Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Postal Ballot Voting
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced that media persons covering “polling day activities” are now eligible to vote in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections 2024 and state Assembly polls through postal ballots.
What are Postal Ballots?
- Postal ballots, also known as mail-in ballots, allow registered voters to cast their votes by mail instead of physically going to a polling station.
- It is governed by the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961.
- This system serves as a convenient alternative for individuals unable to vote in person due to various circumstances, such as being away from their home constituency, facing a disability, or performing essential services on Election Day.
Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS)
- The Conduct of Election Rules, 1961 was amended in 2016 to allow service voters to use the ETPBS. Under this system, postal ballots are sent electronically to registered service voters.
- The service voter can then download the ETPB (along with a declaration form and covers), register their mandate on the ballot and send it to the returning officer of the constituency via ordinary mail.
- The post will include an attested declaration form (after being signed by the voter in the presence of an appointed senior officer who will attest it).
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Who is eligible to cast their vote through postal ballots?
Eligible electors who can opt to vote through postal ballots include:
- Special voters: It includes President of India, Vice President, Governors, and Union Cabinet ministers, Speaker of the House and government officers on poll duty.
- Service voters: Members of the armed forces, paramilitary forces, and government employees deployed on election duty far from their home constituencies.
- Absentee voters: Individuals unable to vote in person due to reasons like work commitments, illness, or disability. Senior citizens above 80 years are also included.
- Electors on election duty: Government officials and polling staff assigned duties at polling stations other than their own.
- Electors under preventive detention: Individuals detained under preventive custody orders during the election period.
- Divyangjans: In October 2019, the Ministry of Law and Justice amended the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, lowered the age from 85 to 80 and allowed Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) to cast votes through postal ballots in the 2020 Delhi Assembly polls.
- Essential services covering polling day activities: Media persons with authorisation letters from the EC and those involved in essential services such as metros, railways, and healthcare have the option to vote using postal ballots in Lok Sabha and four state Assembly polls.
Applying for a postal ballot
- To apply for a postal ballot, eligible voters must apply, Form 12 D, to the returning officer (RO) of their respective constituency.
- The application typically requires personal details, voter identification information, and the reason for seeking a postal ballot.
- For service voters, the RO sends the postal ballot paper through the record office, directly or through the Ministry of External Affairs for service voters serving outside India.
- For senior citizens, a team of two polling officials, a videographer, and security personnel will visit the residence of the elector to facilitate this process.
What is the process of postal voting?
- Receiving the postal ballot: Once approved, the RO sends the postal ballot to the voter’s registered address, including the ballot paper, declaration form, secrecy sleeve, and pre-paid return envelope.
- Marking the ballot: Voters mark their preferred candidate(s) on the ballot paper in the secrecy sleeve to ensure confidentiality.
- Completing the declaration form: Voters fill out the declaration form, providing their signature and other relevant details.
- Sealing the envelope: Voters seal the marked ballot paper and declaration form inside the secrecy sleeve and place it into the pre-paid return envelope.
- Returning the postal ballot: Voters affix the postage stamp and mail the return envelope to the designated address within the specified time.
Counting of postal ballots
- Postal ballots are counted separately from votes cast at polling stations.
- On the designated counting day, postal ballots are collected by postal authorities and brought to the counting centre.
- The RO and election officials scrutinise postal ballots for validity and integrity, adding valid ballots to the respective candidate’s vote count.
PYQ:
Q.For election to the Lok Sabha, a nomination paper can be filed by-
- Anyone residing in India.
- A resident of the constituency from which the election is to be contested.
- Any citizen of India whose name appears in the electoral roll of a constituency.
- Any citizen of India.
Practice MCQ:
Q.Consider the following statements:
- The right to cast vote is not a fundamental right
- NRI settled in foreign land can become an elector in the electoral roll in India
- Individuals in lawful custody of the police and those serving a sentence of imprisonment after conviction cannot vote
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 and 3
- 1 and 3
- 1,2 and 3
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: MTBVAC, TB, DOTS Regimen, Nikshay Poshan Yojana
Mains level: NA
What is the news?
- Bharat Biotech, in collaboration with Spanish biopharmaceutical company Biofabri, has initiated clinical trials for the Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Vaccine (MTBVAC) in India, marking a significant milestone in TB vaccine development.
- The only currently available TB vaccine, the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine (BCG), was developed 100 years ago and is less effective.
About MTBVAC
- MTBVAC is a unique TB vaccine based on a genetically modified form of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, containing all antigens present in human-infecting strains, unlike the BCG vaccine.
- It is developed in the laboratory of the University of Zaragoza with contributions from Dr. Brigitte Gicquel of the Pasteur Institute, Paris.
- MTBVAC is designed to offer superior and potentially longer-lasting protection compared to the BCG vaccine, particularly for newborns and in preventing TB in adults and adolescents.
Objectives of Clinical Trials in India
- Safety and Immunogenicity: The ongoing trials in India aim to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of MTBVAC, with plans for a pivotal Phase 3 trial in 2025.
- Population Significance: Studying the vaccine’s efficacy in India, with its high TB burden, is crucial for advancing TB vaccine research and addressing the global TB epidemic.
What is Tuberculosis?
- Tuberculosis is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
- Robert Koch discovered Mycobacterium tuberculosis which causes TB, and his discovery opened the way towards diagnosing and curing this disease.
- It can practically affect any organ of the body.
- The most common ones are lungs, pleura (lining around the lungs), lymph nodes, intestines, spine, and brain.
Transmission:
It is an airborne infection that spreads through close contact with the infected, especially in densely populated spaces with poor ventilation.
Symptoms:
Common symptoms of active lung TB are cough with sputum and blood at times, chest pains, weakness, weight loss, fever and night sweats.
Treatment Facilities in India:
- DOTS (Directly Observed Treatment, Short-Course) regimen: It is the recommended treatment approach for TB by the WHO. Patients receive a combination of four antibiotics: isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol. These drugs are usually administered daily for the first two months of treatment, followed by a continuation phase with isoniazid and rifampicin for an additional four to seven months.
- Nikshay Poshan Yojana (2018): It was launched to support every Tuberculosis (TB) Patient by providing a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of Rs 500 per month for nutritional needs.
Issues in TB Treatment: Drug Resistance
Drug resistance emerges when anti-TB medicines are used inappropriately, through incorrect prescription by health care providers, poor quality drugs, and patients stopping treatment prematurely.
- Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB): Itis a form of TB caused by bacteria that do not respond to isoniazid and rifampicin, the 2 most powerful, first-line anti-TB drugs. MDR-TB is treatable and curable by using second-line drugs such as
- Extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB): Itis a more serious form of MDR-TB caused by bacteria that do not respond to the most effective second-line anti-TB drugs, often leaving patients without any further treatment options.
