairs.
o Later, they started selling their products in Africa.
• Education levels among the Hakki Pikkis are still low.

What are their rituals and customs?

• Hakki Pikkis in Karnataka follow Hindu traditions and celebrate all Hindu festivals.
• They are non-vegetarians. The eldest son in a family is not supposed to cut his hair so that he can be identified easily.
• The tribe prefers cross-cousin marriages. According to locals, the usual age of marriage is 18 for women and 22 for men.
• The society is matriarchal, where the groom gives a dowry to the bride’s family.

25 April 2023

Arts & Culture

1) Basava Jayanthi

Basava Jayanthi is an important festival celebrated in Karnataka and other parts of South India to commemorate the birth anniversary of Basavanna. This festival is of great significance to the Lingayat community, as Basavanna is considered the founding saint of this Hindu sect.

Who was Basavanna?

Basavanna was a 12th-century poet-philosopher and social reformer who founded the Lingayat tradition. He was born in the northern part of Karnataka to a family devoted to Lord Shiva. Basavanna was a visionary who believed in creating a society that was free of the caste system and provided equal opportunities for all. He also founded the Anubhava Mantapa, an academy that included Lingayat mystics, saints, and philosophers.

Basava Jayanthi Significance

Basava Jayanthi is celebrated to honor the birth anniversary of Basavanna, who is also known as Bhaktibhandari, Basaveswara, and Vishwaguru Basavanna. This day is significant for the Lingayat community as it serves as a reminder of Basavanna’s teachings, which emphasized the importance of social equality and human dignity.

Celebrations on Basava Jayanthi

On this day, people visit Lord Basaveshwar's temples, offer prayers, and celebrate the occasion. Lingayat committees organize many events to celebrate this special day. Devotees also perform special poojas and abhisheka's to Lord Basaveshwar.

Basava Jayanthi Date and Celebrations

Basava Jayanthi is usually observed on the third day of the Vaisakha month according to the Hindu calendar, which falls in either April or May in the Gregorian calendar. In 2023, Basava Jayanthi falls on April 23, Sunday. The festival is primarily celebrated in South India, especially in Karnataka, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.

2) Shawwal Moon

Muslims all around the world celebrate the start of the Shawwal month as it marks the end of the month-long fasting of Ramadan and the beginning of the Eid al-Fitr festival. The Shawwal Moon is an important celestial event in the Islamic calendar as it indicates the beginning of the new month. The sighting of the new moon or crescent is a traditional practice among Muslims to mark the beginning of the 10th month in the Islamic calendar.

Observing the New Moon or Crescent

The traditional method of observing the new moon or crescent is done with the naked eye or telescopes. This is typically done on the 29th day of the preceding month. If the new moon is sighted, then the first day of the new month begins the next day. If not, the current month extends to 30 days, and the new month begins the day after.

The Shawwal Moon’s Appearance

The Shawwal Moon appears just a few hours after the astronomical New Moon. During the New Moon, the Earth’s natural satellite gets lost in the Sun’s glare and becomes completely invisible. But as it creeps from between the Sun and Earth, its limb becomes visible. Shawwal Moon appears when the moon emerges briefly in the west just after the sunset.

Celebrations Around the World

The start of Shawwal may differ between various Muslim communities and countries. This year, the moon was sighted in the UAE and Saudi Arabia on April 20, so several nations like the United Kingdom, Qatar, and the United States, celebrated Eid al-Fitr on April 21. However, few Muslim nations, like Indonesia and Pakistan did not spot the crescent moon on April 20. Hence, they will celebrate the first day of Eid on 22nd April.

3) Hun-Thadou Cultural Festival

The Hun-Thadou cultural festival is an annual celebration of the Thadou community in Manipur. It is a time when the Thadou people come together to honor their customs, culture, and religious beliefs. Recently, the 5th edition of the festival was held at Thomas Ground in Kangpokpi district. The event was attended by dignitaries, including the Chief Minister of Manipur, state ministers, MLA, and top civil and police officers.

Hun: The Most Important Festival of the Thadou Tribe

Hun holds immense significance for the Thadou tribe as it is considered the most important festival among all their celebrations. The word “Hun” signifies time and season according to Thadeus, and it is celebrated for seven days, making it a grand affair for the community.

Reasons Why Hun is Important for the Thadou Tribe

1. Celebration of New Year: Hun marks the arrival of the New Year for the Thadou tribe. It is a time when they bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new year with joy and enthusiasm. It is a time of new beginnings and fresh hopes for the community.
2. Religious Affair: Hun is an annual religious affair for Thadou families. During the festival, the Thadou people acknowledge the existence of the all-powerful God and seek blessings for the well-being of their families and communities. It is a time of deep reverence and spirituality for the Thadou tribe.
3. Peace and Well-being: On the occasion of Hun, the chief and his Council of Ministers satisfy themselves that peace prevails in their chiefdom and there is no sickness. It is a time to ensure the well-being and prosperity of the community, and the festival serves as a platform for the leaders to assess the state of affairs in their chiefdom.
4. Acknowledgment of Women’s Labor: The labor of women is acknowledged during Hun celebrations. Women play a vital role in Thadou society, and their contributions are recognized and appreciated during this festival. It is a time to honor and appreciate the role of women in Thadou culture and society.
5. Children’s Joy and Respect: For children, Hun is a highly awaited occasion as they show great love and respect to their maternal grandparents during the festival. It is a time for family bonding and inculcating traditional values in the younger generation.
6. Annual Village Assembly: The 7th day of Hun is significant as it is the day of the Annual Village Assembly. It is a time when the entire community comes together to discuss and address important issues, make decisions, and plan for the future. It is a platform for community governance and decision-making.

4) Kamakhya Temple Corridor

The government in Assam is planning to construct a corridor at the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati on the lines of the Kashi-Vishwanath Temple Corridor in Varanasi.
o The project will transform the grandeur of this major ‘Shakti peeth significantly while also improving the accessibility for differently abled and aged devotees and tourists manifold.
o Kamakhya Temple is Located on Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, Assam
o It is Considered one of the oldest and most sacred places of worship.
o Millions of pilgrims and tourists visit the temple every year, especially during the Ambubachi Mela held in June every year.
o Ambubachi Mela, is a four-day fair to mark the annual menstruation of the goddess
o One of 51 Shaktipeeths or seat of Shakti followers, each representing a body part of Sati, Lord Shiva’s companion. The temple’s sanctum sanctorum houses the yoni — female genital — symbolized by a rock.
o The attainment of womanhood of girls in Assam is celebrated with a ritual called ‘Tuloni Biya’, meaning a small wedding.
o A centerpiece of the Tantrik Shaktism cult in India
o The main temple is surrounded by individual temples dedicated to the ten Mahavidyas: Kali, Tara, Sodashi, Bhuvaneshwari, Bhairavi, Chhinnamasta, Dhumavati, Bagalamukhi, Matangi, and Kamalatmika.

5) World Heritage Day 2023

The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) declared April 18th as the International Day for Monuments and Sites, also known as World Heritage Day, in 1982.
o The theme for this year is “Heritage Changes,” which focuses on the role of cultural heritage in climate action and its importance in protecting vulnerable communities.
o India is currently home to 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it the country with the sixth-largest number of sites in the world.
o Out of these, 32 are cultural sites, 7 are natural sites, and one is a mixed-type site, the Khangchendzonga National Park.
o The cultural heritage sites in India include ancient temples, forts, palaces, mosques, and archaeological sites that reflect the rich history and diversity of the country.
o The natural heritage sites in India include national parks, wildlife reserves, and natural landscapes that showcase the country’s unique biodiversity and ecological significance.
o The mixed-type site in India, the Khangchendzonga National Park, is known for its cultural significance as well as its biodiversity, as it is home to several rare and endangered species.

6) Uttaramerur Inscription

Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to the Uttaramerur inscription in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu while discussing India’s democratic history.

o The Uttaramerur inscription, dated around 920 A.D. in the reign of Parantaka Chola
o Uttaramerur is situated in the Kancheepuram district, about 90 km from Chennai.
o The Pallava king Nandivarman II established it around 750 A.D.
o The Uttaramerur inscription testifies to the historical fact that nearly 1,100 years ago, a village had an elaborate and highly refined electoral system and even a written constitution prescribing the mode of elections.
o The details of this system of elective village democracy are inscribed on the walls of the village assembly (grama sabha mandapa), a rectangular structure made of granite slabs.
o The inscription gives astonishing details about the constitution of wards, the qualification of candidates standing for elections, the disqualification norms, the mode of election, the constitution of committees with elected members, the functions of those committees, the power to remove the wrongdoer, etc.
o The villagers even had the right to recall the elected representatives if they failed in their duty.
o Inscriptions on temple walls in several parts of Tamil Nadu refer to village assemblies.

26 April 2023

International Relations

1) The Big Catch-up

The COVID-19 pandemic has created a major disruption in healthcare services, with more than 100 countries registering a drop in immunization levels. This has resulted in a crisis where around 75% of children have missed essential immunization against preventable but critical diseases in 2021. A targeted global initiative named The Big Catch-up has been implemented by a consortium of organizations such as the World Health Organization, UNICEF, Gavi the Vaccine Alliance, and Immunization Agenda 2030, among other public health organizations, to elevate vaccination levels among children, as they have dropped due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Impact of the Pandemic

Due to the pandemic, health services were overburdened, leading to the shutdown of clinics and causing disturbances in the transportation of medical supplies such as vials, syringes, and other equipment. Furthermore, strict lockdown measures, travel restrictions, and depleting financial and human resources further compounded access to healthcare. The disruption has already led to outbreaks of diseases like measles, diphtheria, polio, and yellow fever becoming more prevalent and severe.

Countries Showing Progress

While the pandemic has derailed immunization efforts, some countries have already shown considerable progress. For instance, India managed to record a strong recovery in essential vaccines in 2022, Uganda stood out by maintaining high immunization levels in the early years of the pandemic, while Kenya has targeted its approach to addressing the immunization needs of the country’s northern nomadic populations.

The Big Catch-up

The Big Catch-Up will pay special attention to the 20 countries home to a majority of the children who have missed their vaccine doses. The plan’s salient features include strengthening healthcare workforces, improving health service delivery, building trust and demand for vaccines within communities, and addressing gaps and obstacles to restoring immunization.

2) Nagorno-Karabakh

Nagorno-Karabakh is a landlocked, mountainous area in the South Caucasus that has been a source of conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan for decades. It is predominantly populated by ethnic Armenians but is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan.

The Inhabitants of Nagorno-Karabakh

Nagorno-Karabakh is mainly inhabited by ethnic Armenians. In 1923, the Soviet government granted the region autonomy within the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic. However, in the 1980s, the Armenian population began to demand unification with Armenia.

The First and Second Karabakh Wars

The First Karabakh War took place from 1988 to 1994, resulting in the deaths of about 30,000 people. The war ended with a ceasefire that left Nagorno-Karabakh and some surrounding territories under Armenian control, but the international community still recognizes it as part of Azerbaijan.
The Second Karabakh War broke out in 2020, and Azerbaijan emerged as the victor. One of the main reasons for Azerbaijan’s success was its use of drones purchased from Turkey and Israel.

The Lachin Corridor

The Lachin corridor is the only road linking Nagorno-Karabakh with Armenia. After the 44-day war in 2020, Russia negotiated a ceasefire agreement that included the deployment of Russian peacekeepers to guard the Lachin corridor. Azerbaijan pledged to guarantee the safety of traffic along the corridor in both directions.

Tensions Over the Lachin Corridor

In December 2022, Azerbaijani citizens who identified themselves as advocates for the environment initiated a barricade of the Lachin corridor. Despite Azerbaijan’s insistence that some aid and convoys were permitted to pass through, they refuted accusations of a complete road blockade. Recently, Azerbaijani troops set up a new checkpoint near the Armenian border at the beginning of the Lachin corridor.
The United States expressed deep concern over the move and called for free and open movement along the corridor. The tensions over the Lachin corridor highlight the ongoing conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh and the need for a peaceful resolution to the issue.

3) Mohammed Shahabuddin

On 25th April 2023, veteran politician Mohammed Shahabuddin was sworn in as the 22nd president of Bangladesh at a state ceremony held at the Durbar Hall of Bangabhaban. Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury, the Speaker, administered the oath to the 73-year-old Shahabuddin.

Shahabuddin’s Election and Responsibilities as President

Shahabuddin’s election to the presidency was unopposed in February 2023 as a candidate of the ruling Awami League. As the largely ornamental head of state, the primary responsibilities of the president in Bangladesh are to appoint the prime minister and become the constitutional guardian of the country. The office of the president draws extra attention, particularly during general elections.

Assessing the Political Situation

Shahabuddin has pledged to review the political situation and assess if he needs to play any role in minimizing disputes between political parties. Bangladesh is set for general elections in December or January next year amid growing differences between the ruling Awami League and its main opposition, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), over the electoral system.

Shahabuddin’s Career

Before joining politics, Shahabuddin was a retired district judge who later served as one of the commissioners of the independent Anti-Corruption Commission. He hails from the northwestern Pabna district and was a leader of the Awami League’s student and youth wings in his early life. Shahabuddin took part in the 1971 Liberation War and was imprisoned following the 1975 assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of Prime Minister Hasina. In 1982, he was inducted into the country’s judicial service.

3) India-Armenia partnership

Context

As informed by the Armenian envoy in India, amid expanding defense cooperation, Armenia to soon have a Defence Attache at its embassy also in the country.

Background:

• After the breakup of the USSR, India recognized Armenia on December 26, 1991.
• The Protocol on the establishment of Diplomatic relations between India and Armenia was signed on 31 August 1992.
• India opened its Embassy in 2 Yerevan on 01 March 1999.

Historical ties:

• Indian settlements in Armenia existed as early as 149 BC. Thomas Cana is said to be the first Armenian to have landed on the Malabar coast in 780 AD.
• Long before the Dutch and the English appeared in India, a few Armenian traders had come to Agra during the Mughal Empire.
• Emperor Akbar, highly appreciative of the commercial talents and integrity of the Armenians, granted them numerous privileges and considerable religious freedom as also an opportunity to serve in his empire in various capacities.
• The Armenian colony in India increased in size, wealth, and importance throughout the 17th century.
• During the British government, they also entered Indian trade in varying relationships with the East India Company.
• The Armenians made some contributions in the areas of artisanship including gun-making and printing.

Cultural ties:

• Indian classical singer Gohar Jaan, the first to be recorded on gramophone in 1902 was of Armenian origin.

People-to-people ties:

• The Armenian language journal "Azdarar" published in Madras (Chennai) in 1794 was the first ever Armenian journal published anywhere in the world.
• After India's independence, many Armenians migrated to Australia, the USA, and other places. The vestigial Armenian community in India is now mainly settled in Calcutta with sprinkling in Mumbai, Delhi, Agra, and Chennai.

Defense ties:

• Armenia recently signed a major defense deal with India for procurement of Pinaka multi-rocket launch systems and their ammunition, among others, in a deal worth around. 2,500 crore.
• At present neither country has a dedicated DA in the other country.

Developmental cooperation:

• Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme.
ITEC programme is an ongoing programme under which every year on average 35 slots are earmarked for Armenia for short and medium-term courses which are extremely popular amongst Government and Public Sector officials.

Bilateral agreements:

• India and Armenia signed a Treaty on Friendship and Cooperation on 14 December 1995 in New Delhi.
• In addition, there are over 30 Agreements/MoUs covering diverse areas of possible cooperation such as trade & commerce, culture, tourism, education, defense, science & technology, information technology, double tax avoidance, academic cooperation between institutes and Think Tanks.

4) Digital Services Act (DSA)

Why in News?

• The European Union (EU) has confirmed the names of 19 platforms that will be subject to its landmark online content rules.
o Five subsidiaries of Google’s parent Alphabet, two Meta units, two Microsoft businesses, Apple’s AppStore, Twitter, and Alibaba’s AliExpress are among the entities that the EU has identified.
• The rules notified under the Digital Services Act (DSA), aimed at overhauling the EU’s social media and e-commerce rules.

What is Digital Services Act (DSA)?

• It is an EU regulation that came into force in EU law in November 2022 and will be directly applicable across the EU.
• The act aims to address several issues related to digital services, including online safety, content moderation, and the responsibilities of online platforms.
• The legislation includes new rules for large online platforms, such as social media networks and online marketplaces, to ensure greater accountability and transparency in their operations.
• Goals
o To create a safer digital space in which the fundamental rights of all users of digital services are protected;
o To establish a level playing field to foster innovation, growth, and competitiveness, both in the European Single Market and globally.

What are the key features of the Digital Services Act?

• Faster removals and provisions to challenge
o Social media companies will have to add new procedures for faster removal of content deemed illegal or harmful.
o They will also have to explain to users how their content takedown policy works.
o The DSA also allows users to challenge takedown decisions taken by platforms and seek out-of-court settlements.
• Bigger platforms have a greater responsibility
o Very Large Online Platforms and Very Large Online Search Engines, those having more than 45 million users in the EU, will have more stringent requirements.
o Hence, the law avoids a one-size fits all approach and places increased accountability on the Big Tech companies.
• Direct supervision by European Commission
o These requirements and their enforcement will be centrally supervised by the European Commission itself.
o This is to ensure that companies do not sidestep the legislation at the member-state level.
• More transparency on how algorithms work
o Very Large Online Platforms and Very Large Online Search Engines will face transparency measures and scrutiny of how their algorithms work.
o They will be required to conduct systemic risk analysis and reduction to drive accountability for the societal impacts of their products.
• Clearer identifiers for ads and who’s paying for them
o Online platforms must ensure that users can easily identify advertisements and understand who presents or pays for the advertisement.
o They must not display personalized advertising directed toward minors or based on sensitive personal data.

How does the EU’s DSA compare with India’s online laws?

• Information Technology Rules, 2021
o In February 2021, India notified extensive changes to its social media regulations in the form of the Information Technology Rules, 2021 (IT Rules).
o These rules placed significant due diligence requirements on large social media platforms such as Meta and Twitter. This included:
 Appointing key personnel to handle law enforcement requests and user grievances,
 Enabling identification of the first originator of the information on its platform under certain conditions,
 Deploying technology-based measures on a best-effort basis to identify certain types of content.
• Amendments to the IT Rules
o In 2023, with a view to making the Internet open, safe and trusted, and accountable, the IT Ministry notified the creation of government-backed grievance appellate committees.
o These committees would have the authority to review and revoke content moderation decisions taken by platforms.
• Other laws
o India is also working on a complete overhaul of its technology policies and is expected to soon come out with a replacement for its IT Act, 2000.
o This law is expected to look at ensuring net neutrality and algorithmic accountability of social media platforms, among other things.

27 April 2023

Science & Technology

1) Mars’ Core

A new study has revealed fascinating insights into the innermost layer of Mars – its core. The Red Planet’s core is estimated to have a radius of approximately 1,780-1,810 kilometers, smaller and denser than previously thought. It is likely in a liquid state, according to the research published in the journal PNAS.

The InSight Mars Lander

In order to gain insight into the makeup and architecture of Mars, a team of international scientists scrutinized seismic information collected by NASA’s InSight Mars Lander, which was sent into orbit in May 2018. The lander put a seismometer and other geophysical equipment on the planet’s surface. Seismometers detect and measure seismic waves – shockwaves generated after an earthquake. As seismic waves pass through different materials, they behave differently, slowing down when they pass through liquid materials or hot regions.

Farside Seismic Events

The team looked for ‘farside’ seismic events that occur on the opposite side of the planet to InSight. The team of researchers identified two seismic occurrences, one resulting from a marsquake and the other caused by a significant impact. Afterward, they compared the duration seismic waves took to travel through the core in contrast to those that remained within the mantle. Through the use of computer models, the team made projections concerning the physical characteristics of the core, such as its dimensions.

Composition of Mars’ Core

The research found that light elements, sulfur, and oxygen, comprise a fifth of the core’s weight. Irwing explained that although both Earth and Mars are mostly made of iron, Mars’ core is less dense than Earth’s due to several factors, including the material that formed the planets.

Understanding Earth and Mars

By learning more about Mars’ physical properties today, data could inform better models of how Earth and Mars formed. It is theorized that Mars was once habitable before evolving into its current hostile state, with the planet’s interiors playing a key role in this evolution.

Earth’s Magnetic Field

The Earth’s magnetic field is generated in its outer liquid core, which allows it to protect us from solar winds, keeping water on our planet. In contrast, Mars’ surface environment is not conducive to life as the planet’s core does not produce this defensive barrier.

2) Zero Shadow Day

Zero Shadow Day is a unique and fascinating phenomenon that occurs when the sun is directly overhead, causing the shadow of vertical objects to disappear. This phenomenon is caused by the Earth’s tilt and revolution around the sun.

What is Zero Shadow Day?

