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

Civilsdaily

Login

GS Paper: GS3

  • Kanwar Lake: Bihar’s only Ramsar Site drying up

    kanwar lake

    Central Idea

    • Kawar Lake, Bihar’s only Ramsar Site, is experiencing a significant decrease in water levels and degradation.
    • However, it is drying up due to negligence.

    About Kanwar Lake/ Kabartal Wetland

    • The Kanwar Lake is Asia’s largest oxbow lake situated in the Begusarai district of Bihar.
    • It is a residual oxbow lake, formed due to the meandering of Gandak River, a tributary of Ganga.
    • It was declared a Ramsar site in 2020, making it the first wetland in Bihar to be included in the Ramsar convention.
    • This lake draws water from the confluence of the Gandak, the Bia and the Kareh river – is situated near Manjhaul, 22 km northwest of Begusarai, the district headquarters.

    Various threats to Kanwar Lake

    • Challenges include migratory bird hunting, agricultural activities around wetland areas, and government policies related to wetland management and conservation.
    • This decline has negatively impacted the livelihoods of around 20,000 Nishad community members in nearby villages who depend on fishing.

    Bihar’s Wetland Potential

    • Bihar possesses a substantial area of wetlands, covering around 4.4% of its total geographical area, according to data from ISRO.
    • Despite its wetland potential, Bihar has only one recognized Ramsar site out of a total of 75 in India.

    Potential Wetlands

    • Bihar has proposed several wetlands for Ramsar designation, including Kusheshwarsthan, Barela, Goga Bil, Nagiand Nakti dams, Udaipur Lake, Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, and Gokul Reservoir.
    • These wetlands are home to a range of wildlife, including migratory birds and endangered species like dolphins.

    Back2Basics:

    Ramsar Convention
    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.

  • CAR-T Cell Therapy approved for Cancer

    car-t

    Central Idea

    • The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has granted market authorization to CAR-T (Chimeric Antigen Receptor-T) cell therapy, a groundbreaking cancer treatment developed by ImmunoACT, an IIT-Bombay spin-off.
    • This authorization paves the way for its commercial introduction in India.

    About 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.

  • Diverse Epigenetic Epidemiology Partnership (DEEP)

    Central Idea

    • CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) is spearheading a groundbreaking research endeavour called the “Diverse Epigenetic Epidemiology Partnership (DEEP)”.
    • This integrated genomics and epigenomics study aims to unravel the genetic underpinnings of NCD’s prevalent in diverse populations, including South Asians.

    Diverse Epigenetic Epidemiology Partnership (DEEP)

    • DEEP is an integrated genomics and epigenomics study focused on understanding the genetic factors behind Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in diverse populations, including South Asians.
    • The project spans five years.
    • It aims to uncover the impact of genomic and environmental diversity on disease risk observed in people worldwide, including those in Asia, Africa, North America, and South America.
    • It will study individuals from various genetic and environmental contexts to identify DNA methylation patterns contributing to disease risk in each context.
    • It will develop software, infrastructure, and conduct advanced statistical analyses to create new resources.
    • This will complement international health and genetics databases and examine trends in DNA methylation variation.

    DNA Methylation

    • DNA methylation is a process in which chemical groups attach to DNA, regulating the activation and deactivation of genes.
    • This epigenetic modification helps the body respond to environmental signals and contributes to overall health and disease status.
    • Understanding the relationships between DNA methylation, genetics, and the environment is crucial for comprehending the pathways governing health, disease, and their consequences.

    Significance of this initiative

    • This research will enable the identification of disease-causing mechanisms that are common worldwide and those which are unique to particular groups or regions.
    • It will help with answering questions such as whether medicines developed in one part of the world will be effective for all.
    • Ultimately the DEEP study hopes to enable targeted interventions or treatments and reduce global health disparity and inequity.

  • No restriction on Laptop Imports: Centre

    Central Idea

    • In August, the centre announced its intention to subject laptops, tablets, computers, and related products to a licensing regime starting from November 1.
    • However, it has now clarified that India will not impose licensing requirements on laptop and computer imports but will instead monitor their inbound shipments.

    Lapop Import Restrictions: A Backgrounder

    • Import Restrictions: In August, India imposed import restrictions on various IT hardware products to promote domestic manufacturing and reduce imports, particularly from countries like China.
    • Industry Concerns: The IT hardware industry expressed concerns following the initial licensing announcement.
    • Security and Domestic Manufacturing: The government cited security concerns and the desire to stimulate domestic manufacturing as the reasons for the licensing conditions.