PYQ:
2014: Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without Doctor’s prescription, be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved.
Practice MCQ:
With reference to the Tuberculosis (TB), consider the following statements:
- TB is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
- It only targets Lungs.
- Nikshay Poshan Yojana aims for TB support is essentially a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
How many of the given statements is/are correct?
- One
- Two
- Three
- None
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Project ANAGRANINF, AMR
Mains level: NA
What is the news?
- The Technology Development Board (TDB) has allocated a grant of ₹75 Lakhs for the project “ANAGRANINF – Development of a Novel Class of Antibiotics against Gram-Negative Bacterial-Infections,” totalling ₹1.5 crores.
What is Project ANAGRANINF?
- Project ANAGRANINF is titled “Development of a Novel Class of Antibiotics Against Gram-Negative Bacterial-Infections.”
- It is a collaborative initiative involving M/s Peptris Technologies Pvt. Ltd. and the Foundation for Neglected Disease Research (FNDR) in India, along with ABAC THERAPEUTICS SL from Spain.
- The primary objective of the project is-
- To develop a novel antibiotic capable of inhibiting the FabI enzyme and
- Combating critical gram-negative pathogens.
- Project ANAGRANINF aims to produce a series of compounds with enhanced efficacy against gram-negative bacterial infections.
- The project aims to identify a candidate molecule that meets WHO’s innovation criteria, ensuring a new chemical structure, no cross-resistance with existing antibiotic classes, and a novel mechanism of action.
About the Candidate Molecule ‘MMV1578564’
The selected hit molecule from the project, MMV1578564, has exhibited promising activity against gram-negative pathogens, providing a foundation for further research and development efforts.
Back2Basics:
- Gram-Negative Bacteria:
- Gram-negative bacteria have a thin peptidoglycan layer in their cell wall, which is located between the outer and inner membranes.
- They stain pink or red when subjected to the Gram staining technique.
- Gram-negative bacteria are generally more resistant to antibiotics due to the presence of an outer membrane that acts as a barrier against certain antibiotics.
- Examples of gram-negative bacteria include Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
- They are known to cause infections like pneumonia, bloodstream infections, wound infections, and meningitis in healthcare settings
- Gram-Positive Bacteria:
- Gram-positive bacteria have a thick layer of peptidoglycan in their cell wall, which retains the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining technique.
- They appear purple or blue under a microscope after staining.
- Gram-positive bacteria are generally more susceptible to antibiotics because their thick peptidoglycan layer allows antibiotics to penetrate more easily.
- Examples of gram-positive bacteria include Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Bacillus subtilis, and Clostridium difficile.
- Some examples of diseases caused by Gram-positive bacteria include anthrax, diphtheria, enterococcal infections, erysipelothricosis, and listeriosis.These bacteria can cause a range of infections from food poisoning to serious respiratory diseases and may require specific antibiotics for treatment.
PYQ:
2021: Consider the following:
- Bacteria
- Fungi
- Virus
Which of the above can be cultured in artificial/synthetic medium?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Practice MCQ:
The recently launched Project ‘ANAGRANINF’ deals with:
- Agricultural Grant
- Artificial Intelligence
- Antibiotics Development
- None of these
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pushpak Reusable Landing Vehicle (RLV), Low Earth Orbits, Gaganyaan
Mains level: NA
What is the news?
- The ISRO has conducted the Pushpak Reusable Landing Vehicle (RLV) LEX 02 landing experiment at the Aeronautical Test Range in Chitradurga. It was lifted by an Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter and released from an altitude of 4.5 km.
- This experiment marks a significant milestone in ISRO’s pursuit of reusable space technology.
About Pushpak Reusable Landing Vehicle (RLV)
- The Pushpak RLV is a winged vehicle, equipped with aerodynamic surfaces that enable controlled flight during re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere.
- The RLV is designed to autonomously land on a designated runway after completing its mission in space, thereby demonstrating India’s capability in autonomous space vehicle landing.
- It is equipped with sophisticated navigation, control, and landing gear systems that allow it to autonomously navigate and land on a predefined runway.
Key Features
- The RLV is a space plane with a low lift-to-drag ratio, requiring an approach at high glide angles that necessitates landing at high velocities of 350 km/h.
- This design allows it to transport payloads to Low Earth orbits and return to Earth for future use.
Future Prospects
- Iterative Testing: ISRO conducts a series of experiments, such as the RLV LEX 02 landing experiment, to test and validate the performance of the RLV in various scenarios.
- Orbital Re-entry Missions: The successful demonstration of the Pushpak RLV’s capabilities paves the way for future orbital re-entry missions, where reusable vehicles can be deployed for various scientific and commercial purposes.
PYQ:
2018: With reference to India’s satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements:
- PSLVs launch the satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites.
- Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth.
- GSLV Mk III is a four-stage launch l vehicle with the first and third stages l using solid rocket motors; and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 and 3
- 1 and 2
- 3 only
Practice MCQ:
Consider the following statements about the ‘Pushpak’ Reusable Landing Vehicle (RLV):
- It is a winged vehicle.
- It can transport payloads to Low Earth orbits and return to Earth with the help of a parachute.
Which of the given statements are correct?
- Only 1
- Only 2
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Forest in Kerala and comparison with forest in other states
Mains level: Measures to address human-wildlife conflict
Why in the news?
- Instances of human-animal conflict are on the rise in Kerala with the summer heat, scarcity of food, and loss of habitat forcing wild animals to stray into human habitations for sustenance.
Context-
- Vulnerability of tribal communities living in such areas. While they have intricate knowledge of the forest and its resources, they lack the protective measures and resources available to more urbanized populations, leaving them more susceptible to the dangers of wildlife encounters.
Human-animal conflict in Kerala-
- Surge in Incidents: Kerala has experienced a significant increase in human-animal conflict incidents across its districts, attributed to the state’s significant forest cover and densely populated settlements near wildlife habitats.
- Human Casualties: Human-wildlife conflicts have resulted in a substantial loss of human lives, with 93 reported deaths in 2023-24. The previous year recorded 98 human casualties.
- Hotspot District: Wayanad stands out as a hotspot for human-animal conflicts, with 69 reported deaths between 2011 and 2024. Incidents involve encounters with wild elephants and, in one case, a tiger attack.
- Diverse Wildlife Involved: Human-animal conflicts in Kerala involve various species, including elephants, tigers, leopards, bears, wild gaurs, wild boars, and monkeys. This diversity underscores the complexity of managing conflicts across different ecosystems and habitats.