Zero Shadow Day is a unique astronomical phenomenon that occurs when the sun is directly overhead. It is the day when the shadow of vertical objects disappears. It occurs twice a year in Bengaluru, one during Uttarayan and the other during Dakshinayan.
Zero Shadow Day is restricted to locations between the tropics, and the latitude range for locations where Zero Shadow Day occurs is between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. On April 25, the latitude that experiences Zero Shadow Day is 130°N.

Zero Shadow Day in Bengaluru

Bengaluru experienced Zero Shadow Day on April 25, 2023, at 12:17 pm. The Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium issued a release ahead of the phenomenon. The next Zero Shadow Day in Bengaluru will be on the 18th of August.

What causes Uttarayan and Dakshinayan?

The occurrence of Uttarayan and Dakshinayan is due to the fact that the Earth’s axis of rotation is inclined at an angle of approximately 23.5° to the axis of revolution around the Sun. Uttarayan is the movement of the Sun from south to north from the winter solstice to the summer solstice, while Dakshinayan is the back movement of the Sun from north to south.

Interesting facts related to Zero Shadow Day

Zero Shadow Day occurs in all locations where the latitude matches the angle between the Sun’s position and the equator on that particular day, and at local noon, the shadow appears to be beneath an object. The northernmost and southernmost points of the Sun’s location are the two solstices, and the crossing of the Sun across the equator are the two equinoxes. Niruj Ramanujam, a member of the public outreach and education committee of the Astronomical Society of India, had spoken to The Indian Express in 2018 about Zero Shadow Day.

3) ISRO to launch Singapore’s TeLEOS-2 satellite

Context

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for its next big mission to launch a customer satellite into orbit around the planet. The TeLEOS-2 mission will launch on-board ISRO's workhorse Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) on its 55th mission to date.

What is TeLEOS-2 satellite?

• The Singaporean probe is an Earth Observation Satellite, which has been designed to capture round-the-clock, all-weather satellite imagery.
• The 750-kilogram satellite, developed by ST Engineering, will provide imagery that could be used for hotspot monitoring and haze management, air crash search and rescue operations, and much more.
• The XL variant of PSLV, which will be used during the C-55 mission, has 6 solid rocket strap-on motors to augment the thrust.
• The rocket is capable of launching 1,750 kg of payload to Sun-Synchronous Polar Orbits at 600 km altitude and 1,425 kg into Geosynchronous and Geostationary orbits.

WHAT IS PSLV?

• The PSLV is a third-generation launch vehicle developed solely in India and was the first launched from India to be equipped with liquid stages.
• The rocket is capable of placing multiple payloads into orbit and has been used to launch various satellites into Geosynchronous and Geostationary orbits.
• During its last mission, PSLV deployed an Earth Observation Satellite (EOS-06) and eight nano-satellites with a lift-off mass of 321 tonnes into orbit.
• The Primary satellite (EOS-06) was separated in Orbit-1.
• Subsequently, orbit change was conducted using two Orbit Change Thrusters (OCTs) introduced in the Propulsion Bay Ring of the PSLV-C54 Vehicle.

Previous Launches

• The Indian space agency launched three Singaporean satellites with the PSLVC-53 mission in June 2022.
• The spacecraft carried the DS-EO satellite, NeuSAR, a 155 kg satellite, and Scoob-1 of Nanyang Technological University (NTU),

4) SpaceX postpones maiden test flight of the world’s biggest rocket Starship

Context

SpaceX postponed the first test flight of Starship, the most powerful rocket ever built, designed to send astronauts to the Moon and Mars and beyond.
• Issue: pressurization issue in the booster stage

About Starship

• Together, the Starship spacecraft and the Super Heavy rocket are collectively referred to as Starship.
• Starship is a super-heavy-lift rocket and spacecraft that could ferry more than 100 people a time to the Red Planet.
• Starship, a rocket and spacecraft combination, consists of a 50-metre tall spacecraft designed to carry crew and cargo that sits atop a 70-metre first-stage Super Heavy booster rocket.
• Reusable transport system: The system is designed to be fully and rapidly reusable.
• Being fully reusable means the principal hardware elements are not discarded in the sea or allowed to burn up, as happens with some other launch systems, but return to the ground so they can be flown again.
• Rapid reusability means that after coming back from space, Starship can be re-filled with propellant and be ready to launch again in a short period of time - like an aircraft. This reduces the cost of the whole enterprise.
• Collectively referred to as Starship, the spacecraft, and the Super Heavy rocket have never flown in combination together, although there have been several sub-orbital test flights of the spacecraft alone.

'Spacefaring civilization'

• The founding ethos of SpaceX was to make life multi-planetary.
• Settling humans on other worlds, such as Mars, could preserve civilization if Earth were to experience a cataclysm, such as a large asteroid impact.

Important features

• Super Heavy booster is the first stage of Starship and the Starship spacecraft is the second stage of the Starship system. It is capable of point-to-point transport on Earth.
• Material: The rocket is made of stainless steel.
• Measurement: The Starship spacecraft will be about 50 meters tall and 9 meters wide.
• Payload capacity: It will have a payload capacity of between 100 tonnes and 150 tonnes.
• Powered by: It will be powered by three normal Raptor engines and three Raptor engines specially modified for use in the vacuum of space. Together, this will give it a thrust capacity of 1,500 tonnes of force.
• Fuel: It is fueled with 10 million pounds of liquid methane and oxygen. The new fuel can be stored at more manageable temperatures than liquid hydrogen, meaning it doesn't need as much insulation and is less prone to leaks.

5) Taam Ja Blue Hole Discovered

Scientists have discovered a massive blue hole off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.
o It is a type of underwater sinkhole or vertical cave that is typically found in low-lying coastal karst platform regions.
o These are formed when limestone or other carbonate rock is dissolved by slightly acidic groundwater over a long period.
o Taam Ja Blue hole is around 900 feet deep and scientists have dubbed it the second-deepest blue hole found on the planet.
o It has a nearly circular shape at its surface with steep sides that form a large conic structure covered by biofilms, sediments, limestone, and gypsum ledges.
o It was found in the central portion of Chetumal Bay, where submerged coastal karstic sinkholes locally named ‘pozas’ have been reported.
o A series of discontinuous terraces were detected at water depths, near the eastern and north-western walls of the blue hole before developing steep and almost vertical slopes.
o There is variation in salinity and temperature inside the blue hole.
o Yucatan Peninsula is a Northeastern projection of Central America which is lying between the Gulf of Mexico to the west and north and the Caribbean Seato to the east.
o The peninsula is almost wholly composed of beds of coralline and porous limestone rocks.

6) Bengaluru Experienced a Zero Shadow Day

Bengaluru experienced a ‘Zero Shadow Day’, when vertical objects appear to cast no shadow.
o Zero Shadow Day is a sub-solar point where the sun is directly overhead at a particular latitude.
o When the sun is at the zenith (the highest point in the sky) its rays will be hitting a particular point exactly perpendicular to the surface.
o This will make the shadow of a person exactly under him, making it look like there are no shadow
o There are two zero shadow days every year in May and July/August, observed in places that lie between the tropic of Cancer and the tropic of Capricorn.
o One falls during the Uttarayan (when the Sun moves northwards), and the other is during Dakshinayan (when the Sun moves southwards).
o It lasts for a small part of a second, but the effect can be seen for a minute to a minute-and-a-half.

7) Vaccine For Shingles Disease

GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals (GSK India) announced the much-awaited launch of its globally top-selling shingles vaccine Shingrix in India.
o Shingles disease is caused by the varicella-zoster virus the same virus that causes chickenpox.
o It can occur anywhere in the human body.
o It typically looks like a single stripe of blisters that wraps around the left side or the right side of your torso.
o It is not contagious means it can’t be spread from one person to another.
o The risk of shingles goes up as you get older and it is most common in people over age 50.
o Symptoms: Pain, burning, tingling sensitivity to touch etc.
o There is a vaccine called Shingrix available that helps in preventing shingles and its complications.
o Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is the most common complication of shingles. It causes severe pain in the areas where you had the shingles rash.
o Vision loss can happen if shingles affect the eyes. It may be temporary or permanent.
o Hearing or balance problems are possible if you have shingles within or near your ear.

28 April 2023

Indian Polity

1) Code On Social Security 2020 And Gig Workers

The Ministry of State for Labour and Employment told the Lok Sabha that the definition of ‘gig worker’ and ‘platform worker’ has been provided for the first time in the Code on Social Security (SS), 2020.
o The Code aims to regulate the organized/unorganized (or any other) sectors and extend social security benefits, during sickness, maternity, disability, etc. to all employees and workers across different organizations.
o The Code undertakes to integrate the following 9 labour laws relating to social security into one integrated Code:
o The Code has widened coverage by including the unorganized sector, fixed-term employees and gig workers, platform workers, inter-state migrant workers in addition to contract employees.
o The Code applies to everyone on wages in an establishment, irrespective of occupation
o All records and returns have to be maintained electronically. Digitization of data will help in the exchange of information among various stakeholders/funds set up by the Government, will ensure compliance, and also facilitate governance.
o The provision of maternity benefits has not been made universal and is presently applicable for establishments employing 10 workers or more.
o The definition of ‘establishment’ in the proposed code did not include the unorganized sector.
o Hence, women engaged in the unorganized sector would remain outside the purview of maternity benefits.
o Any failure to deposit employees’ contributions not only attracts a penalty of Rs 100,000 but also imprisonment of 1-3 years.
o In the case of repeated offense, the penalties and prosecution are severe, and no compounding is permitted for repeated offenses.

Gig workers:

o According to the Code on Social Security, 2020 (India), “A gig worker is a person who performs work or participates in work arrangements and earns from such activities, outside of the traditional employer-employee relationship.”
o They are independent contractors, online platform workers, contract firm workers, on-call workers, and temporary workers.

2) Civil Union And Concept Of Marriage

The Supreme Court clarified that the hearing’s scope would be limited to developing a notion of a “civil union” that finds legal recognition under the Special Marriage Act.
o A civil union (also known as a civil partnership) is a legally recognized arrangement similar to marriage, created primarily as a means to provide recognition in law for same-sex couples.
o Civil unions would be accompanied by rights such as inheritance rights, property rights, parental rights, employment benefits to spouses, joint parenting right to abstain from testifying against one’s partner — similar to the spousal privilege given under Section 122 of the Indian Evidence Act.
o A civil union is a legal agreement between two individuals that provides them with some of the rights and benefits of a marriage, such as inheritance rights, tax benefits, and access to healthcare.
o Civil unions were recognized solely by issuing states and not by federal law, whereas marriages were recognized both at the state and federal levels.
o Couples in civil unions were not able to enjoy the benefits of being in a civil union uniformly across all states, due to variations in state laws.
o Civil unions provided spousal privileges similar to those given under Section 122 of the Indian Evidence Act, whereas marriages automatically provided this privilege.
o In the wake of the legalisation of same-sex marriages, several civil unions were converted into marriages.
o A civil union is the legal status that provides same-sex couples specific rights and responsibilities normally conferred upon married couples.
o This means that same-sex couples who are in a civil union have access to legal protections and benefits that were previously unavailable to them.
o These rights are often similar to those conferred upon married couples, such as inheritance rights, employment benefits to spouses, joint parenting or joint ownership rights, and the right to abstain from testifying against one’s partner.

3) Governors should clear bills as soon as possible: SC

Context

The Supreme Court observed that bills sent to the governor for assent must be returned "as soon as possible" and not sit over them, making state Legislative Assemblies wait indefinitely.

Key-highlights

• Citing provison 1 of Article 200 of the Constitution, the bench said the expression ‘as soon as possible’ has significant constitutional intent and must be borne in mind by constitutional authorities.
• According to Article 200, "Assent to Bills when a Bill has been passed by the Legislative Assembly of a State or, in the case of a State having a Legislative Council, has been passed by both Houses of the Legislature of the State, it shall be presented to the Governor and the Governor shall declare either that he assents to the Bill or that he withholds assent therefrom or that he reserves the Bill for the consideration of the President."
• The governor is an important constitutional figure in India, serving as the representative of the President of India in each state and union territory.

Article 200 of the Constitution of India

• Article 200 of the Constitution provides that after a Bill has been passed by the Legislative Assembly of a state, the same shall be presented to the governor for his assent.
• The governor may either declare that he assents to the Bill or may withhold his assent or reserve it for consideration by the President.

4) 26 States and UTs adopt Bhu-Aadhar: DoLR

Context

The Department of Land Records (DoLR) has informed that at least 26 States and UTs have adopted the Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN) or Bhu-Aadhar and seven more States are conducting a pilot test of the project.

What is Bhu-Aadhaar?

• The Bhu-Aadhaar or ULPIN is a “14-digit alpha-numeric number generated based on the latitude longitude of the vertices of each land parcel”.
• It is designated to be the “single, authoritative source of truth of information on any parcel of land or property to provide integrated land services to the citizens as well as all stakeholders”.

Other important initiatives for land records

Bhu-Naksha initiative

• The Bhu-Naksha project introduced in 2022 is another project under the Digital India Land Record Modernisation Programme implemented in 2016.
• The Bhu-Naksha initiative provisions for mapping boundaries and conducting spatial measurement of land to computerize land records and produce digitized maps of a region with parcels of demarcated land.
• These maps are editable based on the results of property divisions in G2G (govt to govt) and G2C (govt to citizen) domains.
• These parcels of land are then identified by a Bhu-Aadhaar number.

National Generic Document Registration System (NGDRS)

• As many as 28 States and Union Territories (UTs) in the country have adopted the National Generic Document Registration System (NGDRS).
• NGDRS is a digital portal for maintaining land records.
• The NGDRS is an application developed for allowing people to buy land online via electronic registration of property and documents. The project was initiated by the Department of Land Resources under the aegis of the Ministry of Rural Development.

What is India aiming for?

• The Indian government is aiming to digitize 100 percent of land records by 2024.
• The initiative to create a unified database for land and property records comes alongside other government projects to digitize health and education records through a similar foundational plan which involves creating separate registries for stakeholder entities, a unique ID (in this case the Bhu-Aadhaar) linked to common national IDs like Aadhaar and integration of these databases via APIs which allow for interoperability of services like registrations, managing certifications, transfer of land ownership, etc.

What is the need?

• Land disputes account for 66 percent of civil cases in the country.
• These disputes mainly arise out of issues related to land ownership and whether or not the state has the power to redistribute land, which may have historically been inhabited by various indigenous communities of that region.

What are the challenges?

As the government speeds up the process to digitize land records, concerns related to
• accuracy in mapping the areas as per physical demarcations
• lack of documentation
• manipulation of digital records
• uncertainties about mechanisms to challenge digital records on the basis of existing rules

5) Fill vacancy in NCSC expeditiously: SC

Context

The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to ensure that the vacancy in the National Commission for Scheduled Castes is filled on an expeditious basis.

About

• The National Commission for Scheduled Castes is an Indian constitutional body.
• Articles 338 of the Constitution of India lays down the provision for the establishment of the National Commission for the Scheduled Castes.
• Objective: It is established to provide safeguards against the exploitation of Scheduled Castes and Anglo-Indian communities to promote and protect their social, educational, economic, and cultural interests.
• Appointment: The President by warrant under his hand and seal appoints, and determines the tenure, and service conditions of the Chairperson, Vice-Chairman, and the members of the Commission.
• Composition: NCSC consists of a chairperson, a vice chairperson, and three other members. Its headquarter is situated in New Delhi and has 12 state branches.

National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST)

• The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) was established by amending Article 338 and inserting a new Article 338A in the Constitution through the Constitution (89th Amendment) Act, 2003.

Who are the Scheduled Castes?

The 2011 Census places the number of scheduled castes in India at 16.6 percent of the total population or approximately 166,635,700 people.
• Scheduled castes are sub-communities within the framework of the Hindu caste system who have historically faced deprivation, oppression, and extreme social isolation in India on account of their perceived ‘low status’.
• Only marginalized Hindu communities can be deemed Scheduled Castes in India, according to The Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950.

What are the important laws for SCs?

• Article 15 of the Constitution says the State shall not discriminate on the basis of caste, religion, race, or place of birth.
• Article 16 assures equal opportunity to all citizens for employment in any office under the State, including in promotions, without any discrimination based on caste.
• Article 46 states that the State shall promote the educational and economic interests of weaker sections, namely “Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.”
• Article 243 D provides for reservation for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in Panchayats
• Article 243 T promises the same proportionate reservation of seats in Municipalities.
• Article 330 promises reservation for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in the Lok Sabha.
• Article 338 establishes the National Commission for the Scheduled Castes.
• Article 340 gives the President the power to appoint a commission to investigate the conditions of backward classes, and the difficulties they face, and make recommendations on steps to be taken to improve their condition. This was the article under which the Mandal Commission was formed.

29 April 2023

Ecology & Environment

1) What are Heat Domes?

Heat domes are high-pressure systems that result in extremely hot and dry weather conditions, causing a variety of impacts on human health, the environment, and society. As the frequency and intensity of heat domes increase, understanding their causes, impacts, and mitigation strategies becomes crucial.

What is a Heat Dome?

A heat dome is a type of high-pressure system that occurs when a large area of high pressure in the upper atmosphere traps hot air near the surface of the earth. This results in a dome-like shape of high pressure that prevents the hot air from rising and cooling, leading to persistent hot and dry weather conditions.

How Can Heat Domes Impact Human Health?

Heat domes can have severe impacts on human health. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can cause heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be life-threatening. Heat domes can also aggravate pre-existing health conditions, such as asthma and heart disease, and increase the risk of dehydration and heat-related injuries, particularly among vulnerable populations such as elderly individuals, children, people with pre-existing health conditions, construction workers, farmers, and those living in poverty.

Contributing Factors to the Increased Frequency and Intensity of Heat Domes

Several factors contribute to the increased frequency and intensity of heat domes. Climate change is a significant factor, as rising global temperatures alter weather patterns and create favorable conditions for the formation of heat domes. Melting icebergs and loss of Arctic sea ice also contribute to drier conditions, reducing the moderating effect of the ocean on temperature extremes. Changes in weather patterns, such as the slowing down of atmospheric circulation, can result in prolonged periods of stagnant weather conditions, leading to the formation of heat domes.

Impacts of Heat Domes on the Environment

Heat domes can have severe impacts on the environment. The persistent hot and dry conditions associated with heat domes can lead to droughts, exacerbate wildfires, and damage infrastructure such as roads and buildings. Drier conditions can also have long-term impacts on ecosystems, including changes in plant and animal populations, and disruptions to agricultural production.

Formation of Heat Domes

Heat domes form when a large area of high pressure occurs in the upper atmosphere, causing air to sink and warm as it descends towards the surface. This sinking air creates a dome-like shape of high pressure that traps hot air near the surface, preventing it from rising and cooling. Other factors that contribute to the formation of heat domes include less reflection of sunlight due to changes in atmospheric conditions and dry air.

Can Heat Domes be Completely Prevented?

Heat domes are a natural weather phenomenon, and it is not possible to completely prevent their occurrence. However, the impacts of heat domes can be mitigated through various strategies.

Mitigation Strategies for Heat Domes

Mitigating the impacts of heat domes requires a multi-pronged approach. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change is critical in addressing the root causes of heat domes. Improving energy efficiency, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels can help mitigate the impacts of heat domes. Urban planning strategies, such as planting trees and implementing cooling measures, can help reduce the urban heat island effect, which exacerbates the impacts of heat domes in urban areas. Additionally, implementing early warning systems, providing access to cooling centers, and educating vulnerable populations on heat-related risks and preventive measures can also help mitigate the impacts of heat domes on human health.

2) Cycas pectinata

An evergreen, palm-like plant with a Jurassic link is under stress in Bhutan, according to a new study conducted by five botanists. The plant in question is Cycas pectinate, the only cycad species found in Bhutan. The study, published in the March edition of the Journal of Threatened Taxa, highlights the vulnerability of Cycas pectinate, which is listed as “vulnerable” in the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List.

Threats to Cycas pectinata in Bhutan

The study on Cycas pectinata was conducted at elevations ranging from 787 to 1,394 meters above mean sea level in known locations of two districts in Bhutan – Trashi Yangtse and Mongar. It reveals that Cycas pectinata is facing multiple threats to its existence in Bhutan. Overcollection as an ornamental plant and habitat destruction are two significant factors contributing to the plant’s stress. Additionally, low seed production and predators such as wild boars could also be hindering the expansion of the plant’s population.

Cycads – Ancient Gymnosperms with Genetic Significance

Cycads are one of the most ancient gymnosperms, with a possible origin in the late Carboniferous period, around 300-325 million years ago. They reached their greatest diversity during the Jurassic-Cretaceous period, when dinosaurs roamed the earth. Cycads are unique in having open-to-air unfertilized seeds that are directly fertilized by pollination. The genetic information contained in cycads makes them valuable for scientific research and conservation efforts. They are considered bridges in major evolutionary transitions in plants and are indispensable for understanding the origin and subsequent evolution of seed plants.

