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GS Paper: GS3

  • [pib] Changes in Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) from 2025

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has announced major changes to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS).

    About Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS):

    • Purpose: To measure employment and unemployment nationwide.
    • Conducted by: National Statistical Office (NSO) under the MoSPI, it has been active since 2017.
    • Estimate 3 core indicators: Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), Worker Population Ratio (WPR), and Unemployment Rate (UR).
    • Frequency: It provides Quarterly estimates for Urban areas and Annual estimates for both Rural and Urban areas.
    • Methodology: Employment is measured using 2 reference periods — Usual Status (activity in the last 365 days) and Current Weekly Status (activity in the last 7 days).
    Note:

    • Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR): It is defined as the percentage of persons in labour force (i.e. working or seeking or available for work) in the population.
    • Worker Population Ratio (WPR): It is defined as the percentage of employed persons in the population.
    • Unemployment Rate (UR): It is defined as the percentage of persons unemployed among the persons in the labour force.
    [UPSC 2022] In India, which one of the following compiles information on industrial disputes, closures, retrenchments and lay-offs in factories employing workers?

    Options: (a) Central Statistics Office (b) Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (c) Labour Bureau * (d) National Technical Manpower Information System

     

  • Scientists at CERN Create Gold from Lead

    Why in the News?

    In a recent breakthrough at CERN’s ALICE (A Large Ion Collider Experiment), scientists observed that near-collisions of lead ions in the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) can result in the formation of gold atoms and other novel nuclei.

    How was Lead converted into Gold?

    • In ultra-peripheral collisions at the Large Hadron Collider, lead atoms passed close without touching, creating strong electromagnetic fields.
    • These fields released photons that caused some lead atoms to lose 3 protons and 2 neutrons, transforming them into gold-203.
    • Between 2015–2018, 86 billion gold atoms were created—just 29 picograms—scientifically important but not commercially valuable.

    About the Large Hadron Collider (LHC):

    • The LHC has been working since September 2008 and is the world’s largest particle accelerator.
    • Development: Between 1998 and 2008 in collaboration with over 10,000 scientists, and hundreds of universities and laboratories across more than 100 countries.
    • Location: It lies in a 27-kilometre tunnel under the France–Switzerland border, near Geneva, and is operated by CERN.
    • Purpose: It smashes protons or lead atoms together to help scientists study the smallest building blocks of the universe.
    • Working Mechanism: About 9,600 magnets guide particles in a circle using strong magnetic fields.
    • Speed: Particles travel at 99.999999% the speed of light, creating conditions like the Big Bang.
    • Particles Studied: The LHC focuses on quarks (which come in six types) and gluons, which hold quarks together using the strong nuclear force.
    • Members: 24 countries spans across the Europe. Japan and US are Observer.
    • India and LHC: 
      • India signed a cooperation agreement with CERN in 1991 and joined its Large Hadron Collider project in 1996; it became an Associate Member in 2016 after gaining Observer status in 2002.
      • India also helped design LHC components such as superconducting magnets, cryogenic systems, and accelerator protection systems.

    About the ALICE Experiment:

    • ALICE is designed to study heavy-ion collisions, mainly using lead atoms.
    • Objective: It recreates matter similar to that formed just after the Big Bang, helping us understand the early universe.
    • Detection Range: ALICE can study both large particle blasts and rare, low-energy events with high precision.
    • Size and Setup: It weighs 10,000 tons, measures 26 × 16 × 16 metres, and sits 56 metres underground.
    • Members: As of 2024, ALICE includes over 1,900 scientists from 174 institutes across 39 countries, including India.
    • India’s Contribution: Key instruments like the Photon Multiplicity Detector for ALICE and the Hadron Outer Calorimeter for CMS.

     

    [UPSC 2009] In the year 2008, which one of the following conducted a complex scientific experiment in which sub-atomic particles were accelerated to nearly the speed of light?

    Options: (a) European Space Agency (b) European Organization for Nuclear Research* (c) International Atomic Energy Agency (d) National Aeronautics and Space administration

     

  • [14th May 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Ecology is the world’s permanent economy

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2024] The groundwater potential of the gangetic valley is on a serious decline. How may it affect the food security of India?

