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  • Why Naini Lake is seeing record-low water levels?

    Why in the News?

    Naini Lake, one of Nainital’s key attractions, has recorded a water level of 4.7 feet, marking a 5-year low, sparking concerns about drinking water scarcity as the summer season approaches.

    About Naini Lake

    • Naini Lake is situated in the heart of Nainital, a hill station in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is surrounded by seven hills.
    • The lake is natural kidney-shaped and is one of the main attractions of Nainital.
    • It was discovered by P. Barron, an English businessman, in the mid-19th century, which led to the development of Nainital as a hill station.
    • The deepest point of Naini Lake is 89 feet.
    • The normal gauge level of the lake is 12 feet, and its water level has recently dropped to 4.7 feet, marking a five-year low.

    Why is the Water Level declining?

    • The Uttarakhand Jal Sansthan extracts 10 million litres of water daily from Naini Lake for drinking water supply to the city of Nainital.
    • 76% of the city’s water demand was met by the lake in 2024, but increasing population, tourist activity, and commercialisation have intensified pressure on the lake’s water resources.
    • The lake faces numerous threats, including:
      • Decreased snowfall and rainfall, especially in the winter months.
      • Unplanned construction and encroachments around the lake, leading to the reduction of its catchment area.
      • Pollution due to the discharge of untreated wastewater and improper disposal of solid waste.
    • Siltation caused by debris dumping in Sukhatal Lake, a major aquifer recharge area for Naini Lake, has contributed to the shrinking of the lake’s size.
    • Climate change is affecting the region’s weather patterns, with annual temperatures rising by nearly 1.5 degrees Celsius between 1970 and 2022.

    Other Important Lakes in India (Artificial and Manmade):

    Type Lake Name Location Details
    Natural Dal Lake Jammu & Kashmir Famous for houseboats and scenic beauty, located in Srinagar.
    Vembanad Lake Kerala The longest lake in India, central to Kerala’s backwaters and tourism.
    Sambhar Lake Rajasthan Largest inland saltwater lake, important for bird migration, especially flamingos.
    Manmade Kolleru Lake Andhra Pradesh A large freshwater lake, critical for bird habitats and a wetland.
    Hussain Sagar Lake Telangana Constructed in 1562, famous for its Buddha statue and as a water source.
    Upper Lake Madhya Pradesh Artificial lake in Bhopal, important for water supply and recreational activities.
    Indira Sagar Lake Madhya Pradesh A large reservoir created by the Indira Sagar Dam for power generation and irrigation.

     

    [UPSC 2018] Which one of the following is an ‘Artificial Lake‘?

    (a) Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu) (b) Kolleru (Andhra Pradesh) (c) Nainital (Uttarakhand) (d) Renuka (Himachal Pradesh)

     

  • GI Tags Awarded in April 2025

    Why in the News?

    Recently, several Geographical Indication (GI) tags have been awarded to unique products, enhancing their protection in the market and giving them a platform for global recognition.

    Here is the list of all the GI tags recently Awarded:

