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  • Why green hydrogen presents both major opportunities, significant challenges

    why in the news? 

    Recently, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has announced a Rs-496-crore (until 2025-26) scheme to support pilot projects that either test the viability of green hydrogen as a vehicle fuel or develop secure supporting infrastructure such as refuelling stations.

    Objecive of MNRE scheme 

    (i) validation of technical feasibility and performance of green hydrogen as a transportation fuel

    (ii) evaluation of the economic viability of green hydrogen-powered vehicles

    (iii) demonstration of safe operation of hydrogen-powered vehicles and refuelling stations.

    About Green , Blue and grey hydrogen

    The significance of hydrogen fuel vehicles, particularly hydrogen internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs)

    • Zero Carbon Emissions: Both hydrogen ICE vehicles and FCEVs produce zero carbon emissions during operation.
    • Energy Efficiency: While research suggests that burning hydrogen in an ICE vehicle may be less energy-efficient than using it in a fuel cell, FCEVs still offer high energy efficiency compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, particularly those powered by fossil fuels like diesel and petrol.
    • Clean Energy Production: Hydrogen can be produced through various renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power.
    • Lightweight and Increased Payload Capacity: Hydrogen FCEVs typically weigh less than battery electric vehicles (BEVs) due to the lighter weight of hydrogen and the fuel cell stack compared to EV batteries.
    • Long-haul Freight Applications: Research indicates that long-haul FCEVs can carry freight amounts similar to diesel trucks, while BEVs may suffer from a weight penalty due to heavier batteries.  .
    • Diversification of Energy Sources: Hydrogen fuel vehicles offer a viable alternative to battery electric vehicles, providing diversification in energy sources for transportation.

     Challenges 

    • Storage and Transportation Challenges: Developing specialized cylinders capable of safely storing high-pressure green hydrogen is essential. Existing cylinders designed for compressed natural gas (CNG) are not suitable for hydrogen storage
    • Fuel Costs and Infrastructure: Green hydrogen-powered vehicles face challenges in competing with battery electric vehicles (BEVs) due to higher fuel costs and the need for infrastructure development, including hydrogen refueling stations. The cost of establishing and maintaining hydrogen refueling infrastructure is significant, hindering the widespread adoption of hydrogen FCEVs.
    • Safety Concerns: Hydrogen is highly flammable, necessitating robust safety standards and protocols for handling and storing the fuel at refueling stations.

    Conclusion 

    Green hydrogen offers zero emissions, energy efficiency, and diversification in energy sources for transportation. However, challenges like storage, infrastructure costs, and safety concerns hinder widespread adoption, despite MNRE’s support scheme.

    Mains PYQ

    Q How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic development in India? (UPSC IAS/2019)

    Q Discuss in detail the photochemical smog emphasizing its formation, effects and mitigation. Explain the 1999 Gothenburg protocol.(UPSC IAS/2022)

  • RBI to launch Mobile App for Retail Direct scheme

    Why in the news?

    The RBI has decided to introduce a Mobile App of its RBI Retail Direct scheme aimed at facilitating seamless investment in government securities by retail investors.

    What is Retail Direct Scheme?

    • Retail Direct Scheme was rolled out in November 2021, giving access to individual investors to maintain gilt accounts with RBI and invest in government securities.
    • Using this app, investors can buy central and state government bonds as well as Treasury bills.
    • It enables investors to buy securities in primary auctions as well as buy/sell securities through the Negotiated Dealing System-Order Matching system (NDS-OM) platform.
    • A Gilt Account can be compared with a bank account, except that the account is debited or credited with treasury bills or government securities instead of money.

    Treasury Bills:

    • They are promissory notes issued by the RBI on behalf of the government as a short term liability and sold to banks and to the public.
    • The maturity period ranges from 14 to 364 days.
    • They are the negotiable instruments, i.e. they are freely transferable.
    • No interest is paid on such bills but they are issued at a discount on their face value.

     How does it work?

