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  • Light weight and Portable Payment System (LPSS) for emergencies

    payment

    Central Idea

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed the development of a Light weight and Portable Payment System (LPSS).

    Light weight and Portable Payment System (LPSS)

    • LPSS is referred to as a “bunker” equivalent, to ensure uninterrupted digital payments during exigencies such as natural calamities or war.
    • This system will operate independently of existing payment technologies like UPI, NEFT, and RTGS.
    • It can be operated from anywhere by a minimal staff during exigencies.
    • It will process critical transactions, such as bulk payments and interbank payments, during extreme and volatile situations.
    • The system operates on minimalistic hardware and software and is activated only when needed.

    Why such move?

    • As part of the Utkarsh 2.0 initiative, the RBI is working on strengthening the oversight framework for Centralised Payment Systems, including NEFT and RTGS.
    • The initiative aims to enhance the existing payment systems and introduce new functionalities to improve efficiency and reliability.

    Importance of an LPSS

    • Near-zero downtime: The RBI aims to create a payment system that can operate on minimalistic hardware and software, ensuring near-zero downtime of the payment and settlement system in the country.
    • Continuous liquidity pipeline: The lightweight system will facilitate uninterrupted functioning of essential payment services like bulk payments, interbank payments, and provision of cash to participant institutions, thereby keeping the liquidity pipeline of the economy alive and intact.
    • Stability of the economy: It is expected to process critical transactions, including government and market-related transactions that are crucial for maintaining the stability of the economy.
    • Enhancing public confidence: The resilient nature of the system will act as a bunker equivalent in payment systems, enhancing public confidence in digital payments and financial market infrastructure, even during extreme conditions.

    Differences between LPSS and UPI

    • Existing payment systems: The RBI acknowledges the availability of various payment systems in India for individuals and institutions, each with its distinct character and application.
    • Handling large transaction volumes: Conventional systems like RTGS, NEFT, and UPI are designed to handle large volumes of transactions while ensuring sustained availability, relying on complex wired networks and advanced IT infrastructure.
    • Vulnerability to catastrophic events: However, catastrophic events such as natural calamities and war can temporarily render these payment systems unavailable by disrupting the underlying information and communication infrastructure.
    • Preparedness for extreme situations: To address this vulnerability, the RBI believes it is prudent to be prepared with a lightweight payment system capable of functioning in extreme and volatile situations.

    Conclusion

    • The RBI has not provided a specific timeline for the launch of the lightweight payment and settlements system.
    • However, the concept serves as a crucial step towards ensuring the resilience of the payment ecosystem during emergencies.
    • Further research and development efforts are necessary to bring this system to fruition and enhance the overall stability and confidence in digital payments in India.

     

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  • Shifting US Policy: From Decoupling to De-risking in China Relations

    china

    Central Idea

    • The US is transitioning its policy on China from decoupling to de-risking, signalling a new approach.
    • The EU has already adopted a de-risking approach in its China policy, and the G-7 summit also expressed consensus on de-risking.

    Understanding the De-risking

    • After establishing diplomatic ties in 1979, the US and China developed a deep economic interdependence, benefiting China’s global engagement.
    • China’s rise challenged US global clout and impacted its domestic industries.
    • The Trump administration initiated a “decoupling” strategy to address the techno-economic challenge from China.
    • The Biden administration continues with a modified approach, shifting from decoupling to de-risking.
    • De-risking focuses on resilient supply chains to ensure the US is not subjected to coercion from other countries.

    Rationale behind De-risking

    • Geopolitical Competition: China’s rise as a strategic competitor challenges US global influence, prompting de-risking to reduce vulnerabilities and maintain an advantage.
    • National Security: Concerns about risks like intellectual property theft and cyber threats lead to de-risking to safeguard sensitive technologies and protect national security interests.
    • Resilient Supply Chains: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in supply chains, driving the need for de-risking to ensure diversified and resilient networks.
    • Fair Trade Practices: De-risking addresses concerns over China’s trade practices, such as intellectual property infringement and forced technology transfers, aiming for fairer trade by diversifying partners.
    • Alliance Building: De-risking aligns with allies’ interests, promoting collaboration and a united front against China’s rise.