Species Information and Cultural Significance

Cycas pectinata belongs to the family Cycadaceae, which has 118 accepted species. It was first described by Scottish surgeon and botanist Francis Buchanan-Hamilton in 1824, believed to be a part of modern-day Assam. Cycads, including Cycas pectinata, hold cultural and economic significance for native populations. In northeast India and some places in Bhutan, the plant is used for religious ceremonies. Locals in certain regions of Bhutan also use the seeds of Cycas pectinata as a dietary supplement, and the young leaves as a substitute for vegetables.

3) Achanakmar Tiger Reserve: Tigress Captured After It Killed Two Person

A tigress that had been captured after it killed two persons and injured another in Chhattisgarh’s Surajpur district was recently released into Achanakmar Tiger Reserve.
o Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is located in the Bilaspur district of Chhattisgarh.
o It was declared a tiger reserve in 2009.
o It is a part of the huge Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve.
o Maniyari River flows right from the center of this reserve, which is the forest’s lifeline.
o It has a corridor connecting Kanha and Bandhavgarh Tiger reserves and plays a critical role in the dispersal of tigers among these reserves.
o Vegetation: Tropical deciduous forest.
o Flora: Sal, bija, saja, haldu, teak, tinsa, dhawara, lendia, khamar, and bamboo bloom here along with over 600 species of medicinal plants.
o Fauna: Wild fauna includes the tiger, leopard, bison, flying squirrel, Indian giant squirrel, chinkara, wild dog, hyena, sambar, chital, and over 150 species of birds.

4) National Green Hydrogen Mission

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways recently said that as per the National Hydrogen Mission of the country, Green Hydrogen/Ammonia bunkers and refueling facilities will be established in all major ports by 2035.
o National Green Hydrogen Mission was approved by the Union Cabinet on 4 January 2022.
o Aim is to make India a Global Hub for the production, utilization, and export of Green Hydrogen and its derivatives.
o The mission outcomes projected by 2030 are:
o Development of green hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 MMT (Million Metric Tonnes) per annum with an associated renewable energy capacity addition of about 125 GW in the country;
o Over Rs. Eight lakh crores in total investments;
o Creation of over Six lakh jobs;
o Cumulative reduction in fossil fuel imports over Rs. One lakh crore;
o Abatement of nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions;

5) Eco-Sensitive Zones : Supreme Court Modified Its Previous Judgment

The Supreme Court of India has modified its earlier judgment that mandated a minimum one-kilometer eco-sensitive zone around protected forests, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries across the country.

Previous Judgement:

o In June 2022, the SC ordered that ESZs of a minimum of one kilometer should be declared around protected forests, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries across the country.
o The court had said that ESZs would act as a “shock absorber” for the protected areas and prevent encroachment, illegal mining, construction, and other activities that could harm the environment and wildlife.
o The court had also directed the Centre and the States to notify the ESZs within 6 months and file compliance reports.

Changed Order:

o Minimum ESZ distance: 1 km ESZ cannot be uniform across the country and has to be “protected area-specific”.
o Applicability of order Applied universally to all protected areas Not applicable to ESZs for which draft and final notifications have been issued by MoEF&CC and in respect of proposals.
o Mining allowed Not specified, but implied to be allowed within ESZ No mining is allowed, either within national parks and sanctuaries or in a 1 km radius.
o Any developmental activities undertaken within ESZs should follow the MoEF&CC 2011 guidelines and provisions of the 2022 Office Memorandum by MoEF&CC

Eco-Sensitive Zones:

o The National Wildlife Action Plan (2002-2016) of the MoEFCC stipulated that state governments should declare land falling within 10 km of the boundaries of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries as eco-fragile zones or Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) under the Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986.
o While the 10-km rule is implemented as a general principle, the extent of its application can vary.
o Areas beyond 10 km can also be notified by the Union government as ESZs if they hold larger ecologically important “sensitive corridors”.

6) Lesser Flamingo

After a six-year absence, the lesser flamingos have finally found their way back to Pulicat Lake.
o Lesser Flamingo is the smallest of all flamingos but has the largest population.
o It possesses the “hallux” or hind toe that some other flamingos do not have.
o Males are a little taller than females.
o It inhabits coastal and inland wetlands.
o Africa, Asia continents, and in that especially Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, North Africa
o They mostly eat blue-green algae but occasionally will take crustaceans and small insects.
o It is serially monogamous, meaning they form pairs that remain together while they are raising the young
o Conservation status
o IUCN: Near Threatened
o Pulicat Lake is the second-largest brackish water lake in the country.
o It lies at the border of the states of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. (Majorly lies in Andhra Pradesh)

01 May 2023

Government Initiatives & Schemes

1) Mahila Samman Saving Certificate

The Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC) is a small savings scheme designed exclusively for women in India. The scheme was launched on April 1, 2023, as a part of observing Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, which is a celebration of India’s 75th year of Independence. The initiative was announced during the Union Budget in February 2023 and was opened by the Union Minister, Smriti Irani.

Tenure, deposit limits, and interest rate

Women can open an MSSC account for a tenure of two years and deposit up to 2 lakh rupees. The interest rate on the scheme is 7.5% per annum, which is higher than other small savings schemes. Interest is calculated quarterly and credited to the account.

Withdrawal provision

The account holder gets the provision to withdraw 40% of the amount deposited in the account one year after the opening of the account. This feature of the scheme provides flexibility to the account holder to use the funds as per their requirement.

Minimum and maximum deposit limits

The minimum amount to be deposited is 1000 rupees, while the maximum is 2 lakhs rupees. However, an individual may open an unlimited number of accounts, subject to the maximum deposit limit, and a three-month period must elapse between one account and the opening of another.

Empowering women financially

The Mahila Samman Savings Certificate aims to encourage women to avail the benefits of interest on their savings and empower them financially. The scheme is backed by the Union Government, and thus, there is no credit risk involved. Women can also open a second savings account under this scheme, but only after three months of the opening of the first account.

2) Animal Pandemic Preparedness Initiative and Animal Health System Support for One Health

Animal pandemics and zoonotic diseases pose significant threats to both animal and human health, and addressing them requires a holistic approach. The Animal Pandemic Preparedness Initiative and the World Bank-funded Animal Health System Support for One Health are comprehensive efforts launched by the Indian government to enhance preparedness and response to potential animal pandemics through a coordinated and holistic approach that involves various stakeholders.

Understanding the One Health Approach

The One Health approach is a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. It emphasizes the need to collaborate across sectors and disciplines to address emerging and zoonotic diseases that pose threats to both animals and humans. The One Health approach recognizes that the health of animals, humans, and the environment are closely connected, and addressing health issues in one sector can have positive impacts on the others.

Objectives of the Animal Pandemic Preparedness Initiative

The Animal Pandemic Preparedness Initiative aims to enhance India’s preparedness and response to potential animal pandemics. The initiative focuses on integrated disease surveillance and monitoring, early warning and response, vaccine and diagnostics, research and development, production, and ecosystem coordination with funding and regulatory framework enablers.

Animal Health System Support for One Health

The World Bank-funded Animal Health System Support for One Health project aims to create an ecosystem for a better animal health management system using the One Health approach. The project covers five states in India and focuses on strengthening animal health surveillance, improving diagnostic capabilities, enhancing veterinary services, and promoting public-private partnerships.

Stakeholders Involved in the Initiatives

The initiatives involve collaboration among various stakeholders. This includes the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), the Government of India, the World Bank, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, State governments, veterinary institutions, research organizations, private sector, and other key stakeholders. Nearly 200 stakeholders participated in the launch event, highlighting the commitment of various stakeholders toward addressing animal pandemics in a coordinated manner.

3) Promotion of Tribal Products from the North-Eastern Region (PTP-NER) Scheme

Arjun Munda, the Minister of Tribal Affairs, has recently launched the Marketing and Logistics Development for Promotion of Tribal Products from the North-Eastern Region (PTP-NER) scheme in Manipur. This ambitious scheme aims to enhance procurement, logistics, and marketing efficiency of tribal products from the North-Eastern Region and strengthen the livelihood opportunities of tribal artisans.

PTP-NER Scheme: Enhancing Tribal Products’ Procurement, Logistics, and Marketing Efficiency

The PTP-NER scheme, short for Marketing and Logistics Development for Promotion of Tribal Products from the North-Eastern Region, is a flagship initiative launched by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. The scheme is focused on boosting the tribal economy of the North-Eastern Region by providing support to tribal artisans and promoting their products in the market.

Applicability and Coverage

The PTP-NER scheme will be implemented in 8 states in the North-Eastern Region i.e., Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim. These states are home to numerous tribal communities with rich traditional craftsmanship and unique products. The scheme aims to provide support and opportunities to these tribal artisans to showcase their skills and products to a wider audience.

Tribal Artisan Melas: A Platform for Showcasing Tribal Products

As part of the PTP-NER scheme, the government plans to organize 68 Tribal Artisan Melas in various districts of the North-Eastern Region. These melas will serve as a platform for tribal artisans to showcase their products and skills. This will not only help in promoting their products but also create a direct link between the tribal artisans and the market, thereby enhancing their marketing efficiency.

Aim and Benefits of the PTP-NER Scheme

The scheme’s main goal is to strengthen the job opportunities of tribal artisans from the North-Eastern States by promoting their products. By providing support for procurement, logistics, and marketing, the scheme aims to improve the overall efficiency of the tribal products’ value chain and create sustainable livelihoods for tribal communities. This will not only uplift the socio-economic status of tribal artisans but also help in preserving and promoting tribal art and culture.

Significance of PTP-NER Scheme for Tribal Artisans

The PTP-NER scheme holds immense significance for tribal artisans as it provides them with a unique opportunity to showcase their products and skills in the market. This will help in creating a wider demand for tribal products, leading to increased income and livelihood opportunities for tribal artisans. The scheme also aims to promote and preserve the rich traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage of tribal communities, ensuring their socio-economic empowerment.

4) Credit Guarantee Fund Trust For Micro And Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) Scheme

The Union Minister for MSME recently launched the revamped Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) Scheme.
o CGTMSE Scheme was launched in 2000 by the Government of India (GoI) to make available collateral-free credit to the micro and small enterprise sector.
o Both the existing and the new enterprises are eligible to be covered under the scheme.
o The corpus of CGTMSE is contributed by the GoI and SIDBI in the ratio of 4:1 respectively.
o The Ministry of MSMEs, and Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) established a trust named Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) to implement the CGTMSE Scheme.
o While launching the revamp of CGTMSE, it was announced that CGTMSE will collaborate with the National Institute for MSME, Hyderabad for setting up a Centre of Financial Inclusion.
o The Centre is expected to provide financial literacy and credit counseling to MSEs, thus helping them to better utilize the benefits of the CGTMSE Scheme.
o The revamped version of the CGTMSE Scheme has been provided with an additional corpus support of ₹9,000 crore in the Union Budget for FY 2023-24 to provide a guarantee for an additional ₹2 lakh crore to MSEs.
o Other major changes made is
o Reduction in guaranteed fees for loans up to ₹1 crore by 50%.
o Raising of ceiling for guarantee from ₹2 crore to ₹5 crore.
o Raising the bar for claim settlement without taking legal action from the previous limit of Rs. 5 lakhs to Rs. 10 lakhs.

5) Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC)

The Union Minister for Women and Child Development and Minority Affairs opened a Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC) account recently.
o Mahila Samman Savings Certificate Scheme was announced in the 2023-24 Union Budget to commemorate ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’.
o It is a one-time savings scheme for women.
o Objective is to empower women by increasing their participation in investments.
o It is a significant step towards financial inclusion and empowerment of women including girls.
o The two-year tenure scheme offers an attractive interest rate of 7.5 percent compounded quarterly
o It will have flexible investment and partial withdrawal options with a maximum ceiling of Rs two lakh.
o The scheme is valid for a two-year period up to 31st March 2025.
o The scheme has been made available in all 1.59 lakh post offices from April 01, 2023.
o One can start investing in this scheme with a minimum amount of Rs. 1,000 or any other amount in multiples of Rs. 100.
o Under this scheme, one can open multiple accounts, but the maximum total investment should be Rs 2 lakh only.
o And each account opened should have a three-month gap between the opening date of the existing account and the new account.
o The scheme is exclusively available to women.
o Any woman above 18 years of age can invest in this scheme by herself.
o In the case of minors, the guardian can open the account on behalf of the girl.

6) 20th Anniversary of SWAGAT Initiative

PM Modi is to attend the 20th anniversary of the SWAGAT initiative in Gujarat via video conferencing soon.
o State Wide Attention on Grievances by Application of Technology (SWAGAT) initiative of the Government of Gujarat was started in 2003.
o It is an innovative concept that enables direct communication between the citizens and the Chief Minister, as also between the citizens and other functionaries of the Government.
o The fourth Thursday of every month is designated as SWAGAT day, wherein the highest office in administration attends to the grievances of the common man.
o There is a three-tier grievance redressal system under SWAGAT – at State, District, and Taluka levels.
o It is now extended to the village level also.
o Grievances submitted at the taluka and district levels are first resolved by the authorities at the respective levels and, thereafter, all pending grievances are reviewed by the Chief Minister himself.
o An applicant under SWAGAT is given a unique ID through which he/she can access the case details and status online.
o The focus in SWAGAT is primarily on the long pending issues.
o SWAGAT program up to the village level, named as GRAM SWAGAT, was launched on 1st February 2011.
o SWAGAT Online program going rural has helped the rural people living even in the remotest corner of the state to get their problems solved quickly.

02 May 2023

Geography

1) What Is Sun Halo?

The people of Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj were graced by an inspiring phenomenon called Sun Halo.
o It is an optical phenomenon that occurs due to sunlight refracting millions of hexagonal ice crystals suspended in the atmosphere.
o When white light passes through unique hexagonal ice crystals found in upper-level cirrus clouds, causing the halo to have colors.
o The clouds contain millions of tiny ice crystals, which refract, split and even reflect the light to give an impression of a circular rainbow ring.
o The crystals have to be oriented and positioned just so with respect to your eye, for the halo to appear.
o Light undergoes two refractions as it passes through the ice crystals and the bending that occurs depends on the ice crystal’s diameter.
o The two refractions bend the light by 22 degrees from its original point, producing a ring of light around the Sun or the Moon.
o The lunar halos are mostly colorless as moonlight is not very bright.

2) Quasars

According to a new study Quasars the brightest and the most powerful objects in the universe
o The quasi-stellar radio sources (Quasars) were first discovered six decades ago.
o These are very luminous objects in faraway galaxies that emit jets at radio frequencies.
o They are located in supermassive black holes, which sit in the center of galaxies.
o These are formed by the energy emitted by materials spiraling around a black hole right before being sucked into it.
o Most quasars are larger than our solar system. A quasar is approximately 1-kilo parsec in width.
o When galaxies collide, it pushes the gas from the outer reaches of the galaxies to the center.
o As the supermassive black hole gorges on the gas, it releases ferocious fountains of energy in the form of radiation, leading to the quasar.

3) Rising weather uncertainties in India

Why in News?

• The first two days of May have been abnormally rainy almost in entire India, with some areas in Maharashtra, Gujarat, UP, and MP getting as much as 10 to 15 times the expected rainfall.
• According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this exceptional spell of rainfall was the result of a number of relatively local weather phenomena over different parts of the country coming together at the same time.

Rainfall in May and Future Projections:

• Except for the north-eastern states, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, the entire country has received plenty of rain.
• The unusual rainfall is a reminder of the increasing uncertainties in weather patterns becoming evident not just in India but across the world.
• Despite the recent showers, this year is widely expected to be hotter and drier.
• Though the IMD has forecast a normal monsoon, with the forecasts of the development of El Nino monsoon rainfall over India is likely to be suppressed.

What are the Global Trends?

• Globally, the month of March this year was the second warmest March ever since the beginning of records in the mid-1800s.
• According to an analysis, the year 2023 was shaping up to become one of the top four warmest years on record, and the rapid development of the El Nino event has an overall warming impact on the planet.

How much is India Warming up?

• The increase in temperatures is being experienced in India too, though at a slightly lower level than the global average.
• For example, the year 2022 was 1.15 degree Celsius warmer than pre-industrial times and was the fifth or sixth warmest year on record.
• The warming over the seas around India has been much higher. Sea surface temperatures in the tropical Indian Ocean have risen by almost 1 degree Celsius between 1950 and 2015.
• By the end of the century, the warming over India is likely to be in the range of 2.4 to 4.4 degree Celsius from the current levels in different emission scenarios.

What about the Different States in India?

• The IMD recently released state-level warming trends for the first time, which highlighted that the warming over India is not uniform across regions.
• Temperatures in Himachal Pradesh, Goa and Kerala had increased at the rate of more than 1 degree Celsius per 100 years in the last 120 years.
• Most of the northeastern states - Mizoram, Assam, Sikkim, Manipur, Tripura - have seen their temperatures climb at the rate of more than 0.7 degree Celsius per 100 years.
• However, the eastern states of Bihar (0.02 degree Celsius), Jharkhand, and Odisha and UP (0.13 degree Celsius) have experienced the least warming.

Impact of Warming:

The year 2022:

o Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab saw the maximum rise in temperatures in 2022, compared to their normal.
o It was the warmest year on record for Sikkim, while it was the second warmest for Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, and Punjab.
o Interestingly, at least two states - Karnataka and Telangana - were cooler than normal in 2022.

Annual rainfall:

o Goa has seen the maximum increasing trend in annual rainfall followed by Gujarat and Tripura.
o Rainfall has decreased in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Manipur.

Extreme weather events:

o For the first time, the IMD also presented data on deaths caused by extreme weather events. While heat waves have attracted a lot of attention, lightning strikes have been killing a far greater number of people in India.
 More than 60% of deaths caused by weather events in India in 2022 (1,608 out of 2,657 recorded deaths) were due to lightning strikes.
o Floods and extreme rainfall events claimed 937 lives.

4) Hakki Pikki Tribal Community

More than 181 members of the Hakki Pikki tribal community from Karnataka are stuck in violence-hit Sudan. o The Hakki Pikki tribe is a semi-nomadic tribe traditionally engaged in bird catching and hunting, living in forest areas in the west and south of India.
o It is a Scheduled Tribe in Karnataka and their origin is said to be an ancestral relation with the legendary Rana Pratap Singh.
o The Hakki Pikki tribe is believed to have originated from Gujarat and Rajasthan and migrated to south India via Andhra Pradesh.
o The tribe is divided into four clans and has a population of 11,892 in Karnataka.
o The 4 clans are Gujaratia, Panwar, Kaliwala, and Mewaras, and can be equated with castes in traditional Hindu society.
o The usual age of marriage among the tribe is 18 for women and 22 for men, and cross-cousin marriages are preferred.
o The society is matriarchal, and Monogamy is the norm.
o Hakki Pikkis in Karnataka follow Hindu traditions and celebrate all Hindu festivals.
o Education levels among the Hakki Pikkis are still low.
o The forest is the main natural resource of the Hakki Pikki.
o The tribe has faced challenges due to stricter wildlife protection laws, leading them to shift from hunting to selling herbal oils, spices, and plastic flowers at local temple fairs.

Migration to Africa:

o In recent years, members of the Hakki Pikki tribe have been traveling to African countries to sell their products as there is a huge demand for Ayurvedic products in the continent.

5) Heatwaves

Casualties were observed from an apparent heat stroke while attending a government award function in Navi Mumbai.
o This incident highlights the potential risks from heatwaves, which are expected to increase in intensity and frequency due to climate change.
o Several factors, such as long-distance travel, underlying health conditions, and lack of access to drinking water and medical attention in large gatherings, can increase vulnerability to heat strokes.
o Heatwaves are prolonged periods of excessively hot weather that can cause adverse impacts on human health, the environment, and the economy.
o India, being a tropical country, is particularly vulnerable to heat waves, which have become more frequent and intense in recent years.

03 May 2023

Defence & Security

1) Ekta Evam Shradhanjali Abhiyan

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is commemorating its Karmyogis and their contribution to nation-building by organizing the “Ekta Evam Shradhanjali Abhiyan” as part of its 64th BRO Day Celebrations. The expedition comprises motorbikes and motorcars, which started from the North East and Northern parts of India. On May 1st, 2023, the Director General of Border Roads, Lt. Gen. Rajeev Chaudhry, flagged off the motorcycle and car rally teams from Seema Sadak Bhawan, New Delhi.
Starting in Kibithu, Arunachal Pradesh on 14 April 2023, expedition members from 18 projects have collected soil, water, and saplings from 108 remote border locations. They will plant these at BRO Alma Mater, BRO School, and Centre in Pune. The expedition is scheduled to finish on 7 May 2023, BRO’s 64th raising day, when Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Ajay Bhatt will flag in the expedition teams.

What is Border Road Organization?

