Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: West Asia;
Mains level: Foreign Policy; West Asian Geopolitics; India’s interest in West Asia;
Why in the News?
With escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, India’s Ministry of External Affairs she emphasized the need to prevent regional escalation, urging all parties to resolve issues through dialogue and diplomacy for stability.
Can India act as a mediator in the Iran-Israel conflict?
- India maintains strong strategic and economic ties with both Israel and Iran, allowing it to communicate with both parties. This balanced relationship positions India as a potential neutral mediator.
- India’s stature on the global stage is rising, and its history of non-alignment and support for peaceful dialogue gives it credibility. However, balancing its strategic partnerships with Israel, Iran, and key Arab states will be challenging.
What are India’s strategic interests in West Asia?
- Energy Security: West Asia is crucial for India’s energy needs, supplying about 80% of its oil imports. A wider conflict could disrupt these supplies and increase energy prices, impacting India’s economy significantly.
- Economic Ties: India has invested heavily in its relationships with West Asian countries, viewing the region as an extension of its neighborhood. This includes trade partnerships and investments, particularly with major Arab nations and Israel.
- Security Concerns: India shares concerns with both Iran and Israel regarding terrorism, particularly threats emanating from Pakistan and Afghanistan. This common ground could facilitate dialogue but also complicates India’s diplomatic balancing act.
How does India’s relationship with regional powers influence its role?
- Regional Dynamics: Other regional players such as Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey also influence the situation. Qatar has been active in mediating between conflicting parties, while Egypt’s geographical proximity to Gaza positions it as a key player in ceasefire discussions.
- Saudi Arabia’s leadership role in the Islamic world adds another layer of complexity to India’s diplomatic efforts.
- Multi-faceted Role: While India maintains strong defense and economic relations with Israel, it also relies on Iran for energy supplies and has historical ties to various Arab nations.
- Balancing these relationships is critical for India’s foreign policy strategy.
Way forward:
- Diplomatic Engagement and Back-Channel Diplomacy: India can leverage its balanced ties with Israel, Iran, and key Arab states to facilitate back-channel communication, focusing on de-escalation and humanitarian relief.
- India’s non-aligned stance and growing global influence position it as a credible facilitator for peaceful dialogue.
- Multilateral Approach: India should work through international forums like the United Nations and coordinate with other regional players like Qatar, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. This multilateral engagement would enhance its role while avoiding the risks of taking sides in the conflict.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: China; South China Sea; Vietnam's importance for India;
Why in the News?
Vietnamese President’s recent trip to China seeks to rekindle the historical ties and camaraderie between Mao Zedong and Ho Chi Minh, to strengthen political trust in their bilateral relationship strategically.
Current Diplomatic Relationship between China and Vietnam:
- Revived Political Trust: Vietnamese President to Lam’s visit to China sought to revive the historical comradeship between Mao Zedong and Ho Chi Minh.
- This visit aimed to strategically strengthen political trust and enhance the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two communist nations.
- Joint Statement on Cooperation: Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to advancing socialism and expressed their desire to build a “Vietnam-China community with a shared future.”
- Economic and Strategic Agreements: The visit resulted in 14 agreements covering areas such as connectivity, infrastructure, healthcare, and media.
- Trade between the two nations remains robust, with China being Vietnam’s largest import market and a significant investor. Bilateral trade in 2023 reached $171.9 billion.
How do recent events reflect the complexities of Vietnam’s foreign policy towards China?
- Bamboo Diplomacy: Vietnam’s foreign policy, known as “Bamboo Diplomacy,” is based on flexibility and resilience.
- It aims to maintain strong ties with multiple global powers, including China, while also hedging its bets with the U.S., India, Russia, and Japan to counterbalance Chinese dominance.
- Economic Dependence vs. Strategic Hedging: Vietnam’s growing economic interdependence with China, reflected in trade and investment, contrasts with its efforts to hedge against over-reliance by fostering ties with other global players. This balancing act illustrates Vietnam’s pragmatic approach to foreign policy.
Challenges Vietnam Faces in Maintaining Sovereignty Amid Growing Chinese Influence:
- Territorial Disputes: The ongoing territorial contestation over the Paracel Islands in the South China Sea poses a significant challenge for Vietnam.
- Economic Dependence: While Vietnam benefits from economic ties with China, the growing trade deficit and increased Chinese investments create a dependency that could challenge Vietnam’s autonomy in decision-making, especially in strategic areas like infrastructure and connectivity.
- Strategic Hedging and Sovereignty: Vietnam’s efforts to hedge against Chinese influence through partnerships with the U.S., Japan, and India.
Note: Hedging refers to a strategic approach taken by a country to safeguard its interests and security in a complex and uncertain environment.
Way forward:
- Enhance Bilateral Engagement: India should deepen its strategic partnership with Vietnam through increased economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and joint defense initiatives.
- Support Regional Multilateralism: India should actively participate in regional forums and initiatives that promote multilateral cooperation, such as the Quad and ASEAN-led dialogues.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM-RKVY, KY
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet approved the rationalization of all Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare into two umbrella schemes:
- Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY) – A cafeteria scheme aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture.
- Krishonnati Yojana (KY) – Focuses on food security and agricultural self-sufficiency.