    Geopolitical Ramifications

    • De-risking for Stronger Alliances: The US adopts de-risking to strengthen alliances in its rivalry with China, as seen in the G-7 summit declaration.
    • China’s Skepticism: China views de-risking as disguised decoupling, shifting blame for risks to China.
    • Aligning with Decoupling and United Front: De-risking aligns with decoupling by diversifying supply chains, while fostering a united front among allies.
    • Uncertain Effectiveness: The effectiveness of de-risking is uncertain, influenced by China’s response and challenges in diversifying supply chains.
    • Short-Term Indo-Pacific Impact: De-risking may temporarily divert focus from the Indo-Pacific, necessitating a balance with maintaining a robust strategy in the region.

    Way forward

    • The de-risking approach should be further developed and coordinated with allies to effectively counter China’s rise.
    • Balancing the benefits of de-risking with the need to maintain a robust Indo-Pacific strategy is crucial.
    • Engaging in strategic dialogues and strengthening alliances can help shape a cohesive approach in addressing China’s influence while minimizing risks.

     

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  • India discovers TOI 4603b Exoplanet

    exoplanet

    Central Idea

    • A new Jupiter-size exoplanet with the highest density known till this date has been discovered by an international team of scientists at the Exoplanet Research Group of the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Ahmedabad.
    • Massive giant exoplanets are defined as those with a mass greater than four times that of Jupiter.

    About the Exoplanet TOI4603b

    • The exoplanet is found around the star called TOI4603 or HD 245134.
    • It has a mass 13 times greater than that of Jupiter and a density of approximately 14 g/cm3.
    • Initially, NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) declared TOI4603 as a possible candidate to host a secondary body of unknown nature.
    • Using PARAS, scientists confirmed the secondary body as a planet, and it was named TOI 4603b or HD 245134b.
    • The exoplanet is located 731 light years away and orbits a sub-giant F-type star TOI4603 every 7.24 days.

    Note: An exoplanet, short for “extra-solar planet,” is a planet that orbits a star other than our Sun. These planets are located outside of our solar system and are not part of our planetary system.

    Unprecedented Density and Proximity

    • TOI 4603b is one of the most massive and densest giant planets discovered to date.
    • It orbits very close to its host star at a distance less than 1/10th the distance between our Sun and Earth.
    • Comparisons between the TOI-4603 star-planet system and the Sun-Mercury and Sun-Jupiter systems highlight the close proximity of TOI-4603 b to its star.
    • The exoplanet is situated more than 50 times closer to its star than Jupiter is to the Sun.
    • TOI-4603b is 13 times more massive than Jupiter.

    Utilization of Indigenous Technology

    • The discovery of this massive exoplanet was made using the indigenously made PRL Advanced Radial-velocity Abu-sky Search spectrograph (PARAS) at the 1.2 m telescope of PRL at its Gurushikhar Observatory in Mt. Abu.
    • The mass of the planet was measured precisely using PARAS.

    Uniqueness of the Discovery

    • The planet falls into the transition mass range of massive giant planets and low-mass brown dwarfs, with masses ranging from 11 to 16 times the mass of Jupiter.
    • Only fewer than five exoplanets are currently known in this mass range.
    • The rarity of such discoveries makes this finding significant.

    Insights into Formation and Evolution

    • The exoplanet has a surface temperature of 1670 K and is likely undergoing high-eccentricity tidal migration with an eccentricity value of approximately 0.3.
    • The detection of such systems provides valuable insights into the formation, migration, and evolution mechanisms of massive exoplanets.

    India’s Contribution to Exoplanet Discoveries

    • This marks the third exoplanet discovery by India and the PRL scientists using the PARAS spectrograph and the PRL 1.2m telescope.
    • Previous discoveries include K2-236b in 2018 and TOI-1789b in 2021.