    State Product Name Description
    Meghalaya Ryndia (Meghalaya Handloom Products) Ryndia is an eco-friendly fabric made from Ahimsa Silk by indigenous Khasi, Bhoi, and Jaintia artisans. Known for its durability and luxurious texture, Ryndia is used to make stoles, shawls, and garments with organic dyes from local plants.
    Kerala Kannadippaya A traditional tribal handicraft made from the inner layers of reed bamboo. This mat, known for its reflective pattern, provides a cooling effect in summer and warmth during winter. It is woven by various tribal communities, including the Oorali, Mannan, Muthuva, Malayan, and Kadar tribes, primarily in the Idukki, Thrissur, Ernakulam, and Palakkad districts of Kerala.
    Tamil Nadu Panruti Cashew This cashew variety is celebrated for its mildly sweet, nutty flavor and its crisp yet tender texture. Grown primarily in Panruti, Tamil Nadu, it has a high demand both domestically and internationally, setting it apart from other cashew varieties due to its unique taste and texture.
    Panruti Jackfruit The Panruti jackfruit is a prized agricultural product from Panruti, where commercial cultivation is concentrated. Known for its large size and distinctive flavor, it is available throughout the year, with different varieties ripening at different times. The jackfruit is widely used for making chips, curries, and sweets and has potential for value-added products.
    Chettikulam Small Onion Grown in the Aalathur block of Perambalur district, this small onion variety is an important crop in Tamil Nadu, known for its strong aroma and robust flavor. Over 8,000 hectares in the district are dedicated to small onion cultivation, producing 65,000 to 70,000 tonnes annually. This variety is integral to local cooking and is used in various dishes, offering a unique flavor to regional cuisine.
    Puliyangudi Acid Lime Known as the Lemon City of Tamil Nadu, Puliyangudi produces acid lime that is small to medium-sized (4–6 cm in diameter) with a vibrant green color and thin, smooth skin. The limes are famous for their tangy taste and are widely used in cooking, especially in Southern Tamil Nadu and Kerala, as well as for producing lime juice and lime-based products.
    Virudhunagar Samba Vathal These bright red, spicy sambal chilies from Virudhunagar are renowned for their distinct flavor and are a crucial ingredient in Southern Indian cuisine. They are often used in the oleoresin extraction process, which plays a significant role in the spice industry.
    Ramanadu Chithiraikar Rice A red rice variety from Ramanadu, this rice is known for its ability to keep hunger at bay for hours, making it a staple in many households. The rice is commonly consumed as a hearty porridge and is recognized for its nutritional value and ability to provide long-lasting energy.
    Kumbakonam Betel Leaf Grown in the fertile Cauvery River basin, Kumbakonam Betel Leaf is known for its distinct taste and aroma. It is used in the preparation of paan and as a symbol of hospitality in the region.
    West Bengal Thovalai Flower Garland A handcrafted floral garland made from a mix of white, red, and green flowers, Thovalai Flower Garland is used for festivals and special occasions. It is woven in a mat-like fashion and is celebrated for its artistic beauty.
    Murshidabad Chhanobora This sweet from Murshidabad is made from chhena (curdled milk) and flavored with cardamom. It is known for its smooth texture and distinct taste, being a traditional treat prepared during festivals and significant occasions.
    Bishnupur Motichur Laddu A traditional Bengali sweet laddu, made from finely ground chickpeas, sugar, and ghee. It has a delicate, aromatic flavor and is often enjoyed during festivals like Durga Puja and Diwali. Its historical roots trace back to the Bishnupur region, known for its unique preparation methods.
    Kamarpukur Sada Bode A fried Bengali sweet, Kamarpukur Sada Bode is made from wheat flour, sugar, and ghee. It is an important part of Bengali festivals and local traditions, valued for its crisp texture and sweet, rich taste.
    Malda Nistari Silk Yarn Known for its fine texture, durability, and the intricate traditional weaving techniques used, Malda Nistari Silk Yarn is produced in Malda, Bengal. This silk is highly sought after for its luxurious feel and is used for making high-quality garments.
    Radhunipagal Rice A local variety of rice from Bengal, Radhunipagal is known for its resilient texture and ability to stay filling for extended periods, making it perfect for hearty meals. This rice is a staple in many traditional Bengali dishes.
    Baruipur Guava Baruipur Guava, grown in the fertile soil of West Bengal, is known for its distinct taste and texture. The fruit has a sweet flavor and is used in juices, jams, and desserts.
    Jammu and Kashmir 

     