- Impact on Livelihoods: The conflicts have severe repercussions on people’s livelihoods, particularly those dependent on agriculture and farming. Attacks by wild animals prevent farmers from cultivating their land, leading to economic hardship and food insecurity.
- Vulnerable Communities: Vulnerable communities like tribal groups and small-scale farmers are disproportionately affected by human-animal conflicts. Limited resources and infrastructure exacerbate their vulnerability to wildlife attacks, as seen in the case of Abraham Palatt and his family.
Steps taken by Government to deal these issues –
- State-Specific Disaster: The Kerala government declared human-animal conflict as a state-specific disaster in March, becoming the first state to do so. This decision signifies the severity and urgency of addressing the issue.
- Responsibility Shift: Management of human-animal conflicts now falls under the purview of the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), with a committee headed by the Chief Minister established for this purpose.
- Community Involvement: The government plans to involve local communities through neighborhood groups to enhance surveillance on forest fringes. These groups will collaborate with government agencies and elected representatives to disseminate alerts about wildlife presence.
- Recruitment and Equipment: The government aims to strengthen surveillance by recruiting more forest watchers and establishing rapid response teams equipped with firearms, surveillance devices, drones, tranquilizing guns, and advance warning systems.
- Inter-State Collaboration: An inter-State coordination committee involving the Forest departments of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu has been formed to address human-wildlife conflicts collectively. This initiative aims to share intelligence and resources to mitigate conflicts, particularly along interstate borders.
Measures to address human-wildlife conflict-
- Forest Quality Improvement: Improving the quality of forests through measures such as reducing fragmentation and patchiness can help create healthier ecosystems that support a more balanced coexistence between humans and wildlife.
- Conservation Mission with Tribal Communities: Involving tribal communities in conservation efforts ensures their participation and traditional knowledge is valued. Collaborative conservation initiatives can promote sustainable practices and protect both biodiversity and livelihoods.
- Rejuvenation of Natural Forest Streams: Restoring natural water sources in forests is crucial for wildlife habitat and can help mitigate conflicts by providing essential resources within their natural environment.
- Removal of Invasive Plants and Replanting Indigenous Species: Removing invasive plant species and replanting indigenous ones can restore ecological balance and support native wildlife populations, reducing their reliance on human-impacted areas.
- Utilization of MGNREGS: Leveraging government schemes like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) to support conservation efforts can provide employment opportunities while simultaneously contributing to environmental restoration projects.
- Awareness Programs on Responsible Tourism: Educating tourists about responsible behavior around wildlife can minimize human-wildlife conflicts caused by human disturbance. This includes emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe distance and respecting wildlife habitats.
- Effective Institutional Framework: Establishing a robust institutional framework at various levels of governance, from local to inter-state, is essential for coordinated action in managing human-wildlife conflicts. This involves collaboration between different government departments, wildlife authorities, and local communities.
Conclusion-
Human-wildlife conflicts surge in Kerala, endangering lives and livelihoods. Government initiatives, community involvement, and conservation efforts are crucial for mitigating conflicts and fostering coexistence, ensuring a sustainable future for both humans and wildlife.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Border dispute between India and china
Mains level: role of usa in resolving dispute between India and China
Why in the news?
China on Thursday said it firmly opposes the US recognition of Arunachal Pradesh as part of Indian territory
Context-
- China’s strong reaction came hours after US State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel’s remarks that the United States “recognises Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory.
- US representative strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to advance territorial claims by incursions or encroachments, military or civilian, across the Line of Actual Control.
Border Issues between Indian and China-
- Aksai Chin: China administers it as part of Xinjiang, while India claims it as part of Ladakh.Aksai Chin holds strategic importance due to its proximity to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and its potential as a military route.
- Arunachal Pradesh: China claims the entire state as “South Tibet,” while India administers it as a northeastern state.
- Lack of Clear Demarcation: The border between India and China lacks clear demarcation throughout. The Line of Actual Control (LAC) was established after the 1962 Indo-China war, contributing to the complexity of the situation.Absence of a mutually agreed Line of Actual Control (LAC) along certain stretches leads to ambiguity and potential for conflicts.
Military Standoffs between India and China-
- 1962 Sino-Indian War– It was a conflict over border disputes, primarily centered around Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh, resulting in a decisive victory for China.
- Confrontations have escalated since 2013-The most serious conflict were in Galwan Valley in Ladakh in 2020 and in Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh in 2022.
Border Dispute Settlement Mechanisms between India and China-
- Panchsheel Agreement of 1954: The Panchsheel doctrine distinctly expressed a commitment to respect each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
- Peace and Tranquility Agreements1993: Both countries have signed several agreements aimed at maintaining peace and tranquility along the border, such as the Agreement on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the India-China Border Areas signed in 1993.
- The Agreement on Confidence Building Measures in the Military Field along the LAC- It was signed in 1996, which laid down pledges on non-aggression, prior notification of large troop movements, and exchange of maps to resolve disagreements over the LAC.
- Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC): This mechanism, established in 2012, aims to address day-to-day management of the border, enhance communication, and prevent misunderstandings or conflicts.
- Joint Military Exercises: India and China occasionally conduct joint military exercises aimed at improving mutual understanding and cooperation, which indirectly contributes to confidence-building measures. For example Hand in Hand.
Suggestive measures to resolve the border dispute between India and China:
- Diplomatic Dialogue: Both countries should engage in sustained diplomatic negotiations at various levels to address the underlying issues causing the dispute.
- Bilateral Agreements: Continuation and reinforcement of existing bilateral agreements aimed at maintaining peace and tranquillity along the border.
- Border Management Mechanisms: Strengthening and enhancing border management mechanisms such as Border Personnel Meetings (BPMs) and the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) to effectively manage and resolve disputes.
- Clarification of LAC: Work towards mutual clarification and delineation of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to reduce ambiguity and prevent misunderstandings.
- Disengagement and De-escalation: Prioritize efforts to disengage troops and de-escalate tensions in disputed areas along the border.
- Conflict Prevention: Implement measures aimed at preventing confrontations and conflicts, such as prior notification of military exercises and troop movements.
- Third-Party Mediation: Consider the involvement of neutral third-party mediators or international organizations to facilitate dialogue and negotiation.
- People-to-People Contacts: Promote cultural and people-to-people exchanges to foster better understanding and trust between the two nations.
How USA can help to resolve border dispute between India and China-
- Facilitate Diplomatic Dialogue: The USA can encourage and facilitate diplomatic dialogue between India and China to resolve the border dispute peacefully.
- Mediation Role: Offer to mediate or provide assistance as a neutral third-party mediator if both parties consent to such involvement.