    Linkage: The concept that ecological health (groundwater levels) is fundamental to human survival and security (food security). It highlights how the depletion of a natural resource affects a critical aspect of the economy and human well-being, demonstrating the link between ecology and a “permanent economy” that sustains life.

    Mentor’s Comment: The phrase “Ecology is the permanent economy” means much more than just a catchy line. It reminds us of a basic truth: human well-being depends on the health of nature. We cannot grow our economy without using natural resources, and we cannot keep our economy stable without protecting them. Today, as we face big problems like climate change and loss of wildlife, we need to seriously think about whether we truly understand and follow this idea.

    Today’s editorial discusses the idea that “Ecology is the permanent economy”. This topic is useful for GS Paper III in the UPSC Mains Exam, especially for questions related to the economy and environment.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Understanding the idea that “Ecology is the permanent economy” will help us see that a healthy environment is essential for our survival, a strong economy, and protection against climate change.

    What does the phrase “Ecology is the permanent economy” signify in relation to human prosperity and ecological health?

    • Foundation of Human Survival and Economy: Ecology provides essential resources like air, water, food, and fertile soil — the base of all economic activity. Eg: Agriculture depends on healthy soil, pollinators, and water cycles. Degraded ecosystems lead to crop failures and food insecurity.
    • Long-term Economic Stability Requires Ecological Balance: Sustainable use of natural resources ensures continued economic benefits without exhausting the environment. Eg: Overfishing depletes fish stocks, harming both marine biodiversity and the fishing industry. Conservation efforts like fishing quotas help restore balance and maintain livelihoods.
    • Ecological Health Mitigates Climate and Disaster Risks: Ecosystems act as buffers against natural disasters and climate change impacts, protecting both lives and infrastructure. Eg: Mangroves protect coastal areas from storms and floods. Their destruction increases disaster vulnerability and economic loss.

    How has human evolution led to a disconnection from nature?

    • Shift from Nomadic to Settled Life: Early humans lived in close contact with nature, relying on it for daily survival. With agriculture and settlements, dependency became indirect. Eg: Nomads hunted and gathered in forests, while modern societies buy packaged food, unaware of its natural source.
    • Urbanisation and Infrastructure Development: Rapid urban growth has replaced natural landscapes with concrete, isolating people from natural surroundings. Eg: Children growing up in cities often have limited exposure to forests, rivers, or wildlife.
    • Technological Advancements: Machines, internet, and artificial environments have reduced daily interaction with the natural world. Eg: Air conditioning replaces the need to adapt to seasons; virtual reality replaces outdoor experiences.
    • Consumerism and Resource Overuse: The pursuit of material comfort leads to overexploitation of nature without regard for ecological balance. Eg: Excessive mining or deforestation for products like electronics or furniture disrupts ecosystems.
    • Loss of Traditional Knowledge and Practices: Indigenous ecological wisdom is being lost as modern lifestyles dominate, weakening the cultural connection to nature. Eg: Practices like rainwater harvesting or sacred groves are being forgotten in many regions.

    What impact has this had on biodiversity?

    • Habitat Destruction: Expansion of urban areas, agriculture, and infrastructure has led to large-scale loss of natural habitats. Eg: Deforestation in the Amazon rainforest has destroyed habitats for countless species, pushing many toward extinction.
    • Species Extinction: Disruption of ecosystems and overexploitation of species has accelerated extinction rates. Eg: The dodo bird and the western black rhinoceros became extinct due to hunting and habitat loss.
    • Invasive Species Introduction: Human activities have introduced non-native species that outcompete or prey on native species. Eg: Introduction of Nile perch in Lake Victoria led to the decline of hundreds of native fish species.
    • Pollution and Climate Change: Industrial waste, plastic pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions degrade ecosystems and affect species survival. Eg: Coral bleaching caused by ocean warming has severely damaged coral reef biodiversity.
    • Disruption of Natural Cycles: Unsustainable development alters food chains, migration patterns, and breeding cycles. Eg: Light pollution in cities affects nocturnal species like sea turtles, which rely on natural darkness for nesting.