    Import Statistics

    • Import Values: India imports approximately $7-8 billion worth of IT hardware products annually.
    • Recent Trends: Import values for personal computers, including laptops, decreased from $7.37 billion in 2021-22 to $5.33 billion in 2022-23. Imports of certain data processing machines also saw a decline.
    • Production-Linked Incentive Scheme: In May, the government approved the Production Linked Incentive Scheme 2.0 for IT Hardware with a budgetary outlay of ₹17,000 crore. A similar scheme for IT hardware was approved in February 2021.

    India’s Dependency on China

    • Critical Dependency: According to a report by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), India has significant dependency on China for various products, including laptops and mobile phones.
    • Government Initiatives: To reduce this dependency, the government has introduced measures such as the production-linked incentive scheme and increased customs duties on electronic components.

    Conclusion

    • India’s decision to shift from a licensing regime to monitoring for laptop and computer imports aims to balance its goals of reducing import dependency and promoting domestic manufacturing.
    • However, there is a need to ensure smoother transition for businesses and trade.

  • Women and water and the potential of green jobs

    What’s the news?

    • Water, a vital resource for life, is poised to play a central role in the transition to a green economy. This transition brings not only environmental benefits but also the potential to drive significant employment growth, particularly for women.

    Central idea

    • Water is essential for a green economy, offering immense potential for job generation, particularly for women. Women globally are pivotal players in water management, yet their expertise remains underutilized. As green jobs surge in India, how can women’s roles in water management be enhanced and recognized?

    Backdrop

    • Green Jobs in Water Management: These jobs contribute to preserving or restoring environmental quality. A promising estimate by the International Labour Organisation posits that jobs in this sector could escalate from 3 million (2020) to 19 million by 2030 in India.
    • Water and Global Employment: A 2016 UN report underscores that nearly 1.5 billion people, or half the global workforce, are in water-related sectors. Water thus fosters both direct (managing resources, infrastructure, services) and indirect jobs.

    Harse reality

    • A World Bank evaluation of 122 water projects found that those involving women were six to seven times more effective than those that did not.
    • Despite this evidence, women constitute less than 17 percent of the paid workforce in water, sanitation, and hygiene in developing economies, and women’s representation as technical experts remains disproportionately low.

    The Role of Women in Efficient Water Management

    • Household Water Management: Women are typically responsible for managing water within households. They oversee water collection, storage, and distribution for domestic use, ensuring a safe and sustainable water supply for their families.
    • Community Engagement: In many communities, women actively engage in the management of communal water sources. They take the lead in maintaining these sources, making sure they remain accessible and functional for all community members.
    • Agriculture: Women play a crucial role in agriculture, which is a major consumer of water resources. They are involved in activities such as irrigation, crop cultivation, and livestock care. Their knowledge of efficient water use is vital for agricultural sustainability.
    • Environmental Stewardship: Women often act as environmental stewards, safeguarding local ecosystems, rivers, lakes, and forests. Their traditional practices and knowledge contribute to the preservation of water resources and the environment.
    • Community Development: Women actively participate in community development projects related to water infrastructure, sanitation, and hygiene. They serve on water and sanitation committees, helping plan and implement projects that benefit the entire community.
    • Innovative Solutions: Women frequently devise innovative solutions to address water-related challenges. They may create rainwater harvesting techniques, sustainable farming practices, or household-level water treatment methods, enhancing water resource management.

    Unlocking Opportunities through Government Programs

    • Traditionally, women’s involvement in water management has been limited to voluntary or part-time roles, often at the lowest level of decision-making.
    • Recent government initiatives in India, such as the Jal Jeevan Mission, Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation, Atal Bhujal Yojana, and Jal Shakti Abhiyan, present an opportunity to expand women’s participation in water management and provide access to decent work.
    • These programs prioritize community ownership and support both direct and indirect jobs.

    The Potential of Jal Jeevan Mission

    • The Jal Jeevan Mission, in particular, has the potential to generate a substantial number of jobs.
    • A study by the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore, estimated that the mission could create millions of person-years of direct and indirect employment, although gender-disaggregated data are lacking.