    		 Kashmir Namda A woolen rug from Kashmir, Namda is known for its thick texture and intricate designs. Traditionally crafted by hand using sheep wool, it is prized for its insulating properties and is a significant part of Kashmir’s textile heritage.
    Kashmir Gabba A traditional woolen product from Kashmir, Gabba is used in home decor and textiles. It is made using local wool and features intricate handwoven patterns.
    Kashmir Willow Bat Kashmir Willow is used for making high-quality cricket bats, known for their lightweight and durable properties, making it a sought-after material for professional cricket bats.
    Kashmir Tweed Kashmir Tweed is a finely woven fabric, made from wool, and is renowned for its warmth and luxury. It has been traditionally used to make winter garments, particularly coats and shawls.
    Kashmir Crewel A hand-embroidered fabric from Kashmir, Crewel features intricate floral designs and is traditionally used in making home textiles like curtains, bedspreads, and cushions.
    Kashmir Chain Stitch A traditional embroidery technique from Kashmir, Chain Stitch is used to create decorative textiles. The embroidery is vibrant, with floral patterns, and is used in making garments and home furnishings.
    Kashmir Shikara The Shikara is a traditional boat from Kashmir used primarily for tourism and transportation in the Dal Lake. It is a symbol of Kashmir’s rich heritage and has been part of the region’s culture for centuries.
    Kashmir Wagguv Wagguv is a traditional handcrafted product from Kashmir, made using local materials and is known for its unique craftsmanship and cultural significance in the region.

     

    [UPSC 2015] Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ Status?

    (1) Banaras Brocades and Sarees (2) Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma (3) Tirupathi Laddu

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • PM gifted with a copy of Tripitaka by Thai PM

    Why in the News?

    Prime Minister was presented with ‘The World Tipitaka: Sajjhaya Phonetic Edition’ by his Thai counterpart, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, in a diplomatic exchange.

    About Tripitaka

    • The Tripitaka, also known as the Pali Canon or Tipitaka, is the primary scripture of Theravada Buddhism, containing the teachings attributed to Buddha.
    • It was initially preserved through oral tradition and recited by Buddhist monks after the Buddha’s death.
    • It was first written down in the 1st century BCE during the reign of King Vattagamani of Sri Lanka, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
    • It is central to Theravada Buddhism, which is practiced mainly in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.
    • It is also regarded as an authoritative collection of the Buddha’s words, influencing the practices of Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhists.
    • Its teachings cover practical aspects of morality (sila), meditation (samadhi), and wisdom (prajna), guiding followers towards nirvana (enlightenment).
    • It is composed of 3 major sections, each known as a “basket” (Pitaka), containing rules, discourses, and doctrinal analyses:
    Focus Key Components Key Teachings

    Vinaya Pitaka

    		 Governs the rules and regulations for the monastic community (Sangha), focusing on the conduct of monks and nuns. • Suttavibhanga: The primary text detailing the rules for monks and nuns, including disciplinary measures.

    • Khandhaka: A collection of regulations governing the monastic community’s daily life, organizational structure, and interactions.

    • Parivara: A summary and analysis of the rules and their interpretations.

    • Discusses issues related to ordination, monastic vows, and the ethical conduct of monks and nuns.

    		 • Establishes a structured framework for maintaining the monastic order.

    • Focus on ethical behavior, discipline, and the proper conduct necessary for spiritual growth.

    • Importance of the community and the harmonious living of monks and nuns.

    Sutta Pitaka

    		 Contains the discourses delivered by the Buddha, covering various topics like morality, meditation, and wisdom. • Digha Nikaya: The long discourses of the Buddha, including topics on ethics, meditation, and cosmology.

    • Majjhima Nikaya: Middle-length discourses, often addressing common people and their concerns, focusing on practical aspects of the Buddha’s teachings.

    • Samyutta Nikaya: Connected discourses grouped by topics like impermanence, suffering, and dependent origination.

    • Anguttara Nikaya: A collection of numerical discourses, categorized by numbers (e.g., 3, 4, 5), addressing practical guidelines for daily living.