- Provide Strategic Support: Offer strategic support and expertise in conflict resolution to help address the complex issues underlying the dispute.
- Pressure for Peaceful Resolution: Use diplomatic channels to exert pressure on both India and China to prioritize peaceful resolution of the dispute.
- Regional Stability: Emphasize the importance of resolving the border dispute for regional stability and economic development.
- Support Existing Mechanisms: Support existing border dispute settlement mechanisms, such as the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC), through funding or technical assistance.
Conclusion-
China’s objection to the US recognizing Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory underscores the need for diplomatic dialogue. The US can play a constructive role by facilitating negotiations and supporting existing mechanisms for peaceful resolution.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Omnibus Framework
Mains level: Features of the Self-Regulatory Organization (SRO
Why in the news?
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Thursday said it had finalised the Omnibus Framework for recognising Self-Regulatory Organisations (SRO) for its Regulated Entities.
The key features of the Self-Regulatory Organization (SRO)-
- Omnibus Framework: The RBI has finalized an omnibus framework for recognizing Self-Regulatory Organizations (SROs) for regulated entities. This framework contains broad parameters such as objectives, responsibilities, eligibility criteria, governance standards, application process, and other basic conditions for granting recognition.
- Sector-Specific Guidelines: Sector-specific guidelines will be issued separately by the respective departments of the Reserve Bank for each sector where an SRO is intended to be set up. This ensures that the SROs cater to the specific needs and requirements of their respective sectors.
- Draft Framework and Public Consultation: A draft framework for SROs was issued for public comments, and based on the examination of inputs received, the omnibus framework has been finalized. This indicates a consultative approach in the development of the SRO framework.
- Credibility and Responsibility: SROs are expected to operate with credibility, objectivity, and responsibility under the oversight of the regulator. They aim to improve regulatory compliance for the healthy and sustainable development of the sectors they cater to.
- Transparency and Independence: SROs are expected to operate with transparency, professionalism, and independence to foster greater confidence in the integrity of the sector. Compliance with the highest standards of governance is a prerequisite for an effective SRO.
The significance of Self-Regulatory Organizations (SROs)-
- Enhanced Regulatory Compliance: SROs establish and enforce industry standards and best practices, leading to improved regulatory compliance among member organizations. By setting clear guidelines and monitoring adherence to them, SROs help regulated entities maintain compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
- Industry Integrity and Confidence: SROs play a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing industry integrity and public confidence. By promoting transparency, professionalism, and ethical conduct, SROs contribute to building trust among stakeholders, including customers, investors, and regulatory authorities.
- Tailored Regulation: SROs can develop sector-specific regulations and standards that are tailored to the unique characteristics and challenges of their respective industries. This flexibility allows SROs to address industry-specific issues effectively, leading to more efficient regulation.
- Effective Self-Regulation: SROs enable industry participants to self-regulate by collaboratively developing and enforcing rules and standards. This approach can often be more responsive and adaptable than traditional government regulation, as SROs can quickly respond to emerging risks and market developments.
- Reduced Regulatory Burden: SROs can help alleviate the regulatory burden on government agencies by taking on certain regulatory functions. By delegating responsibilities such as rule-making, monitoring, and enforcement to SROs, regulators can focus their resources on overseeing broader market activities and addressing systemic risks.
- Innovation and Growth: SROs can foster innovation and growth within their industries by creating a supportive regulatory environment. By providing guidance on emerging technologies and business models, SROs can encourage innovation while ensuring that it aligns with regulatory requirements and consumer protection standards.
- Expertise and Knowledge Sharing: SROs serve as repositories of industry expertise and knowledge, allowing members to benefit from collective insights and experiences. Through networking events, training programs, and knowledge-sharing initiatives, SROs facilitate collaboration and learning among industry participants.
Conclusion-
Self-Regulatory Organizations (SROs) enhance compliance, integrity, and tailored regulation. They enable effective self-regulation, reduce regulatory burden, foster innovation, and facilitate expertise sharing, ensuring sustainable industry growth and integrity.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: What is Reverse Flipping
Mains level: Implication of Reverse Flipping
Why in the news?
- Pine Labs and Zepto are the latest new-age companies looking to move headquarters to India.
Context-
There is a significant surge in reverse flipping within India’s startup scene, characterized by a growing trend of startups choosing to relocate their headquarters or establish a presence in the country.
What is Reverse Flipping ?
- Reverse flipping is the process of shifting the domicile of an Indian company back to India after it had moved its headquarters overseas.
- Indian startups are increasingly choosing to reverse flip back into India, drawn by the country’s favorable economic policies, expanding domestic market, and increasing investor confidence in its startup ecosystem.
Recent Examples of Reverse-Flipping of Unicorns-
Several high-profile startups are opting for reverse flipping to India, indicating a trend of relocating their headquarters or establishing a base in the country.
- Walmart-owned PhonePe: PhonePe, a subsidiary of Walmart, relocated its domicile from Singapore to India. This move was likely motivated by the significant user base and potential for digital payments in the Indian market.
- Pine Labs, Meesho, and Zepto: These are identified as the latest new-age companies intending to move their headquarters to India. Their decisions suggest confidence in the opportunities and advantages offered by the Indian startup ecosystem.
- It Solidifies India’s Position as a Startup Hub: The successful execution of reverse flipping by these high-profile startups contributes to solidifying India’s position as a prominent startup hub globally.
How Reverse-Flipping is done?
- Strategic Assessment: The company conducts a strategic assessment of potential target countries, considering factors such as market size, regulatory environment, access to talent, infrastructure, tax policies, and overall business climate.
- Legal and Regulatory Considerations: The company evaluates the legal and regulatory requirements for establishing a presence in the target country. This may involve understanding company registration procedures, compliance with corporate laws, tax regulations, employment laws, and any other relevant regulations.
- Corporate Structure: The company determines the appropriate corporate structure for its operations in the target country. This may involve setting up a subsidiary, branch office, or joint venture, depending on the specific needs and objectives of the company.
- Transfer of Assets and Operations: The company transfers its assets, operations, and intellectual property rights to the new entity in the target country. This may include physical assets such as equipment and inventory, as well as intangible assets such as trademarks, patents, and proprietary technology.
- Share Swaps or Mergers: In some cases, the company may use share swaps or mergers as a method for executing the reverse flip. This involves exchanging shares with shareholders of a company in the target country or merging with an existing company to establish a presence in that jurisdiction.
- Compliance and Approval: The company ensures compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements in both the home country and the target country. This may involve obtaining approval from regulatory authorities, such as the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) or other relevant government agencies.