     

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  • Devastating Frog Disease: Chytridiomycosis

    frog

    Central Idea

    • A multinational study has recently published a breakthrough method in the journal Transboundary and Emerging Diseases to detect all known strains of the amphibian chytrid fungus.
    • This method will enhance our ability to detect and research the disease and work towards finding a widely available cure.

    Chytridiomycosis: The deadly frog disease

    • Chytridiomycosis, also known as chytrid, is a fungal disease that has been decimating frog populations worldwide for the past 40 years.
    • The disease has caused severe declines in over 500 frog species and led to 90 extinctions, making it the deadliest animal disease known.

    How does it infect?

    • Chytrid infects frogs by reproducing in their skin, damaging their ability to balance water and salt levels.
    • The mortality rate is extreme, and the disease has affected a high number of species, causing devastating declines and extinctions.
    • The disease originated in Asia and spread globally through amphibian trade and travel.

    Limitations in diagnosis

    • Researchers traditionally used swabs and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) tests, similar to COVID-19 testing, to detect chytrid in frogs.
    • The existing qPCR test could not detect chytrid strains from Asia, limiting research efforts.

    New and Improved qPCR Test

    • Researchers in India, Australia, and Panama have developed a new qPCR test that can detect strains of chytrid from Asia.
    • The test is also more sensitive, allowing for the detection of low infection levels and expanding the range of species that can be studied.
    • The test can also detect a closely related species of chytrid that infects salamanders.

    Understanding natural immunity in frogs

    • Some amphibian species, even those without an evolutionary history with chytrid, do not become sick when carrying the fungus, indicating natural immune resistance.
    • Frog immunity is complex, involving anti-microbial chemicals, symbiotic bacteria, white blood cells, antibodies, and more.
    • Research in Asia, where chytrid declines have not been observed, may provide insights into how resistance evolves and aid in finding a cure for affected regions.

     

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  • Shenzhou-16 successfully launches with 3 Astronauts to Space

    shenzhou

    Central Idea

    • China has achieved a successful launch of the Shenzhou-16 spacecraft carrying three astronauts to the Tiangong space station.

    What is Shenzhou-16?

    • Shenzhou-16 spacecraft is part of Chinese manned spaceflight missions and was designed to transport astronauts to the Tiangong space station.
    • This mission marks an important step in China’s space exploration efforts, with the crew set to conduct a range of tests and experiments during their five-month stay.
    • The Tiangong space station, operated by the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA), is an integral part of China’s ambitious space program and aims to be a hub for scientific research.

    Astronauts on Shenzhou-16

    • The crew of the Shenzhou-16 mission consists of three astronauts: Jing Haipeng as the leading commander, Zhu Yangzhu, and Gui Haichao.
    • Jing Haipeng is an experienced senior spacecraft pilot and one of China’s first batch of astronaut trainees.
    • Zhu Yangzhu, a postdoctoral fellow in aerodynamics and former university teacher, will serve as a spaceflight engineer.
    • Gui Haichao is the first Chinese civilian to travel to space and will be responsible for overseeing science experiments at the space station.

    Objectives of the Mission

    • The Shenzhou-16 crew will replace the previous crew from the Shenzhou-15 mission that has been aboard the Tiangong space station since November.
    • The new crew will carry out large-scale tests and experiments in various fields, including the study of quantum phenomena, high-precision space time-frequency systems, verification of general relativity, and the origin of life.
    • These scientific endeavors are expected to lead to significant achievements during the crew’s five-month stay.

    About the Tiangong Space Station

    • The Tiangong space station, operated by the CMSA, was developed by China after being barred from collaborating with NASA due to concerns of espionage.
    • The station’s first module entered orbit in 2021, with two more modules added subsequently.
    • China’s long-term plan is to expand the station, with the next module set to dock and create a cross-shaped structure.
    • The Tiangong space station aims to become a leading outpost for scientific research once the International Space Station’s operations conclude in 2030.