    Way forward

    • Addressing Skill Gaps and Capacity Building:
    • Water management jobs require specific skills and training, yet there is often a gap between the skills needed and the expertise available.
    • While some training programs exist for wastewater treatment and watershed management, they do not cover emerging employment opportunities in the water sector.
    • Promoting Sustainable Employment:
    • Despite robust policies for community participation, sustainable employment creation has been lacking.
    • Investing in training women, providing access to finance, and leveraging self-help groups can foster women’s self-employment in water management, strengthening water security in both rural and urban areas.

    Conclusion

    • Government initiatives such as the Jal Jeevan Mission are poised to unlock this potential. By addressing skill gaps and promoting women’s participation, India can not only create green jobs but also empower women in the vital task of water management, contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive future.

  • Recent GI tags awarded

    Central Idea

    • Many GI tags were awarded in this month. Let’s take a look:

    GI Tags in News:

    [1] Jaderi Namakatti

    Jaderi Namakatti gi tag

    • Jaderi namakatti are clay sticks that are white in colour, usually available in finger-like shape with a smooth texture.
    • They are used to adorn the foreheads of idols, men and temple elephants.
    • Jaderi is a small village in Tiruvannamalai district of Tamil Nadu.
    • There are around 120 families in Cheyyar taluk whose primary occupation has been making namakatti for more than hundreds of years now.

    [2] Basohli Pashmina

    Basohli Pashmina gi tag

    • Basohli Pashmina is a very old craft from the Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir. It’s famous because it’s super soft, very fine, and feels incredibly light.
    • Pashmina is a type of material that is hand-spun and known for being incredibly soft, fine, lightweight, and also warm.
    • You can make various things from Pashmina, like shawls for men and women, mufflers, blankets, and even baskets.
    • It comes from a type of mountain goat called Capra hircus. These goats are found on the Changthang Plateau in Tibet and parts of Ladakh.
    • In Ladakh, there are people called the Changpa, who are known for making Pashmina wool. They live on the Changthang plateau in Tibet and are nomadic, which means they move around a lot.

    [3] Marcha Rice

    • Grown in select pockets of six blocks in West Champaran district, Bihar, India. These blocks include Mainatar, Gaunaha, Narkatiaganj, Ramnagar, Lauriya, and Chanpatia.
    • It has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, indicating its unique qualities associated with the region where it’s grown.
    • Cultivated by the Marcha Dhan Utpadak Pragatisheel Samuh, a registered organization of paddy cultivators in West Champaran district.
    • Known for its distinct aroma and taste, Marcha Rice is a special indigenous variety of paddy.

    [4] Atreyapuram Pootharekulu

    Atreyapuram Pootharekulu gi tag

    • Atreyapuram Pootharekulu is a traditional sweet originating from Atreyapuram village, situated on the banks of the Godavari River in the Konaseema district of Andhra Pradesh.
    • The name ‘Pootharekulu’ translates to ‘coated sheets,’ although this description may appear somewhat vague.
    • This traditional sweet is known for its extraordinary delicacy and distinct taste.
    • It is created by layering paper-thin sheets of rice flour, which are delicately coated with ghee (clarified butter) and then folded to encase powdered jaggery or sugar dust.
    • Additionally, some variants of Pootharekulu may include finely chopped roasted dry fruits such as pistachios, almonds, and cashews.
    • The preparation of relies on a specific type of rice known as MTU-3626, referred to locally as Bondalu.
    • This rice variety is chosen for its unique taste and its ability to yield a sticky consistency, which is crucial for crafting this sweet.

    Back2Basics: GI Tag

    • A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
    • Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
    • India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 w.e.f. September 2003.
    • GIs have been defined under Article 22 (1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
    • The tag stands valid for 10 years.

  • Labour force participation

    What’s the news?

    • The issue of employment has been a central topic in economic policy discussions, especially in recent decades, as the correlation between economic growth and job creation has appeared fragile.

    Central idea

    • The COVID-19 pandemic intensified economic disruptions, causing financial distress, surging unemployment, and rural migration. The 2022-23 labor force survey shows rising participation rates and lower unemployment but raises concerns with declining regular employment and a rise in self-employment.

    Increasing Labor Force Participation

    • The national labor force participation rate (15 years and above) has grown from 49.8% in 2017-18 to 57.9% in 2022-23.
    • Both rural and urban areas have witnessed increased participation, with a more significant rise in rural regions.
    • Female participation in rural areas increased from 24.6% in 2017-18 to 41.5% in 2022-23, indicating higher female engagement in the labor force.
    • However, this rise may also reflect economic distress in rural areas, pushing women to seek employment to augment family incomes, including work under MGNREGA.