- Operational Transition: Once the reverse flip is completed, the company focuses on transitioning its operations to the new location. This may involve hiring local talent, establishing partnerships with suppliers and vendors, and adapting its business strategy to the local market dynamics
Startups are opting to reverse flip for several compelling reasons:
- Access to a Growing Economy: India is currently the world’s fifth-largest economy by GDP and is projected to become the third-largest by 2030. This growth trajectory presents significant opportunities for startups to tap into a dynamic market with increasing urbanization, disposable income, and consumption.
- Large and Educated Youth Population: India boasts the world’s largest youth population, with approximately 66% of its citizens under the age of 35. This demographic advantage provides a vast pool of skilled and educated talent, making it attractive for startups seeking a workforce with diverse skills and capabilities.
- Access to Capital Markets: The Indian capital market offers overseas startups access to a large pool of capital. The listing process on Indian stock exchanges is relatively cost-effective compared to many Western exchanges, making it an appealing option for startups with limited resources.
- Opportunity to Tap into the Consumer Market: With its rapidly growing middle class and increasing disposable income, India presents a lucrative consumer market for startups offering products and services across various sectors.
- Synergies with Indian Companies: Reverse flipping allows overseas startups to explore synergies with Indian companies, leading to partnerships, joint ventures, and acquisitions. These collaborations help startups expand their reach and operations in India while leveraging the local expertise and market knowledge of Indian companies.
Potential tax implications in this scenario:
- Corporate Tax: The company may be subject to corporate tax in the jurisdiction where it is based and operates. If the company chooses to establish its headquarters or base in India through reverse flipping, it would be subject to Indian corporate tax laws.
- Capital Gains Tax: Any gains realized from the transaction, such as the separation of PhonePe and the return of the holding company to India, could be subject to capital gains tax in the relevant jurisdictions. The quantum of this tax would depend on factors such as the valuation of the company and the applicable tax rates.
- Transfer Pricing Rules: Transfer pricing rules may apply if there are transactions between related parties as part of the reverse flip process. These rules are designed to ensure that transactions between related entities are conducted at arm’s length, and appropriate taxes are paid on profits generated from such transactions.
- Indirect Taxes: Depending on the nature of the company’s business and the jurisdictions involved, other indirect taxes such as goods and services tax (GST) may also apply.
Conclusion-
Reverse flipping, relocating headquarters to India, gains traction. Driven by favourable market dynamics, talent pool, capital access, and synergies. Potential tax implications include corporate tax, capital gains, transfer pricing, and indirect taxes.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Gibraltar Strait, Tectonic Plate Boundaries, Subduction Zones
Mains level: Read the attached story
What is the news?
- Scientists in Portugal have uncovered a concerning revelation about the fate of the Atlantic Ocean, highlighting a potential ‘Ring of Fire’ (a Subduction Zone).
- Researchers caution that the Atlantic may be on the brink of closure due to subduction activity.
Why discuss this?
- Closure of Gibraltar Strait: Computer simulations project the subduction zone’s expansion over the next 20 million years, forming the ‘Ring of Fire’ in the Atlantic leading to the closure of Gibraltar Strait.
- Geological Parallel: This process mirrors the Pacific Ocean’s Ring of Fire, reshaping the ocean basin through gradual subduction of the ocean floor beneath continents.
|
About Gibraltar Strait
|
Details |
| Location |
- Connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea;
- Separating the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula of Europe from the northern coast of Africa.
|
| Width |
Approximately 13 km (8.1 miles) at its narrowest point. |
| Depth |
Varies, with the deepest point reaching around 300 meters (984 feet). |
| Formation |
- Convergence point for the Eurasian Plate and the African Plate.
- Formed around 5.33 million years ago during the Messinian salinity crisis when the Atlantic Ocean breached the barrier separating it from the Mediterranean Sea, resulting in a catastrophic flood known as the Zanclean flood.
- The strait’s current shape and depth were further influenced by tectonic movements and erosional processes over geological time.
|
| Historical Significance |
Serves as a key maritime passage for trade and military purposes. |
| Disputes |
- Subject of contention between Spain and the United Kingdom;
- Gibraltar Overseas Territory under British control.
|
What are Subduction Zones?
- Subduction zones occur at convergent plate boundaries, where two tectonic plates move toward each other.
- This convergence is often between an oceanic plate and a continental plate or between two oceanic plates.
- Subduction Process:
- Collision of Tectonic Plates: When two tectonic plates collide, the denser oceanic plate is forced beneath the less dense continental plate or another oceanic plate.
- Partial Melting: As the oceanic plate descends into the mantle, it generates intense heat and pressure, causing partial melting of the mantle material.
- Volcanic Activity: The molten material formed by the subduction process rises through the Earth’s crust, leading to volcanic eruptions at the surface.
- Formation of Volcanic Arcs: These eruptions often occur in chains known as volcanic arcs, which parallel the subduction zone. Ex. Andes in S. America; Cascade Range in North America.
Implications of this Activity
- Earthquakes: Subduction zone earthquakes can be particularly destructive and may trigger tsunamis due to the displacement of large volumes of water.
- Trench Formation: The surface expression of a subduction zone is often a deep oceanic trench, where the descending plate bends and plunges into the mantle.
- Mountain Building: Over time, the continuous subduction of oceanic crust can lead to the uplift and deformation of the overriding plate, resulting in the formation of mountain ranges adjacent to the subduction zone. These mountains may exhibit complex geological structures, including folds and faults.
- Recycling of Oceanic Crust: As oceanic plates are subducted, they are gradually consumed by the mantle, releasing minerals and elements that are eventually returned to the surface through volcanic activity.
PYQ:
2010: Which one of the following can one come across if one travels through the Strait of Malacca?
- Bali
- Brunei
- Java
- Singapore
2011: Between India and East Asia, the navigation time and distance can be greatly reduced by which of the following?
- Deepening the Malacca straits between Malaysia and Indonesia.
- Opening a new canal across the Kra Isthmus between the Gulf of Siam and Andaman sea.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Practice MCQ:
Which of the given statement about the Gibraltar Strait is NOT correct?
- It connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.
- It is approximately 13 kilometers wide at its narrowest point.
- The deepest point of the Gibraltar Strait reaches around 300 meters.
- It was formed around 5.33 million years ago during the Holocene Epoch due to tectonic movements.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Critical Minerals
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
- India is looking for cobalt and other critical minerals in Zambia, Namibia, Congo, Ghana and Mozambique. It is still engaging with Australia for lithium blocks.
- Critical minerals, including lithium and cobalt, are crucial for technology, manufacturing and other industries.