     

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  • Delhi’s Ancient Secrets: Recent Excavations at Purana Qila

    purana qila

    Central Idea

    • Delhi’s Purana Qila, also known as the Old Fort, is a historic site with a rich and diverse past.
    • Recent excavations have shed light on its continuous history since the pre-Mauryan era.

    About Purana Qila

    • The origins of Purana Qila date back to antiquity, with the exact foundation period unknown.
    • It was later rebuilt by Sher Shah Suri and Mughal emperor Humayun.
    • The fort holds immense cultural and historical importance, and many believe it to be the site of Indraprastha mentioned in the Mahabharata.
    • The fort, believed to be the location of the ancient city of Indraprastha, showcases architectural remnants from various periods, including the Mughal and Rajput eras.

    Architectural marvels at Purana Qila

    • Purana Qila’s architectural features include walls that rise to a height of 18 meters, spanning approximately 1.5 kilometers.
    • It boasts three arched gateways, including the Bara Darwaza, the south gate (Humayun Gate), and the Talaqi Gate.
    • The fort’s Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, built by Sher Shah Suri in 1541, showcases pre-Mughal architecture with its pointed arches and elegant prayer niches.
    • The Sher Mandal, a double-storeyed octagonal tower, served as Humayun’s private observatory and library.
    • It features decorative plaster-work and remnants of stone shelving for books.

    Recent excavation discoveries

    • Excavations have uncovered significant artifacts, including shards of Painted Gray Ware pottery dating from 1200 BC to 600 BC, indicating the pre-Mauryan period.
    • Other discoveries include a 900-year-old Vaikuntha Vishnu from the Rajput period, a terracotta plaque of Goddess Gaja Lakshmi from the Gupta period, and a 2,500-year-old terracotta ring well from the Mauryan period.
    • Numerous beads, seals, copper coins, and a bone needle have also been found, highlighting the site’s role as a center for trade activities.

    Cultural chronology and preservation

    • The ongoing excavation aims to establish a complete chronology of the site, spanning different historical periods from the Kushan to the Mughal era.
    • The remains of Purana Qila will be preserved, conserved, and transformed into an open-air museum to showcase the rich historical legacy of Delhi.
    • The excavated artifacts will also be displayed to delegates attending the G-20 summit, further promoting the cultural heritage of the site.

     

  • [VERY IMPORTANT]: Performance of 17th Lok Sabha: Challenges and Concerns

    Lok Sabha

    Central Idea

    • India’s new Parliament building, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, symbolizes the aspirations of 140 crore Indians. However, as the 17th Lok Sabha nears its final year, it faces scrutiny over its performance.

    Performance of 17th Lok Sabha

    • Sitting Days: The 17th Lok Sabha has functioned for 230 sitting days so far. However, if it falls short of surpassing the lowest recorded full-term Lok Sabha (331 sitting days in the 16th Lok Sabha), it would become the shortest full-term Lok Sabha since 1952.
    • Referral of Bills to Committees: There has been a decline in the referral of bills to Parliamentary Standing Committees. Since 2004, only 45% of the total bills introduced in Parliament have been referred to committees. This suggests a potential decrease in comprehensive scrutiny and review of proposed legislation.
    • Legislative Output: The number of bills introduced and passed in the 17th Lok Sabha has seen a decline. Out of the 150 bills introduced, 131 have been passed so far (excluding Finance and Appropriation Bills). The decreasing trend raises questions about the legislative productivity of the Lok Sabha.
    • Budget Discussions: The latest Budget session of the 17th Lok Sabha was one of the shortest since 1952. The limited time dedicated to discussing financial matters, particularly the Budget, raises concerns about the depth of analysis and deliberation on critical fiscal issues.
    • Debates on Matters of Public Importance: The number of debates conducted in the Lok Sabha during the tenure of the 17th Lok Sabha has been limited. There have been only 11 short duration discussions and one half-an-hour discussion, indicating a restricted avenue for robust parliamentary discourse on matters of public importance.
    • Delayed Election of Deputy Speaker: Despite the constitutional provision mandating the election of a Deputy Speaker, the 17th Lok Sabha has not elected one, even as it enters its final year of the five-year term. This delay raises concerns about adherence to constitutional norms and the effective functioning of parliamentary proceedings.