    Rise in Self-Employment

    • The percentage of self-employed individuals increased from 55.6% in 2020-21 to 57.3% in 2022-23.
    • Concurrently, the share of regular wage/salaried employment declined from 21.1% to 20.9%.
    • The proportion of workers engaged in informal sector enterprises in the non-agricultural sector also rose from 71.4% in 2020-21 to 74.3% in 2022-23.

    Concerns Over Job Quality

    • While unemployment rates have fallen across the board, especially among the youth (age group 15-29), the decline in regular wage/salaried employment and the increase in self-employment raise concerns.
    • These trends indicate that the economy may struggle to create sufficient productive and well-paying job opportunities to absorb the annual influx of millions into the labor force.
    • Inadequate job creation remains the most significant challenge facing policymakers.

    Conclusion

    • The recent labor force survey highlights both positive and concerning trends in India’s labor market. Addressing the challenge of job creation and ensuring that these jobs are productive and remunerative should remain a top priority for policymakers in India’s economic development agenda.

  • Goa’s Cashew Industry receives GI Tag

    cashew

    Central Idea

    • The recent awarding of a Geographical Indication (GI) tag to Goa’s cashew industry has ignited hope and enthusiasm among cashew manufacturers and processors in the state.

    Goa’s Cashew Industry

    • Introduction of Cashew in Goa: Cashew was introduced to Goa in the 16th century by Portuguese colonizers. Initially, it was primarily cultivated for afforestation and soil conservation purposes.
    • Discovery of Edible Value: The true economic value of cashew nuts was discovered during Goa’s freedom movement in the mid-18th century. Goan prisoners exiled to Portuguese territory in Africa (Mozambique) recognized the edible potential of cashew nuts.
    • Growth of Cashew Industry: Cashew production evolved from a cottage industry to a large-scale enterprise, driven by demand, particularly in the USA. The first cashew factory in Goa began operations in 1926, and the first consignment of cashew kernels was exported in 1930.
    • Foreign Trade Contribution: By 1961, the cashew processing industry accounted for about 60% of industrial production in Goa. Cashew nuts, both locally grown and imported, were processed and exported to countries like the United States of America, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and West Germany.

    Understanding the GI Tag

    • A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
    • Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
    • India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 w.e.f. September 2003.
    • GIs have been defined under Article 22 (1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
    • The tag stands valid for 10 years.

  • Finfluencers: What You Need to Know

    Finfluencers

    Central Idea

    • A recent front-page advertisement in a business daily, featuring a financial influencer (finfluencer), YouTube’s logo, and the IT Ministry’s logo, has stirred controversy and raised concerns about the role of finfluencers and their impact.

    Understanding Finfluencers

    • Finfluencers are individuals with a significant presence on social media platforms who offer financial advice, share personal experiences related to money management, and discuss various investment topics.
    • Their general discussion includes stocks, budgeting, property, cryptocurrency, and financial trends.
    • Finfluencers often have a large following, and their advice and recommendations can influence the financial decisions of their audience.
    • However, concerns arise regarding their qualifications and the potential risks associated with their recommendations.

    Why discuss them?

    • The advertisement in question featured a popular finfluencer, alongside the tagline, “Trust only the real experts,” and logos of YouTube and the IT Ministry.
    • It directed viewers to a YouTube playlist on online safety and content verification.
    • The advertisement generated criticism due to the perceived endorsement of expertise by finfluencers or a specific social media platform.
    • Given ongoing regulatory scrutiny of finfluencers, this raised concerns about the message being conveyed.

    Regulatory Context

    • The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), the country’s markets regulator, has been examining the activities of finfluencers.
    • Investors have expressed concerns about unsolicited stock tips and investment advice provided by finfluencers without proper registration as investment advisers.
    • Many finfluencers lack clear educational or professional qualifications in finance, raising questions about their competence to provide financial advice.
    • The absence of transparency regarding financial relationships between finfluencers and promoted entities is also concerning.

    Government’s Response

    • The MEITY clarified that the advertisement did not endorse any individual or platform.
    • He emphasized the need for private platforms to exercise caution when using government logos in advocacy ads to avoid misinterpretation.

