💥Join UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (July Batch) + XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

GS Paper: GS3

  • Indian Star Tortoises rescued from Malaysia

    Why in the News?

    Malaysia has seized about 200 smuggled Indian Star Tortoises and Turtles in a major crackdown. The Indian star tortoise is the single most confiscated species of freshwater tortoise in the world, according to wildlife trade watchdog TRAFFIC.

    About Indian Star Tortoises (Geochelone elegans)

    Details
    Habitat
    • Found in Central and Southern India, West Pakistan, and Sri Lanka
    • Typically resides in dry, open habitats such as scrub forests, grasslands, and rocky outcroppings
    Threats
    • Habitat fragmentation due to urbanization and agricultural practices
    • Loss of genetic diversity due to hybridization
    • 90% of trade occurs in the international pet market, according to the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau
    Protection Status
    • IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
    • Wild Life Protection Act 1972: Schedule I
    • CITES: Appendix I

     

    Back2Basics: TRAFFIC (Trade Records Analysis of Flora and Fauna in Commerce)

    Details
    Founded 1976
    Headquarters Cambridge, United Kingdom
    Mission Ensure that trade in wild plants and animals does not threaten the conservation of nature.
    Founding Partners World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
    Focus Areas
    • Biodiversity Conservation
    • Sustainable Development
    Governance
    • TRAFFIC Committee (WWF and IUCN members)
    • Cooperation with the CITES Secretariat
    Staff Expertise Biologists, conservationists, academics, researchers, communicators, investigators
    Global Network Research-driven, action-oriented global network
    Key Functions
    • Evolution of wildlife trade treaties
    • Expertise on urgent species trade issues (tiger parts, elephant ivory, rhino horn)
    • Addressing large-scale commercial trade in timber and fisheries products
    TRAFFIC in India
    • Programme Division of WWF-India since 1991
    • Based in New Delhi
    • Collaborates with national and state governments to curb illegal wildlife trade

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Consider the following:

    1. Star tortoise
    2. Monitor lizard
    3. Pygmy hog
    4. Spider monkey

    Which of the above are naturally found in India?

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

  • [pib] GRSE Accelerated Innovation Nurturing Scheme (GAINS 2024)

    Why in the News?

    The Defence Ministry has launched the “GRSE Accelerated Innovation Nurturing Scheme (GAINS 2024)” of Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE) in Kolkata.

    About GAINS 2024

    • GAINS aims to address challenges in shipyards and promote technology development through startups nurtured in the country.
    • It aligns with the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Start-up India’ policies of the Government of India.
      • Objective: To seek solutions for shipyard-related problems and promote technological advancements.
      • Target Audience: MSMEs and Start-Ups encouraged to develop innovative solutions.

    Significance of the Scheme

    • GAINS aims to strengthen maritime security and air defence through technological advancements.
    • It leverages MSMEs and Start-Ups to achieve self-reliance in ship design and construction.

    Various defence production indigenisation initiatives in India:

    • ADITI Scheme (2024): The scheme targets the development of approximately 30 deep-tech critical and strategic technologies within the proposed timeframe.
    • Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020: Requires 50% indigenous content in procurement contracts.
    • Positive Indigenisation Lists: Mandates domestic procurement for nearly 5,000 items.
    • Srijan Indigenisation Portal (2020): Lists over 34,000 items for indigenisation.
    • Domestic Procurement Budget: Increased from 40% (₹52,000 crore) in 2020-21 to 75% (₹99,223 crore) in 2023-24.

    Innovations and R&D support:

    • iDEX Initiative (2018): Involves MSMEs, start-ups, and academia in defence innovation.
    • iDEX Prime (2022): Provides grants up to ₹10 crore for high-end solutions.
    • Technology Development Fund (TDF): Funding increased from ₹10 crore to ₹50 crore per project.

  • In 2024, Maoists suffer severe setbacks in Chhattisgarh  

    Why in the news?