BRO (Border Road Organization) is a statutory body under the aegis of the Defence Ministry. Its primary responsibility is to develop and maintain road networks in India’s border areas and friendly neighboring countries such as Afghanistan, Bhutan, Myanmar, Tajikistan, and Sri Lanka. Its operational areas span 19 states and three union territories, which also include the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The motto of BRO is Shramena Sarvam Sadhyam, which means everything is achievable through hard work.
The Border Roads Organisation is primarily composed of officers from the Border Roads Engineering Service (BRES) and personnel from the General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF). Additionally, the Indian Army’s Corps of Engineers contributes officers and troops on a temporary basis for extra regimental employment through deputation.

BRO’s achievements

BRO had built more than 55,000 kilometers of roads, erected over 450 permanent bridges spanning a total distance of more than 44,000 meters, and established 19 airfields in strategic areas by 2022. BRO’s responsibilities include maintaining this infrastructure, which entails activities such as snow clearing.

2) Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan AVSM, VM

The Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) has a new Commander-in-Chief, Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, who has replaced Lt Gen Ajai Singh. With this appointment, Air Marshal Balakrishnan has become the 17th Commander-in-Chief of the ANC.

Who is Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan?

Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan was commissioned into the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 1986 and was part of the fighter stream. He has over 3200 flying hours on various variants of MIG-21 and Kiran aircraft. He has held various command, staff, and instructional appointments, including as the first Commanding Officer of an AWACS Squadron. Prior to assuming the position of Commander-in-Chief of the ANC, Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan served as the Senior Air Staff Officer at the IAF Training Command located in Bengaluru. He has been awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal for his distinguished service.

What is the Andaman and Nicobar Command?

The Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) is India’s only tri-services command, comprising the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. It was created in 2001 to safeguard India’s strategic interests in Southeast Asia and the Strait of Malacca. The ANC is responsible for defending India’s eastern seaboard and its extended neighborhood, including the Bay of Bengal and the Malacca Strait.

Why is the ANC important?

The ANC is strategically important for India as it is the country’s only command that integrates the capabilities of all three services – the Army, Navy, and Air Force. It plays a crucial role in enhancing India’s strategic reach and presence in the Indian Ocean region. The ANC has been instrumental in strengthening India’s ties with the countries of Southeast Asia and the Pacific. It is seen as a successful example of joint manship and theorization of the armed forces.

3) ASEAN India Maritime Exercise 2023

Indian Naval Ships arrived in Singapore to participate in the Inaugural ASEAN India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2023).
o ASEAN India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2023) will inaugurate in Singapore.
o Objective is to strengthen cooperation and coordination between the Indian Navy and ASEAN navies in the maritime domain.
o The Harbour Phase of the exercise is scheduled to be held at Changi Naval Base from 02 to 04 May 2023.
o During this phase, participating nations will engage in various professional and cultural exchanges.
o The Sea Phase will be conducted from 07 to 08 May 2023 in the South China Sea.
o This phase will include a wide range of naval exercises such as surface warfare exercises, anti-submarine warfare exercises, and air defense exercises.

4) Buland Bharat Exercise

Indian Army recently conducted the ‘Buland Bharat’ exercise in the longest high-altitude Artillery Ranges of the eastern theatre.
o Buland Bharat Exercise is an integrated surveillance and firepower training exercise conducted by the Indian Army.
o It was conducted in the recently operationalized longest High Altitude Artillery Ranges of Eastern Theatre located in Arunachal Pradesh.
o The exercise involved the synergized application of surveillance and firepower capabilities of the Artillery and the Infantry in close coordination with Special Forces, Aviation, and Central Armed Police Forces deployed in West Kameng and Tawang districts of Arunachal Pradesh.
o The exercise validated plans for bringing down integrated firepower by orchestrating synchronized firing by artillery guns and fire support components of the Infantry aimed toward the destruction of designated targets.
o The month-long training culminated in the test exercise in which troops and equipment were tested in simulated war conditions in the high-altitude area and extreme weather conditions.
o Synergised surveillance and firepower from Infantry and Artillery radars, weapon systems, and direction of fire from the air were practiced during the exercise.
o Uninterrupted communication on multiple media was also tested at long distances.

5) Antonov AN-32 Aircarft

India recently donated the propellers of the Antonov AN-32 military transport aircraft to Sri Lanka.
o Antonov AN-32 is a twin-engined turboprop military transport aircraft.
o It is designed and manufactured by the Antonov Design Bureau of Ukraine.
o It was purchased by India from the erstwhile Soviet Union in 1984.
o Its Nato reporting name is Cline.
o The AN-32 can be operated at high-altitude airfields (up to 4500 m above sea level) and in a hot climate, making the aircraft suitable for tactical military transport or other evacuation operations.
o It can carry a maximum weight of 27 tons at a maximum speed of 530 km/h.
o 42 paratroopers or 50 passengers or 24 Casualties on a stretcher with three medical personnel.
o It also has a limited bombing role and is used for para-trooping operations.

04 May 2023

Indian Economy

1) 60th Foundation Day of the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade

Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), New Delhi recently celebrated its Diamond Jubilee on its 60th Foundation Day.
o The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) was established in 1963 as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry to contribute to the skill building for the external trade sector of India.
o The Institute was granted “Deemed to be University” status in 2002.
o The Institute was granted the prestigious AACSB accreditation on 17th November 2021.
o With this the IIFT figures amongst 900+ Business Schools of the world which have earned this accreditation.
o The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) recognized IIFT as a Grade ‘A’ Institution in 2005 as well as in 2015.

2) Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI)

Recent reports show that the combined Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) increased by 3.6 percent (provisional) in March 2023 as compared to the Index of March 2022.
o ICI measures combined and individual performance of the production of eight core industries.
o These include Coal, Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Refinery Products, Fertilizers, Steel, Cement, and Electricity.
o These Eight Core Industries comprise 40.27 percent of the weight of items included in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP).
o Details of annual and monthly indices are compiled and released by the Office of Economic Adviser (OEA), Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
o It provides an advanced indication of the production performance of industries of a ‘core’ nature prior to the IIP

3) Telecom Regulatory Authority Of India: Change In Rules

The Telecom Regulatory Authority Of India (TRAI) recently announced to change the rules regarding fake, promotional calls and SMS to customers.
o Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is a regulatory body set up by the Government of India under section 3 of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997.
o It is the regulator of the telecommunications sector in India.
o It consists of a Chair person and not more than two full-time members, and not more than two part-time members.
o The chairperson and the members of TRAI are appointed by the Central Government, and the duration for which they can hold their office is three years or until they attain the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
o TRAI is not a completely independent telecom regulator.
o Under section 25 of the Act, it has the power to issue directions which are binding on TRAI.
o The TRAI is also funded by the Central Government.

4) India raises its logistics game, rises six spots on World Bank Index to 38

Context

India has improved its ranking in the World Bank's Logistic Performance Index 2023 by six places, owing to significant investments in both soft and hard infrastructure as well as technology, which has led to an improvement in the country's port performance.

Key highlights of the Report

• Singapore and Finland are the most efficient and highest-ranked LPI countries.
• India’s ranking: According to the report, India's rank in the index of 139 countries has risen to 38 from 44 in 2018.
• International shipments: In 2023, India's ranking for international shipments improved significantly, moving up from 44 in 2018 to 22.
• Logistics competence and equality: The country also climbed four places to rank 48 in logistics competence and equality.
• Timeline: In terms of timelines, India saw a significant improvement, moving up 17 places in the rankings.
• Tracking and tracing: Additionally, India improved three places in tracking and tracing, now ranking at 38.

What is Logistic Performance Index 2023?

• The LPI is an interactive benchmarking tool created to help countries identify the challenges and opportunities they face in their performance on trade logistics and what they can do to improve their performance.
• The LPI 2023 allows for comparisons across 139 countries.
• The 2023 LPI for the first time measures the speed of trade with indicators derived from big datasets tracking shipments.

Overview of the Logistics Industry in India

• Meaning: Broadly, logistics is the time, resources, and money invested in storing and transporting a commodity from its origin to its destination.
• The logistics industry in India is growing rapidly, with the country’s economy expanding at a rapid pace.
• India’s logistics sector is estimated to account for about 14.4% of GDP. The unorganized sector amounts to over 90% of the logistics sector.
• The average logistics cost per GDP among BRICS countries was 11%. However, in the case of India, the cost share per GDP was 14%.
• The sector is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.5% between FY2019 and FY2024.
• The sector employs around 22 million people and is expected to create another 1.2 million jobs by 2025.
• Government Scheme to improve India’s logistics sector
• National Logistics Policy: It is a comprehensive effort to address issues of high cost and inefficiency by laying down an overarching interdisciplinary, cross-sectoral, and multi-jurisdictional framework for the development of the entire logistics ecosystem.
• PM GatiShakti – National Master Plan for muti-modal connectivity: It aims to give further boost and complementarity with the launch of the National Logistics Policy.

Other Related Initiatives to Logistics:

• Multi-Modal Logistics Parks
• Logistics Ease Across Different States (LEADS) Report
• Dedicated Freight Corridor
• Sagarmala Projects
• Bharatmala Project
• Multimodal Transportation of Goods Act, 1993

5) Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN)

The Rural Development Ministry recently said that ULPIN has been adopted by 26 states and union territories so far.
o Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN) is part of the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP).
o ULPIN or Bhu-Aadhar is a 14-digit identiﬁcation number according to a land parcel.
o It would uniquely identify every surveyed parcel of land and prevent land fraud, especially in rural India, where land records are outdated and disputed.
o The identiﬁcation is based on the longitude and latitude coordinates of the land parcel and depends on detailed surveys and geo-referenced cadastral maps.
o It aims to compile every detail pertaining to different properties from across the country.
o ULPIN is a Single, Authoritative Source of Truth for information on any parcel of land or property to provide Integrated Land Services to the citizens as well as all stakeholders.
o Various types of data relating to the landed properties, which are currently under the possession of different ministries and departments, too will be linked with the ULPIN.

05 May 2023

Agriculture

Millets and Shree Anna

The Ministry of Home Affairs has recently decided to introduce Millets, Shree Anna in the meals of personnel of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).

About:

• The decision to introduce 30 percent Millet in the meals.
• The Ministry had asked all the forces to take action for the introduction of Millets based menu.
• The Ministry informed that Millets will also be made available in Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandar, Grocery Shops of the campuses, and Ration Stores by setting up dedicated counters and corners.
• The forces will organize training of cooks in preparing millet-based dishes through reputed institutes in this field.

International Year Millets:

• The United Nations had declared 2023 the International Year Millets as recognizing the importance of millets and creating a domestic and global demand along with providing nutritious food to the people, at the behest of the Government of India.
• Millets are a good source of proteins, gluten-free, low in Glycemic Index (GI), and rich in dietary fiber, micronutrients including calcium, iron, phosphorus, etc, and phytochemicals.
• The campaign of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to promote Shree Anna will fulfill the nutritional requirements of crores of people in the country.
• International Year of Millets (IYOM) - 2023 will provide an opportunity to increase global production, efficient processing, and better use of crop rotation and promote millets as a major component of the food basket.

06 May 2023

Social Issues & Social Justice

1) International Institute for Population Sciences

The sixty-fourth convocation of the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), Deemed to be University, Mumbai was held recently.

About:

• The International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), Mumbai, formerly known as the Demographic Training and Research Centre (DTRC) till 1970, was established in July 1956 under the joint sponsorship of Sir Dorabji Tata Trust, the Government of India and the United Nations.
• It serves as a regional centre for Training and Research in Population Studies for the ESCAP region.
• The Institute was re-designated to its present title in 1985 to facilitate the expansion of its academic activities.
• It was declared as a 'Deemed to be University on August 14, 1985, under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956 by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India.
• The recognition has facilitated the award of recognized degrees by the Institute itself and paved the way for further expansion of the Institute as an academic institution.
• IIPS holds a unique position among all the regional population centers.
• It was the first such center started, and it serves a much larger population than any of the other regional centers.
• The Institute is under the administrative control of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
• There are seven Academic Departments in the Institute.

2) Violence in Manipur

Why in the news?

• Violence between Manipur’s Kuki tribe and the majority Meitei community continued to rage in several parts of Manipur.

What's behind the violence in Manipur?

• Manipur was boiling since February 2023

o Manipur has been restive since February when the state government launched an eviction drive seen as targeting a specific tribal group.
o The drive led to protests but not on the scale of the one seen recently.

• High Court’s order as a tigger point

o The recent protests were triggered by the Manipur High Court’s direction to the State to pursue a 10-year-old recommendation to grant Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the non-tribal Meitei community.
o The Court’s order has brought the historical tensions between the valley-dwelling Meitei community and the state’s hill tribes to a boil.

• Violence started

o A ‘tribal solidarity march’ was organised by the All Tribal Students’ Union of Manipur (ATSUM) against the order of the High Court.
o Violent clashes broke out at various places in Manipur during the course of this march.

Which are the major communities residing in Manipur?

• The State is like a football stadium with the Imphal Valley representing the playfield at the centre and the surrounding hills the galleries.
• The valley, which comprises about 10% of Manipur’s landmass, is dominated by the non-tribal Meitei.
o This area yields 40 of the State’s 60 MLAs.
• The hills comprising 90% of the geographical area are inhabited by more than 35% recognized tribes.
o This area sends only 20 MLAs to the Assembly.

Why does the Meitei community want ST status?

• There has been an organised push in support of this demand since 2012, led by the Scheduled Tribes Demand Committee of Manipur (STDCM).
• Recognised as a tribe before the merger with India
o In their plea before the High Court, it was argued that the Meitei community was recognized as a tribe before the merger of the princely state of Manipur with the Union of India in 1949.
o It lost its identity as a tribe after the merger.
• Need to preserve tradition and culture
o The demand for ST status arose from the need to preserve the community, and save the ancestral land, tradition, culture and language of the Meiteis.
o As per the arguments forwarded by the community in the court:
 The community has been victimized without any constitutional safeguards to date.
 The Meitein/Meetei has been gradually marginalized in their ancestral land.
 Their population which was 59% of the total population of Manipur in 1951 has now been reduced to 44% as per 2011 Census data.

Why are tribal groups against ST status for Meiteis?

• The tribal groups say the Meiteis have a demographic and political advantage besides being more advanced than them academically and in other aspects.
o The Meiteis are a dominant group controlling the state and its apparatuses.
o Hence, the claim that Meiteis need ST status to protect their culture and identity is self-defeating.
• They feel the ST status to the Meiteis would lead to loss of job opportunities and allow them to acquire land in the hills and push the tribals out.
• The Manipuri language of the Meiteis is included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.
• Sections of the Meitei community — which is predominantly Hindu — are already classified under Scheduled Castes (SC) or Other Backward Classes (OBC).

Is this demand the only reason for the conflict rocking the state currently?

• Unrest has been brewing among the hill tribes of the state for a number of reasons.
• Pro-government groups in Manipur claim that some tribal groups with vested interests are trying to scuttle Chief Minister’s crusade against drugs.
• The anti-drug drive began with destroying poppy fields and the theory that illegal settlers from Myanmar are behind clearing forests and government lands to grow opium and cannabis.
o These settlers are ethnically related to the Kuki-Zomi people of Manipur.
• The first violent protest in March was against the eviction of the residents of a Kuki village.
o Kuki groups have claimed that the survey and eviction is a violation of Article 371C, which confers some administrative autonomy to the tribal-dominated hill areas of Manipur.
• The large-scale arson and violence, on May 3 and 4, followed a tribal solidarity rally against the reported move to include the Meiteis in the ST list.

3) Facing flak over NREGS rule changes, government holds talks on its initiatives

Why in the news?

• Recently, the Centre held a Samvaad (dialogue) with civil society organizations on the good governance initiatives taken under the rural job guarantee scheme - Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS).
o This was the first such initiative taken by the Centre.
• This dialogue was organized after criticism over the mandatory use of the National Mobile Monitoring System (NMMS) app.
o The app captures the attendance of those claiming work under MGNREGS.

Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS)

• The National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) was notified in September 2005.
• In 2009, an amendment was made to the Act to change the name to Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
• Mandate: To provide at least 100 days of guaranteed wage employment in a financial year to every rural household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work.
• The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (Mahatma Gandhi NREGS) was created as directed in Mahatma Gandhi NREGA and the means to implement the Act so that the guarantee comes into effect.
• MGNREGS is a Centrally-Sponsored Scheme i.e., the scheme is jointly funded by the Central government and the State governments.
• Concerned Ministry: Ministry of Rural Development

Salient Features of the Scheme:

• Legal Right to Work –

o The MGNREGA provides a legal guarantee for wage employment.
o Every rural household has the right to register under MGNREGA.
o Also, at least one-third of the beneficiaries of the scheme have to be women.
o There are legal provisions for allowances and compensation both in cases of failure to provide work on demand and delays in payment of wages for work undertaken.

• Demand-Driven –

o It is a demand-driven programme where the provision of work is triggered by the demand for work by wage-seekers.

• Decentralized mode of implementation –

o The State governments have the power to make rules and amend the concerned State scheme.
o Gram Panchayats (GPs) are to implement at least 50 percent of the work in terms of cost.
o Plans and decisions regarding the nature and choice of works to be undertaken, the order in which each work is to be triggered, site selection etc. are all to be made in open assemblies of the Gram Sabha and ratified by the GP.

• Annual Report tabled in the Parliament –

o An Annual Report prepared by the Central Employment Guarantee Council (CEGC), on the outcomes of MGNREGA is required to be presented annually by the Central Government to Parliament.
 CEGS is a statutory body set up under Section 10 of the MGNREGA.
 It is chaired by the Union Minister for Rural Development.
• The MGNERGA covers the entire country with the exception of districts that have a hundred percent urban population.

4) Govt Revises Nutritional Standards in Its Food Safety Schemes for Kids

Why in the News?

• A decade after the National Food Security Act (NFSA) was enacted, the Central government has revised the nutritional standards of meals at schools and Anganwadi.

What is Food Security?

• The basic concept of food security globally is to ensure that all people, at all times, should get access to basic food for their active and healthy life.
• Though the Indian Constitution does not have any explicit provision regarding the right to food, the fundamental right to life enshrined in Article 21 of the Constitution may be interpreted to include the right to live with human dignity, which may include the right to food and other basic necessities.

About National Food Security Act, 2013:

• The issue of 'food security' in the household is continuously being addressed by the Government for a long, through the Public Distribution System and the Targeted Public Distribution System.
• However, the enactment of the National Food Security Act, (NFSA) 2013 on July 5, 2013, marks a paradigm shift in the approach to food security from welfare to rights-based approach.
• The Act legally entitles up to 75% of the rural population and 50% of the urban population to receive subsidized foodgrains under Targeted Public Distribution System.
o About two-thirds of the population, therefore, is covered under the Act to receive highly subsidized food grains.
• As a step towards women’s empowerment, the eldest woman of the household of age 18 years or above is mandated to be the head of the household for the purpose of issuing ration cards under the Act.

• Coverage –

o The Act is being implemented in all the States/UTs, and on an all-India basis, out of maximum coverage of 81.34 crore persons, around 80 crore persons have been covered under NFSA.
• In case of non-supply of the entitled quantities of foodgrains or meals to entitled persons under NFSA, such persons shall be entitled to receive such food security allowance from the concerned State Government to be paid to each person.

• Responsibilities under NFSA –

o NFSA defines the joint responsibility of the Centre and State/UT Government.
o While the Centre is responsible for the allocation of required foodgrains to States/UTs, the States/UTs are responsible for the effective implementation of the Act.
o The work of identification of eligible households is to be done by States/UTs.

Central Issue Price under NFSA:

• The NFSA provides a legal right to persons belonging to “eligible households” to receive foodgrains at subsidized prices– rice at Rs 3/kg, wheat at Rs 2/kg, and coarse grain at Rs 1/kg — under the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS).
o The Central government decided to provide free foodgrains to about 81.35 crore beneficiaries under the NFSA for one year from January 1, 2023.
• The term “eligible households” comprises two categories —
o “Priority Households”, and families covered by the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY).
o Priority households are entitled to receive 5 kg of foodgrains per person per month, whereas AAY households are entitled to 35 kg per month at the same prices.
• Under Schedule-I of the Act, these subsidized prices were fixed for “a period of three years from the date of commencement of the Act”.
o However, the government has yet not revised the subsidized prices.

News Summary:

• A decade after the National Food Security Act (NFSA) was enacted, the Central government has revised the nutritional standards of meals at schools and Anganwadi.
• The revised nutritional standards have augmented the proportion of calories and protein, while also mandating the inclusion of micronutrients in them.
• The amendment has been done on the recommendations of an inter-ministerial committee.
• In its draft report, the inter-ministerial committee recommended “urgent action”, citing the possible impact of the Covid-19 pandemic in worsening the “silent crisis” of undernutrition.

What Are the Revised Nutritional Standards?