    Why is balancing environmental protection and economic development crucial for long-term sustainability?

    • Ensures Resource Availability for Future Generations: Overexploitation today can lead to resource depletion, affecting future livelihoods. Eg: Sustainable forestry in countries like Sweden ensures timber is harvested without degrading forests.
    • Prevents Environmental Degradation: Economic development without ecological concern leads to pollution, soil erosion, and climate change. Eg: Unchecked industrialisation along the Ganga River caused severe water pollution, harming both people and biodiversity.
    • Supports Climate Resilience: Ecosystem protection helps buffer against climate impacts like floods, droughts, and heatwaves. Eg: Mangrove conservation in the Sundarbans protects coastal areas from cyclones and sea-level rise.
    • Boosts Green Economic Opportunities: Investing in renewables and green technology creates jobs while reducing emissions. Eg: India’s solar energy mission has generated employment and reduced dependency on fossil fuels.
    • Promotes Health and Well-being: A clean environment ensures access to clean air, water, and food, essential for human health. Eg: Delhi’s vehicular emission controls aim to reduce air pollution, improving public health outcomes.

    What paradox arises from relying on nature-based solutions while continuing to exploit natural resources?

    • Dual Dependence Creates Contradiction: We expect ecosystems to mitigate climate change while simultaneously degrading them through deforestation and pollution. Eg: Planting trees for carbon offset while clearing rainforests for agriculture defeats the purpose.
    • Undermines Long-Term Effectiveness: Continuous exploitation weakens the very systems relied upon for climate resilience and biodiversity restoration. Eg: Wetlands restoration projects fail when nearby urban expansion continues to encroach on wetland areas.
    • Ecological Imbalance Intensifies: The more we harm natural systems, the less capable they become in acting as buffers against environmental crises. Eg: Overfishing damages marine ecosystems, reducing their ability to regulate carbon and support livelihoods.

    What are the steps taken by the Indian government? 

    Way forward: 

    • Integrate Ecology into Economic Planning: Make environmental sustainability a core part of all development policies to ensure long-term resource security and resilience.
    • Promote Community-Led Conservation: Empower local communities with incentives and rights to manage natural resources, ensuring inclusive and effective environmental protection.

  • What are Digital Banking Units (DBU)?

    Why in the News?

    In October 2022, 75 Digital Banking Units were launched across remote districts to commemorate India’s 75th Independence Day, but their momentum has declined from past 2 years.

    About Digital Banking Units (DBUs):

    • DBUs are specialized, fixed-location banking hubs designed to deliver a wide range of digital financial services using modern infrastructure.
    • They operate in both self-service and assisted modes, offering customers 24/7 access to banking in a paperless, secure, and cost-effective environment.
    • The RBI permits commercial banks with digital banking experience to establish DBUs in Tier I to Tier VI cities, without prior approval unless restricted.
      • RRBs, payment banks, and local area banks are not eligible.
    • In October 2022, as part of India’s 75th independence anniversary, 75 DBUs were launched across 75 remote districts to promote financial inclusion and bring banking services closer to citizens in semi-urban and rural areas.

    Services and Features:

    • DBUs offer digital services such as account opening, internet and mobile banking kits, debit and credit card applications, and UPI QR-based merchant solutions.
    • Customers can apply online for retail loans, MSME loans, and government-sponsored schemes, with the entire process—from application to disbursal—handled digitally.
    • Each DBU operates independently from existing branches and must follow RBI guidelines, including housing in separate premises with automated-only cash services.
    • They are equipped with interactive teller machines, cash recyclers, document upload systems, and video KYC facilities.
    • A senior bank executive is appointed as Chief Operating Officer (COO) to manage each unit.

    Benefits Offered:

    • DBUs offer a convenient, paperless banking experience, reducing the need to visit traditional branches.
    • They support inclusive banking by expanding access to financial services in underserved regions.
    • Customers in remote areas benefit from both automated and assisted service options.
    • For banks, DBUs help optimize costs while improving service delivery and outreach.
    [UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements in respect of the digital rupee:

    1. It is a sovereign currency issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in alignment with its monetary policy. 2. It appears as a liability on the RBI’s balance sheet. 3. It is insured against inflation by its very design. 4. It is freely convertible against commercial bank money and cash.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1, 2 and 4*

     

  • India rolls over $50M Treasury Bill to help Maldives

    Why in the News?