    Value addition box from Civilsdaily

    Lok Sabha Term Total Sitting Days Bills Introduced Bills Passed Average Sitting Days per Year
    15th 2009-2014 357 244 181 71
    16th 2014-2019 331 247 156 66
    17th 2019-2024 Less than 331 (projected) 150 (as of April 2023) 131 (as of April 2023) 58 (projected)

    Why the 17th Lok Sabha’s productivity has been low?

    • Disruptions and Protests: The 17th Lok Sabha witnessed frequent disruptions and protests from opposition parties, leading to a significant loss of time and decreased productivity. Some of the major issues that led to disruptions include the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), National Register of Citizens (NRC), and farm laws.
    • Lack of Consensus: The ruling party enjoyed a clear majority in the Lok Sabha, but there was still a lack of consensus on many key issues, resulting in a delay in passing important bills and legislation.
    • COVID-19 Pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic also contributed to the low productivity of the Lok Sabha as many sessions were delayed or cancelled due to safety concerns.
    • Speaker’s Decision: The decision of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha to disallow opposition MPs from raising certain issues also resulted in protests and disruptions, further reducing the productivity of the house.
    • Shorter Sessions: The 17th Lok Sabha had shorter sessions compared to previous Lok Sabhas, which also contributed to lower productivity. Many important bills and issues were left pending as there was not enough time to discuss and debate them thoroughly.

    The concerns associated with the performance of MPs in the old Parliament building

    • Limited Parliamentary Engagement: The limited number of sitting days raises concerns about the MPs’ ability to fully engage in legislative proceedings and address the various challenges and issues faced by the country.
    • Decreased Scrutiny of Legislation: The declining referral of bills to Parliamentary Standing Committees raises concerns about the thorough scrutiny and review of proposed legislation.
    • Legislative Productivity: The decreased number of bills introduced and passed in the 17th Lok Sabha raises concerns about its legislative productivity. This may limit the ability of MPs to address critical issues, propose new policies, and enact necessary reforms, hindering progress and development.
    • Limited Budget Discussions: The shortened Budget sessions and reduced time allocated for financial discussions raise concerns about the depth of analysis and deliberation on critical fiscal matters.
    • Restricted Debates on Public Matters: The limited number of debates conducted in the Lok Sabha raises concerns about the comprehensive discussion and examination of matters of public importance.

    Lok Sabha

    New Parliament Building: An Opportunity for Efficiency

    • Responsible Parliamentary Conduct: Members of Parliament should prioritize constructive and meaningful debates, fostering a culture of respect, collaboration, and consensus-building. It is essential to move away from disruptive tactics and focus on substantive discussions that address the complex governance challenges of our time.
    • Reducing Disruptions: Long periods of deadlock and disruptions hinder the smooth functioning of Parliament. Efforts should be made to minimize disruptions and ensure that discussions remain focused on key issues. Rules and procedures can be reviewed to encourage more disciplined and productive parliamentary conduct.
    • Enhancing Communication and Participation: The new Parliament building, equipped with modern facilities, offers opportunities for better communication and engagement. Members should utilize these resources effectively to engage with constituents, share information, and seek feedback, fostering a more inclusive and participatory democracy.

    Conclusion

    • The performance of MPs in the 17th Lok Sabha is pivotal in driving effective governance and representing the aspirations of the Indian people. It is crucial for MPs to embrace their roles as custodians of democracy, remaining accountable to their constituents and working collectively to shape a brighter future for India.