• The amendment has been made under Schedule II of the NFS Act, which was notified on January 25.
o Schedule II of the Act fixes nutritional standards for nine groups, starting from children aged six months to one year and those in upper primary classes (VI-VIII).
• Three new categories have been created for undernourished children aged between six months to six years.
• The nutritional standards for some existing categories such as lower primary classes, and upper primary classes have been revised.
o For instance, under the previous norms, every child in lower primary classes was entitled to get 450 kilocalories (kcal) and 12 gm of protein with midday meals.
• Now, the protein quantity has been hiked to 15-20 gms, while fat (18-21 gms) and carbohydrates (70 gms) are part of the mix as well.
• Standards for micronutrients have also been fixed: calcium 170 mg, zinc 2 mg; iron 3.5 mg; dietary folate 50 micrograms, Vitamin A 100 micrograms; Vitamin B6 0.43 micrograms; Vitamin B12 0.66 micrograms.

08 May 2023

Arts & Culture

1) Thrissur Pooram 2023

Context

Kerala celebrated the 36-hour-long Thrissur Pooram temple festival, known as the mother of all poorams.

About

• Thrissur Pooram is an important temple festival in Kerala that dates back over 200 years.
Prior to Thrissur Pooram, Arattupuzha Pooram was the most significant temple festival in Kerala.
• The festival was founded by Shakthan Thampuran, the ruler of the Kingdom of Cochin from 1790 to 1805.
• It is an impressive exhibition of cultural customs and traditions, featuring adorned elephants, colorful umbrellas, and percussion music.
• The festival is a splendid blend of Kerala's spiritual and cultural heritage and is held in the Thekkinkadu Maidanam in Thrissur during the Malayalam month of the medium, which falls in April-May.

Historical Belief

• The festival's origin dates back to 1796 when a group of temples was prohibited from attending the Arattupuzha Pooram festival due to heavy rainfall.
• Upon hearing their grievances, Shakthan Thampuran decided to organize his own festival, which eventually became the Thrissur Pooram celebrated on the same day in May.

2) Ubhauli Festival

The festival of Ubhauli is celebrated annually by the Kirant community on the full moon day of the Lunar month of Baishakh. The festival is of great significance for the community as it marks the beginning of farming and the migration phase upwards towards the hilly regions when the summer season arrives.

Ubhauli Festival in Nepal

Ubhauli is mostly celebrated in Koshi Province and Kathmandu districts in Nepal. The festival is celebrated by the Sunuwar, Rai, Limbu, and Yakkha communities of Nepal, India, and other parts of the world by Kirati people.

Significance of the Religious Book Mundhum

The religious book of the Kirants, Mundhum, divides time into two parts, Udhauli and Ubhauli, based on farming. Udhauli marks the migration from hills downwards to areas of lower altitude, which is also an annual festival of the Kirant communities.

Celebration of Ubhauli Festival

During the celebration, members of the Kiranti community come together in a structured manner to mark the occasion and share kind words. The festival is marked by the performance of the traditional dance, Sakela. On this day, Kirat people pray to mother nature for healthy crops and protection from natural calamities that year.

3) Celebration Picasso 1973-2023

On April 8, 2023, the art world will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the passing of Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. It is a day that marks not only his death but also a celebration of his remarkable work and artistic legacy that continues to inspire and influence generations of artists.

The Picasso Celebration 1973-2023: Collaborating Governments and Cultural Institutions

The Picasso Celebration 1973-2023 is an initiative by the French and Spanish governments to honour the life and work of the artist. Its primary goal is to showcase the career of a predominantly European artist who has globally disseminated symbols that are universally recognized, such as Guernica. It is an opportunity to review and understand the artist’s work and to appreciate his contribution to the art world.

Symposiums and Exhibitions to Celebrate Picasso’s Legacy

As part of the Picasso Celebration 1973-2023, several symposiums and exhibitions are planned to take place worldwide. The first symposium, ‘ Picasso in the 21st Century: Historical and cultural issues,’ will be held at the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía in Madrid.

The major international symposium, which aims to bring together all the partners, museum institutions, research centers, and researchers around “Picasso in the 21st century: Historical and cultural issues,” will be held on December 2023, at UNESCO in Paris.

The Guggenheim Museum will showcase the exhibition ‘Young Picasso in Paris,’ focusing on the artist’s early works during his formative years in Paris. The museum will also put particular emphasis on Picasso’s oil painting, ‘Le Moulin de la Galette.’ The Brooklyn Museum will feature the exhibition ‘ Its Pablo-Matic According to Hannah Gadsby,’ curated by Hannah Gadsby, a comedian and art lover who explores the relationship between Picasso’s work and contemporary art.

Pablo Picasso: Life and Legacy

Pablo Picasso was born in Malaga, Spain, on October 25, 1881. He spent most of his life in France, where he became a prominent figure in the art world. Picasso’s artistic legacy is marked by his remarkable contributions to the development of Cubism, his experimentation with various art forms, and his political activism through his work.

4) First Indian To Complete The Golden Globe Race

Abhilash Tomy created history as the first Indian to complete the Golden Globe Race.
o The Golden Globe Race is being conducted by the K.’s Sir Robin Knox Johnston.
o Objective is to commemorate the world’s first solo non-stop circumnavigation undertaken by him in 1968, onboard the Indian-built boat Suhaili.
o Participants in the GGR are required to sail around the world, single-handed and non-stop.
o The uniqueness of the race is that boat designs and technology newer than 1968 are not permitted.
o Also, the use of the Global Positioning System (GPS), satellite communication, and navigational aids are forbidden in the 30,000-mile journey
o The sailors each have a satellite phone and emergency locator beacons to be used for medical emergencies only.
o Entrants are limited to sailing similar yachts, between 32 ft and 36 ft, designed prior to 1988 with a full-length keel with a rudder.
o Equipment similar to what was available to Sir Robin in that first race was to be used.
o 16 sailors from 11 countries depart from Les Sables-d’Olonne, France

5) Shilabhattarika

The decoding of Copper plates sheds light on the celebrated ancient Sanskrit poetess Shilabhattarika.
o Shilabhattarika was a Sanskrit poetess who lived in the 9th century.
o M. B. Padma, a scholar of the University of Mysore, speculates that she may be the same as Shila-maha Devi, the queen of the 8th-century Rashtrakuta ruler Dhruva.
o The 10th-century poet Rajashekhara praises Shilabhattarika as a leading figure of the Panchali literary style.
o According to Rajashekhara, the Panchali style can be traced to the works of Shilabhattarika, and possibly to some of the works of the 7th-century poet Bana.
o Shilabhattarika has been quoted by several classical Sanskrit literary critics, and her verses appear in most major Sanskrit anthologies.
o She is known to have written at least 46 poems on topics such as “love, morality, politics, nature, beauty, the seasons, insects, anger, indignation, codes of conduct,

09 May 2023

International Relations

1) Tibet Matters March

The Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) has organized a month-long Tibet Matters March from Sikkim’s Gangtok to Assam’s Tezpur. Since it began on April 29, over 80 volunteers from the TYC regional chapters in India and Nepal have joined the march.

Purpose of the March

The primary aim of the Tibet Matters March is to raise awareness about the human rights situation in Tibet and to promote Tibetan independence. During the Tibet Matters March, TYC activists are calling on both international leaders and China to take the required measures to settle the Sino-Tibetan dispute. They also called on the G20 leaders to bring up this topic during the summit that will be held in September 2023.

Tibet Matters March Campaign

The Tibet Matters March is part of a larger campaign that seeks to raise awareness about the human rights situation in Tibet and promote Tibetan independence. The campaign involves a series of marches and demonstrations in various parts of the world, along with online activism and advocacy.

TYC’s Demands and Concerns

The activists from TYC highlight the significance of Tibet in resolving the increasing conflicts between China and several Southeast Asian countries. Concerns were raised about the Chinese colonial educational system, which forcibly enrolls more than a million Tibetan students in state-run boarding schools and removes them from their families. This policy is considered genocidal, meant to alienate Tibetan children from their heritage. The activists are calling for the shutdown of the boarding schools that are jeopardizing the Tibetan culture and identity.

Current State of Human Rights in Tibet

Tibet is currently the least free nation in the world, ranking alongside South Sudan and Syria at the bottom of Freedom House’s worldwide freedom rankings after more than 60 years of forcible and unlawful occupation. China’s oppressive actions aim to erase the basic identity of Tibetans, including their culture, traditions, and language.

2) Greek Embassy Event to Host Event About Situation in Mariupol

An event is scheduled to take place at the Greek Embassy in Delhi to showcase the situation in Mariupol, Ukraine. The event is backed by the European Union mission in Delhi and EUNIC. It event with exhibit photographs and showcase music performances by Ukrainian nationals of Greek ethnicity.

Ethnic Greeks in Mariupol and Ukraine

Mariupol, a city in southeast Ukraine, has been home to Pontic Greeks for centuries. Greeks used to form a significant minority in Mariupol before the conflict. Greek communities have been living in the area since the 18th century, preserving and developing their unique traditions, culture, music, and dialect, Roumeiki, within independent Ukraine since 1991.

About Pontic Greeks

The Pontic Greeks are a group of people of Greek ethnicity who are indigenous to the Pontus region in north-eastern Anatolia, Turkey. They have a distinct language and culture that has evolved differently from the rest of the Greek world due to their geographic isolation. The Pontic Greeks have a long history in the region, dating back to at least 700 BC, and have migrated to other parts of Eastern Anatolia, as well as to Georgia and the former Russian province of Kars Oblast. Today, most Pontic Greeks reside in Greece, particularly in and around Thessaloniki in Greek Macedonia, due to the population exchange with Turkey in 1923.

Mariupol during the Conflict

Mariupol was a city with a lot of Greek heritage landmarks before the conflict. The city of Mariupol was destroyed after the siege that took place in February 2022. Many villages in the surrounding region faced a similar fate, resulting in many Ukrainians in the area becoming refugees.

Purpose of the Event

The event aims to bring attention to the challenges faced by ethnic Greeks in Ukraine and to commemorate their culture and legacy. The spotlight is on Mariupol’s plight during the conflict. The community will unite to demonstrate their support and determination during difficult times. The event will also provide assistance to the ethnic Greeks who have been displaced since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022.

3) First Dubai FinTech Summit

Dubai is making strides towards becoming a global business hub, with its strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies. Recently, the city hosted the inaugural Dubai FinTech Summit from May 8th to 9th, which was hosted by the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading international financial hub in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region. The Summit was inaugurated by Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who holds the positions of First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance of the UAE, and serves as the President of DIFC.

Global Industry Leaders Attend Summit

The event gathered a total of 5,000 individuals who are leaders in the global industry, including policymakers, executives in top positions, entrepreneurs, investors, and delegates. Over 100 exhibitors and 120 speakers representing over 50 countries participated in the Summit.

Dubai’s Role in Shaping the Future of FinTech and Finance

Dubai is playing a major role in promoting innovation and cutting-edge technologies in the financial sector of the region. The city provides a favorable ecosystem to foster the growth of FinTech innovation. The DIFC has invested heavily in the FinTech sector by creating a supportive and agile regulatory framework, providing access to funding, sandbox environments, and resources for start-ups and established companies alike.

Dubai’s Contribution to the Financial Sector

The DIFC is a major contributor to Dubai’s economy, contributing approximately 6% of its GDP. The Centre has grown significantly over the last decade, enhancing its ecosystem to accelerate innovation, testing, investment, and growth. Its efforts have created an environment that fosters growth and development, making it a significant contributor to the country’s GDP.

Future of the FinTech Sector

It is predicted that the FinTech industry will become twice its size from over USD 135 billion in 2021 to nearly USD 270 billion in 2027, highlighting its significance in molding the financial industry.

Key Topics at the Dubai FinTech Summit

The Summit’s theme was “New Global Home to the Future of FinTech and Finance.” Some of the key topics discussed at the Summit include:
• Building the Economies of the Future
• Crypto and the Evolving Regulatory Framework
• The World of Finance: Where are the Women?
• Building a Resilient and ‘Sustainable Financial Sector in the Age of Disruption

Cross-Border Collaboration

Over 20 MoU agreements were signed at the Dubai FinTech Summit, indicating the city’s contribution to promoting cross-border collaboration. The Summit strengthened Dubai’s growing position in influencing the global FinTech landscape. The Summit reinforced Dubai’s emerging role in shaping the future of the worldwide FinTech landscape. It also fostered more cross-border collaboration between the public and private sectors, offering a strong platform for FinTech firms to tap into new growth opportunities.

4) ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2023)

Context

Two frontline warships of the Indian Navy (INS Satpura and INS Delhi) reached in Singapore to participate in the inaugural edition of the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise.

Key-highlights:

• The ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2023) aims to provide an opportunity for the Indian Navy and ASEAN navies to work closely with each other and conduct seamless operations in the maritime domain.
• The harbour phase of the exercise is scheduled to be held at the Changi Naval Base, while the sea phase will be conducted in the South China Sea.
• The South China Sea has been witnessing major military assertiveness by China in the last few years.
• New Delhi’s move to increase its maritime security cooperation with the ASEAN region comes amidst China’s growing belligerence not only on land in eastern Ladakh along the Line of Actual Control but also in the Indian Ocean, South China Sea, east China Sea, Taiwan Strait and elsewhere in the Indo-Pacific Region.
• With AIME-2023 India becomes the 4th ASEAN dialogue partner, after Russia, China, and the US to hold the ASEAN+1 maritime exercise in which navies of the Philippines, Cambodia, Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and Brunei.
• INS Delhi is India's first indigenously-built guided missile destroyer.
• INS Satpura is an indigenously-built guided missile stealth frigate.
Both ships are part of the navy's Eastern Fleet based in Visakhapatnam. The ships are fitted with state-of-the-art weapons and sensors.

5) Japan to train Indian engineers before the transfer of bullet train tech

Context

Japanese experts will train 1,000 Indian engineers for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor before starting work on the track system.

Key-highlights

• The Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train will use the ballast-less Slab Track system (popularly known as the J Slab track system), which is used in Japan's Shinkansen high-speed railways.
• Slab Track consists of precast Reinforced Concrete (RC) slab, over which fastening devices and rails are fitted.
• The Japanese track system is unparalleled globally, and its installation requires technicians with exceptional proficiency.

• Training:

• 20 Japanese experts will certify the skills of Indian engineers, supervisors, and technicians through intensive training, paving the way for the transfer of technology to the Japanese HSR track system.
• JARTS, a Japanese non-profit, nominated by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), will provide training for the MAHSR project.

India’s First Bullet Train Project

• Presently, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor (MAHSR) is the only sanctioned high-speed rail project in the country.
• The High-Speed Rail operating at 320 mph will traverse along west India’s landscape, covering a 508.17 km distance between Mumbai and Ahmedabad in just about two hours.
• It will cover the following distance with 12 stations en route-
• 155.76 km in Maharashtra
• 4.3 km in the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli
• 348.04 km in Gujarat

6) National Security Advisers (NSAs) Of India, The US, And The UAE

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hosted a special meeting of the National Security Advisers (NSAs) of India, the US, and the UAE.
o The discussions aimed to strengthen relations and ties between the countries in a way that enhances growth and stability in the region.
o The meeting focused on regional initiatives on infrastructure.
o The meeting sought to advance their shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle East region interconnected with India and the world.
o Among the projects discussed, a plan to connect Gulf countries via a railway network and connect to India via shipping lanes from “two ports” in the region is highlighted.
o This is meant to provide a counter to China’s Belt and Road initiative and other inroads in the region.
o The idea for the initiative came up during talks held over the past 18 months by the I2U2.
o The I2U2 Quad, works on connecting “South Asia to the Middle East to the United States in ways that advance economic technology and diplomacy”.

7) Arab League

The Arab League recently welcomed back Syria’s government, ending a more than decade-long suspension.
o Arab League, also called the League of Arab States (LAS) is a regional organization of Arab states in the Middle East and parts of Africa.
o It was formed in Cairo on 22 March 1945. The founding member states were Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen.
o Headquarters: Cairo, Egypt.
o Objective is to strengthen ties among member states, coordinate their policies and direct them toward a common good.
o Currently it has 22 members including Palestine, which the League regards as an independent state.
o Syria’s participation has been suspended since November 2011, as a consequence of government repression during the Syrian Civil War.
o The highest body of the league is the Council, composed of representatives of member states, usually foreign ministers, their representatives, or permanent delegates.

10 May 2023

Science & Technology

1) Sludge in STPs with Potential for Use as Fertilizer

Researchers at the IIT Roorkee for the first time analyzed the sludge found in sewage treatment plants (STP) in India, which were established to treat polluted water from the Ganga River. The study revealed that most of the sludge has a great potential for use as fertilizer, but it needs to be treated before it can be used without restrictions on farms or as a potential biofuel.

An Overview of Sludge

Sludge is a thick residue filtered out of Sewage Treatment Plants (STP) that contains a high concentration of organic chemicals and contaminants. Sludge management is a crucial aspect of ensuring environmental sustainability, particularly in developing countries where wastewater treatment infrastructure is often inadequate. The ‘Arth Ganga’ initiative, launched under the National Mission for Clean Ganga, aims to monetize and reuse treated wastewater and sludge, thereby deriving livelihood opportunities from the river rejuvenation programme.

Potential Uses of Sludge

Sludge can be reused in various ways, including as organic fertilizers, bricks, and even as a potential biofuel. However, the contaminants in sludge make it imperative to treat it before use to avoid potential hazards to human health and the environment.

Classes of Treated Sludge

Treated sludge is classified as Class A or Class B, with Class A being safe for disposal in the open and useful as organic fertilizer, while Class B sludge can be used only in “restricted” agricultural applications. However, India does not yet have any standards classifying sludge as Class A or B.

Sludge Management in Namami Ganga Mission

Under the Namami Ganga Mission, those awarded contracts for developing and maintaining STPs are apportioned land for disposing of sludge. However, sludge treatment before disposal is rare, leading to the sludge often making it’s way back into rivers and local water sources during rains.

Improving the Quality of Sludge

The quality of sludge can be improved by storing it for at least three months to kill pathogens and blending it with cattle manure, husk, or local soil to reduce the heavy metal content. This would still put the sludge in Class B, and converting it into Grade A sludge would require far more extensive treatment.

Study by IIT-Roorkee

The research conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Roorkee revealed that the majority of the dried sludge examined was classified as Class B. While the sludge had high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, basic soil nutrients, they also contained heavy metals, bacterial contaminants, and industrial effluents above the recommended fertilizer standards. The calorific value of sludge ranged from 1,000-3,500 kcal/kg, which is lower than the average calorific value of Indian coal.

2) Aeolus Satellite

Aeolus is a 1360-kilogram satellite launched into space by the European Space Agency (ESA) in an Earth Explorer research mission to demonstrate new space technology. This is the pioneering satellite mission that collected global profiles of Earth’s wind, which is used to enhance weather forecasts and climate models. The satellite is equipped with a single, large instrument – a Doppler wind lidar – that measures the winds circulating around the planet. The initial mission duration of Aeolus in space was three years, and it became one of the highest impact-per-observation weather satellites. After five years, the spacecraft is now losing its fuel, and its tanks are almost depleted.

Current State of Aeolus

As the spacecraft orbits the Earth at an altitude of 320 km, Earth’s wispy atmosphere is pulling the satellite towards it. The spacecraft Aeolus is being propelled by plasma waves originating from the Sun as they sweep by the Earth. In the past few months, due to the heightened solar activity, the satellite has been using an increased amount of fuel to maintain its orbit, which is akin to trying to run against the wind.

End-of-Life Mode

On April 30, 2023, the spacecraft shut down its science operation, and its instruments have been put into a special mode to perform end-of-life activities that will help to prepare the Aeolus-2 follow-on mission. The European Space Agency plans to order Aeolus to descend from 320 km to 280 km in the next few months, after which it will be gradually lowered to 150 km above the Earth’s surface, marking the beginning of its death plunge.

Re-Entry Approach and Timeline

As the satellite descends toward Earth, it is expected to burn up as it descends to around 80 km. Engineers have carefully worked out how to best position Aeolus in Earth’s atmosphere to target open ocean waters upon re-entry. It is expected that Aeolus will cease to exist before August ends.

3) Piezoelectric MEMS Technology

A group of researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully developed a new sensor technology for underwater communications. The technology can be applied by the Navy and has the potential to revolutionize underwater communication technology.

Development of Piezoelectric MEMS Technology

Piezoelectric MEMS technology is an important component for developing high-performance thin films that can be used for acoustics and vibration-sensing applications. Researchers at the DRDO and IIT Madras have successfully created the piezo MEMS process recipe for the complete fabrication of an acoustic sensor. The PZT thin film-based acoustic sensor they fabricated exhibits higher performance than the conventional PVDF-based acoustic sensor.

Advantages of Indigenous Technology

One of the significant advantages of this indigenous technology is that the cost of fabrication is relatively lower than international foundries, which have limited foundries available. The Navy can use this technology to fabricate high-performance piezo MEMS acoustic devices at a lower cost. This technology also enables researchers to develop devices that are more advantageous for defence applications.