    India extended critical financial assistance to the Maldives by rolling over a $50 million Treasury Bill, continuing its support under a government-to-government arrangement since 2019.

    About Treasury Bill:

    • A T-Bill is a short-term debt instrument issued by the GoI through the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
    • They are part of Government Securities (G-Secs) and are used to raise short-term funds.
    • They are zero-coupon securities, meaning they do not carry periodic interest payments.
    • Instead, they are issued at a discount and redeemed at face value upon maturity.
    • They were first introduced in India in 1917.
    • They are ideal for investors seeking safety and liquidity over short periods.

    Features of the T-Bills:

    • Tenures Available: 91-day, 182-day, and 364-day maturity periods.
    • Issued at a Discount: T-Bills are sold at a lower price than their face value. The return (yield) is the difference between purchase price and face value.
    • Minimum Investment: Starts at ₹25,000, and in multiples of ₹25,000 thereafter.
    • Zero-Coupon Nature: No interest payments during the tenure. Investors earn via the discounted purchase price.
    • Risk-Free Investment: Backed by the Government of India, making it virtually risk-free.
    • High Liquidity: Due to short tenure, T-Bills can be easily converted to cash.
    • Auction Mechanism: Sold through competitive and non-competitive bidding at RBI auctions.
    • Taxable Gains: Returns are treated as short-term capital gains and are taxable.
    • Sensitive to Inflation: Fixed returns can be impacted by rising inflation, reducing real returns.
    [UPSC 2018] Consider the following statements:

    1.The Reserve Bank of India manages and services GoI Securities but not any State Government Securities.

    2.Treasury bills are issued by the GoI and there are no treasury bills issued by the State Governments.

    3.Treasury bills offer are issued at a discount from the par value.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

     

  • [13th May 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: How is shipping industry tackling emissions?

    PYQ Relevance:

     [UPSC 2022] Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997.

    Linkage: The shipping industry’s contribution to GHG emissions (approximately 1 billion metric tonnes annually, about 2.8% of total global emissions) and the IMO’s efforts to reduce these emissions to align with goals like the Paris Agreement. The question’s focus on international climate agreements (Kyoto Protocol) is relevant to the IMO’s regulatory efforts.

     

    Mentor’s Comment: The adoption of the Net Zero Framework, which is based on Market-Based Measure (MBM) by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to regulate and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping, marking a historic shift in global climate governance. It highlights the geopolitical negotiations, competing national interests, and the struggle to balance environmental effectiveness with economic fairness in formulating a global carbon levy on shipping emissions.

    Today’s editorial talks about regulation of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping.  This topic is useful for GS Paper II (International Relations and Policy Making) and GS Paper III (Environment).

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    At the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC-83) session of the IMO, a major step was taken by approving a new system to cut shipping emissions.

    What is the International Maritime Organisation (IMO)? 

    The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is a United Nations specialized agency responsible for regulating international shipping, promoting maritime safety, environmental protection, legal matters, and technical cooperation among member states.

    Why is it a landmark step? 

    • First Legally Binding Global Emission Levy: Shipping is the first industry with a mandatory, global emissions levy under the MARPOL treaty—unlike aviation (ICAO) or manufacturing, which follow voluntary or regional norms.
    • Equity Through CBDR-RC: The mechanism incorporates equity—ZNZ fuel users are rewarded, while underperformers bear the financial burden, aligning with developing countries’ interests.
    • Clear, Time-Bound Targets: IMO sets concrete milestones: 40% cut in carbon intensity by 2030, 70% by 2040, and net-zero by 2050—unlike ICAO’s vague goals.

    What were the challenges while taking this step?

    • Resisted by the Oil-Exporting Nations: Countries like Saudi Arabia, which depend heavily on fossil fuel exports, opposed stringent carbon levies, fearing these would harm their economies. They resisted the transition to green fuels, advocating for minimal changes.
    • Developed vs. Developing Countries: Developed nations like the EU supported aggressive emission reductions, while developing countries like China pushed for a market-driven approach to preserve competitiveness and avoid excessive financial burdens.