    • Under the scheme, small investors can buy or sell government securities (G-Secs), or bonds, directly without an intermediary like a mutual fund.
    • However, the same tax rules apply to income from G-Secs.
    • The minimum amount for a bid is ₹10,000 and in multiples of ₹10,000 thereafter.
    • Payments may be made through Net banking or the UPI

    Benefits of RDS

    • With the government being the borrower, there is a sovereign guarantee for the funds and hence zero risk of default.
    • Also, government securities may offer better interest rates than bank fixed deposits, depending on prevailing interest rate trends.

    How can individuals access G-Sec offerings?

    • Investors wishing to open a Retail Direct Gilt account directly with the RBI can do so through an online portal set up for the purpose of the scheme.
    • Once the account is activated with the aid of a password sent to the user’s mobile phone, investors will be permitted to buy securities either in the primary market or in the secondary market.

    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following statements:

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

    2. Treasury bills are issued by the Government of India 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?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [pib] 15th CIDC Vishwakarma Awards 2024

    Why in the news?

    SJVN Limited has won two prestigious awards at the 15th Construction Industry Development Council (CIDC) Vishwakarma Awards 2024, for their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

    About CIDC Vishwakarma Awards

    • The CIDC Vishwakarma Awards is one of the most esteemed recognitions within the construction sector.
    • It was launched in the year 2005.
    • The awards are named after Vishwakarma, the divine architect and engineer in Hindu mythology, symbolizing craftsmanship, creativity, and skill in construction.

    Key details about the Award

    • Organizer: The awards are organized by the Construction Industry Development Council (CIDC), which is a body established by the GoI to promote the construction industry’s development and growth.
    • Categories: The awards cover a wide spectrum of categories, including:
      1. Construction Projects: Recognizing outstanding projects across different sectors such as residential, commercial, infrastructure, and industrial construction.
      2. Construction Technologies: Honoring innovative technologies and techniques that enhance construction processes, efficiency, and sustainability.
      3. Construction Equipment: Acknowledging advancements in construction machinery, tools, and equipment.
      4. Health, Safety, and Environment: Recognizing initiatives and practices that prioritize worker safety, environmental protection, and sustainability in construction.
      5. Individual Achievements: Celebrating the contributions of professionals and leaders who have made significant impacts in the construction industry.
      6. Others: Additional categories may include awards for sustainability, CSR initiatives, and emerging trends in construction.

    PYQ:

    [2020] In rural road construction the use of which of the following is preferred for ensuring environmental sustainability or to reduce carbon footprint?

    1.    Copper slag

    2.    Cold mix asphalt technology

    3.    Geotextiles

    4.    Hot mix asphalt technology

    5.    Portland cement

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3 only

    (b) 2, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 4 and 5 only

    (d) 1 and 5 only

    Back2Basics: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

    Description
    What is it? Self-regulating business model for social and environmental impact.
    Regulation in India Mandated under Companies Act, 2013 (amendment in 2014).
    Investment Areas Promote rural development, healthcare, education, environment, etc.
    CSR Committee Mandatory for companies meeting Rs 500 Cr net worth or Rs 1000 Cr turnover criteria.
    Spending Requirement At least 2% of average net profits of the last three financial years.
    Applicability Criteria Net worth >= Rs 500 Cr, Turnover >= Rs 1000 Cr, or Net profit >= Rs 5 Cr.
    Adjustment for New Cos. Use average net profits of preceding years to calculate spending.
    Applicability Period Applies before the completion of three financial years for companies.

  • Why Uttarakhand govt wants to evaluate the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods

    Why in the news? 

    Recently, the Uttarakhand government has constituted two teams of experts to evaluate the risk posed by five potentially hazardous glacial lakes in the region.

    Context:

    • The Hazardous Glacial Lakes are prone to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), the kind of events that have resulted in several disasters in the Himalayan states in recent years.
    • The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), which operates under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, has identified 188 glacial lakes in the Himalayan states that can potentially be breached because of heavy rainfall. Thirteen of them are in Uttarakhand.

    About Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs):

    GLOFs are disaster events caused by the abrupt discharge of water from glacial lakes  large bodies of water that sit in front of, on top of, or beneath a melting glacier. As a glacier withdraws, it leaves behind a depression that gets filled with meltwater, thereby forming a lake. Example: 4 october 2023 GLOFs in Sikkim.