Challenges of Piezoelectric MEMS Technology

The piezo MEMS process technology is not without its challenges, which include the need for high reliability and durability in harsh underwater environments, high pressure, and the corrosive nature of seawater. Developing technology that can withstand these challenges is crucial for improving the performance of piezo MEMS devices.

Significance of the Piezo Thin Film

The piezo thin film is an essential component of piezo MEMS devices as it enables the conversion of mechanical energy into electrical energy. The successful development of the piezo MEMS process recipe means that researchers can fabricate acoustic sensors without degrading the functionality of the piezo thin film. The fabricated sensors exhibit higher performance than conventional sensors, making them ideal for use in harsh underwater environments.

Potential Applications of Piezo MEMS Devices

Piezo MEMS devices have a range of applications in acoustics and vibration-sensing, making them useful in the development of underwater communication devices. The Navy can use these devices to enhance communication and sensing in harsh underwater environments to ease their operations and capability.

3) India’s First Pod Taxi

The Yamuna Authority recently gave its nod to India’s first pod taxi project. The Personalised Rapid Transit project, an advanced mode of transportation, will be automated and environment-friendly.

What is a Pod Taxi?

Pod taxis are automated, environment-friendly vehicles that run on separate tracks to avoid road traffic. These vehicles are powered by electricity, which makes them a more eco-friendly mode of transportation. Pod taxis are designed to transport a fixed number of passengers and are considered one of the most advanced modes of transportation available today.

Location and Route

The pod taxi project will be located between Noida International Airport and Film City. The route will span 12-14 kilometers and feature 12 stops, including Sector 29, Handicraft Park, MSME Park in Sector 29, Apparel Park, Sector 32, Sector 33, Toy Park, and Sector 21.

Powering the Pod Taxi

Pod taxis are powered by electricity. The use of electricity instead of fossil fuels makes them an eco-friendly mode of transportation. As the world becomes more conscious of environmental concerns, the use of electric-powered vehicles such as pod taxis is an essential step towards sustainable development.

Separate Tracks for Pod Taxis

Pod taxis run on separate tracks to avoid road traffic. This ensures that the transportation system remains efficient and uninterrupted. With separate tracks, pod taxis can travel at higher speeds without getting stuck in traffic, reducing travel time for passengers.

Capacity and Commuters

India’s first pod taxi project is expected to transport approximately 37,000 commuters daily. The capacity of pod taxis varies depending on the size of the vehicle, with larger vehicles being able to transport more passengers.

Anticipated Cost

The Pod Taxi initiative is expected to cost approximately Rs.810 crore and is anticipated to be finalized by the conclusion of 2024. The project has been approved by the Uttar Pradesh government and is expected to be an important step towards developing an advanced and efficient transportation system in the country.

The Significance of the Pod Taxi Project

The pod taxi project will be the first international transit system in India. The project is significant as it represents a step towards sustainable development and a more efficient transportation system in the country. The use of eco-friendly and automated modes of transportation such as pod taxis is an essential step towards achieving this goal.

Other Countries Using Pod Taxis

Several other nations, such as Subai, Singapore, and London, have already implemented pod taxis as an advanced mode of transportation. The successful implementation of pod taxis in these countries has demonstrated their efficiency and effectiveness, making them a viable option for India.

4) Toxic gas kills 11 in Ludhiana

Context

At least 11 people have died following a gas leak in Ludhiana, Punjab. The death is due to the inhalation of neurotoxic gas.

What is Neurotoxicity?

• Neuro-toxicity occurs when exposure to natural or manmade toxic substances (neurotoxicants) alters the normal activity of the nervous system that includes the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
• Nerve cells, or neurons, communicate with each other through a series of electrical and chemical signals and are at the greatest risk of damage from neurotoxins because of their high metabolic rate.
• Neuro-toxic substances can damage nerve cell function by modifying the structure of the cell membrane, which controls the passage of ions into and out of the neuron.
• As a result, the electrical activity of the neuron may change.

• Furthermore, neurotoxins can prevent neurotransmitters from being released or taken up by other neurons, thereby preventing their production or release.
• Neurotransmitters are responsible for signal transmission between neurons.

Industrial gas leaks in India

Industrial gas leaks are not rare in India.
• Three years ago, a gas leak at a chemical plant killed at least 12 people in the city of Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
• In 1984 a chemical leak in a pesticide plant at the central city of Bhopal killed thousands of people, in what is acknowledged to be the world's worst industrial disaster.

5) Indian Army to raise cyber operations and support wings

Context

With cyber warfare a key focus, especially with, the Army has decided to raise Command Cyber Operations and Support Wings (CCOSW) to help the forces counter enemy capabilities.

About Command Cyber Operations and Support Wings (CCOSW)

• The CCOSW will assist formations to undertake mandated cyber security functions to strengthen the Army’s cyber security posture.
• Aim: To safeguard the networks and increase preparedness levels in this niche domain.
• This is part of an overall approach to absorb niche technologies and modernize its online networks.

What is the need?

• Increasing competition from neighbour: China and Pakistan are investing heavily in it.
• Moving towards net centricity: The army is rapidly migrating towards net centricity, which entails an increased reliance on modern communication systems.
• Widening cyberspace: Cyberspace has emerged as an important component of the military domain, both in grey zone warfare as well as conventional operations.
• Inclusion of tech-enabled equipment: A large number and variety of niche tech-enabled equipment are being inducted into the Indian Army. These include a variety of tactical/mini/micro/logistics drones or UAVs, drone swarms, loitering weapons systems, and electronic warfare and anti-drone equipment, among others.

6) i-Drone Initiative

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has successfully conducted a trial run of the delivery of blood bags by drones under its i-drone initiative.
o The trial run has been undertaken for the first time in the country by the ICMR; Lady Hardinge Medical College (LHMC); Government Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS), Greater Noida; and the Jaypee Institute of Information Technology (JIIT), Noida.
o The inaugural trial flight carried 10 units of whole blood samples from the GIMS and LHMC in visual line of sight.
o The project ‘i-DRONE’(ICMR’s Drone Response and Outreach for North East) assessed the feasibility of using drones to deliver vaccines and medical supplies.
o This was carried out in difficult geographical terrains including land, island, foothills, and across the hills.
o The medical supplies delivered under the i-Drone project included COVID-19 vaccines, vaccines used in routine immunization programs, antenatal care medicines, multivitamins, syringes, and gloves.
o The drone delivery system focused on an end-to-end ecosystem for drone-based logistic transportation within the states and was the first successful example of delivering vaccines through drones from land to islands in South Asia.

11 May 2023

Indian Polity

1) Tele Manas counsels Kashmir’s distressed souls

Context

Over the past six months, the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS) in Srinagar has received 10,500 calls from people in distress across Jammu and Kashmir’s toll-free numbers 14416 and 1800-891-4416.

About

• The Tele-MANAS cell at IMHANS was launched in November 2022 with the support of the National Health Mission, Jammu, and Kashmir.
• It aims to provide mental health support, early screening, first-aid, distress management, mental well-being, suicide prevention, and psychological crisis management in Jammu and Kashmir.
• The center operates through a toll free-number—11416/1-800-891-4416 .
• The crisis counselors or the first-time responders are the first points of contact for callers at the 24*7 helpline

What is Tele-MANAS?

• It was launched on World Mental Health Day (10 October).
• The Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States (Tele-MANAS) initiative is a comprehensive mental health care service.
• Tele-MANAS aims to provide free tele-mental health services all over the country round the clock, particularly catering to people in remote or under-served areas.
• The Tele-MANAS programme consists of a network of 23 tele-mental health centers of excellence, with NIMHANS as the nodal center.
• Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bengaluru and National Health Systems Resource Centre (NHRSC) have been roped in for technical support.
• The Tele-MANAS service can be accessed by calling the helpline numbers 14416 and 1-800-891-4416.

India’s mental health crisis

• Lancet Report: As per a Lancet study published in 2012, India saw a 35 percent rise in clinically significant depression and anxiety disorders due to the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020.
• 2021 State of the World’s Children Report: One in seven youths in India, between 15 to 24 years, reported ‘feeling depressed’ during the pandemic.
• NCRB Data: In another concerning report, there was an increase of 7.2 percent in reported suicides in the country in 2021 as compared to the year before.
• Top causes of suicides: Family problems, illness, drug abuse/ alcoholic addiction, marriage-related issues, love affairs, unemployment, professional/career problem.

• Challenges:

• Alarming shortage of human resources: The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that India has 0.3 psychiatrists, 0.12 nurses and 0.07 psychologists and 0.07 health workers for a 1,00,000 population.
• Lack of investment to address the issue
• Unawareness
• Shame

2) Dimasa rebel group signs peace pact with Centre

Context

In the latest development, Dimasa National Liberation Army (DNLA)/Dimasa People’s Supreme Council (DPSC), an Assam-based insurgent group, signed a peace agreement with the State Government and the Centre.

What is in the agreement?

Who is Dimasa?

• The Dimasa was a major, late medieval, or early modern kingdom in Assam ruled by Dimasa kings, also called Timisa in the Ahom Buranjis.
• They now live in Dima Hasao, Karbi Anglong, Cachar, Hojai, and Nagaon districts of central and southern Assam, as well as parts of Nagaland.
• Surrender and no violence: Under the agreement, the DNLA representatives have agreed to give up violence, surrender including the surrender of arms and ammunition, disband their armed organization, vacate all camps occupied by DNLA cadres, and join the mainstream.
• As a result of this agreement, more than 168 armed cadres of DNLA surrendered with their weapons and joined the mainstream.
• Setting of Dimasa Welfare Council: Dimasa Welfare Council will be set up by the Government of Assam to protect, preserve and promote a social, cultural, and linguistic identity to meet political, economic, and educational aspirations.
• It will ensure speedy and focused development of the Dimasa people residing outside the jurisdiction of the Autonomous Council.
• It also provides for the appointment of a Commission under the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution of India to examine the demand for the inclusion of additional villages contiguous to the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC) with the Council.

Significance of the agreement

• End to insurgency: The agreement will bring a complete end to the insurgency in the Dima Hasao district of Assam. Dimasa National Liberation Army (DNLA)
• The DNLA was established in 2019 seeking a sovereign territory for the Dimasa tribals and launched an armed insurgency to achieve its goal.
• Area of operation: Dima Hasao district

3) WHO launches PRET to prepare the world for pandemics

Context

The World Health Organization (WHO) launched ‘PRET’, a new initiative to be better prepared for future outbreaks of a similar scale and devastation as the COVID-19 pandemic.

About

• PRET stands for Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats.

Key terminology

• An epidemic is an outbreak of a disease in a particular location.
• A pandemic is an outbreak of a disease that spreads to and occurs in many different geographic areas at the same time.
• Endemic diseases are established and circulating regularly in populations. Some endemic diseases such as influenza can have surges in transmission or have epidemics at certain times.
• A pathogen is an organism that causes a disease to its host, including but not limited to viruses.
• Aim: The Initiative is aimed at providing “guidance on integrated planning for responding to any respiratory pathogen such as influenza or coronaviruses”.
• Focus on first module: While the current focus of PRET will be on respiratory viruses — in the backdrop of the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak, and possible threat of an avian influenza outbreak — work is already underway to assess what should be the next group of pathogens to be mitigated under this initiative.
• PRET incorporates the latest tools and approaches for shared learning and collective action established during the COVID-19 pandemic and other recent public health emergencies.

4) What is the Coal Mines (Nationalisation) Act, of 1973?

The counsel for the Competition Commission of India (CCI) recently said in the Supreme Court that the Coal Mines (Nationalisation) Act, 1973, does not protect Coal India Ltd (CIL) from the competition laws.

About Coal Mines (Nationalisation) Act, 1973:

• It was enacted by the Indian Parliament, providing for the acquisition and transfer of the right, title, and interest of the owners in respect of coal mines specified in the Schedule.
• The Schedule of the Act contained a list of about 711 coal mines located in different parts of the country.
• Objective: To ensure the rational, coordinated, and scientific development and utilization of coal resources consistent with the growing requirements of the country.
• Under the Act, coal mining is exclusively reserved for the public sector.
• By an amendment to the Act in 1976, two exceptions to this policy were introduced, viz.
o captive mining by private companies engaged in the production of iron and steel;
o sub-lease for coal mining to private parties in isolated small pockets not amenable to economic development and not requiring rail transport;
• It was amended w.e.f. 9.6.1993 to allow private sector participation in captive coal mining for generation of power, for washing of coal obtained from a mine or for other end uses to be notified by Government from time to time in addition to the existing provision for the production of iron and steel.
• Under the Act, the allotment of coal mines for captive use was based on the recommendation of a high-powered committee chaired by the Secretary, the Ministry of Coal.
• Mining of Coal for captive use for the production of cement has also been permitted by the Government notification.

What are Captive Mines?

• Captive mines are the mines that are owned by companies.
• The coal or mineral produced from these mines is for the exclusive use of the owner company of the mines.
• The company cannot sell coal or mineral outside.

5) What is the Geological Survey of India (GSI)?

The Geological Survey of India (GSI) recently termed media reports saying large lithium reserves being identified in Rajasthan as "baseless."

About Geological Survey of India (GSI):

• It was set up in 1851 primarily to find coal deposits for the Railways.
• Over the years, it has grown into a repository of geo-science information required in various fields in the country.
• Objective: Providing objective, impartial, and up-to-date geological expertise and geoscientific information of all kinds, with a focus on policy-making decisions and commercial and socio-economic needs.
• Under the National Mineral Policy (NMP) 2008, GSI remains the principal agency for geological mapping and regional mineral resources assessment of the country.
• It also emphasizes systematic documentation of all geological processes, both surface and subsurface, of India and its offshore areas.
• The organization carries out this work through geological, geophysical, & geochemical surveys using the latest and most cost-effective techniques and methodologies.
• It is headquartered in Kolkata and has six regional offices located at Lucknow, Jaipur, Nagpur, Hyderabad, Shillong and Kolkata. Every state has a state unit.
• Presently, GSI is an attached office to the Ministry of Mines.

12 May 2023

Ecology & Environment

1) Central Asian Flyway: India leads the global effort to save migratory birds

Context

In one of its kind continent-wide effort to save migratory birds, eleven countries have agreed on an institutional framework. The framework, known as Central Asian Flyway (CAF), is aimed to strengthen efforts for migratory birds and their habitats in a coordinated manner.

What is the Central Asian Flyway?

• Countries: The Central Asian Flyway is a major migratory route for birds, covering 30 countries from the Arctic Ocean to the Indian Ocean.
• Of these 30 countries, 11 have come on board for coordinated efforts to save migratory birds within the Central Asian flyway.
• These eleven countries are India, Armenia, Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Kuwait, Mongolia, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
• Other than these eleven countries, more nations must also come on board for the formalization of a complete Central Asian Flyway within one single mechanism.
• Biodiversity: It is home to more than 400 species of migratory birds, including threatened and endangered species such as the Siberian crane and the lesser white-fronted goose.

What is a flyway?

• A flyway is a geographical region within which a number of migratory bird species complete their annual cycle.
• The annual cycle includes breeding, molting, staging, and non-breeding.
• A total of 370 species of migratory birds visit the Indian subcontinent annually.

What is India’s role?

• Once agreed upon by all the countries, India may serve as the secretariat of the Central Asian Flyway in due course.
• India has been taking proactive steps in the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats and has been advocating the establishment of a Central Asian Flyway initiative that first began in 2005 in New Delhi.

Important Migratory Species in India

• Pallikaranai in Chennai attracts a large number of flamingoes, ducks, and waders.
• Pulicat Lake on the Tamil Nadu-Andhra border hosts flamingoes; ducks and waders can be seen in Chilika Lagoon in Odisha.
• Other notable sites to see migratory birds are the Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur in Rajasthan and Khijadia Bird Sanctuary in Jamnagar in Gujarat.
• Some birds are passage migrants, like the spotted flycatcher, rufous-tailed scrub robin, and European roller. They migrate through a large part of western India and overwinter in Africa.
• Amur Falcons pass through India in December.
• Many birds arrive from temperate regions; the Siberian Cranes come to India in winter.

Government Initiative for migratory birds

World Migratory Bird Day is a bi-annual global campaign organized to raise awareness about migratory birds, the need for their conservation, and the importance of the preservation of their habitat. It is celebrated on the second Saturday in May and then in October.
• National Action Plan: India has launched the National Action Plan for the Conservation of Migratory Birds (2018-2023) along the central Asian flyway to reduce the population decline of migratory birds and secure their habitat.
• The plan has set the national goal of halting and reversing the decline in migratory bird population by 2027.

2) Nicobar project violates tribal rights: ST panel

Context

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has now flagged alleged discrepancies with respect to the forest clearance granted for the 72,000-crore Great Nicobar Island (GNI) Project.

What are the issues?

• No recognition of rights of tribals: Months after the project was granted forest clearance, implementation reports prepared by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs show that the island administration neither recognized nor granted ownership of any forest land to local tribespeople as per FRA, a requisite step under the Forest Conservation Rules, 2017 before Stage-I clearance is granted.
• The Stage-1 clearance for the project was granted in October 2022, two years after the application was received. The project
• The Rs 72,000-crore project titled ‘Holistic Development of Great Nicobar Island at Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ is being implemented by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation (ANIIDCO).
• The project has four components –
• an International Transhipment Port (ITP)
• Greenfield International Airport
• a power plant
• a new township that could constitute a Special Economic Zone
• These four interlinked projects form the core of the new city and the holistic master plan.

Claims made by the government

• The government has said that the project intends to use about 7.114 sq. km of tribal reserve forest land, where the Shompen, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), and the Nicobarese reside.
• It insisted that locals will not be displaced for the project.

3) Changing Status of Tropical Cyclones Over the North Indian Ocean” Report

A study titled “Changing status of tropical cyclones over the North Indian Ocean” sheds light on the effects of climate change on cyclones in the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal.

Key Findings of the Study

• Both sides of the Indian coast are witnessing an intensification of cyclones.
• In the Arabian Sea, the translation speed of cyclones has decreased, indicating slower movement.
• Rising ocean temperatures and increased moisture availability under global warming are closely linked to the increased cyclonic activity in this region.
• Analyzing the period from 1982 to 2019, the study identifies a significant increasing trend in the intensity, frequency, and duration of cyclonic storms (CS) and very severe cyclonic storms (VSCS) over the Arabian Sea.
• Notably, there has been a remarkable 52% increase in the frequency of CS during the recent epoch (2001-2019) in the Arabian Sea. In contrast, the Bay of Bengal has witnessed a decrease of 8% in the frequency of cyclonic storms.
• The study also highlights the limitations of current cyclone prediction models. These models often fail to accurately predict the rapid intensification of cyclones due to the inadequate inclusion of ocean conditions. As a result, the models are unable to capture the full impact and intensity of cyclones.

4) Queensland’s Isaac River Coal Mine

The Australian government has recently approved the construction of a new coal mine, marking the first approval since being elected on a climate action platform. The mine, known as the Isaac River coal mine, is expected to have significant implications for the environment and climate goals.

Location and Extraction

The Isaac River coal mine will be situated near Moranbah in Central Queensland. This mine will primarily extract metallurgical coal, also referred to as coking coal, which is crucial in the steelmaking industry. Over a span of five years, the mine aims to produce approximately 2.5 million tonnes of coal.

Concerns

Scientists have been vocal about their concerns regarding new fossil fuel projects, emphasizing that they are not aligned with global climate goals. The approval of the Isaac River coal mine poses potential challenges in achieving sustainability targets and mitigating climate change.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions

According to estimates from the Australia Institute, the Isaac River coal mine’s operations could contribute up to 7 million tonnes of greenhouse gases during its lifetime. Such emissions further contribute to the climate crisis and its adverse effects.

Impact on Endangered Species

The proposed mine has raised concerns regarding the habitat of various endangered and vulnerable species. Koalas, central greater gliders, and ornamental snakes are among the wildlife that could be adversely affected if the mine progresses.

Lack of Submissions

During the formal consultation period, no submissions were made by the public or stakeholders, as confirmed by the government’s announcement. This absence of submissions raises questions about public engagement and participation in decision-making processes.

Emissions Reduction Target

The government has recently enshrined into law an ambitious emissions reduction target of 43% by 2030. However, the approval of new coal and gas projects, like the Isaac River coal mine, raises concerns about the government’s commitment to achieving this target.

UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)

The IPCC has repeatedly emphasized that new fossil fuel projects are not compatible with the aim of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees. Urgent action is required to phase out existing fossil fuel infrastructure and transition to cleaner and sustainable energy sources.

5) Eretmoptera murphy in Signy Island

Signy Island, located in Antarctica, is facing a concerning ecological challenge. A flightless midge called Eretmoptera Murphy has been wreaking havoc on the island’s delicate ecosystem.

The Influence of Eretmoptera Murphy on Signy Island’s Soil

Eretmoptera Murphy has been altering the soil composition on Signy Island. According to a study conducted by the British Antarctic Survey (BAS), the midge’s feeding habits have led to faster plant decomposition. This, in turn, has caused a significant increase in soil nitrate levels. In fact, the nitrate levels on the island have reached magnitudes previously observed only in colonies of larger species like penguins and seals.