About PM Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY):
|
Details |
| Objective |
To promote sustainable agriculture and improve agricultural productivity. |
| Total Proposed Expenditure |
Rs 1,01,321.61 crore (combined with Krishonnati Yojana). |
| Central Share (DA&FW) |
Rs 57,074.72 crore under PM-RKVY. |
| Key Initiatives under PM-RKVY |
- Soil Health Management
- Rainfed Area Development
- Agro Forestry
- Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana
- Agricultural Mechanization (including Crop Residue Management)
- Per Drop More Crop
- Crop Diversification Programme
- RKVY DPR Component
- Accelerator Fund for Agri Startups
|
| Key Focus |
Sustainable agricultural practices, soil health, water conservation, crop diversification, organic farming, and agricultural mechanization. |
| Flexibility for States |
Increased flexibility for state governments to reallocate funds based on unique requirements of the states. |
| Implementation Method |
Funds allocated to states, with state governments developing Comprehensive Strategic Documents addressing crop production, climate resilience, and value chains. |
| Benefits |
Avoid duplication, ensure convergence, and streamline the approval process for quicker implementation of Annual Action Plans (AAP). |
Schemes merged into Krishonnati Yojana (KY):
- National Food Security Mission (NFSM)
- National Mission on Oilseeds and Oil Palm (NMOOP)
- Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)
- National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA)
- Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM)
- National Mission on Agricultural Extension and Technology (NMAET)
- Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER)
PYQ:
[2014] Consider the following pairs:
| Programme/Project |
Ministry |
| 1. Drought – Prone Areas Programme |
Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare |
| 2. Desert Development Programme |
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change |
| 3. National Watershed Development Project for Rainfed Areas |
Ministry of rural development |
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) Only 1 and 2
(b) Only 3
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) None of these |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Classical Languages
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet has approved conferring the status of Classical Language to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali.
Classical Languages in India:
|
Details |
| Objective |
To recognize and preserve Bharat’s profound cultural heritage embodied in these languages and their literary traditions. |
| Criteria for Classical Language Status |
2004 (when Tamil was declared a Classical Language):
- High Antiquity over a thousand years.
- A body of ancient literature valued by generations.
- Original literary tradition, not borrowed.
2005 (when Sanskrit was declared a Classical Language):
- High Antiquity over 1500-2000 years.
- Ancient literature valued by generations.
- Original literary tradition, not borrowed.
- Distinct from modern forms, with possible discontinuity.
2024 (as recommended by the Linguistic Experts Committee):
- High Antiquity over 1500-2000 years.
- Ancient literature valued by generations.
- Includes knowledge texts, prose, inscriptions.
- Distinct from current forms or may show discontinuity.
|
| Previously Conferred Status |
Tamil (2004), Sanskrit (2005), Telugu (2008), Kannada (2008), Malayalam (2013), Odia (2014) |
| Implementation Strategy |
• Establishment of Central Universities for Sanskrit (2020)
• Promotion of Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam, and Odia through the Central Institute of Indian Languages (Mysuru)
• National and International awards for Classical Languages |
| Impact on Employment |
• Employment in academia, research, and archiving
• Jobs in preservation, digitization, translation, and publishing of ancient texts |
| States Involved |
Maharashtra (Marathi), Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh (Pali, Prakrit), West Bengal (Bengali), Assam (Assamese) |
|
| The Eighth Schedule |
- Lists 22 official languages, governed by Articles 344(1) and 351 of the Constitution.
- Includes Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Dogri, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Maithili, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Odia, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Santali, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu
|
| Chronological Additions to the Eighth Schedule |
• 1950: Initially included 14 languages
• 1967: Sindhi added (21st Constitutional Amendment)
• 1992: Konkani, Manipuri (Meitei), Nepali added (71st Constitutional Amendment)
• 2003: Bodo, Dogri, Maithili, Santali added (92nd Constitutional Amendment)
• 2011: “Oriya” replaced with “Odia” (96th Constitutional Amendment) |
PYQ:
[2015] Which one of the following was given classical language status recently?
(a) Odia
(b) Konkani
(c) Bhojpuri
(d) Assamese
[2014] Consider the following languages :
1. Gujarati
2. Kannada
3. Telugu
Which of the above has/have been declared as ‘Classical Language / Languages’ by the Government?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Chagos Islands (Archipelago)
Why in the News?
- British Foreign Minister announced that the deal with Mauritius has settled the long-standing dispute over the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, the UK’s last overseas territory in Africa.
- The agreement also ensures the long-term future of the Diego Garcia military base, which is jointly operated by the UK and US.
About Chagos Islands (Archipelago)
- The Chagos Archipelago is a group of 58 islands located in the Indian Ocean, approximately 500 km south of the Maldives.
- It is a strategically significant area, with one of its islands, Diego Garcia, serving as a key military base jointly operated by the UK and US.
- The archipelago has been at the centre of a decades-long sovereignty dispute between the UK and Mauritius.
Key Deals and Agreements Related to the Chagos Archipelago
1. British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) Formation (1965)
- The UK established the BIOT, incorporating the Chagos Archipelago.
- The islands were detached from Mauritius before its independence.
- Mauritius received a grant of 3 million pounds from the UK as compensation for the detachment.
2. UK-US Agreement on Diego Garcia (1966)
- Britain and the US signed a defense agreement, making the BIOT available for joint military purposes.
- Diego Garcia became a key military outpost due to its strategic location in the Indian Ocean.
- The land for the military base was acquired in 1967, and in 1971, the plantation on Diego Garcia was shut down.
- The BIOT administration passed an Immigration Ordinance, which prohibited residents from remaining on the island without a permit. This led to the forced expulsion of around 2,000 Chagossians, many of whom were resettled in Mauritius and the UK.
3. United Nations and International Court of Justice (ICJ) Involvement
- 2017: The UN General Assembly requested the ICJ to issue an advisory opinion on the legal status of the Chagos Islands.
- 2019: The ICJ ruled that the UK’s continued administration of the islands was illegal, and the detachment of the islands from Mauritius in 1965 was not done with the free consent of the Chagossians. The UNGA adopted a resolution calling on the UK to withdraw from the Chagos Archipelago within six months.
4. UK-Mauritius Agreement (2023)
- After years of dispute, Mauritius and the UK reached an agreement over the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands.