    • Khuddaka Nikaya: A minor collection of texts, including the Dhammapada, Jataka tales (stories of the Buddha’s past lives), Therigatha, and others.

    		 • Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path as central teachings for achieving liberation from suffering.

    • Instructions on ethical living, mental cultivation, and the development of wisdom.

    • Stories of the Buddha’s past lives, which serve to teach moral lessons and virtues.

    • Provides practical teachings for both monastics and laypeople on how to live a life conducive to enlightenment.

    Abhidhamma Pitaka

    		 A detailed systematic analysis of the Buddha’s teachings, providing a philosophical and psychological examination of Buddhist concepts. • Dhammasangani: A classification of mental and physical phenomena, offering an in-depth analysis of mental states and experience.

    • Vibhanga: Provides a detailed analysis of various doctrines, including virtues, meditation practices, and psychological states.

    • Puggalapannatti: Describes different types of persons and their spiritual progress, from ordinary beings to enlightened ones.

    • Kathavatthu: A collection of doctrinal debates that addresses differences between early Buddhist schools, offering clarification on certain teachings.

    • Yamaka: A set of questions and answers that explores complex doctrinal points in pairs of opposites.

    • Patthana: Describes conditional relations between phenomena, offering a complex framework for understanding dependent origination.

    		 • Mind and consciousness: Detailed study of the nature of the mind, its states, and interactions with the physical world.

    • Causality and the law of dependent origination (paticca-samuppada), explaining how phenomena arise and cease based on conditions.

    • Analytical psychology: Explores the workings of the human mind, including perception, cognition, and emotion.

    • Explores the relationship between mental and physical processes and provides an advanced understanding of reality and experience.

    • Essential for understanding advanced Buddhist philosophy and psychology.

     

    [UPSC 2024] Sanghabhuti, an Indian Buddhist monk, who travelled to China at the end of the fourth century AD, was the author of a commentary on:

    (a) Prajnaparamita Sutra (b) Visuddhimagga (c) Sarvastivada Vinaya (d) Lalitavistra

     

  • 50th Anniversary of Biological Weapons Convention (BWC)

    Why in the News?

    March 26, 2025, marked the 50th anniversary of the entry into force of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), the first multilateral disarmament treaty to ban an entire category of weapons of mass destruction.

    About the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC)

    • The BWC also known as the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BTWC), is a disarmament treaty aimed at banning biological and toxin weapons.
    • It prohibits activities related to the development, production, acquisition, transfer, stockpiling, and use of biological and toxin weapons.

    Negotiation and Adoption of BWC: 

    • Negotiated in Geneva, Switzerland, from 1969 to 1971.
    • Draft versions were tabled by the USA and USSR in August 1971.
    • The treaty was opened for signature on April 10, 1972, in London, Moscow, and Washington, D.C.
    • It entered into force on March 26, 1975, after the required ratifications.

    Key Provisions of BWC:

    • Article I: Prohibits development, production, stockpiling, and use of biological weapons.
    • Article II: Requires destruction or conversion of biological agents, toxins, and weapons to peaceful purposes before joining.
    • Article III: Prohibits transfer or assistance in acquiring biological weapons.
    • Article VI: Allows states to file complaints with the UN Security Council about treaty violations.
    • Article X: Promotes the exchange of materials and information for peaceful purposes.

    Structure and Membership of BWC:

    • Depositaries: United States, United Kingdom, and Russian Federation are the depositary governments.
    • Membership: As of February 2025, 188 states are parties to the treaty, with 4 states having signed but not ratified, and 9 states have neither signed nor ratified.
    • Review Conferences: Held every 5 years to assess the treaty’s implementation and strengthen confidence-building measures.

    India and the BWC:

    • India is a party to the BWC.
    • India has implemented national measures and established legal frameworks to comply with the provisions of the BWC, preventing the development or use of biological weapons.
    [UPSC 2017] With reference to the Biological Weapons Convention, consider the following statements:

    1.It prohibits the development, production, stockpiling or use of biological and toxin weapons.