    Broader Industry Concerns

    • ASCI’s Guidelines violated: The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has issued guidelines for social media influencers and advertisers regarding virtual digital assets (VDAs), including cryptocurrencies and non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
    • Non-Compliance: ASCI’s recent half-yearly report highlighted cases of non-compliance by social media influencers with advertising guidelines.
    • Celebrity endorsements: A prominent Bollywood actor was among those found in violation, particularly in advertisements related to financial instruments and cryptocurrencies.

    Conclusion

    • The controversial advertisement featuring a finfluencer has ignited a debate about the role and responsibilities of financial influencers in India.
    • Regulatory authorities are increasingly focusing on the activities of finfluencers, and the industry is grappling with questions of transparency, qualifications, and investor protection.
    • The ongoing scrutiny reflects the evolving landscape of financial advice and investment in the digital age.

  • New Royalty Rates for Strategic Minerals, Lithium and REEs

    minerals

    Central Idea

    • The Centre has approved royalty rates of 3% each for lithium and niobium and 1% for Rare Earth Elements (REEs).
    • These changes enable competitive royalty rates for these strategically vital minerals (critical minerals) and open the doors to private sector participation through concession auctions.

    What are Critical Minerals?

    • Critical minerals are elements that are crucial to modern-day technologies and are at risk of supply chain disruptions.
    • These minerals are used in making mobile phones, computers, batteries, electric vehicles, and green technologies like solar panels and wind turbines.
    • Minerals such as antimony, cobalt, gallium, graphite, lithium, nickel, niobium, and strontium are among the 22 assessed to be critical for India.
    • Many of these are required to meet the manufacturing needs of green technologies, high-tech equipment, aviation, and national defence.

    Implications of the Amendment

    • Alignment with Global Benchmarks: The amendments, involving specifying new royalty rates, bring India’s royalty rates in line with global standards. This is crucial to attract bidders’ in future mineral auctions.
    • Competitive Royalty Rates: The Second Schedule of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, previously set a 12% royalty rate for unspecified minerals, which was significantly higher than international benchmarks. The revised rates are 3% for lithium and niobium, and 1% for REEs, based on price benchmarks, enhancing the attractiveness of mining in India.
    • Domestic Mining Promotion: Lower royalty rates and commercial exploitation opportunities aim to encourage domestic mining, reduce imports, and stimulate related industries like electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage solutions.
    • Energy Transition Commitment: Access to critical minerals is integral to India’s commitment to energy transition and achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, aligning with global environmental goals.

    Economic significance of the move

    (A) Lithium

    • Import Dependence: India currently imports all its required lithium. The government’s push for lithium mining extends beyond Jammu & Kashmir to explore lithium extraction from Rajasthan and Gujarat’s brine pools, as well as Odisha and Chhattisgarh’s mica belts.
    • Economic Offensive: This initiative is part of India’s economic strategy to reduce dependency on China for lithium-ion energy storage products, given China’s dominant position in the market.
    • EV Growth: With EVs on the cusp of disruption, securing a lithium supply chain is strategically vital. The global lithium battery market has seen significant growth in recent years.

    (B) Rare Earth Elements

    • Global Supply Challenges: Rare earth elements, primarily sourced from or processed in China, pose challenges in the EV supply chain. Securing supplies can be difficult, and China’s dominance has raised concerns.
    • Usage in Motors: Rare earth elements are crucial in EV motors, particularly permanent magnet motors. Elements like neodymium, terbium, and dysprosium are used in magnets for generating a constant motor flux, enhancing motor efficiency.
    • Environmental Concerns: Mining rare earth elements often involves environmentally damaging open-pit operations, raising environmental and ecological concerns.

    (C) Niobium for Industry

    • Corrosion Resistance: Niobium, known for its resistance to corrosion due to a surface oxide layer, is used in various industries. It strengthens alloys, particularly stainless steel, making them ideal for applications in aerospace, construction, and pipelines.
    • Superconducting Properties: Niobium’s superconducting properties find applications in magnets for particle accelerators and MRI scanners.
    • Global Sources: The main source of niobium is the mineral columbite, found in several countries, including Canada, Brazil, Australia, and Nigeria.

    Conclusion

    • India’s decision to amend mining laws for strategic minerals is a significant step toward aligning with global standards, promoting domestic mining, and securing supplies for emerging industries like EVs and energy storage.
    • It underscores India’s commitment to sustainable energy transition and reduced import dependency while addressing environmental concerns in mining rare earth elements.