    As of July 9, 2024, India has recorded a total of 162 Maoist fatalities this year, with Chhattisgarh alone reporting 141 deaths.

    • This marks one of the highest casualty figures for extremists in the predominantly tribal state since the establishment of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) in 2004.

     

     About Left-wing extremism in India

    • Origins and Ideology: LWE in India began with the 1967 Naxalbari uprising in West Bengal, advocating armed revolution for a Maoist communist state overthrowing the Indian government.
    • Modus Operandi: Naxalites engage in guerrilla warfare, attacking security forces, extorting, intimidating, and propagandizing. They target government, infrastructure, and economic interests, and run parallel governance in controlled areas.
    • Red corridor Areas: LWE affects several states in central and eastern India, including Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Kerala, although to varying degrees.
    • Factors Contributing to LWE: Socio-economic disparities, land alienation and displacement of local communities, and issues related to Adivasi rights have contributed to the proliferation of LWE. Left-wing extremist groups have capitalized on these grievances to gain support among marginalized communities.
    • Government Response: The Government of India has taken various measures to counter LWE, including security operations, development initiatives, and rehabilitation programs. Violence related to LWE has decreased by 76% in 2022 compared to 2010, and the geographical spread of violence has also reduced.

    In 2024, Maoists suffer severe setbacks in Chhattisgarh 

    • Maoist Casualties in Chhattisgarh: In 2024, Chhattisgarh reported the highest number of Maoist deaths (141) since the formation of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) in 2004. This spike coincided with the return of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to power in December 2023.
    • Historical Context and Operations: The year 2009 saw the highest number of Maoist deaths (154) following the launch of ‘Operation Green Hunt’ by the Indian government, which included military offensives involving the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Chhattisgarh police.
    • Security Forces and Civilian Casualties: While Maoist casualties have increased recently, the number of security force personnel deaths has decreased. Civilian casualties have also reduced since their peak in 2006.
    • District-Wise Insights: Bijapur district witnessed the highest number of clashes in 2024, resulting in significant Maoist casualties. This district, along with Sukma, hosts several Border Security Force (BSF) camps, indicating intense security operations.
    • Surrenders and Operations: Despite some districts being declared ‘Maoist-free’ in recent years, significant operations continue, such as the joint BSF and District Reserve Guard operation in Kanker district resulting in top Maoist commander Shankar Rao’s death.
    • Development and Insurgency: There is a correlation between the intensity of the insurgency and lower development indicators like sanitation and literacy in districts like Dantewada, Bijapur, Sukma, Bastar, and Kanker. These areas are heavily forested, complicating security operations.

    Way forward: 

    • Integrated Development and Security Strategy: Implement a comprehensive strategy that integrates robust security measures with accelerated development initiatives in LWE-affected regions. This approach should prioritize improving socio-economic conditions, addressing land alienation, providing livelihood opportunities, and enhancing basic infrastructure like education and healthcare.
    • Enhanced Intelligence and Targeted Operations: Strengthen intelligence-gathering capabilities to preempt Maoist attacks and disrupt their operational networks effectively. This includes enhancing coordination among security forces, intelligence agencies, and local law enforcement to gather timely and actionable intelligence.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Left Wing Extremism (LWE) is showing a downward trend, but still affects many parts of the country. Briefly explain the Government of India’s approach to counter the challenges posed by LWE. (2018)

  • The shape of the Manufacturing Base in India

    Why in the News? 

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi has formed the government again, now leading a coalition in his third term. The new administration must intensify its focus on economic reforms, especially those related to manufacturing.