- Under this agreement:
- The UK has ceded its claims over the islands.
- Mauritius is allowed to implement a resettlement program on the islands, excluding Diego Garcia.
- The UK retains sovereignty over Diego Garcia, allowing the military base to remain operational for an initial period of 99 years.
- A new trust fund is being created for the benefit of Chagossians.
|
Why did the UK keep Diego Garcia Base?
- US-UK Defense Agreement: The base is vital for joint military operations, allowing rapid deployment in critical areas.
- Global Operations Hub: Key for US air and naval missions during conflicts like the Gulf War and War in Afghanistan.
- Geopolitical Control: Ensures a strong US-UK presence in the Indian Ocean to counteract other powers, especially China.
- Strategic Location: Diego Garcia monitors the Malacca Strait and other essential global trade routes, especially energy supplies.
PYQ:
[2013] Discuss the political developments in Maldives in the last two years. Should they be of any cause of concern to India? |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Little Prespa Lake
Why in the News?
At the Albanian-Greek border, Little Prespa Lake is slowly drying.
About Little Prespa Lake
- Little Prespa Lake, also known as Small Lake Prespa, is located on the Albanian-Greek border.
- The majority of the lake lies in Greek territory, with the southern tip extending into Albania.
- The total area of the lake is approximately 450 hectares within Albanian territory, though much of this area has now transformed into swamps or dried up.
- It is the smaller part of the nearby Great Prespa Lake, which lies to the south.
- Historically, the lake was fed by snowmelt and precipitation, but these have reduced significantly due to climate change and human intervention.
- In the 1970s, communist authorities in Albania diverted the Devoll River for agricultural irrigation around the city of Korca.
- This diversion significantly reduced the water inflow to the lake, beginning its ecological decline.
|
Impact of Little Prespa Lake’s Drying
- The drying has led to the collapse of the fishing industry, depriving locals of their primary livelihood.
- The once-thriving aquatic ecosystem has transformed into a marshland, resulting in biodiversity loss as fish populations vanish.
- The diversion of the Devoll River for agricultural purposes has exacerbated the lake’s decline.
- The lake could completely disappear if current trends continue, threatening the region’s environmental and economic stability.
PYQ:
[2018] Which of the following has/have shrunk immensely/dried up in the recent past due to human activities?
1. Aral Sea
2. Black Sea
3. Lake Baikal
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 2 only
(d) 1 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Government schemes and Initiatives; AMRUT;
Mains level: Shortcomings of AMRUT;
Why in the News?
Since February this year, hundreds of copies of the Environment Ministry’s elephant census report — “Status of Elephant in India 2022-23” — have remained unreleased, with the government attributing the delay to pending census data from the Northeast.
Findings of the Elephant Census Report:
- Significant Drop in Population: The report shows a 20% drop in India’s elephant population since 2017. The Central Indian and Eastern Ghats recorded a 41% dip, with some states like Southern West Bengal (84%), Jharkhand (68%), and Orissa (54%) experiencing major declines.
- Regional Breakdown: The Western Ghats also saw a decline of 18%, particularly in Kerala, where the population fell by 51%. The Shivalik hills and Gangetic plains recorded only a slight drop (2%), while the Northeast’s data was not updated, but is expected to see a reduction when properly modeled.
- Developmental Pressures: The report identified “mushrooming developmental projects,” particularly unmitigated mining, linear infrastructure construction, and habitat fragmentation, as key threats to elephants.
- Poaching, railway collisions, and electrocution were other significant risks.
- Fragmentation of Habitats: The once-contiguous populations, particularly in the Western Ghats and Central India, are becoming increasingly fragmented due to land-use changes, such as plantations, fencing, and human encroachment.
- Threats in the Northeast: Elephants in the Northeast are under threat from a mosaic of human habitation, plantations, mines, and oil refineries. Poaching for ivory is a serious issue in this region.
Note: “Mushrooming developmental projects” refers to the rapid, often uncontrolled expansion of infrastructure and industrial activities, such as mining, road construction, and urbanization, which disrupt ecosystems and natural habitats, impacting biodiversity.
Why Was the Report Shelved After Being Printed?:
- Delay in Northeast Data: The government cited delays in completing the census in the Northeast region as the primary reason for not releasing the report.
- The methodology and data collection, including advanced techniques like DNA profiling and camera traps, were not fully implemented in the region due to logistical challenges.
- Interim Status: The Ministry stated that the current report is an interim version and the final report, including Northeast data, is expected by June 2025. There is a reluctance to release incomplete data until a uniform methodology is applied across all regions.
What are the implications of this decline for elephant on conservation efforts?
- Need for Urgent Action: The significant decline in elephant populations, especially in the Central and Eastern regions, signals an urgent need for conservation strategies, including habitat restoration and strengthened protection measures.
- Impact of Development: The report emphasizes the need to address the impacts of developmental projects, which have severely fragmented elephant habitats, increasing human-elephant conflict and other risks such as poaching.
- Reevaluation of Conservation Policies: The findings suggest the necessity for reevaluating conservation policies to focus on maintaining elephant corridors, mitigating the impact of infrastructure projects, and fostering community support for conservation.
- Scientific Modelling: The shift to more sophisticated scientific modelling of elephant populations (mark-recapture techniques).
- Focus on Fragmented Landscapes: Future conservation strategies must address the fragmentation of landscapes, particularly in critical areas like the Eastern Ghats, Western Ghats, and the Northeast, to reconnect elephant habitats and ensure their long-term survival.
Conclusion: The Elephant Census Report reveals a worrying decline in populations due to habitat fragmentation and developmental pressures. Urgent action is needed to restore habitats, strengthen protection, and reevaluate conservation policies to ensure long-term elephant survival.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues related Federalism;
Why in the News?
