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GS Paper: GS3

  • Five more Wetlands added to Ramsar List

    wetland

    Introduction

    • Five more Indian wetlands have been added to the global list of wetlands of international importance under the Ramsar Convention, taking the total number of such highly recognised waterlogged ecosystems in the country to 80.
    • India is now the fourth-largest nation on the Ramsar map, trailing only behind the UK (175), Mexico (144), and China (82).
    • Tamil Nadu continues to have the maximum number of Ramsar sites (16) followed by Uttar Pradesh (10).

    List of newly designated Ramsar Sites:

    [1] Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve (Karnataka):

    • Spread over 98.76 hectares adjoining Ankasamudra village.
    • A biodiversity hotspot with over 210 plant species, 8 mammals, 25 reptiles, and 240 bird species.
    • Vital nesting and roosting ground for over 30,000 waterbirds, including the Painted Stork and Black-headed Ibis.

    [2] Aghanashini Estuary (Karnataka):

    • Covers 4,801 hectares at the confluence of Aghanashini River with the Arabian Sea.
    • Offers flood and erosion risk mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and livelihood support.
    • Sustains 6,000-7,500 families through fishing, agriculture, and traditional fish farming.
    • Acts as a natural barrier against storms and cyclones.

    [3] Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve (Karnataka):

    • A human-made wetland spanning nearly 50 hectares, originally designed for rainwater storage.
    • Home to 166 bird species, including 130 migratory birds.
    • Sanctuary for vulnerable and near-threatened species like the Common Pochard, River Tern, and Oriental Darter.
    • A crucial wintering ground for the Bar-headed Goose.

    [4] Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu):

    • Encompassing 453.72 hectares, it’s one of Tamil Nadu’s largest inland wetlands.
    • Facilitates groundwater recharge and supports agricultural activities.
    • Hosts around 198 bird species, including the Bar-headed Goose and Common Teal.

    [5] Longwood Shola Reserve Forest (Tamil Nadu):

    • Named after “Solai,” meaning tropical rainforest in Tamil.
    • Integral to the Western Ghats’ unique biodiversity.
    • Provides sanctuary to globally endangered and vulnerable bird species like the Nilgiri Laughing Thrush, Nilgiri Blue Robin, and Nilgiri Wood-pigeon.
    • Home to 14 of the 26 endemic bird species of the Western Ghats.

    Back2Basics: Ramsar Convention

    Explanation
    Purpose International treaty aimed at conserving and promoting the sustainable use of wetlands.
    Establishment Established on February 2, 1971, in Ramsar, Iran.
    Participating Countries 171 contracting parties (countries) as of September 2021.
    India and Ramsar Convention The first Ramsar Site in India, the Chilika Lake in Odisha, was designated in 1981.

     

  • New Species of Burrowing Frog: Sphaerotheca Varshaabhu

    Sphaerotheca Varshaabhu

    Introduction

    • In a remarkable discovery, researchers have unveiled an entirely new frog species Sphaerotheca Varshaabhu, the rain-welcoming frog, thriving within the urban landscape of Bengaluru.

    About Sphaerotheca Varshaabhu

    • A Fresh Discovery: Sphaerotheca Varshaabhu is not just a frog; it’s a newly identified frog species.
    • Name’s Significance: The name ‘Sphaerotheca Varshaabhu’ derives its meaning from its unique behavior of emerging from burrows with the onset of early showers, symbolizing its affinity for rain.
    • Distinctive Attributes: This recently unearthed amphibian boasts distinctive characteristics that differentiate it from known frog species.
    • Urban Adaptation: What sets Sphaerotheca Varshaabhu apart is its remarkable adaptation to urban surroundings. It showcases behaviors and physical attributes that equip it to overcome challenges posed by urbanization.
    • Scientific Confirmation: The research team employed advanced genetic analysis, in-depth morphological studies, and bio-acoustics to definitively establish the distinctiveness of this newfound amphibian.

  • Nano DAP: Revolutionizing Fertilizers in Indian Agriculture

    Introduction

    • The interim budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduces the expansion of Nano DAP application in agriculture.

    Understanding Nano DAP

    • DAP: DAP, or di-ammonium phosphate, is a widely used fertilizer in India, rich in phosphorus for plant root development.
    • Nano DAPL: Introduced by Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO), it is a liquid form of DAP with particle sizes less than 100 nanometers, enhancing its efficiency.