    Significance of Manufacturing Base

    • Economic Growth: Enhancing the manufacturing sector is vital for India’s economic growth. Increasing manufacturing output can significantly boost GDP, as evidenced by the government’s initial target to raise manufacturing from 15% to 25% of GDP by 2025.
    • Employment Creation: A robust manufacturing sector can generate substantial low-skilled employment, which is crucial for absorbing the large workforce transitioning from agriculture. This can help mitigate stress on urban governance structures caused by rapid urbanization.
    • Trade Balance: Strengthening manufacturing can help reduce India’s goods trade deficit, particularly by decreasing reliance on imports of manufactured goods such as electronics, which currently contribute to a significant trade imbalance.
    • National Security: A strong manufacturing base can provide the resources needed for national security. By enhancing industrial capacity, India can better support its defense needs and contribute to regional security, aligning with American interests.
    • Supply Chain Resilience: Developing manufacturing capabilities in India can improve the viability of U.S. supply chains by having production bases in friendly countries. This is particularly important in the face of China’s rising economic and geopolitical influence.

    Issues with the “Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP)” and the States

    • Outdated Rankings: The BRAP rankings, designed to foster competition among states, have not been updated since the COVID-19 pandemic. This has diminished their effectiveness in motivating states to improve their business environments.
    • Self-Reporting Issues: The BRAP rankings rely heavily on states’ self-reporting of their local business practices, which often does not align with actual investor experiences. This discrepancy undermines the credibility of the rankings.
    • Model Industry Laws: The central government’s initiative to create model industry laws for states has been underwhelming. There is a lack of robust and effective frameworks to guide states in implementing these laws.
    • State-Level Control: Many critical factors of production, such as power, water, sanitation, labor regulations, land acquisition rules, and environmental regulations, are controlled by state governments. This decentralization complicates the implementation of cohesive national policies.
    • Need for Transparent Policies: Encouraging states to adopt thoughtful and transparent industrial policies is challenging. The current toolkit of incentives and penalties needs enhancement to motivate states effectively.

    Role of the US in Improving the Business Attractiveness of Indian States

    • Guidance on Economic Governance: The U.S. can expand engagement with Indian states by providing direct guidance on effective economic governance. This can help states create more investor-friendly environments.
    • Investment Pathways: Improving pathways for potential investors to engage with state governments is crucial. The U.S. can facilitate connections between American investors and Indian states, helping to streamline investment processes.
    • Senior Officials’ Engagement: U.S. officials visiting India should go beyond the major economic hubs of Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Engaging with a wider set of large states can highlight the importance and opportunities arising from global supply chain shifts.
    • Policy Redirection: The recent national election provides an opportunity for policy assessment and redirection. The U.S. can support India in aligning its policies with the core needs of the manufacturing push — jobs, trade, and security.
    • Encouraging Job-Creating Sectors: The U.S. can emphasize the importance of job-creating manufacturing sectors such as textiles, paper mills, and furniture, rather than focusing solely on capital-intensive sectors like semiconductors and robotics. This approach can help create more employment opportunities in India.

    Way forward: 

    • Establishment of State-level Economic Advisory Councils: Create advisory councils comprising experts from academia, industry, and government to advise state governments on economic policies, including manufacturing incentives and regulatory frameworks.
    • Review and Update of BRAP Rankings: Overhaul the Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP) to include independent evaluations and audits alongside self-reporting. Ensure transparency and accuracy in ranking states’ business environments to provide credible guidance for investors.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Can the strategy of regional-resource-based manufacturing help in promoting employment in India? (UPSC IAS/2019)

  • [pib] 25th PM-STIAC Meeting

    Why in the News?

    The 25th Prime Minister’s Science, Technology & Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC) meeting was recently held at Vigyan Bhawan Annexe in New Delhi.

    Highlights of the 25th PM-STIAC Meet

    • The meeting was aimed to discuss robust policy formulation for effective Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) in India.
    • Focus was on India’s carbon market, carbon credit scheme, and strategies to achieve a 45% reduction in emission intensity by 2030 and Net Zero by 2070.