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was detained at the Delhi border on Monday night while leading a group of protesters seeking to petition the Central government for Ladakh’s inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, along with other demands for greater autonomy for the region.
What is Asymmetrical federalism?
- Asymmetrical federalism refers to a system where some regions or states within a country have more autonomy or special provisions than others. This contrasts with symmetrical federalism, where all states or regions have equal powers.
- Example in India: The Indian Constitution follows asymmetrical federalism, where certain regions like those under the Fifth and Sixth Schedules or specific northeastern states have special provisions and greater autonomy compared to other states.
Which are the other States seeking constitutional safeguards?
- Ladakh: The Union Territory of Ladakh has seen increasing demands for inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution to safeguard its indigenous culture and provide greater autonomy.
- Arunachal Pradesh: The state has passed a resolution seeking inclusion in the Sixth Schedule to grant more autonomy to its tribal populations.
- Manipur: The Hill Area Committee in Manipur has also demanded inclusion in the Sixth Schedule for its tribal areas, particularly the ‘Hill areas’.
Do the Fifth and Sixth schedules grant areas under them more autonomy?
- Fifth Schedule: Grants special protections to ‘scheduled areas’ in 10 states. These areas are governed by Tribes Advisory Councils (TACs) and Governors, who have the power to regulate land transfers, businesses, and the applicability of laws.
- Sixth Schedule: Provides greater autonomy to ‘tribal areas’ in four northeastern states (Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Tripura) through Autonomous District Councils (ADCs).
- ADCs have more legislative, executive, and financial powers, including the ability to regulate land use, social customs, and taxation.
Why did the British create provisions for ‘excluded’ and ‘partially excluded’ areas?
- British Policy of Isolation: To avoid unrest and rebellion among the tribal populations, the British adopted a policy of ‘isolation’ by creating ‘excluded’ and ‘partially excluded’ areas in tribal regions under the Government of India Act, 1935.
- Excluded Areas: These were mostly in the northeastern hilly regions, where the Governor had the authority to legislate.
- Partially Excluded Areas: These included tribal regions in Central and Eastern India, where laws from central and provincial legislatures were applicable but with modifications, ensuring minimal interference with tribal customs and governance.
Conclusion: The government should initiate meaningful consultations with local stakeholders in regions like Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, and Manipur to address concerns about cultural preservation and autonomy, ensuring that any constitutional reforms reflect the aspirations of the indigenous populations.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Food safety issues in India;
Why in the News?
The Uttar Pradesh government has mandated that all food establishments display the names and addresses of their owners and employees. In July, the Supreme Court put a hold on similar orders issued by the governments of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
What are the regulations for selling food in India?
- Licensing and Registration: All food businesses must register with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) or obtain a license, depending on their scale of operation. Small-scale vendors are classified as “Petty Food Manufacturers” and must register under specific rules.
- Display Requirements: Food business operators are required to prominently display their FSSAI registration certificate or license, including a photo ID, at their premises or vehicles to inform customers about the legitimacy of the food business.
- Compliance and Penalties: Non-compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSA) can lead to penalties, including fines up to Rs 5 lakh and imprisonment for up to six months. Violators may also receive an Improvement Notice, which could result in license suspension or cancellation if not addressed.
What powers do states have to make laws in this regard?
- Authority to Make Rules:
- Under Section 94(1) of the FSSA, state governments can make rules for food safety after obtaining prior approval from the FSSAI.
- Section 94(2) specifies areas where states can legislate, such as additional functions of the Commissioner of Food Safety and other matters requiring state-level rules.
- Implementation: The Commissioner of Food Safety, appointed by the state government, is responsible for ensuring the efficient implementation of food safety regulations.
- Legislative Approval: Any rules made by the state government must be presented before the state legislature for approval (Section 94(3)).
Can a state government’s directives under FSSA be challenged in court?
- Grounds for Challenge: Previous orders from UP and Uttarakhand were contested on grounds that they discriminated against individuals based on religion or caste, violating constitutional rights under Articles 15(1) and 19(1)(g).
- Judicial Precedent: In July 2023, the Supreme Court ruled that only competent authorities under the FSSA could issue such directives, limiting police powers in this context
Way forward:
- Strengthening Regulatory Framework: There is a need to enhance the regulatory framework by clarifying the roles and responsibilities of state governments and the FSSAI.
- Engaging Stakeholders and Public Awareness: The government should engage with food business operators, consumers, and public health experts to foster better understanding and compliance with food safety regulations.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Navika Sagar Parikrama
Why in the News?
The second edition of Navika Sagar Parikrama, a global circumnavigation by sailboat was flagged off by Navy Chief at INS Mandovi in Goa.
About Navika Sagar Parikrama:
|
Details |
| Expedition |
- Navika Sagar Parikrama, a maritime expedition by the Indian Navy, aimed at circumnavigating the globe in a sailboat crewed by women officers.
- Symbolizes women’s empowerment and Indian maritime traditions.
|
| Objective |
Promotes women’s empowerment, gender equality, oceanic research, and Indian maritime traditions. |
| First Edition |
- Began on September 10, 2017, with an all-women crew of six officers aboard INSV Tarini.
- Completed on May 21, 2018.
|
| Second Edition |
Launched on October 2, 2024, with two women officers, Lieutenant Commander Dilna K. and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A., setting sail from INS Mandovi, Goa. |
| Agencies Involved |
- Indian Navy: Leading the initiative.
- National Institute of Oceanography (NIO): Marine research on microplastics and ferrous content.
- Wildlife Institute of India (WII): Research on large sea mammals.
- Sagar Defence: Providing drones for documentation.
- Defence Food Research Laboratory (DFRL): Supplying meals.