Accidental Introduction and Spread of Eretmoptera Murphy

Eretmoptera Murphys is not native to Signy Island. It originally hails from South Georgia, a sub-Antarctic island. Unfortunately, the midge found its way to Signy Island in the 1960s during a botany experiment. Since then, its population has grown significantly, and its impact on the environment has become increasingly evident.

Theories on the Expansion of Eretmoptera Murphy

Scientists have proposed several theories regarding the spread of Eretmoptera murphyi. One prominent hypothesis suggests that the midge may have hitchhiked on the soles of researchers and tourists, allowing it to traverse longer distances than it could on its own. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the midge’s ability to survive in water, which could potentially facilitate its spread to other nearby islands.

The Importance of Safeguarding the Antarctic Environment

The invasion of Eretmoptera murphy highlights the urgency of protecting the delicate Antarctic ecosystem. Unlike other regions, the Antarctic has remained relatively free from invasive species. Preserving this pristine environment is of paramount importance due to its unique characteristics and vulnerability to external disturbances.

Midges and Climate Change: A Recipe for Further Disruption

The combined impact of Eretmoptera murphy and climate change on Signy Island could have far-reaching consequences. The proliferation of midges, coupled with the effects of global warming, creates a troubling scenario. It potentially opens the door for other species to establish themselves on the island, which could further accelerate climate change. These developments underscore the need for proactive measures to mitigate the ecological disruptions caused by the midge invasion and address the broader implications of climate change.

6) Carbon Credit Trading Scheme

The Indian government is actively working towards decarbonizing its economy and achieving ambitious climate goals. To facilitate this transition and promote sustainable practices, the Ministry of Power and the Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change are collaborating to develop the Indian Carbon Market (ICM). This market aims to play a crucial role in reducing emissions and driving the adoption of clean technologies.

Objective: Decarbonisation of the Indian Economy

The primary objective of developing the Indian Carbon Market is to support the decarbonization of the Indian economy. By pricing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through the trading of Carbon Credit Certificates, the ICM aims to incentivize industries and entities to adopt low-carbon pathways. This market-based approach encourages the transition towards cleaner and more sustainable practices, promoting a greener and more climate-resilient economy.

Collaboration Between Ministries

The Ministry of Power and the Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change are collaborating closely to develop the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme. This partnership ensures a comprehensive and coordinated effort to address both the energy and environmental aspects of decarbonization. By synergizing their expertise and resources, these ministries can drive effective policy implementation and create a conducive ecosystem for sustainable development.

NDC Goals and Emissions Intensity Reduction

India has committed to reducing the Emissions Intensity of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 45 percent by 2030, compared to 2005 levels, as part of its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC). The Indian Carbon Market will play a pivotal role in achieving this goal. By creating a competitive market for carbon credits, the ICM incentivizes entities to reduce their emissions intensity, contributing significantly to India’s climate targets.

Stakeholder Consultation and Accredited Carbon Verifiers

A stakeholder consultation on Accredited Carbon Verifiers was conducted as a part of the ICM’s development process. This consultation brought together Accredited Energy Auditors, Carbon/Energy Verifiers, Sector Experts, and other key stakeholders. The purpose was to discuss the role of Accredited Carbon Verifiers and gather insights to ensure a robust and credible carbon credit trading system.

Sectoral Focus and Performance-based Trading

• The new Carbon Credit Trading Scheme under the ICM will focus on potential energy sectors in India.
• To monitor progress effectively, sector-specific GHG emissions intensity benchmarks and targets will be developed.
• Carbon credits will be traded based on the performance of entities against these sectoral trajectories. This approach ensures a fair and market-driven mechanism for emissions reduction, fostering sustainable practices across industries.

Methodologies and Governance Structure

The Indian Carbon Market will develop robust methodologies for estimating carbon emissions reductions and removals from registered projects. This includes validation, registration, verification, and issuance processes to operationalize the scheme effectively.
Additionally, the ICM will establish a comprehensive institutional and governance structure. This structure will define the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders involved in executing the ICM, ensuring transparency, and promoting accountability.

Driving Climate Goals and Clean Technologies

The ICM is poised to play a crucial role in achieving India’s climate goals and promoting the adoption of clean technologies. By creating a competitive carbon market, the ICM incentivizes entities to reduce their GHG emissions at the least cost. This market mechanism encourages investment in sustainable projects, drives the adoption of clean technologies, and contributes to a low-carbon economy in India.

13 May 2023

Government Initiatives & Schemes

1) Ayushman Asom-Mukhya Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana

Assam government’s recent launch of the Ayushman Asom – Mukhya Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana signifies a major milestone in the quest for accessible and affordable healthcare.

Ayushman Asom: Ensuring Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage

Ayushman Asom is a family-floater health assurance scheme designed to provide families in Assam with access to cashless medical treatment up to Rs.5 lakh per year. This progressive step aims to break down financial barriers and ensure that quality healthcare services are available to all residents, irrespective of their economic standing.

Responsibility of the Department of Medical Education & Research

The Department of Medical Education & Research, operating under the Government of Assam, assumes the crucial responsibility of implementing Ayushman Asom. This department plays a pivotal role in overseeing the smooth execution and management of the scheme, ensuring its success in reaching the intended beneficiaries.

Wide-ranging Coverage and Beneficiary Families

Ayushman Asom offers an extensive range of healthcare procedures, encompassing a total of 1578 medical treatments within its ambit. During its initial phase, the scheme is expected to cover around 26 lakh beneficiary families, thereby ensuring that a substantial portion of the population gains access to superior healthcare services.

The Influence of Antyodaya and Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay

The launch of Mukhya Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana is strongly influenced by the concept of Antyodaya, emphasizing the upliftment of the most marginalized sections of society. This idea, coined by Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay, aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for inclusive governance. Ayushman Asom addresses the limitations faced by economically disadvantaged families previously excluded from the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, thereby extending healthcare benefits to these vulnerable groups.

The Crucial Role of Atal Amrit Abhiyan Society

The Atal Amrit Abhiyan Society assumes the responsibility of overseeing the day-to-day operations of Ayushman Asom. This society plays a pivotal role in ensuring seamless implementation and functioning of the scheme, working diligently towards the goal of fostering inclusive growth and development by providing accessible healthcare services.

Ayushman Bharat: Ensuring Nationwide Comprehensive Coverage

Ayushman Asom aligns with the broader goals of Ayushman Bharat, a national program that aims to ensure comprehensive healthcare coverage for economically vulnerable families across India. By initially covering approximately 26 lakh families and gradually expanding to 32 lakh families, Ayushman Asom seeks to bridge the gap in healthcare coverage, ensuring the protection of vulnerable sections of society.

Mukhya Mantri Lok Seva Arogya Yojana: Healthcare Benefits for Government Employees

In addition to Ayushman Asom, the Government of Assam has introduced the Mukhya Mantri Lok Seva Arogya Yojana, a healthcare benefits scheme specifically catering to government employees. This scheme, scheduled to roll out from August 15, eliminates the cumbersome reimbursement process for medical expenses incurred by employees and their dependents. It ensures comprehensive healthcare coverage, enabling government employees to access quality medical services conveniently.

2) Smart Cities Mission Extended

The Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry has extended the deadline of its Smart Cities Mission to June 2024, giving all 100 smart cities more time to complete their projects and document and disseminate the learnings from the mission. This move is expected to enable the best practices and innovations created under the mission to be replicated in other cities across India.
The Smart Cities Mission, which began in 2015, chose 100 cities through a competitive process between January 2016 and June 2018. These cities were given a five-year timeframe from the date of their selection to finish their proposed projects. Originally, the mission was supposed to be completed by June 2023. However, with only two months remaining until the deadline, 50 out of the 100 cities have completed 75% of the projects and should be able to finish the remaining work by June.

Project Completion

More than 80% of the projects in the larger cities have been finished, while the smaller cities’ completion rate stands at 66%. On average, about 100 projects worth Rs 1,850 crore are completed every month under the Smart Cities Mission. In many cities, the spending associated with the mission exceeds their regular budget spending.

Project Details

The Smart Cities Mission involved the establishment of integrated command and control centers by all 100 cities, which cost a combined total of Rs 11,775 crore. Currently, there are 526 ongoing projects related to smart mobility, 116 to smart energy, 411 to water, sanitation, and hygiene, 343 each to create vibrant public spaces and economic infrastructure, 203 to social infrastructure, and 145 to smart governance.

Funds and Budget

A total of Rs 71,000 crore has been released to the cities, of which Rs 38,000 crore is from the Centre, and the remaining from states and urban local bodies. Around 90% of the released funds have been utilized, and the Rs 8,000 crore that has been budgeted for 2023-2024 would be enough to complete the projects.

3) One Station One Product

Under the One Station One Product’ (OSOP) scheme of Indian Railways, 728 stations are covered with 785 OSOP outlets in 21 States and 3 Union Territories across the country so far.
o Ministry of Railways launched this scheme in March 2022.
o The objective is to promote the ‘Vocal for Local’ vision of the government, providing a market for local or indigenous products and creating additional income opportunities for the marginalized sections of society.
o Under the scheme, OSOP outlets at railway stations are allotted for showcasing, selling, and giving high visibility to indigenous or local products.
o These OSOP stalls are designed through National Design Institute for uniformity.

4) Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi

The Union Minister for Women and Child Development introduced the government’s flagship program ‘Poshan Bhi, Padhai Bhi’, which will focus on Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) at anganwadis across the country.
o ECCE is an important component of Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 (Mission Poshan 2.0) and envisaged under the National Education Policy.
o The Ministry has allocated Rs 600 crore for the training of Anganwadi Workers (AWW) to effectively implement ECCE.
o The National Institute of Public Cooperation and Child Development (NIPCCD) will provide the training for anganwadi workers.
o The objective of the program is to transform anganwadi centers into not just nutrition hubs but also education-imparting centers.
o The ECCE program will prioritize education in the mother tongue, aligning with the principles of the New Education Policy.
o Through the changes introduced by the “Poshan bhi, Padhai bhi” ECCE policy, every child would be provided with at least two hours of high-quality pre-school instruction daily.

5) Startup India Seed Fund Scheme: Third-Party Impact Assessment

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) is conducting a third-party impact assessment of the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme to evaluate its performance in benefiting the startup community.
o Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) was created by DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry in 2021.
o It aims to provide financial assistance to start-ups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry, and commercialization.
o Eligibility Startups recognized by DPIIT incorporated not more than 2 years ago at the time of application, have not received more than Rs. 10 lakhs of monetary support under any other Central or State Government scheme.
o Preference Startups create innovative solutions in sectors such as social impact, waste management, water management, etc.
o Grants of up to Rs. 5 crores are provided to eligible incubators, which in turn provide grants of up to Rs. 20 lakhs to startups for validation of proof of concept, prototype development, or product trials.
o Estimated Beneficiaries is about 3,600 entrepreneurs through 300 incubators in the next 4 years
o Seed Funding is an early stage of investment in a start-up or a new business idea to help the company reach a point where it can secure additional rounds of funding or generate revenue to become self-sustaining.

6) National SC-ST Hub Scheme: 1 Lakh Beneficiary Registrations

The Prime Minister praises National SC-ST Hub Scheme for crossing over 1 lakh beneficiary registrations.
o The National SC-ST Hub (NSSH) is under the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises.
o It has been set up to provide professional support to Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Entrepreneurs to fulfill the obligations under the Central Government Public Procurement Policy for Micro and Small Enterprises Order 2012, adopt applicable business practices and leverage the Stand-Up India initiative.
o The key action areas of NSSH include vendor development, participation in public procurement, building a reliable database, mentoring and handholding support, policy advocacy with states, credit facilitation, capacity building, private affirmative action, technology upgradation, marketing support, and special subsidies under various schemes.
o Benefits of the Scheme:
o To achieve the 4% Public Procurement target from SC-ST entrepreneurs
o Facilitating SC/ST Entrepreneurs to be part of vendor development programs and mentoring support.
o Collection, collation, and dissemination of information regarding SC/ST enterprises and entrepreneurs
o Distribution of trade-specific tool kits to trained candidates

15 May 2023

Geography

1) Central Electricity Authority: Peak Power Demand

The Central Electricity Authority has projected a peak power demand of 335 gw and 2.28 trillion units of electricity for the year 2029-30.
o The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) is a statutory organization.
o It was constituted under Section 3 (1) of the repealed Electricity (Supply) Act, 1948, and continued under Section 70 of the Electricity Act, 2003.
o It was established as a part-time body in 1951.
o It became a full-time body in the year 1975.
o As per Section 70 (3) of the Electricity Act, 2003, the authority shall consist of not more than 14 members
o This includes its chairperson and Not more than eight of them shall be full-time members to be appointed by the Central Government.
o The CEA is headed by a chairperson who, is the Chief Executive of the authority.
o He oversees largely the development of the power sector in the country.
o It advises the government on matters relating to the National Electricity Policy (NEP).
o It formulates short-term and prospective plans for the development of electrical systems.

2) Chheligada Irrigation Project

5T(Team work, technology, transparency, transformation, and time ) secretary-cum-secretary to the Odisha Chief Minister recently directed officials to begin construction of the multipurpose irrigation project at Chheligada.
o Chheligada Irrigation Project is a multipurpose medium project being undertaken across river Badjhore, a tributary of river Vansadhara near the village Chheligada in the Gajapati District of Odisha.
o The Project envisages the construction of a 250m long & 30m high dam across the river Badjhore with a central spillway.
o After this Project, 5201 hectares meters of water can be preserved and water can be supplied for irrigation of 5760 hectares of land in Ganjam and 500 hectares of land in Gajapati districts.
o This Project will also provide drinking water to Brahampur City.
o Additionally, 36 MW of electricity can be produced through a mini hydel project in three places Shiali Loti, Kankata, and Dekili in the Gajapati district.

3) How are Nutrients in Millets Affected by Processing and Polishing?

About Millets:

• Millets are a rich source of Protein, Fibre, Minerals, Iron, and Calcium and have a low glycaemic index.
• Millets are mostly grown during the Kharif season (June-September).
• Major Millets crops are grown in India and their percentage share of production are Pearl Millet (Bajra) – 61% share, Jowar (Sorghum) – 27%, and Finger Millet (Mandua/Ragi) – 10%.
• According to the Agricultural and Processed Foods Development Authority, India is the world’s largest producer of millets.
• In 2021-2022, the country accounted for 40.51% of the world’s pearl millet production and 8.09% of sorghum.

Why Millets are Sough After?

• Millets have two broad features that render them attractive –
o Nutritional value being comparable to that of the major extant food crops (and better on some counts)
o Ability of millet crops to reliably withstand harsh, resource-poor conditions.
• They are drought-tolerant, adapted to growing in warm weather, and require low moisture (axiomatically, they are particularly efficient consumers of water) and loamy soil.
• According to the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, millets also “thrive on marginal land in upland and hilly regions”.

Nutritional Value of Millets:

• The nutritional content of millets includes carbohydrates, proteins, fibre, amino acids, and various minerals.
• Different millet varieties have different nutrient profiles.
o For example, pearl millet – one of the oldest cultivated varieties – has been found to have higher protein content than rice, maize, and sorghum, while being comparable to that of barley.
• Overall, millets have been found to be important sources of micronutrients and phytochemicals.
• This is why, according to various experts, millets deserve to be included in people’s diets.

How does Processing Affect the Nutrients?

• Processing and preparing millets for consumption can affect nutrients in three ways –
o Enhance them, Suppress/remove them, and Ignore them.
• The second common step is to decorticate the grain, i.e. remove any other outer covering and expose the seed.
• While studies have found that mechanical and hand-worked decortication didn’t have significantly different effects on the grain, they both removed crude and dietary fibre.
• The typical next steps are milling, grinding the grains into flour, and sieving to remove large ‘impurities’, including bran.
• One 2012 study of finger millet found that sieving made the flour more digestible and its nutrients more accessible to the body but reduced nutrient content due to the loss of bran.

What is the Effect of Polishing?

• The longer the grains were milled, the more protein, fat, and fibre contents the process removed.
• A different 2012 study found that barnyard millet could be polished with a rice polisher for up to three minutes without significant nutrient loss.
• Polishing is the process whereby brown rice, for example, is changed to white rice by rubbing off the bran and the germ.

Steps taken by the Govt to Popularise Millets and other Cereals:

• The Union government had proposed to the United Nations for declaring 2023 as the International Year of Millets.
• The proposal of India was supported by 72 countries and United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets in March 2021.
• Over 500 Startups are working in the Millet value chain with the Indian Institute on Millet Research.
o More than Rs.6.2 crores has been disbursed to over 66 Startups while about 25 Startups have been approved for further funding.

4) Cyclone Mocha

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recently issued a bulletin forecasting that cyclone Mocha is expected to intensify into a severe storm.

About Cyclone Mocha:

• It is a tropical cyclone formed over the southern Bay of Bengal.
• The cyclone's name ‘Mocha’ is suggested by Yemen and was named after the Red Sea port city, which is known to have introduced coffee to the world.

How a Tropical Cyclone Formed?

o A tropical cyclone is formed only over warm ocean waters near the equator.
o Warm, moist air rises up and away from the ocean surface, creating an area of low pressure.
o It causes the air from surrounding areas with higher pressure to move towards the low-pressure area.
o This leads to the warming up of air and causes it to rise above.
o As the air rises & cools, the water in the air forms clouds.
o This complete system of clouds and wind spins & grows, along with the ocean’s heat.
o As the wind rotation speed increases, an eye gets formed in the middle.

Characteristics of a Tropical Cyclone:

o The center of a cyclone is very calm and clear with very low air pressure.
o The average speed is 120 kmph.
o They have closed isobars which leads to greater velocity. Isobars are imaginary lines on a weather map that connect locations with equal atmospheric pressure.
o They develop over oceans and seas only.
o They move from east to west under the influence of trade winds.
o They are seasonal in nature.

How are Cyclones Classified?

Cyclones are classified on the basis of wind speed by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD):
o Depression: Wind speeds of between 31–49 km/h
o Deep Depression: Between 50-61 km/h
o Cyclonic Storm: Between 62–88 km/h
o Severe Cyclonic Storm: Between 89-117 Km/h
o Very Severe Cyclonic Storm: Between 118-166 Km/h
o Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm: Between 166-221 Km/h
o Super Cyclonic Storm: Above 222 Km/h

5) Sittwe Port: India And Myanmar

India and Myanmar jointly inaugurated the Sittwe Port in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, marking an important milestone in enhancing bilateral and regional trade while also contributing to the local economy of the state.
o The port’s operationalization is expected to provide greater connectivity and leads to employment opportunities, as well as enhance growth prospects in the region.
o The project aims to provide an alternative connectivity route for Mizoram with Indian ports through the Kaladan River in Myanmar.
o It includes segments such as shipping from Haldia to Sittwe port, inland water transport from Sittwe to Paletwa via the Kaladan River, road transport from Paletwa to the Indo-Myanmar border, and further road transport to NH.54 in India.
o The Sittwe Port is part of the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, funded by the Indian government, and will play a crucial role in linking India’s East Coast to the North-eastern states through waterways and roads.

16 May 2023

Defence & Security

1) Exercise Jal Rahat

The Indian Army’s Gajraj Corps, in collaboration with various disaster management groups, recently conducted a joint flood relief drill called ‘Exercise Jal Rahat.’ The drill took place at Hagrama Bridge on the Manas River in Assam, aiming to enhance flood relief preparedness ahead of the monsoon season. The exercise emphasized coordination among multiple agencies and focused on efficient rescue operations and the utilization of innovative strategies.

Boosting Preparedness and Multi-Agency Coordination

Exercise Jal Rahat aimed to strengthen the preparedness of flood relief efforts. Recognizing the challenges posed by monsoon floods, the drill focused on improving coordination between different organizations involved in disaster response. Alongside the Indian Army’s Gajraj Corps, personnel from Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), and police representatives participated in the exercise.

Coordination and Rehearsals for Rescue Missions

A key aspect of the drill was the coordination and rehearsals conducted for rescue missions. Specialist teams played a crucial role in executing rescue operations and evacuating people from inundated areas. The exercise aimed to fine-tune the communication and cooperation between these teams, ensuring smooth and efficient rescue efforts during floods.

Utilization of Local Resources

Another important focus of Exercise Jal Rahat was the demonstration of innovative expedients and the utilization of local resources in flood relief operations. Teams from the Indian Army and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) showcased the effective use of local materials and resources during calamities. This approach not only ensures optimal utilization of available resources but also promotes self-sufficiency and resilience in disaster response.

Enhancing Effectiveness and Preparedness

By conducting joint drills like Exercise Jal Rahat, the participating organizations aim to enhance their effectiveness and preparedness for flood-related emergencies. Such exercises provide an opportunity for agencies to synchronize their efforts, share best practices, and address any gaps in coordination. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure a well-coordinated and swift response to mitigate the impact of floods and safeguard the affected communities.