    2. It has a verification mechanism to check compliance by member States.

    3. It is an umbrella treaty under the aegis of the United Nations.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • 15th Century Copper Plates from the Vijayanagara Empire discovered

    Why in the News?

    A set of copper plates from the early 15th Century, dating back to the reign of Devaraya I of the Sangama Dynasty, were recently unveiled by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

    About the Sangama Dynasty 

    • The Sangama Dynasty was the first ruling dynasty of the Vijayanagara Empire, founded in the 14th century by brothers Harihara I and Bukka Raya I.
    • They were the sons of Bhavana Sangama, a chieftain from a pastoralist community with Yadava descent.
    • The Sangama Dynasty was established in 1336 CE by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I, who founded the city of Vijayanagara on the south bank of the Tungabhadra River.
    • The early rulers focused on building the foundations of the empire, both administratively and culturally.

    Notable Rulers

    • Harihara I: Known for founding the empire and laying its initial foundations.
    • Bukka Raya I: Expanded the empire’s territories significantly, ruling from 1343 to 1379 CE.
    • Harihara II: Conquered coastal Andhra and important Indian ports like Goa, continuing his predecessor’s expansion.
    • Deva Raya I: Ruled from 1404 to 1422 CE, further expanding the empire.
    • Deva Raya II (Krishnadeva Raya): Regarded as one of the greatest rulers of the dynasty, he expanded the empire and promoted art, literature, and diplomacy from 1422 to 1446 CE.

    Downfall

    • Internal conflicts, particularly succession disputes, and external pressures from the Bahmani Sultanate and neighboring kingdoms weakened the dynasty.
    • The final blow came when Narasimha of the Saluva Dynasty usurped the throne in 1485 CE, marking the end of the Sangama Dynasty’s reign.

    Key Features of the Copper Plates

    • These plates are unique, dating back to the coronation of King Devaraya I of the Vijayanagara Empire.
      • The king granted the village of Gudipalli, along with the hamlets Rajendramada and Udayapalli, during his coronation.
      • The village was renamed Devarayapura-agrahara and divided into 61 shares allocated to various Brahmins with expertise in Vedas and Shastras.
    • They are written in Sanskrit, Kannada and Nagari characters.
    • The seal features an image of Vamana, rather than the usual Varaha (boar), which is the royal insignia of the Vijayanagara Empire.

    Historical Significance:

    • Dated to Saka 1328 (November 5, 1406 CE), the plates provide insights into the Sangama Dynasty.
    • It helps trace the lineage from Chandra, Yadu, and Sangama to the five sons of King Harihara: Harihara, Kampa, Bukka, Mãrapa, and Muddapa.
    [UPSC 2023] Who among the following rulers of Vijayanagara Empire constructed a large dam across Tungabhadra River and a canal-cum-aqueduct several kilometres long from the river to the capital city?

    (a) Devaraya I (b) Mallikarjuna (c) Vira Vijaya (d) Virupaksha

     

  • What is the Green Credit Programme?

    Why in the News?

    The Green Credit Programme (GCP), launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in 2023, was questioned by the Ministry of Law and Justice regarding the legality of its business model.

    About the Green Credit Programme (GCP)

    • The GCP launched by the MoEFCC in 2023, is a government initiative aimed at encouraging voluntary participation in environmental activities.
    • It was launched officially in December 2023 by PM Narendra Modi and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the UN climate conference in Dubai.
    • Participants, including individuals, companies, and industries, can earn green credits for actions such as tree plantation, water conservation, waste management, and others.
    • These credits can be traded on a domestic platform, helping participants meet sustainability targets or fulfill legal obligations.
    • It is managed by the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), an autonomous organization under the MoEFCC.
    • The program supports the Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Sustainable Environment) and encourages a market-based approach to environmental action.