- Transform Rural India Foundation (TRIF) and Piramal Foundation: Supporting logistics and research.
|
| Route |
Divided into five legs with four stopovers:
1. Goa to Fremantle, Australia
2. Fremantle to Lyttleton, New Zealand
3. Lyttleton to Port Stanley, Falkland Islands
4. Port Stanley to Cape Town, South Africa
5. Cape Town to Goa, India |
PYQ:
[2016] Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?
(a) Amphibious warfare ship
(b) Nuclear-powered submarine
(c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
(d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Psychedelic Drugs
Why in the News?
Researchers from the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in collaboration with researchers from Cornell, Yale, and Columbia has uncovered how a psychedelic drug interacts with the brain to alleviate anxiety.
About Psychedelic Drugs
- Psychedelic drugs are a class of psychoactive substances that alter perception, mood, and cognitive processes.
- These drugs often induce hallucinations, altered states of consciousness, and enhanced sensory experiences.
- They are typically associated with spiritual experiences and have historically been linked with counterculture movements, but they are now being studied for their potential in medical therapies.
- Examples of Psychedelic Drugs:
- LSD (Lysergic acid diethylamide): Known for causing intense visual hallucinations and altering thoughts, it is one of the most potent psychedelics.
- Psilocybin: The active compound found in magic mushrooms, known for creating visual and auditory hallucinations, as well as a deep sense of connection to the environment.
- MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine): Often associated with recreational use, but is also being researched for its therapeutic potential, especially in treating PTSD.
- DMT (Dimethyltryptamine): Produces powerful, short-lived hallucinatory experiences, sometimes referred to as the “spirit molecule.”
- Mescaline: Found in the peyote cactus, mescaline induces hallucinations and altered states of reality.
|
How do they work?
Psychedelics primarily affect the brain by interacting with the serotonin system, a network of neurotransmitters involved in regulating mood, perception, and cognition.
- Serotonin Receptors: Psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin bind to 5-HT2A receptors, a type of serotonin receptor. This interaction leads to altered perception, enhanced mood, and hallucinations.
- Brain Connectivity: They increase communication between different regions of the brain, breaking down normal patterns of activity. This leads to heightened creativity, altered sensory experiences, and a sense of connectedness.
How Psychedelics hold promise for treating Anxiety and Depression?
- Resetting Neural Circuits: Psychedelics may “reset” dysfunctional brain circuits, helping treat mood disorders.
- Reduced Anxiety: They reduce overthinking by dampening activity in the brain’s default mode network.
- Emotional Release: Patients experience emotional breakthroughs during psychedelic therapy sessions.
- Neuroplasticity: Psychedelics may promote adaptive brain connections, aiding in recovery from chronic stress and depression.
| PYQ:
[2018] India’s proximity to two of the world’s biggest illicit opium-growing states has enhanced her internal security concerns. Explain the linkages between drug trafficking and other illicit activities such as gunrunning, money laundering and human trafficking. What countermeasures should be taken to prevent the same? (250 Words, 15 Marks) |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Golden Langur
Why in the News?
The construction of wildlife passages and artificial canopy bridges along the India-Bhutan border has been prompted by increased deaths of the endangered golden langur due to road accidents.
About Golden Langur
|
Details |
| Identification |
- Recognizable by the color of their fur, which gives them their name.
- Fur color changes with the seasons.
- Young langurs are almost pure white.
|
| Geographic Range |
- Found in Assam, India, and neighboring Bhutan year-round.
- Inhabits an area bordered by the foothills of Bhutan (north), Manas river (east), Sankosh river (west), and Brahmaputra river (south).
|
| Habitat |
- Occupies moist evergreen and tropical deciduous forests, along with some riverine areas and savannahs in Assam and Bhutan.
- Prefers living in the upper canopy of sub-tropical forests in the south and temperate forests in the north.
|
| Conservation Status |
- IUCN: Endangered
- CITES: Appendix I
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I
|
| Habitat |
- Ripu Reserve Forest and Chakrashila WLS serve as vital habitats.
- Fragmented habitats face instability and threats.
|
PYQ:
[2012] Which one of the following groups of animals belongs to the category of endangered species?
(a) Great Indian Bustard, Musk Deer, Red Panda and Asiatic Wild Ass
(b) Kashmir Stag, Cheetal, Blue Bull and Great Indian Bustard
(c) Snow Leopard, Swamp Deer, Rhesus Monkey and Saras (Crane)
(d) Lion-tailed Macaque, Blue Bull, Hanuman Langur and Cheetal |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Fluorescent Nano-Diamonds (FND)
Why in the News?
Scientists at Purdue University have figured out how to levitate and spin Fluorescent Nanodiamonds (FNDs) in a vacuum.
What are FNDs?
- Fluorescent Nanodiamonds (FNDs) are stable, non-toxic carbon nanoparticles that emit consistent fluorescence, have a lifespan over 10 nanoseconds, and can be levitated and spun for advanced quantum research applications.
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What are their Applications?
- Medical Diagnostics: FNDs are used for high-resolution imaging and tracking cells over extended periods due to their non-toxic nature.
- Temperature Sensing: FNDs can measure temperatures at the microscale, making them useful for scientific experiments.
- Correlative Microscopy: Their fluorescent properties make them ideal for combining different types of imaging techniques.
- Sensor Technologies: Due to their sensitivity to acceleration and electric fields, FNDs can be used in industry sensors and gyroscopes for rotation sensing.
- Quantum Computing: FNDs doped with nitrogen can be used for quantum superposition experiments and future quantum computing applications.
PYQ:
[2022] Which one of the following is the context in which the term “qubit” is mentioned?
(a) Cloud Services
(b) Quantum Computing
(c) Visible Light Communication Technologies
(d) Wireless Communication Technologies |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: FandO Trading
Why in the News?