    Factors behind the GLOFs:

    • Avalanches or Landslides: Incidents such as avalanches or landslides can also impact the stability of the boundary around a glacial lake, leading to its failure, and the rapid discharge of water.
    • Due to climate change: Rising surface temperatures across the globe, including India, have increased the risk of GLOFs. Studies have shown that around 15 million people face the risk of sudden and deadly flooding from glacial lakes, which are expanding and rising in numbers due to global warming.
    • Rapid infrastructure development in vulnerable areas has also contributed to the spike in such incidents.
    • Sizable ice chunks in the lake: GLOFs can be triggered by various reasons, including glacial calving, where sizable ice chunks detach from the glacier into the lake, inducing sudden water displacement.

    Why are GLOFs under the spotlight?

    • Increased Frequency of GLOFs: Since 1980, GLOFs have become more frequent in the Himalayan region, particularly in southeastern Tibet and the China-Nepal border area. This indicates a concerning trend of glacial melting and lake formation as per Institute of Tibetan Plateau Research in China
    • Extent of Potential Risk: The analysis by  Institute of Tibetan Plateau Research in China suggests that approximately 6,353 sq km of land could be at risk from potential GLOFs.
    • Regional Impacts: Another analysis conducted by Caroline Taylor, Rachel Carr, Stuart Dunning (Newcastle University, UK), Tom Robinson (University of Canterbury, New Zealand), and Matthew Westoby (Northumbria University, UK) indicates that GLOFs are not just a localized issue but have broader regional impacts.
      • Around 3 million people in India and 2 million in Pakistan are identified as facing the risk of GLOFs, highlighting the potential humanitarian consequences of these events.

    What is the situation in Uttarakhand?

    • Past GLOF events: Uttarakhand has experienced two major GLOF events in recent years. The first occurred in June 2013, affecting large parts of the state, particularly the Kedarnath valley, resulting in significant loss of life.
      • The second event happened in February 2021 in Chamoli district, leading to flash floods due to the bursting of a glacier lake.
    • Categorization of Glacial Lakes: Uttarakhand has 13 glacial lakes categorized into three risk levels: ‘A’, ‘B’, and ‘C’.
      • Five highly sensitive lakes fall into the ‘A’ category, including Vasudhara Tal in the Dhauliganga basin (Chamoli district), Maban Lake, Pyungru Lake, and two unclassified lakes in Pithoragarh district.
    • Size and Elevation of High-Risk Lakes: The lakes in the ‘A’ category have areas ranging from 0.02 to 0.50 sq km and are situated at elevations between 4,351 to 4,868 meters above sea level. These characteristics make them particularly vulnerable to glacial lake outburst events.
    • Impact of Rising Temperatures: A 2021 study by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Research (PIK) and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) suggests that rising surface temperatures could worsen the situation in Uttarakhand.
      • The state’s annual average maximum temperature may increase by 1.6-1.9 degrees Celsius between 2021-2050, potentially exacerbating the risk of GLOFs.

    Conclusion: Uttarakhand government forms expert teams to assess risk from 5 hazardous glacial lakes prone to GLOFs. With rising temperatures and past disasters, urgent action is needed to mitigate potential catastrophic flooding.

  • Govt. body hikes prices of essential medicines again, says ‘it’s minuscule’

    Why in the News? 

    Recently, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) implemented a 0.00551% increase in the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) for scheduled formulations of drugs starting from the commencement of the fiscal year 2024–25.

    Context:

    • The Department of Pharmaceuticals has released its yearly update of revised ceiling prices for 923 scheduled drug formulations and adjusted retail prices for 65 formulations.
    • These revised ceiling rates took effect on April 1. The Central Government attributes the price adjustments to fluctuations in the Wholesale Price Index (WPI).

    What is the National List of Essential Medicines? 

    • As per the World Health Organisation (WHO), Essential Medicines are those that satisfy the priority healthcare needs of the population.
    • Ministry of Health and Family Welfare hence prepared and released the first National List of Essential Medicines of India in 1996 consisting of 279 medicines.
      • Currently, India has approximately 400 molecules and 960 formulations covered under the National List of Essential Medicines.
    • The prices of non-essential drugs are also monitored by the government to ensure that the manufacturers of these drugs don’t increase MRP by more than 10% annually.

