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Distribution: weekly

  • [pib] Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana

    Why in the News?

    Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) has completed 10 years on January 22, 2025. As of November 2024, over 4.1 crore SSY accounts have been opened, highlighting the scheme’s success and its role in fostering inclusivity and progress.

    About Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY):

    • Launched on January 22, 2015, under Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao Campaign.
    • It is a small deposit scheme by the Ministry of Finance for a girl child
    • Over 4.1 crore accounts opened as of November 2024.
    • Aims and Objectives:
      • To meet the education and marriage expenses of a girl child.
      • Promote financial independence and secure futures for girl children.

    Criteria and Provisions:

    • Eligibility: For girl children under 10 years; max 2 accounts per family (exceptions for twins/triplets).
    • Deposits: Minimum: ₹250; Maximum: ₹1.5 lakh annually; deposits for 15 years.
    • Withdrawals:
      • Partial: Up to 50% after age 18 or completion of 10th standard for education.
      • Full: Allowed for marriage (minimum age 18).
    • Interest Calculation: Monthly on the lowest balance; credited annually.
    • Premature Closure: Allowed for medical emergencies or death of guardian.
    • Interest: ate of interest 9.2% Per Annum (wef 1-4-2015), calculated on yearly basis, yearly compounded.
    • Tax Benefits: Quarterly rates compounded annually; investments and returns are tax-free under Section 80C.

    Structural Mandate and Implementation

    • Managed by guardian till age 18; account matures in 21 years.
    • Can be opened/transferred at post offices or banks.
    • Early closure for marriage requires proof of age and marriage documents.

    PYQ:

    [2014] What is/are the facility/facilities the beneficiaries can get from the services of Business Correspondent (Bank Saathi) in branchless areas?

    1. It enables the beneficiaries to draw their subsidies and social security benefits in their villages.
    2. It enables the beneficiaries in the rural areas to make deposits and withdrawals.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • [pib] Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme

    Why in the News?

    The Department of Commerce under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has launched the Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme to bolster the global competitiveness of India’s diamond sector.

    About the Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme

    • The DIA Scheme permits duty-free import of natural cut and polished diamonds for export purposes.
    • It mandates an export obligation with a value addition of 10%.
    • Objective: To retain India’s leadership in the global diamond industry value chain by facilitating ease of doing business.
    • It will be implemented starting April 1, 2025.
    • Features of the Scheme:
      • Duty-Free Import: Allows duty-free import of natural cut and polished diamonds of less than ¼ Carat (25 Cents).
      • Export Obligation: Requires a minimum 10% value addition to ensure beneficiation.
      • Eligibility: Open to Two Star Export Houses and above; Exporters with annual exports of at least USD 15 million are eligible.
      • Support for MSMEs: Provides a level playing field for smaller exporters, enabling them to compete with larger players.
      • Global Beneficiation Practices: Inspired by beneficiation policies in diamond-mining countries like Botswana, Namibia, and Angola, where manufacturers must establish cutting and polishing facilities.

    India’s Diamond Industry: Current Status

    • India processes over 90% of the world’s diamonds and provides jobs to approximately 5 million people.
    • India contributes 19% of total global diamond exports.

    Challenges:

    • Exports Decline:
      • 2022: Exports valued at $23 billion.
      • 2023: Declined to $16 billion, with further declines anticipated.
    • Rough Diamond Imports: Fell by 24.5%, from $18.5 billion (FY 2021-22) to $14 billion (FY 2023-24).
    • Exports of Cut and Polished Diamonds: Dropped by 34.6%, from $24.4 billion (FY 2022) to $13.1 billion (FY 2024).
    • Inventory Challenges: The gap between net imports of rough diamonds and net exports of cut and polished diamonds widened from $1.6 billion (FY 2022) to $4.4 billion (FY 2024).
    • Returns of Unsold Diamonds: The percentage of unsold diamonds returned to India rose from 35% to 45.6% between FY 2022 and FY 2024.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Which one of the following foreign travellers elaborately discussed about diamonds and diamond mines of India?