SEBI has introduced a six-step framework to protect investors and curb speculative trading, specifically targeting futures and options (F&O) trading by reducing volumes on expiry days and limiting retail participation.
What are the Future and Options (F&O)?
- Futures are contracts to buy or sell an asset (like stocks, indexes, or commodities) at a predetermined price on a future date.
- Options give the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell an asset at a set price before a certain date.
SEBI’s Six-Step F&O Framework (Effective November 2024 – April 2025):
In response to concerns about rising speculative trading, SEBI has outlined six key measures aimed at reducing retail interest in F&O trading:
- Upfront collection of options premiums
- Intraday monitoring of position limits
- Removing calendar spread benefits on expiry day
- Increasing the contract size for index derivatives
- Rationalizing weekly index derivatives to one benchmark per exchange
- Enhancing margin requirements on options expiry days
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Key Changes for Retail Investors:
- Upfront Collection of Options Premiums: Retail investors must now pay the full premium upfront, limiting their ability to use high leverage in options trading.
- Increased Contract Size: The minimum contract size for index derivatives is raised to ₹15 lakhs, reducing speculative retail participation by making it costlier to enter.
- Rationalization of Weekly Expiries: Only one benchmark index per exchange can have weekly expiries, lowering speculative trading opportunities and intraday volatility.
- Removal of Calendar Spread Benefits: Calendar spreads are no longer allowed on expiry days, discouraging aggressive trading strategies.
Impact on Brokers and Revenue:
- Decline in Trading Volumes: Brokers reliant on F&O trading will see reduced volumes due to fewer retail participants and higher barriers to entry.
- Revenue Drop in Options Trading: Firms like Zerodha may face a 30-50% revenue drop as retail participation in options decreases.
- Shift to Equity Trading: Retail investors may move towards equity trading, causing brokers to adapt their offerings.
- Adaptation for Brokers: Brokers with a balanced mix of cash and derivatives will be less impacted, while those focused on F&O need to shift strategies.
PYQ:
[2021] With reference to India, consider the following statements:
1. Retail investors through demat account can invest in ‘Treasury Bills’ and ‘Government of India Debt Bonds’ in primary market.
2. The ‘Negotiated Dealing System-Order Matching’ is a government securities trading platform of the Reserve Bank of India.
3. The ‘Central Depository Services Ltd.’ Is jointly promoted by the Reserve Bank of India and the Bombay Stock Exchange.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 2 and 3 only |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Diamond industry in India;
Why in the News?
Over the past 8-9 months, more than 50,000 workers in Surat have lost their jobs, and over 70 people have tragically taken their own lives in the past year, unable to bear the strain of unemployment and family responsibilities.
Economic Impact of Geopolitical Tensions
- Global Supply Chain Disruptions: The Russia-Ukraine war and Israel-Gaza conflict have disrupted the supply chain of raw diamonds. Russia, a major supplier of rough diamonds to Surat, faces Western sanctions, which have restricted the flow of diamonds into India.
- Sanctions on Russian Diamonds: U.S. and European Union sanctions on Russian-origin diamonds, including polished diamonds processed in India, have significantly affected exports, particularly to Western markets like the U.S., EU, and Hong Kong.
- Falling Demand: Global demand for polished diamonds has decreased in key markets such as the U.S., China, and Europe. This reduction in demand has led to a sharp decline in India’s diamond exports, plummeting from $23 billion in 2022 to a projected $12 billion by the end of 2024.
- Price Drops: Polished diamond prices have fallen by 5-27% due to oversupply and lower demand, further worsening the industry’s financial outlook.
Employment Challenges
- Job Losses: Over 50,000 diamond workers have lost their jobs in Surat over the past eight to nine months due to factory closures and layoffs.
- Wage Reduction: Workers who remain employed have experienced significant wage cuts. For instance, wages have dropped from ₹45,000-₹55,000 per month in 2021 to ₹25,000-₹30,000 now.
- Suicides and Financial Distress: Financial strain has led to over 70 suicides among diamond workers in Surat, as they struggle with job losses, school fees, rent, and medical expenses for their families.
- Lack of Government Support: Despite repeated appeals, there has been little substantial government assistance for unemployed diamond workers, leaving them with minimal social security or institutional support.
Future Prospects and Support Measures
- Shift to Alternative Employment: Many workers have shifted to other forms of employment, such as driving cabs, street vending, or returning to agriculture in their native regions, to make ends meet.
- Welfare Demands: The Diamond Workers’ Union (DWU) has called for a special welfare package for workers, including financial support for their children’s education and healthcare expenses.
- Appeals for Government Intervention: The industry, represented by groups like the DWU, is urging both the state and central governments to intervene. However, so far, industry associations have not formally sought government intervention for relief measures.
Way forward:
- Government Support Package: The state and central governments should introduce targeted financial relief measures for affected diamond workers, including unemployment benefits, healthcare assistance, and educational support for children.
- Diversification and Skill Development: Encourage skill development programs to help workers transition to alternative employment sectors, such as textiles, agriculture, or services, ensuring long-term economic resilience and reduced dependency on the diamond industry.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Management in Pandemic situation;
Why in the News?
Four years after the onset of Covid, an expert group formed by NITI Aayog has proposed the establishment of a comprehensive framework to handle future public health emergencies or pandemics effectively.
Lessons Learned from COVID-19:
- Gaps in Legal Frameworks: Existing laws like the Epidemic Diseases Act (1897) and National Disaster Management Act (2005) were insufficient for handling large-scale health emergencies. These laws lack clarity on definitions of epidemics and provisions for managing public health crises, drug distribution, and quarantine measures.
- Delayed Response and Coordination: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses in coordination between central and state governments, highlighting the need for a more organized response mechanism.