    The issue of the present Current Price Increase:

    • Manufacturers are allowed to increase the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) of scheduled formulations based on the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) without prior government approval.
    • Pharmaceutical companies argue that a rational increase in the cost of drugs is necessary for quality control.
    • Government’s Stance on Current Hike: Despite the recent increase, the government suggests that it will only marginally impact the cost of essential drugs such as antibiotics and painkillers.
      • The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) follows the Drug Price Control Order (DPCO) of 2013, allowing price hikes in line with changes in the WPI index.
      • Medicine prices were raised by 12% last year and 10% in 2022.

    BACK2BASICS:

    1. National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA):

    The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority was set up as an attached office of the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (now Department of Pharmaceuticals since July 2008) on 29th August 1997. It has been entrusted inter-alia, with the following functions

    • Enforce the provision: To implement and enforce the provisions of the Drugs Price Control Order (DPCO), 1995/2013 under the powers delegated to it and to undertake and/or sponsor relevant studies concerning the pricing of drugs/formulations.
    • Monitor Demand and supply: To monitor the availability of drugs, identify shortages, if any, and take remedial steps. To collect/maintain data on production, exports and imports, market share of individual companies, profitability of companies, etc. for bulk drugs and formulations.
    • Manage legal matters: To deal with all legal matters arising out of the decisions of the Authority. To render advice to the Central Government on changes/revisions in the drug policy.
    • Assist Government: To help the Central Government in the parliamentary matters relating to drug pricing.
    1. Drugs (Prices Control) Order (DPCO):
    • The Drugs Prices Control Order, issued by the Government of India under Section 3 of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, aims to govern and regulate drug prices.
    • Provides the list of price-controlled drugs: The Order interalia provides the list of price-controlled drugs, procedures for fixation of prices of drugs, method of implementation of prices fixed by Govt., penalties for contravention of provisions, etc.
    • Regulate only listed drugs: According to the regulations outlined in DPCO 2013, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority oversees and regulates only the prices of drugs listed in the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM).

     

    Achievements of India’s Pharmaceutical Industry:

    • Advanced Industries: India boasts one of the most advanced pharmaceutical industries among developing nations, ranking third globally in terms of volume and 13th in terms of value.
    • Export Destinations: The United States serves as the largest export destination for bulk drugs from India. This is noteworthy considering the stringent regulatory standards in the US.
      • Other significant export destinations include Brazil, Bangladesh, Turkey, China, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Vietnam, and Egypt.
    • India’s Role as a Supplier for Global South (developing countries): India ranks among the top five suppliers of bulk drugs to several developing countries, including Bangladesh, Nigeria, Vietnam, Egypt, Iran, and Pakistan.
      • Despite China’s dominance as a larger supplier, India remains a substantial exporter in this regard.

    The challenge is Dependency on China: Despite India’s robust pharmaceutical sector, it heavily relies on China for the supply of bulk drugs and drug intermediates. Approximately two-thirds of India’s total imports in this category originate from China.

    Conclusion: The recent price increase by the NPPA aligns with fluctuations in the Wholesale Price Index, aiming to regulate drug costs. India’s pharmaceutical industry faces challenges of import dependency on China, despite its global presence.

    Mains PYQ

    Q What do you understand by Fixed Dose Drug Combinations (FDCs)? Discuss their merits and demerits. (UPSC IAS/2013)

  • What is Basel III Endgame?

    Why in the news?

    The US Federal Reserve recently announced stricter bank capital requirements known as the “Basel III endgame” proposal.

    What is Bank Capital?

    • Bank capital is a measure of bank shareholders’ investment in the business.
    • In contrast to deposits or money a bank has borrowed, capital does not have to be paid back.
    • In other words, it is a cushion or buffer that protects a bank from insolvency—and, thus, reduces the risk that a bank failure triggers system-wide financial instability.
    • A bank that has sufficient capital can cover customers’ deposits even if the loans it has made aren’t repaid or if its investments drop in value.

    What are Basel Norms?