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    Must read:

    Inauguration of New Parliament House: Shaping the Concept of Aatmanirbhar Bharat

  • India’s Initiative for ASEAN Women in UN Peacekeeping

    asean un peacekeeping

    Central Idea

    India-ASEAN Initiative for Women in UNPK Operations

    • Defence Minister proposed this initiative last year to strengthen India-ASEAN defence cooperation.
    • Tailor-made courses for women peacekeepers from ASEAN member-states will be conducted at the Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK) in India.
    • Twenty peacekeepers, two from each country, will receive training in various aspects of peacekeeping.
    • A “Table Top Exercise” focusing on UNPK challenges will be held in December, specifically designed for women officers from ASEAN.

    India’s Training and Capacity Building

    • The Indian Army has established the Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK) in New Delhi, which trains over 12,000 troops annually in peacekeeping operations.
    • The CUNPK hosts foreign delegations, shares best practices, and dispatches mobile training teams to Friendly Foreign Countries for capacity building in UNPK.
    • India has deployed Female Engagement Teams, Women Military Police, and women staff officers and military observers in various UN missions.
    • India has the second-largest women contingent in the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and UN Interim Security Force for Abyei.

    What is United Nations Peacekeeping?

    • UN Peacekeeping helps countries navigate the difficult path from conflict to peace.
    • UN peacekeepers are often referred to as Blue Berets or Blue Helmets because of their light blue berets or helmets) can include soldiers, police officers, and civilian personnel.

    UN Peacekeeping is guided by three basic principles:

    1. Consent of the parties
    2. Impartiality
    3. Non-use of force except in self-defence and defence of the mandate

    UNPKF in operation

    • Since 1948, UN Peacekeepers have undertaken 71 Field Missions.
    • There are approximately 81,820 personnel serving on 13 peace operations led by UNDPO, in four continents currently.
    • This represents a nine-fold increase since 1999.
    • A total of 119 countries have contributed military and police personnel to UN peacekeeping.
    • Currently, 72,930 of those serving are troops and military observers, and about 8,890 are police personnel.

    Why UN Peacekeeping is needed?

    • Conflict resolution: UN peacekeeping missions play a crucial role in assisting host countries in transitioning from conflict to peace.
    • Burden sharing: UN peacekeeping utilizes a global coalition of troops and police to share the responsibility of maintaining peace and stability worldwide.
    • Democratization: Peacekeepers provide security and political support to facilitate the early transition to peace and support democratic processes in post-conflict countries.

    India’s Contribution to UN Peacekeeping

    • Largest troop contributor: India has a long-standing history of contributing personnel to UN peacekeeping missions, with over 253,000 Indians serving in 49 out of 71 missions.
    • Current deployments: Approximately 5,500 Indian troops and police are deployed in UN peacekeeping missions, ranking India as the fifth-highest troop-contributing country.
    • Women in Indian Peacekeeping: India has played a pioneering role in deploying women peacekeepers, starting with an all-women contingent to Liberia in 2007.
    • Humanitarian services: Indian peacekeepers also provide medical care, veterinary support, and engineering services to communities in need.

    Issues with UN Peacekeeping

    [A] Issues for India

    • Kashmir interference: India has expressed discontent with the UN Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) operating in Kashmir, considering it irrelevant after the Shimla Agreement.
    • Disregard for India-Pak ceasefire: UNMOGIP continues to observe hostilities and ceasefire violations along the Line of Control, which India believes is unnecessary.

    [B] Global Challenges

    • Diverse security challenges: UN peacekeeping operations need to adapt to rapidly evolving security dynamics.
    • Resource allocation: Mandates of peacekeeping missions should align with available resources.
    • Greater involvement of troop-contributing countries: Countries providing troops and police should have a meaningful role in mission planning.
    • Investment in peacebuilding: Adequate financial and human resources are required for post-conflict peacebuilding.

    Way Forward

    • UNSC reform: Reform the UN Security Council to reflect the changing global landscape.
    • Multi-partner collaboration: Enhance effectiveness by involving actors beyond the UNSC in counterterrorism efforts.
    • Modernization of peacekeeping: Strengthen UN Peacekeeping Forces through modernization and inclusivity.
    • Human-centric decision-making: Promote accountability and transparency in the UNSC’s decision-making processes.