    Criticisms of the Program:

    • Forest Diversion Concerns: The GCP has been criticized for promoting forest diversion for industrial activities. Critics argue that trading compensatory afforestation credits could weaken forest protection efforts and lead to the loss of old-growth forests.
    • Impact on Ecologically Valuable Lands: Concerns have been raised about plantations on degraded lands and scrublands, which provide essential ecological services. Critics argue these areas should not be used for plantations with uncertain long-term benefits.
    • Plantation Survival Issues: There are concerns about the survival rate of trees planted under the GCP, with some questioning if these plantations can truly replicate the environmental value of mature forests.
    • Compensatory Afforestation Conflicts: The GCP’s exchange of plantation credits for compensatory afforestation is seen as a challenge to the Van Adhiniyam, 1980, which mandates non-forest land for afforestation rather than degraded forest land.
    [UPSC 2009] In the context of C02 emission and Global Warming, what is the name of a market driven device under the UNFCC that allows developing countries to get funds/incentives from the developed countries to adopt, better technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions?

    (a) Carbon Footprint (b) Carbon Credit Rating (c) Clean Development Mechanism (d) Emission Reduction Norm

     

  • RBI celebrates 90 years

    Why in the News?

    The first monetary policy of RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra in 2025 marks 90 years since the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced its inaugural monetary policy in 1935.

    RBI’s First Monetary Policy in 1935

    • On July 3, 1935, RBI set the bank rate at 3.5%, reflecting the Imperial Bank’s rate.
    • The CRR was set at 5% of demand liabilities and 2% of time liabilities on July 5, 1935.

    Evolution of RBI’s Monetary Policy

    • Bank Rate in Early RBI History:
      • The bank rate was a key tool introduced by the RBI in 1935 to control credit and liquidity. On July 3, 1935, the RBI set the bank rate at 3.5%, mirroring the rate of its predecessor, the Imperial Bank of India.
      • The RBI Act (1934) mandated its use for buying or re-discounting commercial paper, and it played a crucial role in India’s interest rate structure.
    • Role of Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR):
      • The CRR, introduced by the RBI, required banks to maintain a percentage of their deposits as reserves.
      • Influenced by the Federal Reserve Act of the USA, the CRR helped stabilize the banking system, especially during failures.
      • The CRR was set at 5% for demand liabilities and 2% for time liabilities in 1935, with adjustments made over time.
    • Exchange Rate Management
      • In 1935, the RBI managed the exchange rate of the 1 Indian rupee at 1 shilling and 6 pence.
      • This caused friction between nationalists, who favoured a lower exchange rate to boost exports, and the British, who preferred a higher rate to facilitate cheaper imports.
    • Disputes Between Government and RBI
      • The RBI’s decision to reduce the bank rate in 1935 was opposed by the government, fearing rupee depreciation.
      • This led to a conflict, resulting in the resignation of Osborne Smith, the first RBI Governor.
      • The incident highlighted tensions between the RBI’s monetary autonomy and government priorities.

    About Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

    • The RBI is the central bank and monetary authority of India established on April 1, 1935, under the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.
    • Its idea was incepted from the recommendations of the Hilton Young Commission.
    • Sir Osborne Arkell Smith, an Australian, served as the inaugural Governor.
    • He was succeeded by Sir C D Deshmukh, the first Indian to hold the position.
    • It is a centralized institution for India to effectively regulate its monetary and credit policies.
    • RBI had its initial headquarters in Kolkata, later moving permanently to Mumbai in 1937.
    • Initially, the RBI operated as a privately owned entity until its full nationalization in 1949.