    About PM-STIAC

    Details
    Objective Provide advice on STI policies and oversee implementation of the government’s STI vision
    Establishment 2018
    Chairperson Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India
    Composition Eminent scientists, technologists, and innovators from various fields
    Key Roles and Functions
    • Policy Advice
    • Inter-Ministerial Coordination
    • Project Oversight
    • Innovation Ecosystem Promotion
    • Global Collaboration
    • Public Engagement
    • Policy and Program Development
    Major Initiatives and Missions
      1. NM-ICPS: Cyber-Physical Systems Innovation Hubs
      2. Quantum Frontier Mission: Quantum Technologies
      3. AI Mission: AI for Inclusive Growth
      4. Electric Mobility Mission: Promote EVs
      5. Waste to Wealth Mission: Sustainable Waste Management
      6. Health and Well-being Mission: Improve Healthcare Delivery
      7. AGNIi: Accelerating Growth of New India’s Innovations
    • Deep Ocean Exploration

    What is Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS)?

    Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) is a technology aimed at reducing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from industrial processes and power generation.

    It involves three main steps:

    1. Capture:
      • CO₂ is separated and captured from industrial emissions or directly from the air.
      • Capture technologies include pre-combustion, post-combustion, and oxy-fuel combustion.
    2. Utilization:
      • Captured CO₂ is converted into useful products such as chemicals, fuels, and building materials.
      • Utilization helps in creating economic value from CO₂ and can support the development of a circular carbon economy.
    3. Storage:
      • CO₂ is transported and stored in geological formations such as depleted oil and gas fields, deep saline aquifers, or basalt formations.
      • This prevents CO₂ from entering the atmosphere, thereby mitigating climate change.

    Significance:

    • Climate Change Mitigation: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions, helping to meet climate targets.
    • Energy Transition: Supports the transition to low-carbon energy systems.
    • Economic Benefits: Generates new economic opportunities through the creation of new markets for CO₂-derived products.

    Policy Initiatives for CCUS in India

    • National Hydrogen Energy Mission (2021):
      • Launched in 2021, the mission aims to promote the production and use of green hydrogen, with CCUS being a crucial component for producing blue hydrogen from natural gas.
    • Department of Science and Technology (DST) Initiatives:
      • DST has funded various research projects focusing on developing CCUS technologies since the early 2000s.
      • Projects include capturing CO₂ from industrial sources and converting it into valuable products like methanol and synthetic fuels.
    • National Carbon Capture, Utilization & Storage Policy Framework and Its Deployment Mechanism (2020):
      • Established in 2020, the framework aims to create a roadmap for deploying CCUS technologies across various sectors.
      • It focuses on enhancing research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) activities and creating enabling regulatory and policy environments.
    • Industry Collaborations:
      • Collaborations with industries such as Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) for pilot projects on CCUS.
      • Public-private partnerships to foster innovation and scale up CCUS technologies have been ongoing since the 2010s.
    • International Collaborations (CSLF, 2003):
      • India joined the Carbon Sequestration Leadership Forum (CSLF) in 2003, which promotes international collaboration on CCUS technology development.
      • Collaborations with countries like the United States and the United Kingdom for knowledge sharing and technical support.
    • Green Energy Corridors (2015):
      • Integration of CCUS with renewable energy initiatives to ensure a sustainable and low-carbon energy mix.
      • Established in 2015, this initiative supports developing infrastructure for transporting and storing captured CO₂.

    PYQ:

    [2020] Which one of the following statements best describes the term ‘Social Cost of Carbon’?

    (a) It is a measure, in monetary value, of the long-term damage done by a tonne of CO2 emissions in a given year.

    (b) Requirement of fossil fuels for a country to provide goods and services to its citizens, based on the burning of those fuels.

    (c) Efforts put in by a climate refugee to adapt to live-in a new place.

    (d) Contribution of an individual person to the carbon footprint on the planet Earth.

  • Integrated Tribal Development Programme by NABARD

    Why in the News?

    National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) is set to launch an integrated tribal development programme in Kulathupuzha grama panchayat, Kollam.