    Advantages of Nano DAP

    • Efficiency: Nano DAP’s small particle size allows it to penetrate seeds and plant openings more effectively, leading to higher seed vigor, increased chlorophyll, better photosynthetic efficiency, improved crop quality, and higher yields.
    • Affordability: Nano DAP is cost-effective compared to conventional DAP, with a 500 ml bottle equivalent to a 50 kg bag of DAP, priced at only Rs 600.
    • Convenience: The liquid form is easier to transport, store, and apply, making it farmer-friendly.
    • Reduced Imports: Adoption of domestically-produced Nano DAP from Kalol, Gujarat, reduces the need for importing fertilizers, enhancing self-reliance and benefiting Indian agriculture.

    Government’s Perspective

    • Subsidy Relief: Nano DAP’s cost-effectiveness alleviates the government’s subsidy burden on fertilizers, offering fiscal relief.
    • Self-Reliance: Producing Nano DAP domestically aligns with the goal of self-sufficiency in fertilizer production, reducing dependency on imports.
    • Agricultural Advancement: Wider Nano DAP adoption supports agricultural growth, increasing food grain production and benefiting farmers.

  • Interim Budget mentions Blue Economy 2.0

    Introduction

    • The Interim Budget presented by Finance Minister underscores the importance of promoting an environment-friendly ‘blue economy’ for sustainable development.

    Understanding Blue Economy

    • Definition: The blue economy encompasses economic activities related to oceans, seas, and coastal regions, with a strong emphasis on sustainability.
    • Global Perspective: The European Commission defines it as a wide range of established and emerging sectors linked to ocean resources, while the World Bank emphasizes the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth and livelihoods.

    Significance for India

    • India’s Coastal Abundance: With its extensive coastline, diverse marine resources, and tourism potential, India stands to benefit significantly from the blue economy.
    • Balancing Growth: The blue economy seeks to achieve economic growth while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems.

    Budget Proposals

    • Restoration and Adaptation: A scheme focusing on climate-resilient activities, restoration, adaptation measures, and integrated coastal aquaculture and mariculture will be launched.
    • Integrated Aquaparks: The budget outlines plans for setting up five integrated aquaparks to boost aquaculture productivity.
    • Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): PMMSY will be intensified to double exports to Rs 1 lakh crore and generate 55 lakh employment opportunities.

    India’s Blue Economy Policy

    • Blue Economy 2.0: The budget introduces the concept of Blue Economy 2.0, building upon a draft policy framework released in July 2022.
    • Policy Framework: The framework encompasses various aspects such as marine resources, coastal planning, tourism, fisheries, aquaculture, trade, technology, infrastructure, and international engagement.

    Global Engagement

    • G20 Summit: India, as the host of the G20 summit, prioritized blue economy discussions, emphasizing its significance on the global stage.
    • Responsibility and Collaboration: India recognizes the importance of responsible artificial intelligence and sustainable ocean governance in the context of the blue economy.

    Conclusion

    • India’s commitment to promoting the blue economy aligns with global efforts for sustainable development.
    • The Interim Budget’s proposals aim to harness the potential of India’s coastal resources while preserving the marine ecosystem, fostering economic growth, and creating employment opportunities.
    • This strategic shift underscores India’s dedication to responsible and inclusive development.

  • Payments Banks: A Closer Look at Their Features and Objectives

    Introduction

    • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed additional curbs on Paytm Payments Bank Ltd (PPBL), prohibiting it from operating its mobile wallet after February.
    • This article provides insights into what payments banks are, their objectives, features, and the regulatory framework governing them.

    Understanding Payments Banks

    • Definition: Payments banks are financial institutions similar to regular banks but operate on a smaller scale without engaging in credit risk.
    • Origin: The concept of payments banks was recommended by the Nachiket Mor Committee.
    • Objective: The primary goal is to advance financial inclusion by providing banking and financial services to unbanked and underbanked areas, catering to migrant laborers, low-income households, small entrepreneurs, and more.
    • Legal Framework: Payments banks are registered as public limited companies under the Companies Act 2013 and licensed under Section 22 of the Banking Regulation Act 1949.
    • Regulation: They are governed by various legislations, including the Banking Regulation Act, 1949; RBI Act, 1934; Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999, among others.

    Key Features of Payments Banks

    • Differentiation: Payments banks are distinct entities, not universal banks.
    • Scale: They operate on a smaller scale compared to traditional banks.
    • Capital Requirements: Payments banks are required to have a minimum paid-up equity capital of 100 crores.
    • Promoter Contribution: The promoter must contribute at least 40% of the paid-up equity capital for the first five years from the commencement of business.