    Functions and Initiatives:

    • Monetary Authority: The RBI controls the supply of money in the economy to stabilize exchange rates, maintain a healthy balance of payment, and control inflation.
    • Issuer of Currency: Sole authority to issue currency and combat circulation of counterfeit notes.
    • Banker to the Government: Acts as a banker to both the Central and State governments, providing short-term credit and financial advisory services.
    • Lender of Last Resort: Provides emergency liquidity assistance to banks during crises.
    • Custodian of Foreign Exchange Reserves: Manages foreign exchange reserves and administers the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA).
    • Regulator and Supervisor of Payment and Settlement Systems: Oversees payment and settlement systems in the country, ensuring efficiency and security.
    • Credit Control and Developmental Role: Promotes credit availability to productive sectors and fosters financial infrastructure development.

    Dr. Ambedkar’s Role in the Establishment of RBI:

    • Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s contributions were particularly notable during the Hilton Young Commission discussions in 1926, where he presented his recommendations based on his book “The Problem of the Rupee – Its Origin and Its Solution.”
    • These discussions laid the foundation for establishing the RBI on April 1, 1935.

     

    [UPSC 2004] Consider the following statements:

    1. Reserve Bank of India was nationalized on 26 January 1950.

    2. The borrowing programme of the Government of India is handled by the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

  • [pib] Exercise Tiger Triumph

    Why in the News?

    The 4th edition of Exercise Tiger Triumph, a bilateral tri-service Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise, will be held on the Eastern Seaboard of India, with activities taking place in Visakhapatnam and Kakinada.

    About Exercise Tiger Triumph

    • The exercise was first announced by then U.S. President Donald Trump during the Howdy Modi event in Houston on September 22, 2019.
    • The inaugural exercise took place from November 13 to 21, 2019.
    • It involved approximately 1,200 Indian personnel and 500 U.S. military members, with key participation from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific.
      • Harbour Phase: Held in Visakhapatnam, including training visits, expert exchanges, and social interactions.
      • Sea Phase: Conducted in Kakinada, focusing on practical HADR operations like field hospital setups and evacuation drills.

    Subsequent Editions of Exercise Tiger Triumph:

    • 2022 Edition: Emphasized disaster relief coordination, with tabletop simulations to improve operational readiness.
    • 2024 Edition: Focused on refining standard operating procedures (SOPs) and included a battalion group from the Indian Army.

    Important Features:

    • Interoperability Enhancement: The exercise aims to improve the coordination between Indian and U.S. forces during disaster response situations, ensuring rapid deployment and effective collaboration.
    • Humanitarian Assistance Focus: The exercise simulates responses to natural disasters like super-cyclones, refining diplomatic, operational, and logistical efforts in such crises.
    • Strengthening Bilateral Ties: Joint drills and exchanges during the exercise serve to fortify the strategic partnership between India and the U.S., focusing on shared best practices and operational capabilities.
    [UPSC 2024] Which of the following statements about ‘Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023’ are correct?
    1. This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.
    2. It commenced in Aundh (Pune).
    3. Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.
    4. Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise.
    Select the answer using the code given below:
    (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 4 (c) 1 and 4 (d) 2, 3 and 4

     

  • [pib] NITI NCAER States Economic Forum

    Why in the News?

    The Finance Minister is set to launch the “NITI NCAER States Economic Forum” portal.

    About the NITI NCAER States Economic Forum Portal

    • The “NITI NCAER States Economic Forum” portal is a comprehensive digital platform developed by NITI Aayog in collaboration with the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER).
    • It serves as a centralized repository of data, research reports, and expert commentary on state-level finances and social, economic, and fiscal parameters spanning from 1990-91 to 2022-23.
    • The portal aims to facilitate evidence-based policymaking by providing users with easy access to key trends and insights on state performance.

    Features of NITI NCAER: 

      1. State Reports: Summarizes the macro and fiscal landscape of 28 Indian states. Structured around indicators on demography, economic structure, socio-economic, and fiscal parameters.
      2. Data Repository: Access to a comprehensive database categorized into 5 verticals: Demography; Economic Structure; Fiscal Data; Health; Education.
      3. State Fiscal and Economic Dashboard: Provides graphical representations of key economic variables over time; Includes summary tables and raw data for easy reference.
      4. Research and Commentary: Offers in-depth research reports and expert commentary on state finances, fiscal policy, and financial management; Supports long-term academic and policy research.