    (a) Francois Bernier

    (b) Jean-Baptiste Tavernier

    (c) Jean de Thevenot

    (d) Abbe Barthelemy Carre

  • Jawaharlal Nehru Port

    Why in the News?

    The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) in Mumbai is on track to become India’s first port to join the ranks of top global ports by handling 10 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) annually by 2027.

    About the Jawaharlal Nehru Port

    • JNP is situated in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, covering an area of 200 square kilometers. Its strategic location enables vital trade links with international shipping routes.
    • Key Features:
      • India’s first 100% Landlord Major Port.
      • Operates five container terminals, including BMCT, NSICT, and GTIPL.
      • Customs facilities: 30 container freight stations and connectivity to 52 inland depots.
      • Handles vessels with 9,000 TEUs capacity, soon upgrading to 12,200 TEUs.
      • Processes 200 international ships monthly.
    • Future Developments:
      • Fourth Container Terminal operational by April 2025, adding 4.8 million TEUs capacity.
      • Developing a satellite port at Vadhvan and dry ports at Jalna and Wardha.

    Key Highlights of JNPA’s Expansion

    • In 2024, JNPA handled its highest-ever container volume of 7.05 million TEUs, operating at more than 90% capacity.
    • The port recorded an 11% year-on-year growth compared to the previous year.
    • The second phase of Bharat Mumbai Container Terminal will add 2.4 million TEUs to JNPA’s total capacity.
    • The upgradation of Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal in 2025 will further enhance the port’s capabilities.
    • The total container handling capacity is projected to increase from 7.6 million TEUs to 10.4 million TEUs by 2027.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] Recently, which of the following States has explored the possibility of constructing an artificial inland port to be connected to sea by a long navigational channel?

    (a) Andhra Pradesh

    (b) Chhattisgarh

    (c) Karnataka

    (d) Rajasthan

  • Mission SCOT

    Why in the News?

    Onboard SpaceX’s Transporter-12 mission, Indian space surveillance firm Digantara successfully launched SCOT (Space Camera for Object Tracking), the world’s first commercial Space Situational Awareness (SSA) satellite.

    About Mission SCOT:

    Details
    • World’s first commercial SSA satellite, designed to track and characterize Resident Space Objects (RSOs) in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
    • Launched via SpaceX’s Transporter-12 mission as part of a rideshare program.
    • Supported by Aditya Birla Ventures and SIDBI.
    Note: As part of the Network for Space Objects Tracking and Analysis (NETRA), ISRO is also developing a Space Surveillance and Tracking (SST) network equipped with advanced radars and optical telescopes to strengthen threat analysis and safeguard space assets.
    Aims and Objectives
    • Enhancing Space Safety: Prevent satellite collisions and optimize orbital resources.
    • Sovereign Surveillance: Strengthen India’s capabilities to protect its space assets.
    • Technological Leadership: Address gaps in global SSA technologies.
    • Sustainability: Promote safer and more sustainable space operations.
    Features/Significance
    • Operates in a sun-synchronous orbit, unaffected by weather or geography.
    • Tracks RSOs as small as 5 cm with high revisit rates and accuracy.
    • Safeguards critical satellites crucial for economic and strategic security.
    • Optimizes traffic management and enhances collision avoidance.
    Contribution to India’s Growth
    • Demonstrates India’s leadership in SSA technologies.
    • Highlights the role of Indian startups in space innovation.
    • Establishes India as a reliable international space partner.
    • Fosters investment in advanced surveillance technologies for future space developments.

     

    PYQ:

    [2010] In the context of space technology, what is “Bhuvan”, recently in the news?

    (a) A mini satellite launched by ISRO for promoting the distance education in India

    (b) The name given to the next Moon Impact Probe, for Chandrayan-II

    (c) A geoportal of ISRO with 3D imaging capabilities of India

    (d) A space telescope developed by India

  • Under Trump, US withdraws from WHO: Impact, what this means for India

    Why in the News?

    On his first day in office, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an order to pull the country out of the World Health Organization (WHO).

    What will be the Impact of USA’s withdrawal from WHO?