- Inadequate Surveillance: Insufficient disease surveillance and early warning systems delayed the identification of threats. The role of zoonotic diseases, especially viruses linked to bat species, underscored the need for better monitoring of human-animal interactions.
What specific recommendations does the NITI Aayog report make?
- Enactment of PHEMA: Introduce the Public Health Emergency Management Act for a more robust legal framework to manage pandemics and other health emergencies.
- Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGoS): Establish a central committee to oversee pandemic preparedness, governance, R&D, surveillance, and response efforts.
- Strengthened Disease Surveillance: Create a national biosecurity and biosafety network and monitor human-animal interfaces, especially for zoonotic diseases.
- Emergency Vaccine Bank: Develop a stockpile of vaccines for rapid access during health crises, sourced domestically or internationally.
- Early Warning and Research Network: Build a forecasting and modelling network, along with Centres of Excellence (CoEs) to advance research on priority pathogens and preparedness.
How can India enhance its pandemic preparedness framework? (Way forward)
- Strengthening Legal and Institutional Frameworks: Enact a Public Health Emergency Management Act (PHEMA) and establish an Empowered Group of Secretaries for coordinated pandemic response.
- Enhancing Surveillance and Early Warning Systems: Build a robust disease surveillance network, biosecurity system, and epidemiology forecasting for early detection and response to outbreaks.
- Investing in Health Infrastructure and Vaccine Stockpiles: Develop public health cadres, boost healthcare infrastructure, and create an emergency vaccine bank for rapid deployment during health crises.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: India-France relation;
Why in the News?
France is set to host more than 100 heads of state, government leaders, and senior officials for the 19th Francophonie Summit on October 4-5, 2024.
How can Technology Enhance Diplomatic Efforts Between India and France?
- Digital Collaboration: The summit emphasizes cooperation in digital technology, which can strengthen ties through joint projects, knowledge sharing, and innovation in areas like AI and cybersecurity.
- Facilitating Communication: Technology, particularly AI, can enhance communication between diplomats and stakeholders, enabling more efficient exchanges and negotiations in multiple languages.
- Showcasing Innovations: Events like the FrancoTech Fair will provide platforms for Indian and French innovators to collaborate on addressing common challenges, fostering deeper bilateral relations through shared technological advancements.
What Role Does Diversity Play in Shaping Diplomatic Strategies?
- Cultural Exchange: Emphasizing multilingualism and cultural diversity fosters mutual understanding and strengthens relationships, allowing for more nuanced diplomatic interactions.
- Inclusive Decision-Making: Acknowledging diverse perspectives helps create more representative and effective diplomatic strategies, ensuring that various stakeholders are considered in negotiations.
- Promotion of Values: Embracing diversity aligns with the core values of democracy and human rights, which can enhance the credibility and appeal of diplomatic efforts.
What are the Implications of Global Cooperation in Addressing Contemporary Issues?
- Shared Responsibility: Global cooperation is essential for addressing challenges like climate change, health crises, and digital governance, promoting collective action and resource sharing among nations.
- Strengthening Multilateral Institutions: Enhancing cooperation leads to reforms in institutions like the UN, World Bank, and IMF, making them more effective and responsive to global needs.
- Fostering Innovation: Collaborative efforts among nations can drive innovation in technology and policy, enabling quicker and more effective responses to pressing global issues and facilitating knowledge exchange.
Way forward:
- Establish Joint Innovation Initiatives: India and France should create collaborative platforms for research and development in emerging technologies, focusing on areas like AI, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure to enhance diplomatic relations and tackle common global challenges.
- Promote Multicultural Diplomatic Engagement: Both nations should prioritize cultural exchanges and inclusive dialogue that reflect diverse perspectives, thereby strengthening mutual understanding and fostering more effective and representative diplomatic strategies.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Article 25(2) of the Constitution, Secularism
Why in the News?
As the Supreme Court hears petitions about the alleged adulteration of ghee in Lord Venkateswara’s Laddu Prasadam, many religious organizations have renewed their demand to free temples from government control.
How are Religious Places managed in India?
- Muslim and Christian places of worship are managed by community-run boards or trusts.
- Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist temples are often under government control.
- Hindu temples make up the majority of the 30 lakh places of worship in India (2011 census).
- Under Article 25(2) of the Constitution, the government can regulate economic, financial, or secular activities associated with religious practices.
- This allows the state to enact laws concerning the administration of Hindu religious institutions.
Examples of Government Control:
- Tamil Nadu: The state’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) department manages temples.
- Andhra Pradesh: The state controls the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), including the Tirupati Temple.
- Jammu and Kashmir: Enacted the Jammu and Kashmir Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Act, 1988, specifically to manage the Vaishno Devi Shrine in Katra, Jammu.
- A portion of the income from offerings and donations is used for:
- Temple administration
- Maintenance of smaller temples
- Welfare activities, including hospitals, schools, orphanages, and secular education.
Historical Context of Government Control Over Temples
- Ancient India: Temples have historically received land and wealth donations from kings and nobles, becoming centers of culture and economy. Larger temples often promoted agriculture and irrigation.
- Medieval Period: Many temples were attacked and pillaged by invaders due to their immense wealth.
- Colonial Era: Between 1810 and 1817, the East India Company enacted laws in Bengal, Madras, and Bombay to regulate temples and prevent the misuse of temple income and endowments.
Colonial Laws:
- Religious Endowments Act, 1863: Gave control of temples to committees, but the government maintained influence through judicial jurisdiction and other laws.
- Madras Hindu Religious Endowments Act, 1925: Empowered provincial governments to oversee temple endowments and gave substantial powers to commissioners.
Post-Independence Laws:
- After Independence, many states enacted laws based on the Madras Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, 1951, which gave the government supervision over temples and allowed the appointment of an Executive Officer to manage temple affairs.
- A similar law was passed in Bihar around the same time.