    About Integrated Tribal Development Programme

    • Thanal, an environment organisation, will be the implementing agency of the project that aims to transform livelihoods of tribal families over the next five years.
    • The five-year initiative targets the sustainable livelihood and agricultural enhancement of 413 families residing in eight hamlets.
    • The programme focuses on promoting diverse agricultural crops such as pepper, arecanut, coconut, ginger, Thai ginger, turmeric, and plantain.
    • It encompasses initiatives in goat rearing, poultry, beekeeping, fish farming, and fodder production.
    • The establishment of a Tribal Farmer Producer Company (FPO) is also planned to further economically empower the community.

    Components of the Programme

    • Water Resource Development: Initiatives aimed at enhancing water resources for agricultural purposes.
    • Leadership Training: Training sessions to empower local leaders within the tribal communities.
    • Awareness Creation: Campaigns to raise awareness about sustainable practices and community development.
    • Sanitation and Hygiene Initiatives: Efforts to improve sanitation and hygiene standards among the tribal families.
    • Marketing and Branding Training: Training programmes to enhance marketing skills and brand awareness among participants.
    • Skill Development Workshops: Workshops focused on enhancing both agricultural and non-agricultural skills among the tribal community.

    About NABARD:

    • It was established on July 12, 1982, based on the recommendation of the Sivaraman Committee to promote sustainable rural development and agricultural growth in India.
    • Aim:  To facilitate credit flow for the promotion and development of agriculture, small-scale industries, cottage and village industries, handicrafts, and other rural crafts.
    • It operates as a statutory body under the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Act, 1934, with its headquarters located in Mumbai.
    • It is governed by a Board of Directors appointed by the GoI:
      • Representatives from the RBI;
      • Central and state governments;
      • Experts from various fields related to Rural Development and Finance.

     Functions of NABARD:

    • Refinance Support: NABARD provides refinance facilities to banks and financial institutions for agricultural and rural development activities, including crop loans and rural infrastructure projects.
    • Financial Inclusion: It promotes financial inclusion by expanding banking services in rural areas, supporting SHGs, FPOs, and MFIs, and facilitating access to credit for rural communities.
    • Priority Sector Lending: NABARD plays a crucial role in channelling credit to priority sectors such as agriculture, small-scale industries, and rural infrastructure, in alignment with the Reserve Bank of India’s priority sector lending guidelines.
    • Direct Lending: It extends direct loans to institutions for specific rural development projects, such as agricultural production, rural infrastructure development, and agri-processing units.
    • Scheme Implementation: The organization administers government schemes and funds like Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), Watershed Development Fund (WDF) to finance rural infrastructure projects and watershed development activities.
    • Credit Planning: NABARD collaborates with central and state governments, RBI, and other stakeholders to formulate credit policies and plans for agriculture and rural sectors.
    • Research and Training: NABARD promotes research and development in agriculture, supports capacity building and training programs for rural stakeholders, and facilitates technology transfer initiatives.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following grants/grants direct credit assistance to rural households?

    1. Regional Rural Banks
    2. National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development
    3. Land Development Banks

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [pib] XVI Finance Commission constitutes Advisory Council

    Why in the News?

    The Sixteenth Finance Commission (chaired by Arvind Panagariya, the former Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog) has constituted an Advisory Council of five members.

    Role and Functions of the Advisory Council

    • To advise the Commission on any of the Terms of Reference (ToR) or related subjects that may be of relevance.
    • To assist in the preparation of papers or research studies and to monitor or assess studies commissioned by the Finance Commission, thereby enhancing the Commission’s understanding of the issues in its ToR.
    • To help broaden the Commission’s ambit and understanding by seeking the best national and international practices on matters pertaining to fiscal devolution and improving the quality, reach, and enforcement of its recommendations.

    About Finance Commission

    • The Finance Commission is a Constitutional body created every five years to transfer financial resources from the centre to states.
    • It is a quasi-judicial body.
    • The origin of the Finance Commission lies in Article 280 of the Constitution.
    • The President of India shall constitute a Finance Commission every five years to give recommendations about the transfer of central revenues (tax) to the states and its allocation among them (states).
    • The recommendations of the Fifteenth Finance Commission are valid up to the financial year 2025-26.