    How is the shipping industry tackling emissions as per the IMO?

    • Reduction of GHG emissions: The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has implemented measures like the Energy Efficiency Design Index and the Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan to reduce carbon emissions from ships.
    • Targets for carbon intensity: The IMO has set a goal to reduce carbon intensity by at least 40% by 2030 (compared to 2008 levels) and 70% by 2040, with the ultimate aim of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
    • Green technologies and fuel alternatives: The IMO is pushing for cleaner fuels and innovative technologies for emissions reduction, including efforts in alternative fuels such as green hydrogen.

    What is the Net Zero Framework adopted by the IMO?

    The Net Zero Framework is a Market-Based Measure (MBM) to reduce emissions in the shipping industry. It aims to implement a mandatory emissions levy on global shipping to ensure that the sector meets net-zero targets by 2050.

    How would it work? 

    • Emission-Based Levy with Incentives: Ships emitting high greenhouse gases must pay a carbon levy, while those using Zero or Near-Zero (ZNZ) fuels receive financial rewards or credits. Eg: A ship using green hydrogen below the IMO’s emission threshold earns surplus credits, reducing its future levy.
    • Tiered Compliance via GHG Fuel Standard (GFS): Ships are classified based on fuel efficiency and emission levels. Underperformers must purchase remedial units, while high performers gain tradable surplus units. Eg: A vessel exceeding emission targets must buy units from a cleaner ship, creating a carbon market within global shipping.

    What is the limit on carbon emissions?

    • As per IMO reward thresholds:
      • Until 2034: The carbon limit is 19.0 g CO₂e/MJ
      • From 2035 onwards: It tightens to 14.0 g CO₂e/MJ

    How will the Market-Based Measure (MBM) framework impact India’s maritime sector and trade costs by 2030 and 2050?

    • Trade Costs: The MBM framework is likely to increase shipping costs due to carbon pricing and fuel surcharges, making Indian exports less competitive. Eg: Textile and agricultural exports from India to Europe may become costlier by 2030 due to EU’s Emission Trading System (ETS) expansion to maritime transport.
    • Equity Concerns: Uniform carbon levies do not consider developmental disparities, placing a higher burden on countries like India with limited historical emissions. Eg: India has argued at the IMO that MBMs should reflect Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR), as it is still building infrastructure and trade capacity.
    • Green Shipping Transition: To comply with decarbonization norms by 2050, India must shift to alternative fuels (e.g., green hydrogen, ammonia) and upgrade port infrastructure, requiring massive investments. Eg: Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust may need to install green bunkering facilities and electrified cargo handling systems.
    • Technological and Financial Gaps: Lack of access to clean technology and climate finance may hinder India’s ability to transition smoothly, increasing dependence on foreign solutions. Eg: Advanced nations may dominate green shipbuilding, while Indian shipyards lag due to lack of R&D support and capital.
    • Opportunity for Green Growth: If supported with international finance and technology transfer, MBMs can stimulate domestic innovation and green job creation in maritime sectors. Eg: India’s “Green Ports” initiative could align with MBM goals and boost employment in clean energy, retrofitting, and logistics.

    Way forward: 

    • Differentiated Levy Design: IMO should adopt a flexible carbon pricing model that reflects Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR), allowing developing countries like India room to grow while contributing to climate goals. Eg: Tiered levy based on national capacities and emission intensity.
    • Technology Transfer & Climate Finance: Establish dedicated funding mechanisms for green shipping innovation, infrastructure upgrades, and capacity building in developing nations. Eg: An IMO-led global Green Maritime Fund supported by developed countries.

  • India’s rising e-waste, the need to recast its management

    Why in the News?

    India has overhauled its e-waste governance through the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, which came into force on April 1, 2023, replacing the 2016 version. These rules mark a major policy shift to tackle India’s rapidly growing e-waste crisis.

    How Does the New EPR Framework Work?