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 mostly used in making electronic equipment such as mobile phones, computers, batteries, electric vehicles, and green technologies like solar panels and wind turbines.
- Many of these are required to meet the manufacturing needs of green technologies, high-tech equipment, aviation, and national defence.
List of critical minerals includes:
The centre has released a list of 30 critical minerals for India in 2023:
- Identified Minerals: Antimony, Beryllium, Bismuth, Cobalt, Copper, Gallium, Germanium, Graphite, Hafnium, Indium, Lithium, Molybdenum, Niobium, Nickel, Platinum Group elements (PGE), Phosphorous, Potash, Rare Earth Elements (REE), Rhenium, Silicon, Strontium, Tantalum, Tellurium, Tin, Titanium, Tungsten, Vanadium, Zirconium, Selenium and Cadmium.
- Fertilizer Minerals: Two minerals critical for fertilizer production, phosphorous and potash, are also included in the above list.
Critical Mineral Blocks in India
- Distribution: There are 20 blocks spread across eight states, including Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Jammu & Kashmir.
- Types of Licenses: Four blocks are for a Mining License (ML), allowing immediate mining post-clearance. The remaining 16 blocks are for a Composite License (CL), permitting further exploration before potentially converting to an ML.
- Approvals Required: Licensees must obtain various approvals, including forest clearance and environmental clearance.
- Forest Land: Approximately 17% of the total concession area, or 1,234 hectares, is forest land.
India’s Critical Mineral Imports
- Lithium Imports: In FY23, India imported 2,145 tonnes of lithium carbonate and lithium oxide, costing Rs 732 crore.
- Nickel and Copper Imports: The country imported 32,000 tonnes of unwrought nickel and 1.2 million tonnes of copper ore, costing Rs 6,549 crore and Rs 27,374 crore, respectively.
- Import Dependence: India relies entirely on imports for lithium and nickel, and 93% for copper.
Country-wise dependence:
- China: India heavily relies on China for the import of critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite.
- Australia: India is actively engaged with Australia for acquiring mineral assets, particularly lithium and cobalt, to secure its supply chain for critical minerals.
- Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile: India is engaging with these countries, known for their reserves of battery metals like lithium and cobalt, to diversify its sources for critical minerals.
|
PYQ:
2019: With reference to the management of minor minerals in India, consider the following statements:
- Sand is a ‘minor mineral’ according to the prevailing law in the country.
- State governments have the power to grant mining leases of minor minerals, but the powers regarding the formation of rules related to the grant of minor minerals lie with the Central Government.
- State Governments have the power to frame rules to prevent illegal mining of minor minerals.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 3
- 2 and 3
- 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Practice MCQ:
Consider the following statements:
- Critical minerals are those elements which are crucial to modern-day technologies and are at risk of supply chain disruptions.
- India has notified 30 elements in the Critical Minerals List.
- Fertilizer minerals Phosphorous and potash are also included in the Critical Minerals List.
How many of the given statements is/are correct?
- One
- Two
- Three
- None
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Section 153A , IPC, Freedom of Speech and Reasonable Restrictions
Mains level: NA
What is the news?
- The Supreme Court reiterated that to constitute an offence under Section 153A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the essential ingredient is to create a sense of enmity and disharmony amongst two or more groups or communities.
- Quite often, politicians are arrested under section 153 A of IPC for alleged hate speech.
Section 153A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC)
- Section 153A of the IPC deals with the offence of promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc.
- The primary is to prevent the promotion of disharmony or feelings of enmity, hatred, or ill-will between different groups in society.
- It was enacted in 1898 and was not in the original penal code.
Prohibited Acts:
The section prohibits several acts:
- Engaging in activities that promote or attempt to promote feelings of enmity or hatred between different religious, racial, linguistic, or regional groups.
- Committing acts prejudicial to the maintenance of harmony between different groups or communities.
- Doing anything that disturbs or disrupts public tranquillity or creates unrest among various groups.
Essential Elements:
To constitute an offence under Section 153A, the following essential elements must be established:
- Promotion of enmity or hatred between different groups.
- Such promotion must be based on religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc.
- The intention behind the act must be to disrupt public tranquillity or to create disharmony among groups.
Punishment:
- Jail Term: Any individual found guilty of committing an offence under Section 153A may be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to 3 years, or with a fine, or with both.
- Cognizable and Non-Bailable: The offence is a cognizable offence and the punishment for the same may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both. Further, the offence is non-bailable in nature, wherein the accused is tried by the magistrate of the first class.
- Burden of Proof: It lies with the prosecution to demonstrate that the accused’s words, actions, or conduct were aimed at promoting enmity or hatred between different groups based on the specified grounds.
PYQ:
2014: What do understand by the concept “freedom of speech and expression”? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do the films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss.
2022: With reference to India, consider the following statements:
- When a prisoner makes out a sufficient case, parole cannot be denied to such prisoner because it becomes a matter of his/her right.
- State Governments have their own Prisoners Release on Parole Rules.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Practice MCQ:
Q.The Section 153A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) essentially deals with:
- Fake News
- Hate Speech
- Protest without permission
- Encroachment
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Congress Radio, Usha Mehta and other personalities mentioned
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
Who was Usha Mehta (1920-2000)?
- Usha Mehta was born on March 25, 1920, in Mumbai, India.
- Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience, Usha Mehta became actively involved in the Indian independence movement from a young age.
- One of Usha Mehta’s most notable contributions to the freedom struggle was her involvement in the radio broadcasting network known as the “Secret Congress Radio.”
- She was conferred the Padma Vibhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honours in 1998.
The Secret ‘Congress Radio’
- On August 8, 1942, the historic Quit India Resolution was passed during the All India Congress Committee meeting in Bombay.
- In this response, the idea of an underground radio station, known by various names such as the Freedom Radio, the Ghost Radio, or the Congress Radio, was conceived to counter the British-controlled AIR.
- Usha Mehta, a 22 YO master’s student at Wilson College, became the voice of the Congress Radio.
- The radio was an expensive endeavour, but funds were procured through various means, including contributions from Mehta’s colleague, Babubhai Khakhar.
- Radio engineering expert Nariman Abarbad Printer constructed the Congress Radio transmission set.
- Their first broadcast was on 14 August 1942.
- Welcome line in her voice: “This is the Congress Radio calling on 42.34 from somewhere in India.”
- In the beginning, they were broadcasting twice a day, in Hindi and English. But they reduced it to just once in the evening between 30 and 8.30 pm.
- On 12th November 1942, the police raided the radio while Vande Mataram was being played and arrested Mehta and others.