    Permissible Activities

    • Accept deposits up to Rs. 2,00,000.
    • Offer demand deposits in the form of savings and current accounts.
    • Invest deposits in secure government securities as Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR), accounting for 75% of the demand deposit balance.
    • Place the remaining 25% as time deposits with other scheduled commercial banks.
    • Provide remittance services, mobile payments/transfers/purchases, ATM/debit cards, net banking, and third-party fund transfers.
    • Act as a banking correspondent (BC) for other banks to offer credit and services beyond their capabilities.

    Activities Not Permitted

    • Loans and Credit Cards: Payments banks cannot issue loans and credit cards.
    • Time and NRI Deposits: They are not authorized to accept time deposits or NRI deposits.
    • Non-Banking Subsidiaries: Payments banks cannot establish subsidiaries to engage in non-banking financial activities.

  • A political, feel-good statement

    Budget Highlights 2024: Rooftop solarisation, housing for middle class | Latest News India - Hindustan Times

    Central Idea:

    The Finance Minister’s Budget speech focuses on claiming credit for a decade of economic growth, moderate inflation, and social welfare. However, the analysis reveals a mix of positives and concerns, emphasizing the need for addressing challenges like employment, wage growth, and dependence on China for industrial inputs.

    Key Highlights:

    • The Budget attributes post-COVID growth revival to public infrastructure investment, proposing an 11% rise in capital expenditure.
    • Public infrastructure investments, especially in highways and communications, have contributed to GDP growth in the post-pandemic years.
    • The Budget extends a 50-year interest-free loan scheme for States and introduces a similar scheme for private sector innovation and R&D with a ₹1 lakh crore corpus.
    • The Budget applauds the scheme to set up rooftop solar in 1 crore households.
    • The claim of doubled FDI inflow is challenged, highlighting that much of it has gone into services rather than substantial manufacturing.

    Key Challenges:

    • Despite positive growth indicators, the employment situation remains grim, with stagnant regular salaried employment and a rise in unpaid family labor.
    • Real wages in agriculture have declined, indicating that the benefits of economic growth have not been equitably distributed.
    • There is a concern about premature de-industrialization, with a rise in the agriculture workforce and a decline in manufacturing employment share.
    • Growing dependence on China for industrial inputs poses a strategic risk, despite initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan.’

    Key Terms:

    • Crowding-out: The displacement of private investment due to high levels of public investment.
    • Disinvestment: The sale or liquidation of government assets in the public sector.
    • Geopolitics: The influence of geographical factors on international relations and politics.

    Key Phrases:

    • “All is well” – The political message emphasizing optimism about the future.
    • “Premature de-industrialization” – A concern that the economy is losing its industrial base too soon.

    Key Quotes:

    • “The Budget claimed that FDI inflow during 2014-23 doubled to $596 billion compared to the previous 10 years. This is misleading.”
    • “The political message in the Budget was ‘all is well’ and the coming days will be better.”

    Key Statements:

    • “The long term growth of a poor, over-populated economy lies in the structural transformation of its workforce away from rural/agriculture to modern industry and services.”
    • “The Budget is an account of the achievements of the last decade of this regime, with a promise to press ahead with the same.”

    Key Examples and References:

    • The rise in public infrastructure investments contributing to GDP growth.
    • The widening trade deficit with China despite ‘Make in India’ initiatives.

    Key Facts and Data:

    • The FDI inflow ratio to GDP peaked in 2007-08 and has not regained that level.
    • India’s industrial output and investment growth rate has decelerated over the last 5-7 years.

    Critical Analysis:

    The Budget seems complacent about aggregate growth but overlooks concerns such as employment, wage growth, and dependence on China. The focus on claiming credit for past achievements raises questions about addressing existing challenges.

    Way Forward:

    • Prioritize inclusive growth to ensure benefits reach a larger section of the population.
    • Address employment challenges by promoting structural transformation from rural to urban sectors.
    • Strategically reduce dependence on China for critical industrial inputs.
    • Enhance the effectiveness of schemes like interest-free loans for innovation and R&D to boost long-term economic growth.

  • Indian women are working more. Here’s why

    Female Labour Force Participation - Current Affairs

    Central Idea:

    The rise in the Female Labor Force Participation Rate (FLFPR) in rural India, particularly over the last six years, can be attributed to strategic interventions like the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). These programs, focusing on skilling support, credit access, and diversified livelihoods for women, have significantly contributed to the economic empowerment of women in rural areas.