    Composition of the FC:

    • The Finance Commission consists of a chairman and four other members appointed by the President.
    • They hold office for such a period as specified by the president in his order and are eligible for reappointment.

    Qualifications:

    • Parliament determines the qualifications of members of the commission and the manner in which they should be selected.
      • Chairman should be a person having experience in public affairs, and
      • Four other members should be selected from amongst individuals with specialized knowledge of finance, accounts, economics, or administration.

    Terms of Reference for 16th Finance Commission

    • Division of Tax Proceeds, principles for Grants-in-Aid, enhancing State Funds for Local Bodies and evaluation of Disaster Management Financing

    PYQ:

    [2023] Consider the following:

    1. Demographic performance
    2. Forest and ecology
    3. Governance reforms
    4. Stable government
    5. Tax and fiscal efforts

    For the horizontal tax devolution, the Fifteenth Finance Commission used how many of the above as criteria other than population area and income distance?

    (a) Only two
    (b) Only three
    (c) Only four
    (d) All five

  • How to read India’s Balance of Payments?  

     Why in the news? 

    India’s current account showed a surplus in Q4 of 2023-24. However, current account surpluses are not always beneficial, and deficits are not inherently detrimental.

    Latest Data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

    • Current Account Surplus: India registered a current account surplus during the fourth quarter (Jan-Mar) of the 2023-24 financial year, marking the first surplus in 11 quarters.
    • Quarterly vs. Annual Data: Despite the Q4 surplus, the current account balance for the entire FY2023-24 remained in deficit, indicating underlying economic trends and demands.

    What is Balance of Payments (BoP)?

    • The BoP is a ledger of a country’s transactions with the rest of the world, recording all monetary transactions between residents of a country and the rest of the world.
    • It shows the amount of money flowing into and out of the country, indicating the relative demand for the rupee compared to foreign currencies (usually in dollar terms).

    Constituents of the BoP

    The BoP has two main accounts: the Current Account and the Capital Account.

    • Current Account: It covers the trade in goods (exports and imports), trade in services (transportation, tourism, licensing, etc.), Income (wages, interest, dividends, etc.), and current transfers (remittances, foreign aid, etc.).
      • Trade of Goods (Merchandise Account): Records export and import of physical goods. A trade deficit occurs when imports exceed exports.
      • Invisibles of Trade: Includes services (banking, insurance, IT, tourism), transfers (remittances), and income (earnings from investments). These are transactions not visible like physical goods.
      • Net Balance: The sum of the merchandise trade and invisible trade determines the current account balance. Q4 showed a surplus in the current account due to a surplus in invisible despite a trade deficit.
    • Capital Account: It covers debt forgiveness, migrants’ transfers of financial assets, taxes on gifts and inheritances, and ownership transfers of fixed assets.
      • Investments: Captures transactions related to investments such as Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Foreign Institutional Investments (FII).
      • Net Balance: Q4 showed a net surplus of $25 billion in the capital account.

    Impact on the Indian Economy: 

    • Exchange Rate Stability: The current account surplus in Q4 helped stabilize the exchange rate of the rupee. By absorbing excess dollars, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) prevented excessive appreciation of the rupee, which helps maintain the competitiveness of Indian exports.
    • Improved Sovereign Ratings: A current account surplus can positively impact India’s sovereign credit ratings, as it indicates stronger external financial health and reduces reliance on foreign borrowing.
    • Foreign Exchange Reserves: The surplus contributed to an increase in India’s foreign exchange reserves, enhancing the country’s ability to manage external shocks and providing a buffer against global economic uncertainties.
    • Investment Climate: A surplus in the capital account, driven by Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Foreign Institutional Investments (FII), indicates investor confidence in the Indian economy, potentially leading to more robust economic growth and development.
    • Economic Health Indicators: Despite the Q4 surplus, the annual current account deficit suggests robust domestic demand and investment needs. This aligns with a growing economy that requires imports of capital goods to enhance production capacity and future export potential.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Export Competitiveness: India should focus on boosting its export sector by diversifying export products and markets, improving product quality, and providing incentives for export-oriented industries.
    • Promote Sustainable Foreign Investment: Encouraging sustainable and long-term foreign investments, particularly in sectors like manufacturing, technology, and renewable energy, can strengthen the capital account. 