    • Funding Shortfall for WHO: The USA accounted for 22.5% of WHO’s assessed contributions and approximately 13% of voluntary contributions in 2023.
      • The funding gap may affect WHO’s ability to implement health programs globally.
    • Disruption of Global Health Programs: WHO’s work in areas such as pandemics, neglected tropical diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and vaccination programs could face setbacks.
      • Loss of technical collaboration between the US CDC and WHO may weaken disease surveillance and pandemic preparedness.
    • Increased Influence of China: The vacuum left by the US could amplify China’s role within WHO, leading to concerns over political influence and transparency.
    • Undermining Global Health Equity: Withdrawal may hinder equitable access to healthcare resources, including vaccines and medicines, in developing nations.
    • Undermining Pandemic Treaty: The US will cease negotiations on the WHO pandemic treaty, affecting the framework for global cooperation on future pandemics.

    What are the Major Global Institutions and Challenges Faced by them?

    • United Nations (UN): Political divisions among member states, limited enforcement power, and funding constraints. The UN’s peacekeeping missions and humanitarian efforts often face resource shortages and geopolitical interference.
    • World Health Organization (WHO): Criticism for its pandemic response, reliance on voluntary funding, and political influence from member states. The WHO struggles to maintain independence and effectiveness in global health governance.
    • World Trade Organization (WTO): Increasing protectionism, trade disputes among major economies, and calls for reform to address inequities in global trade rules. The WTO faces difficulties in resolving conflicts like U.S.-China trade tensions.
    • International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank: Criticism of conditional lending practices, perceived bias favoring wealthier nations, and inefficiencies in addressing poverty and economic disparities. Both institutions face calls for governance reforms to better represent developing countries.
    • Regional Organizations (e.g., EU, African Union): Economic disparities among members, political instability, and resource limitations. For example, the EU faces challenges like migration issues and the aftermath of Brexit, while the African Union struggles with conflict resolution and development goals.

    What would be the Impact on India?

    • Funding Shortfalls for WHO Programs: The U.S. contributes approximately 15-20% of WHO’s budget, amounting to around $600 million annually.
      • This withdrawal could lead to significant funding gaps for various health programs like India’s immunisation programs that India benefits from, such as those addressing neglected tropical diseases, HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis.
    • Loss of Technical Expertise: The departure of U.S. experts from WHO committees could limit the organization’s ability to provide comprehensive guidelines and support for health policies in India.

    What are the reforms needed in Global Institutions?

    • Enhanced Representation and Inclusivity: Need to expand the UN Security Council and restructure voting power in organizations like the IMF and World Bank to ensure equitable decision-making.
    • Increased Transparency and Accountability: There is a pressing need for improved transparency in decision-making processes within global institutions. This includes establishing clear accountability mechanisms to address concerns about corruption, inefficiency, and lack of responsiveness to member states’ needs.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Critically examine the role of WHO in providing global health security during the Covid-19 pandemic. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • In news: Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary

    Why in the News?

    The Kalaburagi Forest Division is working to relocate a hamlet within the Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary on the Karnataka-Telangana border to a safer area.

    About the Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary

    Details
    • Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 2011, covering 134.88 sq. km.
    • Recognized as the first dryland Wildlife Sanctuary in South India.
    • Located in the Kalaburagi District, renowned for its floristic diversity.
    • Contributes to the conservation of dryland ecosystems.
    Geographical Location
    • Situated in the Hyderabad Karnataka region.
    • Features the Chandrampalli Dam and four smaller dams within the sanctuary.
    Flora and Fauna
    • Flora: Rich in medicinal plants and tree species like Red Sanders, Sandalwood, Acacia, and Teak.
    • Fauna:
      • Mammals: Blackbuck, Common Fox, Four-horned Antelope, Indian Wolf, Hyena, and Fruit Bat.
      • Birds: Over 35 species, including Black Drongo, Black-winged Kite, Blossom-headed Parakeet, Blue Pigeon, Black-headed Oriole, and Grey Partridge.
    Climatic/Geographical Features
    • Comprises dry deciduous and moist deciduous forests.
    • Fringes are planted with Acacia and Teak.
    • Supports a dryland ecosystem with water bodies like the Chandrampalli Dam.
    • Features a mix of arid and semi-moist climatic conditions.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] In which one of the following States is Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary located?