     

    Key Highlights:

    • The FLFPR in rural areas increased from 24.6% (2017-18) to 41.5% (2022-23).
    • DAY-NRLM, with over 90 lakh Women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs), has played a crucial role in transforming the lives of over 9.96 crore women.
    • MGNREGS, providing 260 crore person-days of work annually, has emphasized individual beneficiary schemes, raising incomes for women.
    • Initiatives like MKSP and SVEP under DAY-NRLM have empowered women in agriculture and entrepreneurship, respectively.
    • Social capital of women’s collectives, supported by elected Panchayat leaders, has been instrumental in the success of these programs.

     

    Key Challenges:

    • Despite progress, there’s a need for a more comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to the increased FLFPR.
    • Low wages under MGNREGS pose a challenge, with men often opting for higher-paying jobs in the market.
    • The article hints at the need for a more detailed analysis of the impact of these programs on the overall socio-economic landscape.

     

    Key Terms:

    • FLFPR: Female Labor Force Participation Rate.
    • DAY-NRLM: Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana National Rural Livelihood Mission.
    • MGNREGS: Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme.
    • SHGs: Self-Help Groups.
    • MKSP: Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana.
    • SVEP: Start-Up Village Entrepreneurship Programme.

     

    Key Phrases:

    • “Skilling support and credit access for diversified livelihoods.”
    • “Low NPAs and the success of social capital.”
    • “Person-days of work generated annually under MGNREGS.”

     

    Key Quotes:

    • “The rise in rural female FLFPR has been accompanied by a rise in the share of self-employment and agriculture among working women.”
    • “The social capital of women’s collectives has transformed the rural scenario.”

     

    Key Statements:

    • “The DAY-NRLM and MGNREGS play a crucial role in improving the female labor force participation rate.”
    • “Raising MGNREGS wage rates, along with increased productivity, is crucial for securing lives of dignity for the poor.”

     

    Key Examples and References:

    • Evaluation studies by the Institute of Rural Management, Anand and Stanford University team.
    • Banking correspondents from DAY-NRLM making digital payments possible.
    • Quality Council of India’s evaluation of SVEP.

     

    Key Facts and Data:

    • FLFPR in rural areas increased from 24.6% (2017-18) to 41.5% (2022-23).
    • DAY-NRLM covers 9.96 crore women, with over 90 lakh SHGs accessing Rs 38,892 crore.
    • MGNREGS generates over 260 crore person-days of work annually.

     

    Critical Analysis:

    • The article provides a detailed account of the initiatives and their impact but lacks a comprehensive analysis of the challenges and potential drawbacks of these programs.
    • The need for a more nuanced understanding of the interplay of factors contributing to increased FLFPR is highlighted but not thoroughly explored.

     

    Way Forward:

    • The government should continue and possibly expand successful initiatives like DAY-NRLM and MGNREGS.
    • Address the challenge of low wages under MGNREGS to attract more workers.
    • Conduct further research to understand the broader socio-economic implications of these programs and refine them accordingly.

  • Merging Brain Tissue with Electronics in Computing

    Brain Tissue

    Introduction

    • Researchers have achieved a groundbreaking fusion of brain-like tissue with electronics, creating an ‘organoid neural network.’
    • This innovation marks a significant advancement in neuromorphic computing, directly incorporating brain tissue into computer systems.

    Brainoware: Brain Tissues in Computers

    • Development Team: A collaborative effort by scientists from Indiana University, the University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Centre, and the University of Florida resulted in this breakthrough.
    • Publication: The study, published on December 11, signifies a convergence of tissue engineering, electrophysiology, and neural computation, expanding the horizons of scientific and engineering disciplines.

    Context of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

    • AI’s Foundation: AI relies on artificial neural networks, silicon-based models of the human brain capable of processing vast datasets.
    • Memory and Processing Separation: Conventional AI hardware separates memory and processing units, leading to inefficiencies when transferring data between them.

    Introducing Biological Neural Networks

    • Biocomputing Emergence: Scientists are exploring biological neural networks, composed of live brain cells, as an alternative. These networks can combine memory and data processing.
    • Energy Efficiency: Brain cells efficiently store memory and process data without physically segregating these functions.

    Organoid Neural Networks

    • Biological Components: Brain organoids, three-dimensional aggregates of brain cells, were used to create an ‘organoid neural network.’
    • Formation: Human pluripotent stem cells were transformed into various brain cells, including neuron progenitor cells, early-stage neurons, mature neurons, and astrocytes.
    • Reservoir Computer: The network was integrated into a reservoir computer, comprising input, reservoir, and output layers.

    Brainoware’s Capabilities

    • Predicting Mathematical Functions: Brainoware demonstrated its ability to predict complex mathematical functions like the Henon map.
    • Voice Recognition: The system could identify Japanese vowels pronounced by individuals with a 78% accuracy rate.
    • Efficiency: Brainoware achieved comparable accuracy to artificial neural networks with minimal training requirements.