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Craze for gold in Indian has led to surge in import of gold in recent years and put pressure on balance of payments and external value of rupee. In view of this, examine the merits of Gold Monetization scheme. (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • Indigenous HPV vaccine, the rhetoric and the reality

    Why in the news?

    Recent discourse suggests HPV vaccination prevents cervical cancer, but evidence linking HPV to cancer is inconclusive and most infected individuals don’t develop cancer, raising doubts about vaccine necessity.

    What is Cervical Cancer?

    Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells lining the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is usually a slow-growing cancer that may not have symptoms in its early stages.

    Present  trends of cervical cancer prevalence in India and the Globe                

    • Global Trends: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women globally, with an estimated 604,000 new cases and 342,000 deaths reported in 2020. 
      • Mortality rates vary widely by region, with the highest rates observed in low- and middle-income countries due to limited access to screening and treatment.
    • Trends in India: In India, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women aged 15-44 years. It accounts for approximately 17% of all female cancer deaths in the country, with over 97,000 new cases reported annually.

     

    Recent debate – How does vaccination against HPV prevent cervical cancer and consequent death?                                                       

    • Efficacy Against HPV Infection and Cervical Cancer: HPV vaccines target high-risk HPV types, notably types 16 and 18, which are responsible for a significant proportion of cervical cancer cases worldwide. 
      • Clinical trials and real-world data consistently demonstrate the effectiveness of HPV vaccines in reducing HPV infection rates and preventing cervical cancer.
    • Public Health Impact and Benefits: Countries with high HPV vaccination coverage have observed significant declines in HPV infection rates and cervical cancer incidence among vaccinated populations. 
      • Vaccination programs aim to achieve herd immunity, thereby reducing overall transmission of HPV and protecting unvaccinated individuals.
    • Debate and Challenges: Debate surrounds the universal versus selective vaccination strategies, with considerations on cost-effectiveness, accessibility, and cultural acceptance.
      • Challenges include vaccine hesitancy, particularly in some regions, as well as affordability and logistical barriers to widespread vaccination coverage.

    Challenges Prevalent in Vaccine Manufacturing    

    • Complex Manufacturing Processes: Vaccine manufacturing involves complex biological processes and stringent quality control measures. 
      • Developing and scaling up production requires specialized facilities and skilled personnel, which can be costly and time-consuming to establish.
    • High Regulatory Standards: Vaccines are subject to rigorous regulatory scrutiny to ensure safety, efficacy, and consistency. 
      • Meeting regulatory requirements in multiple jurisdictions adds complexity and may delay the approval and market entry of new vaccines.
    • Supply Chain and Distribution: Maintaining a reliable supply chain for vaccine components and ensuring cold chain storage and distribution are critical challenges. 
      • This becomes even more pronounced in resource-constrained settings or during global health emergencies where demand surges.

    Its Impact on India                     

    • Delayed Access to Affordable Vaccines: India’s capability to produce vaccines at scale is hindered by stringent patent laws and complex regulatory requirements. 
      • This delays the availability of affordable vaccines domestically, impacting public health initiatives and access for vulnerable populations.
    • Economic and Health Implications: High costs associated with vaccine development and production limit affordability and accessibility, exacerbating healthcare inequalities. 
      • This affects India’s ability to address preventable diseases effectively, impacting public health outcomes and economic productivity.