    • Mandatory Registration: All manufacturers, producers, refurbishers, and recyclers must register with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) through an online portal.
    • EPR Targets: These entities must meet specific collection and recycling targets, as set by the CPCB.
    • Liability for Non-compliance: Failure to meet targets invokes environmental compensation and penalties.

    What is the role of EPR floor pricing in e-waste management?

    • Ensures Fair Returns to Formal Recyclers: EPR floor pricing guarantees minimum compensation for authorized recyclers, making formal recycling economically viable and discouraging unsafe informal practices. Eg: A certified recycler adopting advanced e-waste extraction technologies is assured stable earnings, promoting compliance and expansion.
    • Reduces Informal Sector Dominance: By offsetting the cost advantage of informal recyclers, floor pricing shifts e-waste processing to the formal sector, where health and environmental standards are enforced. Eg: In India, 95% of e-waste is handled informally; floor pricing helps shift this to regulated channels.
    • Boosts Circular Economy and Material Recovery: Stable pricing encourages recyclers to focus on resource recovery—such as copper, gold, and rare metals—rather than mere disposal. Eg: Proper recycling of circuit boards in formal facilities helps recover precious metals worth crores, reducing raw material imports.

    What are the economic and social consequences of poor e-waste management?

    • Economic loss from pollution: Over $10 billion lost annually due to pollution from toxic e-waste processing.
    • Social cost: Informal processing results in $20 billion in social loss, affecting women and children, whose average lifespan is under 27 years.
    • Lost revenue and metals: India forfeits ₹80,000 crore annually in metal value and $20 billion in tax revenue due to untracked, cash-based operations.
    • Health impacts: Open incineration and use of cyanide and sulphuric acid cause air, water, and soil pollution, compounding public health crises.

    How does stable pricing support formal recycling?

    • Ensures Financial Viability for Formal Recyclers: A minimum (floor) price for EPR certificates guarantees fair compensation, encouraging recyclers to invest in safe, modern technologies. Eg: Certified recyclers can recover precious metals like gold and copper efficiently with advanced equipment, making operations economically viable.
    • Discourages Hazardous Informal Practices: Stable pricing removes the informal sector’s cost advantage, shifting recycling away from unsafe, illegal methods. Eg: With assured returns, recyclers prefer compliance over risky open burning and acid-leaching methods that dominate 95% of the sector.
    • Drives Compliance and Investment: Predictable prices create trust in the system, helping producers meet EPR obligations and promoting infrastructure development.

    What are the challenges? 

    • Dominance of the Informal Sector: A large share of e-waste in India is processed by the informal sector using hazardous and unsafe methods like acid baths and open burning. Eg: In Seelampur (Delhi), a major informal e-waste hub, workers dismantle electronics without protection, exposing themselves to toxic substances like lead and mercury.
    • Low Consumer Awareness and Participation: Many consumers are unaware of proper e-waste disposal methods, leading to hoarding, landfilling, or selling to unregulated recyclers. Eg: In cities like Bengaluru and Mumbai, residents often discard electronics with household waste or sell them to local kabadiwalas despite having formal collection centers.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Awareness and Consumer Participation: Promote widespread consumer education on e-waste disposal through campaigns and incentives for responsible recycling, ensuring more e-waste is directed to formal, safe channels.
    • Enhance Infrastructure and Enforcement of EPR: Develop advanced e-waste recycling infrastructure and strictly enforce EPR compliance to ensure producers meet recycling targets and transition e-waste processing to the formal sector.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2023] What is the status of digitalization in the Indian economy? Examine the problems faced in this regard and suggest improvements.

    Linkage: India’s growing e-waste problem is linked to its fast digital growth and greater use of electronic gadgets. This issue mainly relates to the economy but also highlights how digitalisation is a key reason behind the rise in e-waste.

  • Explained: Why farmers prefer growing rice and wheat

    Why in the News?

    The combination of assured government support and scientific advancements in breeding technologies has made rice and wheat the most preferred crops among Indian farmers, while other crops lag due to lack of similar incentives and innovations.

    Why do farmers prefer rice and wheat?