PYQ:
2011: With reference to Indian freedom struggle, Usha Mehta is well-known for-
- Running the secret Congress Radio in the wake of Quit India Movement
- Participating in the Second Round Table Conference
- Leading a contingent of Indian National Army
- Assisting in the formation of Interim Government under Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru
2021: With reference to 8th August, 1942 in Indian history, which one of the following statements is correct?
- The Quit India Resolution was adopted by the AICC.
- The Viceroy’s Executive Council was expanded to include more Indians.
- The Congress ministries resigned in seven provinces.
- Cripps proposed an Indian Union with full Dominion Status once the Second World War was over
Practice MCQ:
In context to the Secret ‘Congress Radio’ in modern Indian history, consider the following statements:
- It was established to supplement the Civil Disobedience Movement of 1930s.
- Usha Mehta was the voice of Congress Radio.
- It was broadcasted twice a day, in Hindi and English
How many of the given statements is/are correct?
- One
- Two
- Three
- None
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Great Indian Bustard (GIB)
Mains level: NA
What is the news?
- The Supreme Court has taken a decisive step by forming an expert committee to address the pressing issue of conserving the endangered Great Indian Bustard.
About Great Indian Bustard (GIB)
- GIBs are the largest among the four bustard species found in India, the other three being MacQueen’s bustard, lesser florican, and the Bengal florican.
- It is state bird of Rajasthan.
- It is considered the flagship bird species of grassland.
- Protection Status:
- Birdlife International: Uplisted from Endangered to Critically Endangered (2011)
- Protection under CITES: Appendix I
- IUCN status: Critically Endangered
- Protection under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I
Threats to GIBs
- Overhead power transmission: Due to their poor frontal vision, can’t detect powerlines in time and their weight makes in-flight quick maneuvers difficult.
- Windmills: Coincidentally, Kutch and Thar desert are the places that have witnessed the creation of huge renewable energy infrastructure.
- Noise pollution: Noise affects the mating and courtship practices of the GIB.
- Changes in the landscape: by way of farmers cultivating their land, which otherwise used to remain fallow due to frequent droughts in Kutch.
- Cultivation changes: Cultivation of cotton and wheat instead of pulses and fodder are also cited as reasons for falling GIB numbers.
PYQ:
2014: Consider the following pairs:
Protected Area: Well-known for
- Bhitarkanika, Odisha — Salt Water Crocodile
- Desert National Park, Rajasthan — Great Indian Bustard
- Eravikulam, Kerala — Hoolock Gibbon
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
- 1 only
- 1 and 2
- 2 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Practice MCQ:
With reference to the Great Indian Bustard (GIB), consider the following statements:
- It is the largest among the bustard species found in India.
- It is state bird of Rajasthan as well as Gujarat.
- It is considered the flagship bird species of deserts.
How many of the given statements is/are correct?
- One
- Two
- Three
- None
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: World Water Day
Mains level: Issues related to water in rural areas and key measures
Why in the news?
Today, March 22, 2024, is the 31st World Water Day, with the theme, “Leveraging water for peace”
Context-
- In the context of climate change-related pressures, the world also needs to foster improved cooperation over water-sharing
- The global challenge for securing access to clean water persists for about two billion people and its demand keeps rising. Beyond threatening our basic human needs, this scarcity also risks our collective prosperity and peace.
Water diplomacy in a time of extremities-
- Climate Crisis Impact: Meteorological extremities like heat waves and floods exacerbate concerns about the climate crisis. In India, erratic monsoons affect agriculture, crucial for the $3 trillion economy.
- Need for Improved Cooperation: Amid climate change pressures, fostering cooperation over water-sharing and embracing universal principles of International Water Law is imperative.
- Water Diplomacy: Effective governance of shared waters and sustainable water use are essential for better water diplomacy, promoting peace and stability regionally and internationally.
- Collaborative Governance: Collaborative governance ensures equitable water allocation among nations, fostering regional stability and peace.
- Inclusive Approaches: Water diplomacy should include indigenous and local communities’ cross-border networks and involve civil society and academic networks to prevent, mitigate, and resolve water-related disputes.
- Water Quality Data Shortage: There’s a general shortage of water quality data globally, with a significant urban-rural divide, highlighting the need for better access to basic drinking water services, particularly in rural areas.
Addressing rural India’s needs-
70% of India’s rural population relies on water for household activities, with agriculture being the primary livelihood source. Globally, agriculture accounts for 70% of freshwater use.
- Water Accessibility: Improved water accessibility in rural areas can lead to positive outcomes in health, education, employment, and basic human needs and dignity.
- Water Investments: Increased water investments in rural areas can yield positive outcomes across various sectors, benefiting communities in multiple ways.
- AI Technology in Agriculture: The efficient use of emerging artificial intelligence (AI) technology in agriculture can aid in water conservation efforts. AI can help tackle crop and food loss, minimize chemical and fertilizer usage, and optimize water usage for sustainable and productive outputs.
The issue of transboundary waters
- Water Pollution: Transboundary rivers like the Meghna, Brahmaputra, Ganga, and Indus are experiencing worsening water pollution, posing significant environmental and health risks to communities relying on these water sources.
- Lack of Governance: There is a need for sophisticated cross-border water governance to address issues related to equitable water allocation, pollution control, and sustainable management of shared water resources among neighboring countries.
- Cooperation Challenges: Despite the importance of transboundary water cooperation, many countries face challenges in reaching agreements and implementing effective mechanisms for managing shared water resources. Disputes over water usage, infrastructure development, and environmental impacts hinder cooperation efforts.
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Transboundary water management is crucial for achieving the SDGs, particularly Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). However, inadequate cooperation and governance frameworks pose obstacles to fulfilling SDG targets related to water security, environmental sustainability, and poverty alleviation.
- Peace and Security: Scarcity of freshwater in transboundary river basins can exacerbate tensions and conflicts among riparian states. Effective management and cooperation on shared water resources are essential for promoting regional stability and preventing water-related conflicts.
- Ecosystem Services: Transboundary rivers support diverse ecosystems and provide essential ecosystem services such as water purification, habitat for biodiversity, and regulation of water flow. Pollution and overexploitation of these waters threaten the integrity of ecosystems and the services they provide.
- Climate Change Impacts: Climate change exacerbates challenges related to transboundary water management by altering precipitation patterns, increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, and affecting water availability and quality. Adaptation and resilience-building measures are needed to address climate-related risks in transboundary river basins.
Suggestive Measures to Resolve Transboundary Water Issues:
- Strengthen Governance Structures: Establish comprehensive cross-border water governance frameworks, including bilateral or multilateral agreements, to facilitate equitable water allocation, pollution control, and sustainable management of shared water resources.