2) INS Mormugao Successfully Fires Brahmos Supersonic Cruise Missile

The Indian Navy achieved a significant milestone as the guided missile destroyer INS Mormugao successfully conducted its maiden firing of a Brahmos Supersonic cruise missile. The firing, which resulted in hitting the ‘Bulls Eye,’ showcased the Navy’s self-reliance and enhanced firepower at sea. INS Mormugao, named after the historic port city of Goa, has been a remarkable addition to India’s naval fleet since its first sea sortie in December 2021.

INS Mormugao’s Maiden Brahmos Firing

The successful Brahmos firing marked a significant achievement for INS Mormugao. The destroyer, equipped with advanced weaponry and sensors, demonstrated its capability to engage targets with precision and effectiveness. The missile’s accurate hit confirmed the ship’s readiness and showcased the Navy’s commitment to bolster its firepower.

A Symbol of ‘Aatmanirbharta’ and Naval Strength

The successful Brahmos firing by INS Mormugao holds a special place in the Indian Navy’s pursuit of self-reliance. It represents the country’s commitment to enhance its indigenous defense capabilities and reduce dependency on external sources. The event symbolizes the Navy’s progress towards achieving ‘Aatmanirbharta’ and highlights its growing firepower to safeguard national interests and maintain maritime security.

INS Mormugao: A Potent Warship

INS Mormugao, measuring 163 meters in length and 17 meters in breadth, is a formidable warship constructed in India. With a displacement of 7400 tonnes, it stands as one of the most potent naval vessels. The destroyer is propelled by four powerful Gas Turbines in a Combined Gas and Gas (COGAG) configuration, enabling it to achieve speeds in excess of 30 knots. Its enhanced stealth features and reduced Radar Cross Section (RCS) contribute to its tactical advantage in operations.

Sophisticated Weapons and Sensors

INS Mormugao is equipped with state-of-the-art weapons and sensors, ensuring its combat readiness in various scenarios. The ship boasts Surface to Surface Missiles and Surface to Air Missiles for effective engagement of targets. Its modern Surveillance Radar provides crucial target data to the weapon systems on board. Additionally, the destroyer’s Anti-Submarine Warfare capabilities are enhanced through indigenously developed Rocket Launchers, Torpedo Launchers, and ASW helicopters. It is also equipped to operate under Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical (NBC) warfare conditions, ensuring its preparedness for any contingency.

3) Samudra Shakti-23

The bilateral exercise between India and Indonesia, known as Samudra Shakti-23, has commenced recently. The indigenously built anti-submarine warfare corvette INS Kavaratti arrived at Batam, Indonesia, to take part in this exercise.

Objectives of Samudra Shakti-23

The primary purpose of the Samudra Shakti exercise is to enhance interoperability and mutual cooperation between the naval forces of India and Indonesia. By conducting joint exercises and sharing best practices, the navies aim to strengthen their operational capabilities and foster regional peace and stability.

Participating Aircraft and Vessel

India has deployed the Dornier Maritime Patrol aircraft and Chetak helicopter for the exercise, showcasing their advanced capabilities in maritime operations. On the Indonesian side, the KRI Sultan Iskandar Muda, CN 235 Maritime Patrol Aircraft, and AS565 Panther Helicopter are participating.

Harbor and Sea Phases of the Exercise

The harbor phase features key activities like cross-deck visits, professional interactions, subject matter expert exchanges, and engaging sports fixtures. These interactions facilitate a deeper understanding and collaboration between the Indian and Indonesian naval personnel.
During the sea phase, the exercise involves dynamic exercises, including weapon firing, helicopter operations, anti-submarine warfare, air defense exercises, and boarding operations. These exercises enhance the tactical skills and coordination between the participating forces.

Duration and Significance

The Samudra Shakti-23 exercise is scheduled to continue until May 19, ensuring an extensive period for joint training and collaboration. This bilateral exercise signifies the commitment of both India and Indonesia toward maritime security and cooperation in the region. It serves as a platform to showcase the high level of interoperability achieved between the two navies and their shared dedication to maintaining peace and stability.

4) Patriot Air Defense System

Ukrainian forces recently utilized a Patriot air defense system to neutralize Russia’s ‘unstoppable’ ‘Kinzhal hypersonic missile.
o Patriot System was first used in combat during the 1991 Gulf War, with batteries protecting Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Israel, and later used during the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003.
o It is a mobile system that usually includes powerful radar, a control station, a power generator, launch stations, and other support vehicles.
o The system has different capabilities depending on the type of interceptor used.
o The PAC-2 interceptor uses a blast-fragmentation warhead, while the newer PAC-3 missile uses more advanced hit-to-kill technology.

5) 4th Positive Indigenisation List For Defence Public Sector Undertakings

Defence Ministry approves 4th Positive Indigenisation List for Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSU).
o Continuing the efforts to minimise imports by DPSU, Defence Ministry has approved the 4th Positive Indigenisation List (PIL) of 928 strategically-important Line Replacement Units (LRUs), sub-systems, spares and components etc with import substitution value worth ₹715 crore.
o This fourth list is in continuation to the previous three PILs, involving LRUs, sub-systems, assemblies, sub-assemblies, spares and components, which were published in December 2021, March 2022 and August 2022, respectively.
o The positive indigenisation list essentially lists items that the armed forces — Army, Navy, and Air Force will procure only from domestic manufacturers.
o These manufacturers could be from the private sector or Defense Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs).
o The Government has introduced a comprehensive revamped ‘Make and Innovation’ procedure to reduce dependency on arms and promote indigenous manufacturing of defence equipment.
o The ‘Make and Innovation’ procedure has been introduced in DAP-20 to facilitate indigenous design and development of defence equipment through private participation with both government funding and industry funding.

6) What is iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence)?

Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) recently reached a milestone with the signing of the 250th contract, the first one under Mission DefSpace.

About iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence):

• It is the flagship initiative of the Ministry of Defence (MoD), launched in April 2018.
• Aim: To achieve self-reliance and foster innovation and technology development in Defence and Aerospace by engaging Industries including MSMEs, start-ups, individual innovators, R&D institutes and academia.
• iDEX has partnered with leading incubators in the country to provide handholding, technical support and guidance to the winners of iDEX challenges.
• iDEX will be funded and managed by a ‘Defence Innovation Organization (DIO)’ which has been formed as a ‘not for profit company as per Section 8 of the Companies Act 2013 by the two founder members, i.e. Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) - HAL & BEL.
• iDEX will function as the executive arm of DIO, carrying out all the required activities, while DIO will provide high-level policy guidance to iDEX.
• Under iDEX, financial support is provided to Start-ups/MSMEs/individual innovators and Partner Incubators through DIO.

What is Mission DefSpace?

• It was launched by the Prime Minister during DefExpo in October 2022.
• The goal of Mission DefSpace is to make India Atmanirbhar in defence technologies in the space domain.
• It will encourage technology development in space for defence applications by startups and young entrepreneurs through 75 Defence Space Challenges launched across various Department for Defence Production (DDP) initiatives viz iDEX, ‘Make 1’, and ‘Make 2’.
• The challenges are classified into five buckets, viz. Launch System, Satellite System, Communication & Payload System, Ground System and Software System provide a holistic 3600 overview of space.

7) INS Delhi and INS Satpura

Indian Naval ships INS Delhi and INS Satpura recently departed Sihanoukville, Cambodia, after making a port call in the country as part of the Indian Navy's deployment to ASEAN countries.

About INS Delhi:

• It is India’s first indigenously built guided missile Destroyer.
• It is the lead ship of her classof guided-missile destroyers of the Indian Navy.
• It was built at the Mazagon Dock Limited in Mumbai and commissioned on 15 November 1997.
• Maximum Speed: 28 knots (52 km/h)+
• Range: 5,000 mi (8,000 km)
• Aircraft carried: 2 x Sea King helicopters

About INS Satpura:

• INS Satpura is an indigenously designed and built Shivalik-class guided-missile stealth frigate.
• The ship is a frontline unit of the Eastern Fleet based at Visakhapatnam.
• Built at Mazagaon Docks Ltd, Mumbai, and commissioned on 20 August 2011, INS Satpura derives her name from the majestic Satpura mountain range in central India.
• It is equipped with a versatile array of weapons and sensors and can carry multi-role helicopters.
• Displacement: 6,200 tonnes
• Maximum Speed: 32 knots (59 km/h;
• Aircraft carried: 2 × HAL Dhruv or Sea King Mk. 42B helicopters

17 May 2023

Indian Economy

1) London Interbank Offered Rate

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently told banks and other regulated entities to ensure a complete transition away from the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR).
o London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) is a benchmark interest rate at which major global banks lend to one another in the international interbank market for short-term loans.
o It acts as a benchmark for short-term interest rates.
o It is an indicator of the health of the financial system and provides an idea of the trajectory of impending policy rates of central banks.
o LIBOR is also the basis for consumer loans in countries around the world, so it impacts consumers just as much as it does financial institutions.
o LIBOR calculated is computed for five currencies with seven different maturities ranging from overnight to a year.
o The five currencies for which LIBOR is computed are the Swiss franc, euro, pound sterling, Japanese yen and US dollar.

2) WPI Inflation Rate

The WPI inflation has fallen into negative for the first time since July 2020.
o According to data released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, INFLATION RATE based on Wholesale Price Index (WPI) fell to a near three-year low of (-) 0.92 % in April, slipping into negative territory for the first time in 33 months.
o A high base effect along with moderation in global commodity prices reflected in easing of food, fuel and other input costs.
o The decline in the WPI inflation rate in April 2023 was primarily contributed by fall in prices of basic metals, food products, mineral oils, textiles, non-food articles etc.

3) Wholesale Price Index (WPI):

o Wholesale Price Index (WPI) represents the price of goods at a wholesale stage i.e. goods that are sold in bulk and traded between organizations instead of consumers.
o The index has a total of 697 items, including Primary Articles (117), fuel and power (16), and Manufactured Products (564).
o The percentage increase in WPI over a year gives the rate of inflation for that year.
o Currently, the base year of WPI is 2011-12.
o WPI is used as an important measure of inflation in India.

4) Greenwashing Tech Sprint

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will join 12 international regulators in the Global Financial Innovation Network (GFIN)’s first-ever Greenwashing TechSprint to develop a tool to help regulators and the market effectively tackle the risks of greenwashing in financial services.
o Greenwashing refers to misleading the general public into believing that companies, sovereigns or civic administrators are doing more for the environment than they actually are.
o This may involve making a product or policy seem more environmentally friendly or less damaging than it is in reality. o The term was coined by environmentalist Jay Westervelt in 1986.
o The phenomenon came into practice as consumers and regulators increasingly sought to explore planet-friendly, recyclable and sustainable ‘green’ products.
o By 2015, 66% of consumers were willing to shell out more for a product that was environmentally sustainable.
o Greenwashing is done primarily for a company to either present itself as an ‘environment-friendly’ entity or for profit maximisation.
o It is achieved by introducing a product, catering to the inherent demand for environment-friendly products.
o In certain instances, it is done using the larger idea as a premise to cut down on certain operational logistics and provide consumer essentials.

5) PLI 2.0: Centre approves revised PLI scheme with Rs 17,000 Crore outlay

Why in News?

• The Union Cabinet cleared a revised production linked incentive (PLI) scheme for IT hardware with an outlay of Rs 17,000 crore, more than doubling the budget for the scheme that was first cleared in 2021.
• The IT hardware industry is targeted to reach a production of $24 billion by 2025-26, with exports anticipated to be in the range of $12-17 billion during the same period.

The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme:

• A cornerstone of the Government’s push for achieving an Atmanirbhar Bharat, the objective of the PLI Schemes is to
o Make domestic manufacturing globally competitive
o Create global Champions in manufacturing and
o Generate employment opportunities for the country’s youth.
• The strategy behind the scheme is to offer companies incentives on incremental sales from products manufactured in India, over the base year.
• They have been specifically designed to
o Boost domestic manufacturing in sunrise and strategic sectors,
o Curb cheaper imports and reduce import bills,
o Improve cost competitiveness of domestically manufactured goods, and
o Enhance domestic capacity and exports.
• The first three PLI Schemes were approved earlier in March, 2020 and these were followed by another 10 New PLI Schemes in November, 2020.
• The Union Budget 2021-22, announced an outlay of INR 1.97 Lakh Crores for the PLI Schemes for 13 key sectors.
o This means that minimum production in India as a result of PLI Schemes is expected to be over US$ 500 billion in 5 years.

News Summary Regarding PLI scheme for IT hardware:

• The PLI for IT hardware:

o It was first announced in February 2021 with an initial outlay of around Rs 7,300 crore over a period of four years.
o Domestic players investing Rs 20 crore and clocking sales of Rs 50 crore in the 1st year, Rs 100 crore in the 2nd, Rs 200 crore in the 3rd, and Rs 300 crore in the final year, would pocket incentives of 1-4% on incremental sales over 2019-20.
o The first version of the scheme was a laggard with only two companies - Dell and Bhagwati - managing to meet first year’s (FY22) targets, and the industry calling for a renewed scheme with an increased budgetary outlay.

• The PLI 2.0 for IT hardware:

o According to the MeitY, the PLI 2.0 (outlay - Rs 17,000 crore) could attract big global IT hardware manufacturers to shift their production base to India and give a boost to local production of laptops, servers, personal computers, etc.
o It will be implemented from July 1, with a cap on maximum incentives available to participating companies.
o The tenure of the new scheme has been fixed for six years and the Centre is expecting an investment of over Rs 2,430 crore as part of it.
o The expected incremental production value could touch Rs 3.35 lakh crore, and the scheme could generate 75,000 direct jobs [could touch 2 lakhs when accounted for indirect jobs].
o The average incentive over six years will be about 5% compared with the 2% over four years offered earlier.
o This scheme will play a key role in catalysing India’s Techade and in achieving the $1 trillion digital economy goal - including $300 billion of electronics manufacturing by 2025-26.

6) National Productivity Council

For giving fresh impetus to deliverables under the flagship Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana(PMMSY), seven major field studies are being carried out by National Productivity Council (NPC).

Why in News?

• The NPC is conducting field studies in seven areas such as best practices in fish marketing system of Andhra Pradesh and dissemination through workshop; agro-climatic zone-specific mapping of innovative fishing practices for enhancing production and productivity in Upper Gangetic Plain Region etc.
• It will help strengthen the mechanism of delivery of the central scheme 'Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). National Productivity Council:
• It is an autonomous organization under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
• It was set up in 1958.
• Objectives:
o To promote innovation-led productivity in a sustained manner in all spheres of national economy through a holistic and inclusive approach by addressing the triple bottom line – Economic, Environmental and Social.
o To propagate productivity consciousness and culture amongst Govt., Business and Society.
o To act as a total solution provider for Industry, Services, and Agriculture sectors for augmenting productivity through Training, Consultancy and Research wherever needed through alliances and partnerships.
• It is a constituent of the Tokyo-based Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an Inter-Governmental Body of which the Government of India is a founding member.

Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)

• PMMSY is being implemented by the Department of Fisheries (DoF), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (FAHD), Government of India.
• PMMSY is a scheme to bring about the Blue Revolution through sustainable and responsible development of the fisheries sector in the country at an estimated investment of Rs. 20,050 crores.
• PMMSY has been implemented in all the States and Union Territories since FY 2020-21.
• It is designed to address critical gaps in the fisheries value chain from fish production, productivity and quality to technology, post-harvest infrastructure and marketing.

7) What is the Minimum Import Price (MIP)?

The Central Government recently introduced the Minimum Import Price (MIP) for apples in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).

About Minimum Import Price (MIP):

• What is MIP? MIP is a temporary measure to provide protection to domestic farmers from predatory pricing of imports. Below this price, import of the commodity is not allowed.
• Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT ) is an arm of the commerce ministry that frames rules related to exports and imports.

MIP for Apples:

o It aims to protect their interests by preventing tax-free imports of apples from other countries, ensuring a level playing field for the local apple industry.
o According to the policy, any apple costing less than Rs 50 per kg cannot be imported.

Benefits:

o It will help stabilise apple prices in the local market by reducing the oversupply of cheap imported apples.
o This stability will enable local farmers to fetch better prices for their produce.

18 May 2023

Sports

1) 26th Edition of National Federation Cup Senior Athletics Championships

The 26th Edition of the National Federation Cup Senior Athletics Championships is going at Birsa Munda Stadium, Ranchi (Jharkhand), from 15 May 2023.
o The Competition is organised in the Men and Women section.
o It is a domestic tournament of the Indian athletics season.
o It is organised by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI). Some of the Events are Jumps; throws- shot put, discus throw, javelin throw; Sprinting Events etc.
o The AFI is the apex body for running and managing athletics in India. It is affiliated with the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF), Amateur Athletic Association (AAA) and Indian Olympic Association.
o The AFI has as many as 32 affiliated state units and institutional units.
o The AFI came into existence in 1946, and the federation organises the National Championships, trains the Indian Athletics National Campers and selects the Indian Athletics Teams for various international competitions, including the Olympics, Asian Games, World Championships, Asian Championships and other international meets.

2) Target Olympic Podium Scheme

Olympian and World Championship silver medallist archer Atanu Das has been re-introduced in the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS).
o Other big names to be included in TOPS are rifle shooter Mehuli Ghosh and 15-year-old Tilottama Sen, who won bronze in the 10m air rifle event at the International Shooting Sport Federation World Cup 2023 held in Cairo, Egypt.
o A total of 27 new names were inducted in the TOPS Core and Development lists which now takes the total number of TOPS athletes to 270 (101 in Core, 169 in Development).
o Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) is to improve India’s performance at the Olympics and Paralympics; the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) started the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) in September 2014.
o This was revamped in April 2018 to establish a technical support team for managing the TOPS athletes and providing holistic support.
o The Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports is responsible for the appointment of TOPS members with an emphasis on ensuring representation from ‘High-Priority’ sports (Archery, Badminton, Boxing, Hockey, Shooting and Wrestling).

3) Men’s World Boxing Championships

Prime Minister of India has conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to Deepak Bhoria, Hussamuddin, and Nishant Dev for their remarkable achievement in the Men’s World Boxing Championships held in Tashkent.
o Deepak Bhoria (51kg) won silver, Hussamuddin (57kg) and Nishant Dev (71kg) won bronze medals in the semifinals.
o The Men’s World Boxing Championships, taking place from April 30 to May 14, 2023, in Uzbekistan, is a prominent event that brings together more than 400 boxers from across the globe, competing in 13 weight categories to claim victory and honour.
o It is Organized by the International Boxing Association (IBA) and the Boxing Federation of Uzbekistan, with the support of the Government of Uzbekistan, the tournament not only showcases top-notch boxing skills but also serves as a platform to celebrate the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of Uzbekistan.

4) Laureus World Sports Awards 2023

Why in News?

Recently, the winners of the 2023 Laureus World Sports Awards were announced. The Awards were held in person in Paris for the first time since 2020.

What are the Key Points?

About:

o The awards are conferred annually to honour the greatest and most inspirational sporting triumphs of the year and showcase the work of Laureus Sport for Good.
o The first Laureus World Sports Award ceremony took place on May 25, 2000.
• American golfer Tiger Woods was the first winner of this award.
o It is often referred to as the sporting equivalent of the Oscars.

Award Categories:

o Laureus World Sportsman of the Year
• Winner of 2023: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
• Lionel Messi became the first footballer to be awarded the Sportsman of the Year (in 2020)

o Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year
• Winner of 2023: Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce (Jamaica)

o Laureus World Team of the Year
• Winner of 2023: Argentina Men's Football Team

o Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year
• Winner of 2023: Carlos Alcaraz (Spain)

o Laureus World Comeback of the Year
• Winner of 2023: Christian Eriksen (Denmark)

o Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year
• Winner of 2023: Eileen Gu (China)

o Laureus Sport for Good
• Winner of 2023: TEAMUP (Global)
• TeamUp is a psycho-social support intervention developed by War Child, Save the Children and UNICEF Netherlands, which helps children in difficult situations to relieve stress and tension.

o Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability
• Winner of 2023: Catherine Debrunner (Switzerland)
• The International Paralympic Committee provides the shortlist for World Athlete of the Year with a Disability.

 Important Awardees:

o Roger Federer holds the record for winning the most awards. The Swiss tennis player has won six awards, five for Sportsman of the Year and one for Comeback of the Year.
o Serena Williams holds the record for winning the most award by a female.
o Lionel Messi – who led Argentina to the World Cup in 2022 – became the first athlete to win the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year and also pick up the Laureus World Team of the Year Award in the same year i.e, 2023.

 Other Categories of Awards:

o Apart from these regular seven awards, there are some more awards that were awarded which are discretionary awards. These include:
• Lifetime Achievement Award
• Sport for Good Award
• Spirit of Sport Award
• Exceptional Achievement Award
• Sporting Inspiration Award

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