    • Basel, Switzerland, hosts the Bureau of International Settlement (BIS), fostering collaboration among central banks to establish global banking standards.
    • The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS), established in 1974 formulates broad supervisory guidelines known as the Basel framework.
    • Its purpose is to ensure banks maintain adequate capital to meet obligations and absorb losses.
    • India has adopted Basel standards to align its banking practices with global norms.
    Description
    Basel I
    • Introduced in 1988.
    • Known as the Basel Capital Accord.
    • Focused on credit risk.
    • Set a minimum capital requirement of 8% of risk-weighted assets (RWA).
    • Assets were assigned risk weights based on their risk profile.
    • Adopted by India in 1999.
    Basel II
    • Published in June 2004.
    • Aimed to refine and reform Basel I.
    • Introduced three pillars:
    1. Capital Adequacy Requirements
    2. Supervisory Review
    3. Market Discipline
    • Increased focus on risk management and disclosure.
    • Yet to be fully implemented in India and abroad.
    Basel III
    • Released in 2010 after the 2008 financial crisis.
    • Aimed to strengthen the banking system.
    • Made banking activities more capital-intensive.
    • Focus on four key parameters:
    1. Capital
    2. Leverage
    3. Funding
    4. Liquidity
    • Designed to promote a more resilient banking system.
    *Basel IV

     
    • In 2017, the Basel Committee agreed on changes to the global capital requirements as part of finalising Basel III.
    • The changes are so comprehensive that they are increasingly seen as an entirely new framework, commonly referred to as “Basel IV”.
    • Set to take effect under transition rules from 2025.*

     

    Proposed Changes under Basel III Endgame

    • Expansion of Scope: The proposal aims to extend the strictest risk-based capital approach to more banks, lowering the asset threshold from $700 billion to $100 billion. This would encompass around 37 large banks in the U.S.
    • Standardized Measure for Capital Requirements: Regulators propose curtailing banks’ use of internal models to calculate capital requirements for loans, advocating for a standardized measure for all banks to ensure uniform risk assessment.
    • Increased Capital for Trading and Operational Risks: The proposal mandates higher capital reserves for risks linked to trading activities and operational challenges, requiring banks to utilize standard models for risk assessment instead of internal ones.
    • Changes to Capital Calculations for Portfolios: Banks with assets exceeding $100 billion must reflect gains and losses in portfolios categorized as “available for sale” in their capital calculations, aiming for a more precise depiction of a bank’s risk exposure.

    Challenges created by the new Norms

    • Operational Risks: A substantial portion of the proposed capital increment targets banks’ operational risks, encompassing potential losses arising from internal processes, people, systems, or external events.
    • Non-Traditional Banking Activities: Entities engaged in trading, market-making, wealth management, and investment banking, will face more pronounced capital requirements due to altered risk assessment and operational risk calculations.
    • Industry-specific Concerns: Additionally, specific industries, like renewable energy, anticipate repercussions, fearing that increased capital requirements could undermine the effectiveness of tax incentives for projects targeting climate change.

    Arguments in Favor of Increasing Capital

    • Financial Stability: Proponents argue that heightened capital requirements are imperative for safeguarding financial stability, averting bank failures, and minimizing the need for government bailouts.
    • Prudent Banking Practices: They contend that current standards inadequately address bank risks and that increased capital incentivizes prudent banking practices.
    • Resilient Banking System: Economists suggests that the social costs of higher capital requirements are minimal compared to the benefits of a more resilient financial system.

    PYQ:

    2015:

    ‘Basel III Accord’ or simply ‘Basel III’, often seen in the news, seeks to:

    (a) Develop national strategies for the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity

    (b) Improve banking sector’s ability to deal with financial and economic stress and improve risk management

    (c) Reduce the greenhouse gas emissions but places a heavier burden on developed countries

    (d) Transfer technology from developed countries to poor countries to enable them to replace the use of chlorofluorocarbons in refrigeration with harmless chemicals

     

    Practice MCQ:

    What is the primary objective of “Basel III Endgame” in the banking sector?

    (a) To encourage speculative investments by banks to boost short-term profits.

    (b) To ensure the stability of the global financial system by strengthening the regulation, supervision, and risk management practices of banks.

    (c) To encourage banks to invest more in less-risky assets to stimulate economic growth.

    (d) To limit the role of central banks in regulating commercial banks and promote market-driven banking practices.

  • NexCAR19: India’s First Indigenous CAR T- Cell Therapy for Cancer

    Why in the news?