    Promising Insights and Limitations

    • Foundational Insights: The study provides crucial insights into learning mechanisms, neural development, and cognitive aspects of neurodegenerative diseases.
    • Challenges: Brainoware necessitates technical expertise and infrastructure. Organoids exhibit heterogeneous cell mixes and require optimization for uniformity.
    • Ethical Considerations: The fusion of organoids and AI raises ethical questions about consciousness and dignity.

    Future Prospects

    • Optimizing Encoding Methods: Future research may focus on improving input encoding methods and maintaining uniformity in organoids for longer experiments.
    • Complex Computing Problems: Researchers aim to tackle more intricate computing challenges.
    • Ethical Discourse: Ethical debates surrounding organoid consciousness and dignity will continue to evolve.

    Conclusion

    • The creation of Brainoware and the integration of brain organoids with computing systems represent a pioneering step towards more efficient and ethically-conscious AI systems.
    • This innovative approach may revolutionize computing paradigms while prompting profound ethical considerations.

  • [pib] Exercise ‘SADA TANSEEQ’

    Introduction

    • The inaugural edition of the India-Saudi Arabia Joint Military Exercise ‘SADA TANSEEQ’ was commenced in Rajasthan.

    Exercise ‘SADA TANSEEQ’

    • It is a joint military exercise conducted between the armed forces of India and Saudi Arabia.
    • The exercise is designed to enhance the capabilities and interoperability of the troops from both nations in conducting joint operations in semi-desert terrains.
    • It focuses on tactical training and sharing best practices in conducting operations in a sub-conventional domain.
    • The primary objective is to strengthen the bond, cooperation, and camaraderie between the Indian and Saudi Arabian armed forces.
    • It also serves as a platform for achieving shared security objectives and fostering bilateral relations between the two friendly nations.

    Key components of the Exercise

    • The exercise typically involves various military training activities such as establishing mobile vehicle checkposts, conducting cordon and search operations, house intervention drills, reflex shooting, slithering, and sniper firing.
    • These activities help in building the capacity of the troops to work together effectively in semi-desert terrains, which can be crucial for addressing security challenges.

  • Unlocking the Science of E Ink Displays

    E Ink Displays

    Introduction

    • E-readers like the Kindle offer an enjoyable reading experience with their paper-like E Ink displays.
    • Developed at MIT in the 1990s, E Ink technology is now owned by E Ink Corporation.

    What is E Ink Displays?

    • Microcapsules and Charges: E Ink displays operate using microcapsules containing positively charged white particles and negatively charged black particles suspended in fluid. By applying electrical charges, these particles rise to the surface, creating text and images.
    • Reflective Light: Unlike LCD and LED displays that require backlighting, E Ink displays reflect ambient light, resembling paper and reducing eye strain during prolonged reading.
    • Energy Efficiency: E Ink’s lack of backlighting results in minimal power consumption, as energy is only used when the image changes. This makes it ideal for devices like e-readers and ensures a long battery life.
    • Outdoor Legibility: E Ink displays offer high contrast and readability even under bright lighting conditions, unlike LCD/LED displays that suffer under sunlight.

    Differentiating E Ink from E Paper

    • While often used interchangeably, E Ink and E Paper represent distinct display technologies. E Paper encompasses any screen mimicking real paper.
    •  Whereas E Ink specifically employs microcapsules with white and black particles in a clear fluid.

    Applications of E Ink Displays

    • E Ink in E-Readers: E Ink gained popularity in early e-readers like the Amazon Kindle, offering clear text even in bright sunlight. It remains a feature in Kindle and Kobo e-readers today.
    • Brief Stint in Mobile Devices: E Ink briefly appeared in some early cell phones but was eventually replaced by more advanced displays.
    • Revival in Mobile Devices: Some startups are reintroducing E Ink in smartphones, emphasizing reduced screen time and enhanced focus on communication and productivity.
    • Beyond Mobile Devices: E Ink displays are expanding to various urban applications, including bus stop displays and walking direction signs. Restaurants are adopting E Ink menu boards for their matte, glare-free surfaces and readability in diverse lighting conditions.

    Pros and Cons  

    • Advantages: E Ink displays excel in low power consumption, making them suitable for devices requiring extended battery life. They also minimize eye strain due to their paper-like visual experience, matte surface, and outdoor readability.
    • Drawbacks: E Ink displays have slower refresh rates compared to LCD and OLED screens, rendering them unsuitable for video or animation. They also have limitations regarding color and resolution and remain relatively expensive for larger sizes.