    Significance:

    • Benchmarking Capabilities: it enables comparison of state performance with national averages, fostering a competitive and cooperative approach to development.
    • Data Accessibility: it bridges data accessibility gaps, ensuring that policymakers, researchers, and academics can make informed decisions based on reliable and comprehensive data.
    • Promotes Transparency: By offering open access to detailed data, the portal enhances fiscal transparency and encourages cooperative federalism.
    [UPSC 2018] Consider the following statements:

    1.The Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Review Committee Report has recommended a debt to GDP ratio of 60% for the general (combined) government by 2023, comprising 40% for the Central Government and 20% for the State Governments.

    2.The Central Government has domestic liabilities of 21% of GDP as compared to that of 49% of GDP of the State Governments.

    3.As per the Constitution of India, it is mandatory for a State to take the Central Government’s consent for raising any loan if the former owes any outstanding liabilities to the latter.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • Majorana 1 Chip and the Pursuit of Quantum Computing

    Why in the News?

    In December 2024, Microsoft introduced its quantum computing chip, Majorana 1, designed to solve industrial-scale problems by utilizing the properties of Majorana particles for practical quantum computing.

    About Majorana 1 Chip and the Science Behind

    • Microsoft introduced its Majorana 1 quantum computing chip, designed to solve large-scale problems using quantum computing.
    • This chip is named after Majorana particles, which have unique properties in particle physics.
    • Majorana particles are special because they are their own anti-particles.
    • This means that when two Majorana particles meet, they destroy each other and release energy.
    • This property is different from most particles, like electrons, which have separate anti-particles (for example, the electron’s anti-particle is the positron).
    • Why Majorana Particles Matter for Quantum Computing?
      • This unique property could make Majorana particles useful in quantum computing.
      • They could help make quantum bits (qubits) more stable, which is important for improving quantum computers.
      • Using Majorana particles may also help in topological quantum computing, which makes qubits less affected by external disturbances, making them more reliable.

    Beta Decay and Neutrinoless Double Beta Decay (0vßß):

    • Beta decay happens when an unstable atomic nucleus releases energy. In this process, a neutron in the nucleus turns into a proton, and an electron and anti-neutrino are emitted. There are two types of beta decay:
    1. Beta-minus decay: A neutron becomes a proton, releasing an electron and an anti-neutrino.
    2. Beta-plus decay: A proton turns into a neutron, releasing a positron and a neutrino.
    • What is Neutrinoless Double Beta Decay (0vßß)? Neutrinoless double beta decay is a rare event where two electrons are emitted instead of the usual electron and anti-neutrino. This suggests that neutrinos and anti-neutrinos might be the same particle, known as Majorana particles.
      • If scientists observe this type of decay, it will prove that neutrinos are Majorana particles and help measure their mass.
      • This discovery would improve our understanding of particle physics.

    AMoRE Experiment:

    • The AMoRE experiment is being conducted in South Korea to detect this rare 0vßß decay.
    • The experiment uses molybdenum-100 (Mo-100), which is known to undergo double beta decay. The team is measuring the energy differences in electron emissions to detect the 0vßß decay.
    • While no evidence has been found yet, the experiment continues to improve its sensitivity by using 100 kg of Mo-100 for more accurate measurements.

    Scientific Significance:

    • The search for 0vßß and studying Majorana particles could help answer important questions about the mass of neutrinos and improve our understanding of particle physics.
    • Learning more about neutrinos is key to both advancing quantum computing and understanding particle physics.
    [UPSC 2022] Which one of the following is the context in which the term “qubit” is mentioned?

    (a) Cloud Services (b) Quantum Computing (c) Visible Light Communication Technologies (d) Wireless Communication Technologies