    • President Droupadi Murmu has unveiled ‘NexCAR19’ India’s first indigenously-developed CAR T-cell therapy for cancer treatment.

    What is CAR-T Cell Therapy?

    What is it?
    • CAR-T cell therapy stands for Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cell therapy.
    • It is a type of cancer immunotherapy that uses the patient’s own T cells, genetically modified in a laboratory to enhance their ability to locate and destroy cancer cells.
    How does it work?
    • T cells are white blood cells responsible for identifying and fighting illness and infection.
    • Each T cell has a receptor that can recognize antigens (proteins or molecules recognized by the immune system).
    • Cancer cells may have antigens that the immune system does not recognize as abnormal, allowing cancer to evade the immune response.
    • CAR-T cells are genetically engineered in the lab to express a new receptor that can bind to cancer cells and effectively kill them.
    Therapy Process The process involves several steps, including:

    1. Collecting T Cells: Blood is drawn from the patient’s arm, and T cells are separated from the blood using an apheresis machine.

    2. Engineering T Cells: In a laboratory, the T cells are modified by adding a manufactured CAR, and they are allowed to multiply and grow.

    3. Infusing CAR-T Cells: Once enough CAR-T cells are prepared, they are injected back into the patient’s arm.

    • Chemotherapy may be recommended before CAR-T cell infusion to enhance treatment effectiveness.
    • The process can take place in an outpatient infusion center or a hospital setting.
    Cancers Treated
    • CAR-T cell therapy is effective against certain types of cancer, especially when other treatments are ineffective.
    • It is currently FDA-approved for treating haematological malignancies, including leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.

     

    NexCAR19: India’s Indigenously Developed CAR-T Therapy

    • NexCAR19 is designed to target cancer cells carrying the CD19 protein, a marker on cancer cells, enhancing precision in treatment.
    • It has been developed jointly by IIT Bombay and the Tata Memorial Centre.
    • Initially approved for patients aged 15 and above with B-cell lymphomas who did not respond to standard treatments, leading to relapse or recurrence.

    Effectiveness and Unique Features

    • Approximately 70% of patients respond to NexCAR19 treatment, with some achieving complete remission.
    • Lab and animal studies indicate lower drug-related toxicities, including reduced neurotoxicity and Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS).
    • Trials for paediatric patients are underway at Tata Memorial Hospital, ensuring broader applicability.

    Availability and Affordability

    • ImmunoACT is in the process of securing licenses and partnering with hospitals, including Tata Memorial, Nanavati, Fortis, and Jaslok, across multiple cities.
    • Initially priced at Rs 30-40 lakh, ImmunoACT aims to eventually reduce the cost to Rs 10-20 lakh, making the therapy more accessible.

    PYQ:

    2017:

    Stem cell therapy is gaining popularity in India to treat a wide variety of medical conditions including leukaemia, Thalassemia, damaged cornea and several burns. Describe briefly what stem cell therapy is and what advantages it has over other treatments?

     

    Practice MCQ:

    With reference to the CAR-T Cell Therapy, consider the following statements:

    1.    T cells are Red Blood Cells responsible for identifying and fighting illness and infection.

    2.    Each T cell has a receptor that can recognize antigens (proteins or molecules recognized by the immune system).

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    (a) Only 1

    (b) Only 2

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • Indian Laurel Tree (Terminalia tomentosa)

    Why in the news?

    • Forest Department officials’ examination of an Indian laurel tree (Terminalia tomentosa) in Papikonda National Park has showcased its remarkable water storage capability.
    • This discovery sheds light on the indigenous knowledge shared by the Konda Reddi tribe regarding the tree’s unique attributes.

    Konda Reddi Tribe

     

    • The Konda Reddis are a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) residing in the Godavari riverbanks and the hilly forest areas of Godavari and Khammam districts in Andhra Pradesh.
    • The family structure is patriarchal and patrilocal, with monogamy as the norm with some exceptions.
    • The Konda Reddis are primarily Hindus with folk customs, which involves local traditions and worship of community-level deities.
    • They have their own social control institution called ‘Kula Panchayat’.
    • Each village has a traditional headman known as ‘Pedda Kapu’, whose role is hereditary.
    • Their primary occupation is shifting cultivation, relying on forest flora and fauna for sustenance.
    • Jowar cultivation is prevalent, serving as their staple food.
    • They collect and sell non-timber forest products like tamarind, adda leaves, myrobolan, and broomsticks to supplement their income.