    Conclusion

    • India’s commitment to promoting women’s participation in UNPK operations underscores its dedication to global peace and security.
    • These initiatives aim to enhance the capabilities and representation of women in peacekeeping, recognizing their valuable contributions to maintaining peace and stability worldwide.

     

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  • ISRO successfully deploys NavIC NVS-1 Satellite

    isro

    Central Idea

    • The Indian Space Research Organisation has successfully launched its fifth satellite of 2023.
    • A 2,232-kilogram satellite named NVS-1 was launched into space as part of the NavIC

    What is NAVIC?

    • NavIC is a regional satellite navigation system consisting of seven satellites in orbit that provide positioning, navigation, and timing services to various sectors, including civil aviation and the military.

    (1) Origins and Motivation:

    • The idea of NAVIC emerged in the early 2000s as IRNSS (Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System) to address India’s need for an independent navigation system for strategic and civilian purposes.
    • The motivation behind NAVIC was to reduce dependence on foreign systems like GPS and enhance national security, sovereignty, and economic growth.

    (2) Satellite Deployment:

    • The NAVIC constellation consists of a total of 7* satellites.
    • The first satellite, IRNSS-1A, was launched in July 2013, followed by subsequent launches of IRNSS-1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, and IRNSS-1I.
    • Each satellite is placed in a geostationary orbit or an inclined geosynchronous orbit, providing continuous coverage over the Indian landmass and surrounding regions.

    (3) Renaming to NAVIC:

    • In 2016, the system was officially named NAVIC, which stands for Navigation with Indian Constellation.
    • The name change aimed to create a distinct brand identity for the Indian regional navigation system.

    Key Features and Technical Details

    (1) Coverage Area:

    • NAVIC provides coverage within India and extends up to 1,500 kilometres beyond its borders.
    • The system covers the Indian landmass, as well as the Indian Ocean region.

    (2) Satellite Configuration:

    • The NAVIC satellites are equipped with atomic clocks to provide accurate timing signals.
    • They transmit signals on different frequencies, including L5 and S bands, for enhanced accuracy and reliability.

    (3) Applications and Services:

    • NAVIC has a wide range of applications, including terrestrial, aerial, and marine navigation.
    • It is utilized in various sectors such as transportation, agriculture, disaster management, surveying, and geodetic applications.
    • The system supports position determination, velocity measurement, and time synchronization services.

    About NVS-1 Satellite

    • NVS-1 is part of the second-generation NavIC satellite series and ensures continuity of existing services while introducing new services in the Li band.
    • The satellite features two solar arrays generating up to 2.4 kW of power, a lithium-ion battery for eclipse support, and thermal management and propulsion systems.
    • Notably, NVS-1 includes a Rubidium atomic clock developed in-house by the Space Applications Centre, showcasing India’s technical expertise in this advanced technology.

    India’s launch capabilities and recent missions

    • The NVS-1 launch marks the second successful mission in a month and the fifth launch of the year for ISRO.
    • In April, ISRO completed the PSLV-C55 mission, deploying two satellites, including TeLEOS-2 with a synthetic aperture radar payload.
    • The PSLV-C55 mission highlighted collaboration between India and Singapore in space exploration and technology.

    *Note: The numbers of satellites in this constellation is disputed. It is given as 7 and 8 on different sources. Total Nine satellites were launched out of which the very first (IRNSS-1A) is partially failed because of some issue in its Atomic Clock. Another and the last satellite had a launch failure. Hence the number 7/8.

     

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  • Parliamentary Institutions in Ancient India

    parliament

    Central Idea

    • The construction and history of the Indian Parliament building serve as a reminder of India’s rich democratic traditions.
    • Dr BR Ambedkar, the Chairman of the Drafting Committee for the Indian Constitution, highlighted the presence of democratic aspects in Indian history that predate Western influence.