    • Assured Procurement at MSP: The government provides near-guaranteed purchases of rice and wheat at Minimum Support Prices (MSP), reducing market risk. Eg: In Punjab, rice area increased from 29.8 lakh hectares in 2015-16 to 32.4 lakh hectares in 2024-25 due to consistent MSP support.
    • Lower Yield Risk Due to Irrigation and Research Support: Rice and wheat are mostly grown under irrigated conditions and benefit from superior public research, leading to more stable yields. Eg: Wheat variety HD-3385, released in 2023, offers 6 tonnes/hectare yield with resistance to rust diseases and adaptability to different sowing times.
    • Continuous Breeding Innovations and Higher Returns: These crops have seen regular improvements through breeding, enhancing productivity, stress tolerance, and input efficiency. Eg: Genetically-edited rice variety Kamala yields up to 9 tonnes/hectare and matures faster, saving water and fertilizer costs.

    What drives yield growth in these crops?

    • Genetic Improvements and Breeding Innovations: Continuous breeding has led to development of high-yielding, stress-resistant varieties. Eg: Wheat variety HD-3385, released in 2023 by ICAR, yields an average of 6 tonnes/hectare with a potential of 7.3 tonnes, and is resistant to all three major rusts (yellow, brown, and black).
    • Improved Agronomic Practices and Technology Adoption: Advanced farming practices like early sowing, use of fertiliser-responsive varieties, and direct seeding have boosted productivity. Eg: Direct-Seeded Rice (DSR) technology eliminates the need for nursery and transplanting, saving water and labour, and supporting yield levels up to 10 tonnes/hectare in some hybrid varieties.
    • Public Research and Extension Support: Rice and wheat receive consistent support from government research institutions, unlike many other crops. Eg: The CRISPR-Cas edited rice variety Kamala, developed by ICAR in 2024, produces 450-500 grains per panicle (vs. 200-250 in parent variety), yields up to 9 tonnes/hectare, matures 15-20 days earlier, and requires less fertiliser and water.

    How has government policy influenced the cropping patterns in states?

    • Minimum Support Price (MSP) and Procurement Assurances: Farmers prefer crops with assured government procurement at MSP, reducing market risk. Eg: In Punjab, rice area increased from 29.8 lakh hectares in 2015-16 to 32.4 lh in 2024-25 due to near-guaranteed MSP procurement, while cotton area declined from 3.4 lh to 1 lh.
    • Skewed Research and Input Support: Rice and wheat have received consistent research and extension support, unlike pulses or oilseeds. Eg: ICAR has developed multiple improved wheat and rice varieties (e.g., HD-3385, Kamala), while no major breakthrough has happened in cotton since Bt cotton (2002-06).
    • Irrigation Infrastructure Bias: Government investment in irrigation has favoured crops like rice and wheat, making them less yield-risk prone. Eg: In Madhya Pradesh, wheat area rose from 59.1 lh to 78.1 lh and rice from 20.2 lh to 38.7 lh, as irrigation expansion supported these water-reliant crops.

    Which innovations improved rice varieties?

    • Semi-Dwarf and High-Yielding Varieties: Introduction of semi-dwarf varieties reduced lodging and increased fertiliser response and yields. Eg: IR-8, released in 1966, was the first semi-dwarf rice variety, yielding 4.5–5 tonnes/hectare in just 130 days, compared to 1–3 tonnes in traditional varieties over 160–180 days.
    • Gene Editing using CRISPR-Cas Technology: Advanced gene-editing allows precision improvements in yield and stress tolerance. Eg: Kamala, a GE mutant of Samba Mahsuri developed by ICAR in 2024, yields up to 9 tonnes/hectare, matures earlier, and has 450–500 grains per panicle (vs. 200–250 in the original).
    • Abiotic Stress Tolerance Breeding: Development of varieties tolerant to drought, salinity, and heat stress for resilience in changing climates. Eg: Pusa DST Rice 1, a GE version of Cottondora Sannalu, with edited DST gene, shows improved tolerance to drought and salt stress, enabling cultivation in marginal soils.