     

    About Papikonda NP

     

    • Papikonda NP is located in the East Godavari and West Godavari districts of Andhra Pradesh.
    • It was established as a national park in the year 2008.
    • It is characterized by hilly landscapes, dense moist deciduous forest.
    • The presence of the Godavari River cuts through the Papikonda hill range of Eastern Ghats.

     

    About Indian Laurel Tree

    Description
    Scientific Name Terminalia tomentosa
    Common Names Indian Laurel Tree, Crocodile Bark Tree, Anjan Tree
    Habitat Found in Deciduous forests
    Bark Scissored and cracked bark, resembling crocodile skin (From November to February)
    Water Storage Ability Only 5-10% of trees observed to store water in the stem
    Water Storage Mechanism Development of lateral ridge, known as a wing, on trunk, indicating water presence
    Water Collection 4-6 litres of potable water can be collected from a fully grown tree by making a small hole in the wing
    Traditional Use Used by tribal communities, such as the Konda Reddi Tribe, as a water source during dry seasons
    Adaptability Thrives in various conditions, including harsh weather and drought

     

    PYQ:

    2015:

    In India, in which one of the following types of forests is teak a dominant tree species?

    (a) Tropical moist deciduous forest

    (b) Tropical rain forest

    (c) Tropical thorn scrub forest

    (d) Temperate forest with grasslands

     

    Practice MCQ:

    The Indian Laurel Tree (Terminalia tomentosa) recently seen in news is famous for its:

    (a) Ability to store water in its trunk

    (b) Therapeutic use in the treatment of Cancer

    (c) Aromatic Timber

    (d) Pulp for paper industry

  • Criollo: Cattle Breed that can withstand Climate Change

    Why in the news?

    Irish researchers discovered that Criollo cattle are well-adapted to Climate Change due to their ability to thrive in hot and humid conditions, which they have developed over many years.

    About Criollo Cattle Breed

    Details
    Origin Latin America, particularly in regions such as Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America
    Historical Context
    • Criollo cattle trace their roots back to the arrival of Spanish cattle in the Americas during the 15th and 16th centuries.
    • Initially brought from La Gomera in the Spanish Canary Islands, adapted to diverse environments.
    Physical Appearance
    • Small to medium-sized cattle with a compact body structure
    • Adapted to various climates, including tropical and subtropical regions
    • Short, sleek coat, often in various colors such as black, brown, or red
    Adaptability Known for their resilience and ability to thrive in harsh environments

    Well-suited to extensive grazing systems and low-input management practices
    Disease Resistance Developed natural resistance to various diseases prevalent in their native regions, such as tick-borne illnesses and parasites
    Economic Importance
    • Valued for their ability to utilize low-quality forages and adaptability to diverse environments
    • Serve as a sustainable source of meat and dairy products for local communities

     

    PYQ:

    2016:

    What is/are unique about ‘Kharai camel’, a breed found in India?

    1. It is capable of swimming up to three kilometres in seawater.

    2. It survives by grazing on mangroves.

    3. It lives in the wild and cannot be domesticated.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

    Practice MCQ:

    The Criollo cattle breed has recently found mention in the news for its:

    (a) Breeding Capacity

    (b) Nutrients-rich Milk

    (c) Adaptability to Climate Change

    (d) Life Expectancy
  • [4 April 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Turning the spotlight on the urban poor

    [4 April 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Turning the spotlight on the urban poor

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains: 
    Q. Most of the unemployment in India is structural in nature. Examine the methodology adopted to compute unemployment in the country and suggest improvements. (UPSC CSE 2023)

    Prelims:

    Q. Disguised unemployment generally means (UPSC CSE 2013)

    (a) large number of people remain unemployed
    (b) alternative employment is not available
    (c) marginal productivity of labour is zero
    (d) productivity of workers is low

    Note4Students: 

    Mains: Social Issues; Population; Unemployment;

    Mentor comments: Unemployment/Underemployment is the most contentious issue that continues to be a challenge for the Socioeconomic landscape of India. As one of the world’s most populous nations with a diverse workforce, fluctuations in the unemployment rate have far-reaching implications for the country’s growth and development. So, we need to analyze the current status of India’s Dynamic Population. The recently published, India Employment Report 2024 is the third in a series of regular publications by the ILO on labor and employment issues. This report on Youth Employment, Education, and Skills examines the challenge of youth employment in the context of the emerging economic, labor market, educational, and skills scenario in India and changes over the past two decades.