    (a) Arunachal Pradesh

    (b) Manipur

    (c) Meghalaya

    (d) Nagaland

  • Species in news: Indian Bison (Gaur)

    Why in the News?

    The Jharkhand Forest department has initiated a study to revive the dwindling population of Bison, popularly known as Gaur, at Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR).

    bison

    About Indian Bison (Gaur)

    Details
    • Largest and tallest species in the wild cattle family.
    • Scientific Name: Bos gaurus.
    • Indigenous to South and Southeast Asia.
    Species Habitat and Location
    • Found in evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests with open grasslands.
    • Prefers hilly terrains below 1,500–1,800 m with abundant water.
    • Distributed across India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Thailand.
    Behavioural Features
    • Social animals living in herds of 30–40 individuals.
    • Strong and sturdy limbs, short tails, and inward-curved pale green/yellowish-brown horns.
    • Males weigh 600–1,500 kg; females weigh 400–1,000 kg.
    • Convex-shaped forehead; height ranges from 170–230 cm.
    Conservation Status
    • IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.
    • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I.
    • CITES: Appendix I.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] A sandy and saline area is the natural habitat of an Indian animal species. The animal has no predators in that area but its existence is threatened due to the destruction of its habitat. Which one of the following could be that animal?

    (a) Indian wild buffalo

    (b) Indian wild ass

    (c) Indian wild boar

    (d) Indian gazelle.

  • Doctrine of Merger

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court clarified the “doctrine of merger,” stating that only one final decree or order can govern the same matter. When a higher court rules on a case, its decision overrides the lower court’s decree, becoming the binding and operative order.

    What is ‘Doctrine of Merger’?

    • The Doctrine of Merger is a legal principle that governs the relationship between decisions or decrees passed by different judicial forums in the hierarchy.
    • It holds that once a superior court disposes of a case, the decision or decree of the lower court merges with that of the superior court.
    • This doctrine ensures that there is only one operative and binding decree governing a subject matter at a given point in time.
    • The doctrine applies when the order or decree of a lower court is subjected to an appeal, revision, or review before a higher court.
    • It ensures that there is no ambiguity regarding which order is binding and enforceable.
    • Key Features of the Doctrine of Merger
      • Single Operative Decree: The doctrine ensures that once a higher court has passed its judgment, there cannot be multiple operative decrees for the same subject matter.
      • Scope: Applicable when a lower court’s order is challenged before a superior court. The higher court’s decision, whether confirming, modifying, or overturning the lower court’s decree, becomes the final and binding authority.
      • Effect of Merger: The lower court’s decree is no longer independently enforceable; it is subsumed within the superior court’s order.

    Legal Basis and Precedents:

    • Kunhayammed v. State of Kerala (2000): The superior court’s decree, whether it confirms, modifies, or sets aside the lower court’s decree, replaces the lower court’s decision.
    • Logic of the Doctrine: “There cannot be more than one decree or operative order governing the same subject matter at a given point of time.”
    • Jurisdictional Hierarchy: This principle is applied in cases of appeals and revisions where the decision of the higher forum takes precedence over that of the lower forum.

    PYQ:

    [2021] With reference to the Indian judiciary, consider the following statements:

    1. Any retired judge of the Supreme Court of India can be called back to sit and act as a Supreme Court judge by the Chief Justice of India with the prior permission of the President of India.

    2. A High Court in India has the power to review its own judgement as the Supreme Court does.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither I nor 2

  • National Turmeric Board

    Why in the News?

    The Union Minister of Commerce & Industry inaugurated the National Turmeric Board in New Delhi, with Palle Ganga Reddy appointed as its first Chairperson.