    Way forward: 

    • Diversify MSP and R&D Focus: Extend assured procurement and research support to pulses, oilseeds, and millets to reduce over-reliance on rice and wheat.
    • Promote Sustainable Practices: Encourage water-saving technologies like direct-seeded rice, crop rotation, and climate-resilient varieties to ensure long-term agricultural sustainability.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2024] What are the major challenges faced by Indian irrigation system in recent times? State the measures taken by the government for efficient irrigation management.

    Linkage: Farmers prefer rice and wheat partly because of access to irrigation which reduces yield risk. Challenges and management of irrigation systems directly impact this aspect of their decision-making.

  • Species in news: Indian Grey Wolf

    Why in the News?

    Indian Grey Wolves in the Kadbanwadi Grasslands in Pune District are exposed to threats from local dog populations, such as Canine Distemper Virus (CDV), rabies, and canine parvovirus.

    Indian Grey Wolf

    About the Indian Grey Wolf (Canis lupus pallipes):

    • The Indian Grey Wolf is a subspecies of the Grey Wolf, found in India, Southwest Asia, and parts of the Middle East.
    • It has a brownish-grey coat with black and white markings and is less vocal, living in small packs of 2 to 6 members.
    • This wolf is nocturnal, meaning it hunts mainly at night, preying on small animals like chinkaras (gazelles), rodents, and sometimes livestock.
    • It lives in scrublands, grasslands, and semi-arid regions, and prefers warm climates.
    • As an apex predator of the grasslands, it plays a vital role in the ecosystem by controlling the population of herbivores and smaller predators.
    • The species is under threat due to habitat loss, disease from stray dogs, crossbreeding, and human conflict.
    • Its conservation status is critical:
      • IUCN: Endangered
      • CITES: Appendix I (highest international protection)
      • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I (maximum legal protection)

    Do you know?

    • The only protected area specifically dedicated to Indian grey wolves in India is the Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary in Latehar district, Jharkhand.
    • This sanctuary was established in 1976 to protect the wolf population and is part of the Palamau Tiger Reserve.

     

    [UPSC 2002] Which one of the following is monogamous?

    Options: (a) Wolf* (b) Walrus (c) Seal (d) Deer* (Answer is disputed)

     

  • Asteroid YR4 might miss the Earth

    Why in the News?

    Asteroid YR4, discovered in December 2024 via Chile’s ATLAS telescope, was first thought to threaten Earth but was later ruled out. Scientists now focus on its potential Moon impact in 2032.

    Asteroid YR4 might miss the Earth

    About Asteroid 2024 YR4:

    • Asteroid 2024 YR4 was discovered in December 2024 by the ATLAS telescope located in Chile.
    • It is a near-Earth asteroid (NEA) whose orbit brings it within 1.3 AU (Earth-Sun distances) of Earth.
    • It is estimated to be 65 metres wide, roughly the size of a 10-storey building.
    • Initially, it was suspected to have a 3.1% chance of impacting Earth in 2032, triggering NASA’s highest-ever asteroid impact alert.
    • Subsequent tracking ruled out an Earth impact but indicated a 3.8% chance of hitting the Moon on December 22, 2032.
    • A Moon impact would create a 500 to 2,000-metre-wide crater and release energy 340 times more powerful than the Hiroshima bomb.
    • Despite being smaller than the 140m threshold for “potentially hazardous asteroids,” its unusual trajectory drew global scientific attention.
    • Scientists continue to observe YR4, including during a close approach in 2028, to refine its orbital predictions.

    Back2Basics: ATLAS Telescope

    • ATLAS (Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System) is a NASA-funded early warning project for detecting small near-Earth objects (NEOs).
    • It is developed and operated by the University of Hawaii’s Institute for Astronomy.
    • As of 2025, ATLAS operates five telescopes in Hawaii, South Africa, Chile, and the Canary Islands.
    • Each telescope has a 0.5-meter Wright-Schmidt design, a 1-meter focal length, and a 110 MP CCD detector with a 7.4° field of view.
    • The system scans 20,000 square degrees of sky three times per night and provides 1–3 week warnings for asteroids 45–120 meters wide.
    • In addition to asteroids, ATLAS also discovers supernovae, comets, dwarf planets, and variable stars.

     

    [UPSC 2011] Comets show a perceptible glowing tail, while asteroids do not. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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