    Democratic Traditions in Ancient India

    • Ambedkar had challenged the notion that India’s parliamentary procedures were borrowed from European countries.
    • Ambedkar referred to the Vinay–pitaka, a Theravada Buddhist scripture, as evidence of existing democratic procedures in India.
    • The scripture regulated meetings of the Bhikkhus Sangh (monks) and included rules for debates, motions, and voting through a secret ballot system.

    Comparison with Western Democracies

    • Ambedkar acknowledged the importance of contributions made by Western democracies in moving away from autocracy and religious dominance.
    • He highlighted the separation of Church and State in Western societies and the transition to secular laws created by the people rather than divine or religious authorities.

    Caution against Failure to Address Defects

    • Ambedkar pointed out the tendency of ancient societies to neglect repairing their own defects, leading to their decay.
    • He criticized the Indian society’s reliance on divine laws established by figures like Manu and Yajnavalkya, which hindered the ability to address societal issues.

    Conclusion

    • While acknowledging India’s rich democratic history, it is essential to continue building and strengthening democratic institutions to address the evolving needs and challenges of society.
    • This includes fostering an introspective approach, embracing inclusive governance, and upholding the principles of secularism, equality, and social justice.

    Back2Basics: Tripitaka

    • The Tripitaka, also known as the Pali Canon, is a collection of sacred Buddhist scriptures that form the foundational texts of the Theravada Buddhist tradition.
    • It is divided into three sections, known as the Tripitaka, which literally means “Three Baskets.”

    History and significance

    • The Tripitaka was orally transmitted from the time of Gautama Buddha in the 5th century BCE until it was eventually written down in the 1st century BCE.
    • It holds immense historical and religious significance as it contains the teachings, discourses, rules, and guidelines given by the Buddha and his prominent disciples.

    Composition of the Tripitaka:

    (1) Vinaya Pitaka (Basket of Discipline):

    • Comprises the rules and guidelines for monastic discipline in the Buddhist community.
    • Provides detailed instructions on the conduct and behavior expected from monks and nuns.
    • Covers various aspects, including ethical guidelines, disciplinary codes, and procedures for resolving disputes.
    • Offers insights into the monastic life, the organization of the Sangha (monastic community), and the role of the monastic code in maintaining harmony and ethical conduct.

    (2) Sutta Pitaka (Basket of Discourses):

    • Contains the discourses and teachings delivered by Gautama Buddha and his close disciples.
    • Includes a vast collection of discourses covering a wide range of topics, such as ethics, meditation, philosophy, and social issues.
    • Consists of individual suttas (discourses) grouped into different collections or Nikayas, such as the Digha Nikaya (Long Discourses), Majjhima Nikaya (Middle-Length Discourses), Samyutta Nikaya (Connected Discourses), and Anguttara Nikaya (Numerical Discourses).
    • Presents the Buddha’s profound teachings on the Four Noble Truths, the Noble Eightfold Path, dependent origination, and other core concepts of Buddhism.

    (3) Abhidhamma Pitaka (Basket of Higher Teachings):

    • Provides a comprehensive and systematic analysis of Buddhist philosophy and psychology.
    • Explores the nature of mind, consciousness, and reality in intricate detail.
    • Presents the teachings in a more technical and analytical manner, offering an advanced understanding of Buddhist concepts.
    • Divided into seven books, known as the Abhidhamma books, which delve into topics such as consciousness, mental factors, elements, and the path to liberation.
    • Offers a deep exploration of the ultimate nature of existence and the workings of the mind.

    Features and Characteristics

    • Authenticity and Authority: The Tripitaka is regarded as the most authoritative and authentic collection of Buddhist scriptures in the Theravada tradition.
    • Canonical Language: The texts are primarily written in Pali, an ancient Indian language close to the language spoken during the Buddha’s time.
    • Extensive Coverage: The Tripitaka covers a wide range of topics, offering comprehensive guidance for practitioners in various aspects of life.
    • Preservation of Early Buddhist Teachings: The Tripitaka is believed to preserve the original teachings of the Buddha, providing insights into his wisdom and teachings.

     

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