    Let’s learn. 

    —

    Why in the News?

    The recent India Employment Report (IER) 2024 Report by the Institute for Human Development and International Labour Organization (ILO) poses questions on the trickle-down effect of employment.

    Key highlights of the IER 2024 Report:

    • Poor Employment Conditions:
      • The overall labor force participation and employment rates are reflecting issues such as stagnant or declining wages, increased self-employment among women, and a higher proportion of unpaid family work among youth.
      • The share of the young population with secondary or higher education in the total unemployed has almost doubled from 35.2% in 2000 to 65.7% in 2022.
    • Youth Employment Challenges:
      • Youth employment and underemployment surged between 2000 and 2019, with educated youths experiencing significantly higher levels of joblessness.
      • The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), Worker Population Ratio (WPR), and the Unemployment Rate (UR) showed a long-term deterioration between 2000 and 2018 but witnessed an improvement after 2019.
    • Widening Regional Gaps: Significant states consistently rank lower in employment indicators. For example, states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh have struggled with poor employment outcomes over the years, reflecting the influence of regional policies.
    Case Study from Kolkata:

    A study conducted in 37 slums across Kolkata in 2012 and revisited in 2022-23 found that the major occupations in slums have remained the same over the decade, with a significant proportion of the working population engaged in unskilled labor. The share of employment in skilled and semi-skilled labor and private organizations decreased between 2012-19, while employment in petty businesses or small shops increased by 9%. The study also found that employment in truck driving and cleaning, and construction and related work gained momentum in the last 10 years.
    • Widening Gender Gaps:
      • India is facing low rates of female labor force participation.
      • Although educational attainment has improved across all groups, social inequalities persist despite affirmative action and targeted policies, with Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes facing barriers to accessing better job opportunities.
    • Informal Employment challenges: Although non-farm employment growing faster than farm employment before 2018, it has not grown sufficiently to absorb workers from agriculture. Around 90% are engaged in informal work, especially after 2018 it is increased.
    • Lack of necessary skills: 75% of workers are unable to send emails with attachments, 60% are unable to copy and paste files, and 90% are unable to perform basic spreadsheet tasks like putting a mathematical formula.
    • Declining Wages of Casual Workers:
      • While wages of skilled laborers maintained a modest upward trend during 2012–22, wages have remained low for unskilled workers. 
      • As much as 62% of the unskilled casual agricultural workers and 70% of such workers in the construction sector at the all-India level did not receive the prescribed daily minimum wages in 2022.
    • No Security to Industrial Workers: Recently, online platforms and gig workers have been expanding, but it is, to a large extent, the extension of informal work, with hardly any social security provisions.
    • Trends in Regional Migration:
      • India is expected to have a migration rate of around 40% in 2030 and will have an urban population of around 607 million.
      • The present pattern of migration also shows regional imbalance in the labor markets.
      • Usually, migration in India is seen from the eastern, north-eastern, and central regions to southern, western, and northern regions.

    What are the suggestive measures given by ILO?

    • To address labour market disparities:
      • Enhance women’s participation.
      • Integrate high-quality skills training to uplift economically disadvantaged groups.
      • Promote a fair labour market.
    • To enhance our focus on enhancing Employment:
      • Working on macroeconomic policies especially manufacturing sector.
      • Supporting MSMEs through a decentralized approach.
      • Increase agricultural productivity.
      • Building a sustainable economy.
    • To enhance job quality and build strategies:
      • Building robust labor Policy.
      • Promote Digital economy.
      • Focusing on sustained urban culture and migration policy.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/turning-the-spotlight-on-the-urban-poor/article68025389.ece

    https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/—asia/—ro-bangkok/—sro-new_delhi/documents/publication/wcms_921154.pdf