    About the National Turmeric Board  

    Details
    • Operates under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
    • Headquarters: Nizamabad, Telangana.
    • Aim: To enhance turmeric production, support farmers, and boost global exports.
    Structural Mandate
    • Chaired by a Central Government appointee.
    • Includes representatives from the Ministry of AYUSH, Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, and Department of Commerce.
    • Rotating senior representatives from three states are also part of the Board.
    Powers and Functions
    • Promotes awareness of turmeric’s medicinal and essential properties.
    • Supports farmers across 20 states, including Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
    • Facilitates research, value addition, and development of new products for domestic and global markets.
    • Enhances logistics, supply chains, and trade opportunities.
    Turmeric (Curcuma longa) Production in India
    • Turmeric is also known as ‘Golden Spice’.
      • It thrives in temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C with high annual rainfall.
    • India is the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric globally.
    • Cultivates 30+ varieties over 3.05 lakh hectares, producing 10.74 lakh tonnes (2023-24).
    • Accounts for over 70% of global turmeric production and 62% of world exports.
    • Key exporting markets: Bangladesh, UAE, the US, and Malaysia.
    • GI-tagged turmeric includes Lakadong (Meghalaya), Kandhamal (Odisha), and Erode (Tamil Nadu).
    • Note: The Centre does NOT declare MSP for Turmeric.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following:

    1. Areca nut
    2. Barley
    3. Coffee
    4. Finger millet
    5. Groundnut
    6. Sesamum
    7. Turmeric

    The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has announced the Minimum Support Price for which of the above?

    (a) 1, 2, 3 and 7 only

    (b) 2, 4, 5 and 6 only

    (c) 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7

  • How is TRAI and the govt. combating spam?

    Why in the News?

    The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) plans to use blockchain technology (DLT) to track and manage customer preferences for blocking spam, according to its chairman, Anil Kumar Lahoti.

    What is the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)?

    • The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) plays a crucial role in regulating Unsolicited Commercial Communications (UCC), commonly referred to as spam. Established under the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997.

    What is TRAI’s role in fighting spam?

    • Do-Not-Disturb (DND) Registry: Launched in 2007, the DND registry allows customers to opt out of receiving commercial calls and messages. Users who register are not supposed to receive any spam communications.
    • Telecom Commercial Communication Customer Preference Regulation (TCCCPR): Enacted in 2018, this regulation penalizes telemarketers who violate DND preferences. It includes warnings for offenders and potential blacklisting from sending messages if they accumulate enough violations.
    • DND App Development: TRAI collaborated with external agencies to create a DND application that enables users to register their preferences and report complaints. By 2024, it became mandatory for telecom providers to include DND reporting features in their apps.

    What role does blockchain play?

    TRAI has mandated the use of Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) to enhance its spam control measures:

    • Immutable Record Keeping: Blockchain technology allows for a constantly updated and tamper-proof list of approved SMS senders and message formats. This ensures that only legitimate messages are sent, as each entry is unalterable by any party involved.
    • Message Traceability: Regulations require that messages be sent using sender IDs instead of phone numbers, enhancing traceability. This measure helps prevent unauthorized entities from sending spam by ensuring that all message origins are recorded.
    • Enhanced Regulations: In 2024, TRAI tightened regulations to ensure complete traceability of messages, addressing previous loopholes that allowed fraudulent registrations on blockchain systems

    What are the other steps taken by the government to end spam?

    • Sanchar Saathi Portal: This portal includes a reporting platform called Chakshu for complaints about fraudulent calls and messages. It collaborates with law enforcement and banks to identify and cancel numbers associated with unauthorised telemarketers.
    • Real-Time Monitoring: The establishment of the Telecom Security Operation Centre enables real-time monitoring of suspicious internet traffic, enhancing the government’s ability to respond promptly to spam-related threats.
    • AI-Based Detection: Telecom companies like Airtel have begun using Artificial Intelligence to label suspicious calls as “Suspected Spam,” a practice that is being adopted by other providers as well.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen International Collaboration: Partner with global VoIP providers and international regulators to curb spam and fraudulent calls originating from abroad, ensuring seamless enforcement across borders.
    • Promote AI and ML Integration: Expand the use of AI/ML technologies for proactive detection and blocking of spam calls and messages, while continuously improving user-friendly reporting mechanisms.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q For achieving the desired objectives,it is necessary to ensure that the regulatory institutions remain independent and autonomous. Discuss in the light of experiences in recent past. (UPSC IAS/2015)