    Unavailability of Competing Vaccines and Future Scope

    • Lack of Market Competition: Despite the expiration of earlier patents, there is a notable absence of competing HPV vaccines from domestic manufacturers in India. 
      • This limits options for consumers and healthcare providers, potentially leading to higher prices and reduced accessibility, particularly in the private market.
    • Potential for Future Development: Several Indian biotech companies had announced plans to develop HPV vaccines, indicating a future scope for competition and potentially lower prices. 
      • However, these initiatives have not materialized into market-ready products, highlighting challenges in vaccine development and commercialization in India’s regulatory and economic environment.

    Way forward: 

    • Promote Research and Development Incentives: Encourage and support Indian biotech companies through research grants, tax incentives, and streamlined regulatory pathways for HPV vaccine development.  
    • Enhance Public-Private Partnerships: Foster collaborations between government entities, academic institutions, and private-sector vaccine manufacturers to improve vaccine accessibility and affordability. 

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of the society? (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • In an electric vehicle, what is Regenerative Braking?

    Why in the News?

    The Regenerative Braking device market is set to witness immense growth during the period 2024-2031 due to rise in prominence of e-vehicles.

    What is Regenerative Braking? 

    Regenerative braking is a technology used in electric and hybrid vehicles to capture and reuse energy that would otherwise be lost during braking.

    How Does It Work?

    1. Normal Braking: In a traditional vehicle, when you brake, the car’s kinetic energy (the energy it has while moving) is turned into heat and wasted.
    2. Regenerative Braking: 
    • In cars with regenerative braking, when you press the brake pedal, the electric motor runs in reverse.
    • This reverse action slows down the car, just like traditional brakes.
    • Instead of converting kinetic energy into heat, the motor converts it back into electrical energy.
    • This electrical energy is then stored in the vehicle’s battery for later use.
    1. Energy Conversion: This reversed motor converts the kinetic energy of the moving car into electrical energy.
    2. Energy Storage: The electrical energy produced is sent back to the car’s battery and stored for future use, such as powering the vehicle or running electrical systems.

    Significance:

    • Energy Efficiency: Saves energy by reusing it, reducing the need for frequent battery recharges.
    • Extended Range: Helps electric and hybrid vehicles travel further on a single charge.
    • Less Wear and Tear: Reduces wear on traditional brake components, leading to lower maintenance costs.

    Example: Imagine riding a bicycle down a hill. Normally, if you press the brakes, you slow down and the energy goes away as heat. But if you could somehow capture that energy and use it to help you pedal back up the hill, that would be similar to what regenerative braking does in a car.

     

    How does a Motor become a Generator?

    • A motor consists of a rotor (which rotates) and a stator (which is stationary). 
      • The stator contains magnets or electromagnets, while the rotor has current-carrying coils.
    • The Lorentz Force acts on the charged particles in the magnetic field, causing the rotor to spin.
    • In a generator, mechanical energy induces a current in the stator EVs can implement regenerative braking by switching the traction motor between these configurations.

    Downsides of Regenerative Braking

    • Regenerative braking alone often cannot bring a vehicle to a complete stop and must be supplemented by conventional braking systems.
    • Regenerative brakes may not prevent vehicles from backsliding downhill.
    • The efficiency of energy recovery drops as the vehicle’s speed decreases, though regenerative brakes are beneficial in stop-start traffic.

    Other Ways to Recover Energy

    • The design of a regenerative brake depends on the form of energy conversion. EVs convert mechanical energy into electrical energy stored in batteries or supercapacitors.
    • Flywheels can store mechanical energy by increasing angular momentum, useful in applications like Formula One racing and satellite navigation.
    • Kinetic energy can also be used to compress air, which can be useful for starting internal combustion engines.
    PYQ:

    [2021] Magnetite particles, suspected to cause neurodegenerative problems, are generated as environmental pollutants from which of the following?​

    1. Brakes of motor vehicles​

    2. Engines of motor vehicles​

    3. Microwave stoves within homes​

    4. Power plants​

    5. Telephone line​

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.​

    a)1, 2, 3 and 5 only​

    b)1, 2 and 4 only​

    c)3, 4 and 5 only​

    d)1, 2, 3, 4 and 5​