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Demand for Freeing Temples from Government Control
- 1959: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) passed its first resolution demanding that the Kashi Vishwanath Temple be returned to Hindus.
- 1988: The Akhil Bharatiya Karyakari Mandal (ABKM) of the RSS called on state governments to hand over temples to representatives of Hindu devotees, arguing that government control was unfair and aimed at controlling temple funds.
- 2021: The VHP passed a resolution in Faridabad demanding a central law to free temples from government control.
Legal Position on Temple Control
Courts have generally upheld government control over temples, although there have been arguments in favor of freeing temples.
Key Judgments:
- 1954 Shirur Mutt Case: The Supreme Court ruled that a law transferring control of religious institutions to another authority violates Article 26(d), which guarantees the right to manage religious property. However, the state can regulate the administration of religious or charitable institutions.
- Ratilal Panachand Gandhi vs. The State of Bombay (1954): The Supreme Court affirmed that the right to manage religious institutions is fundamental, but the state can regulate trust properties through valid laws.
- Pannalal Bansilal Pitti vs. State Of Andhra Pradesh (1996): The Supreme Court upheld a law abolishing hereditary rights over temple management and rejected the argument that such laws must apply equally to all religions.
Recent Case:
- In 2022, lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay filed a petition in the Supreme Court to free temples from government control. The SC remarked that under the current system, temples cater to broader social needs, and reversing this would return temples to their previous state as centers of wealth. Upadhyay withdrew his petition.
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PYQ:
[2019] What are the challenges to our cultural practices in the name of Secularism?
[2016] How the Indian concept of secularism is different from the western model of secularism? Discuss. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Gram Sabha
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj is organizing special Gram Sabhas across 750 Gram Panchayats on 2nd October 2024, marking Gandhi Jayanti.
Vision to Achieve Gram Swaraj Through People’s Participation
- These special Gram Sabhas will embody Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of Gram Swaraj—a vision of self-reliant villages driven by people’s participation in decision-making.
- It emphasizes community-led governance, where elders, women, and youth collaborate to develop Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDP).
Lal Bahadur Shastri’s Legacy
- The event also coincides with the birth anniversary of Lal Bahadur Shastri, India’s second Prime Minister.
- Shastri championed the values of simplicity, self-reliance, and community development.
- Shastri’s slogan, “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,” emphasized the strength of India’s rural economy and its farmers, making his vision a key component of this grassroots initiative.
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About Gram Sabha
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Details |
| Role and Significance |
• Centerpiece of the Panchayati Raj system
• Responsible for village development and local governance |
| Constitutional Provision |
• Defined under Article 243(b) of the Indian Constitution
• Primary body in the Panchayati Raj system
• A permanent body |
| Members |
• Individuals above 18 years of age
• Must be residing in the village
• Listed in the electoral rolls |
| Meetings |
• Must meet 2 to 4 times annually as per State Panchayat Raj Acts
• Common meeting dates:
1. Republic Day (26th Jan)
2. Labour Day (1st May)
3. Independence Day (15th Aug)
4. Gandhi Jayanti (2nd Oct)
• Panchayats may choose other dates for meetings |
| Organizing Body |
• Organized by the Panchayat Secretary (Gram Sevak)
• Done with approval of the Sarpanch |
| Conditions for Convening |
• 10% of members or 50 people (whichever is greater) can request a meeting
• A written request must be submitted 5 days prior to the meeting |
| Decision-Making Process |
• All decisions of the Panchayat require the approval and validation of the Gram Sabha |
| Purpose |
• Discuss local governance and development issues
• Make need-based plans for the village |
PYQ:
[2012] In the areas covered under the Panchayat (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996, what is the role/power of Gram Sabha?
- Gram Sabha has the power to prevent alienation of land in the Scheduled Areas.
- Gram Sabha has the ownership of minor forest produce.
- Recommendation of Gram Sabha is required for granting prospecting licence or mining lease for any mineral in the Scheduled Areas.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: BRCA1Testing
Why in the News?
Angelina Jolie’s case highlighted hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) after she underwent preventive surgeries due to a BRCA1 gene mutation.
What is BRCA Testing?
- BRCA testing is a genetic test that looks for mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
- These genes normally help repair DNA, but when they are mutated, they increase a person’s risk of developing certain cancers, particularly breast and ovarian cancers.
- BRCA testing identifies whether a person has inherited these mutations, which can lead to Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) and other cancers.
- The test is done using a blood or saliva sample, which is collected and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
- In the lab, next-generation DNA sequencing or other genetic analysis methods are used to examine the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes for harmful mutations.
- The test results can show whether a person has inherited a harmful mutation in these genes.
- If the result is positive, it means they are at a higher risk for developing certain cancers.
Issues with BRCA Testing
- BRCA testing in India is expensive, costing between ₹15,000 to ₹30,000, which makes it unaffordable for many, particularly in lower-income populations.
- Testing is often only offered to individuals with a family history of cancer, which misses about 50% of people who may have the mutations but no known family history.
Significance for India
- Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in India, accounting for 27% of all cancer cases.
- Women with BRCA mutations have up to a 72% risk of developing breast cancer.
- Early identification allows for preventive measures, such as regular screenings or surgeries, which can reduce cancer incidence by up to 100%.
- By increasing access to population-wide BRCA testing, India can improve early detection and reduce the burden of cancer on its healthcare system.
- Early identification can also lower treatment costs and improve outcomes.
PYQ:
[2019] ‘RNA interference (RNAi)’ technology has gained popularity in the last few years. Why?
- It is used in developing gene silencing therapies.
- It can be used in developing therapies for the treatment of cancer.
- It can be used to develop hormone replacement therapies.
- It can be used to produce crop plants that are resistant to viral pathogens.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 4
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 1 and 4 only |
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