- Enhance Cooperation Mechanisms: Foster dialogue and collaboration among riparian states through platforms such as joint commissions, river basin organizations, and diplomatic negotiations to address disputes and promote mutual understanding of water management challenges.
- Implement Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM): Adopt IWRM approaches that consider social, economic, and environmental factors to promote sustainable development and ensure the efficient use of transboundary water resources while minimizing negative impacts on ecosystems and communities.
- Enhance Monitoring and Data Sharing: Improve monitoring systems and data-sharing mechanisms to assess water quality, quantity, and usage trends in transboundary river basins. Enhanced transparency and information exchange can facilitate informed decision-making and cooperation among riparian states.
- Promote Community Engagement: Involve local communities, indigenous groups, and civil society organizations in decision-making processes related to transboundary water management. Empowering stakeholders at the grassroots level can enhance accountability, foster cooperation, and promote sustainable practices.
- Strengthen Legal Frameworks: Develop and enforce robust legal frameworks at national and international levels to regulate transboundary water resources effectively. Clear and enforceable laws can provide a basis for resolving disputes and ensuring compliance with agreed-upon water management principles.
- Build Climate Resilience: Implement adaptation measures to address climate change impacts on transboundary water resources, such as enhancing water storage infrastructure, promoting water-efficient technologies, and integrating climate resilience into water management strategies.
Conclusion-
Navigating the global waterscape’s challenges requires robust governance, enhanced cooperation, and sustainable practices. By addressing transboundary water issues collectively, we can promote peace, ensure water security, and achieve sustainable development goals.
Mains PYQ-
Q- The interlinking of rivers can provide viable solutions to the multi-dimensional inter-related problems of droughts, floods, and interrupted navigation. Critically examine. (UPSC IAS/2020)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: White Revolution 2.0
Mains level: Reason behind the need of White Revolution 2.0
Why in the news?
The government’s latest Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) for 2022-23 shows milk emerging as India’s top food spend item, both in rural and urban areas
Key facts as per survey-
- The monthly value of milk and dairy products consumed by an average person in rural India, at Rs 314, was ahead of vegetables (Rs 203), cereals (Rs 185), egg, fish & meat (Rs 185), fruits (Rs 140), edible oil (Rs 136), spices (Rs 113) and pulses (Rs 76).
- The HCES data reveals the same for urban India: Milk (Rs 466), fruits (Rs 246), vegetables (Rs 245), cereals (Rs 235), egg, fish & meat (Rs 231), edible oil (Rs 153), spices (Rs 138) and pulses (Rs 90).
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The challenges as per the latest Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES)-
- Rising Milk Prices: Over the last five years, the all-India modal price of milk has surged from Rs 42 to Rs 60 per liter, with a notable increase from Rs 52 to Rs 60 in the past year alone. This upward trend in milk prices poses a challenge for consumers in terms of affordability.
- Inflationary Pressure: The increase in milk prices is attributed to inflationary pressures, impacting consumer demand. Higher prices may lead to reduced consumption or shifts to alternative products, affecting the dairy industry’s revenue and profitability.
- Increased Input Costs: The cost of fodder, feed, and raw materials/ingredients has risen significantly. Dairies are compelled to raise procurement prices paid to farmers to offset these increased input costs. Consequently, consumers bear the brunt of these cost hikes through higher retail prices for milk and dairy products.
- Pass-through to Consumers: To mitigate the impact of rising input costs, dairies pass on the increased procurement prices to consumers, leading to further price hikes in milk products. This pass-through mechanism exacerbates the financial burden on consumers already grappling with inflated prices.
- Impact on Farmers: While increased procurement prices may benefit farmers initially, they may face challenges in sustaining dairy farming operations if input costs continue to escalate. Balancing the interests of farmers, consumers, and the dairy industry becomes crucial amidst these challenges..
How can that be achieved?
- Use of Sex-Sorted Semen (SS) technology: The use of sex-sorted semen increases the probability of female calves being born to over 90%, compared to the 50:50 ratio with conventional semen. This technology ensures a higher proportion of future milk-producing cows, enhancing the productivity of dairy herds.
- Increased Adoption: Dairy cooperatives like Amul are actively promoting the use of sex-sorted semen among farmers. In 2022-23, Amul performed 2.86 lakh artificial inseminations (AIs) using sex-sorted semen out of a total of 13.91 lakh AIs, constituting 20.5% of the total. The cooperative aims to raise this ratio to 30% by 2024-25.
- Enhanced Conception Rate: Roughly one-third of artificial inseminations using sex-sorted semen lead to conception. This high conception rate, coupled with the assurance of female calves, contributes to a more efficient breeding strategy, resulting in a larger population of milk-producing cows.
- Long-term Impact: By increasing the number of female calves born through sex-sorted semen technology, dairy farmers can anticipate a higher yield of milk-producing cows in subsequent generations. This proactive approach ensures the sustainability and growth of the dairy industry by maximizing milk production efficiency.
- Cooperative Initiatives: Dairy cooperatives play a pivotal role in facilitating the adoption of advanced breeding technologies among farmers. Through initiatives like Amul’s targeted use of sex-sorted semen, cooperatives contribute to improving the genetic potential of dairy herds and enhancing overall milk yield per animal.
Taking to farmer/ significance of Breeding Centre-
- Establishment of Bovine Breeding Centre: Amul inaugurated a Bovine Breeding Centre in Mogar, Gujarat, in March 2020, to breed a nucleus herd of superior bulls and cows for artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transfer (ET) technologies.
- Objective of the Centre: The primary objective of the centre is to produce high-quality semen and in vitro-fertilised embryos, stored at ultra-low temperatures, for use in AI or transferring into farmers’ animals.
- Breeds and Milk Yield: The centre has produced various breeds, including exotic (such as Holstein-Friesian and Jersey), HF-Gir and HF-Sahiwal crossbred, and indigenous Gir, Sahiwal, and Murrah buffalo breeds, with varying milk yield capacities ranging from 3,000 to 12,000 liters per year.
- Utilization of Male and Female Genetics: Through AI and sex-sorted semen, the centre exploits male genetics, while IVF-ET technology focuses on harnessing the female genetics of donor cows.
- Adoption by Farmers: Amul has extended IVF-ET technology to farmers, with successful pregnancies and calvings recorded. Member unions of the Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation have also embraced these advancements, with farmers like Bhavnaben Chaudhary experiencing the benefits of higher-quality breeds through IVF-ET, leading to better milk yields and economic returns.
- Preference for Specific Breeds: Farmers like Bhavnaben Chaudhary choose breeds like Kankrej for their higher fat and solids-not-fat content, despite lower yields, to ensure better prices and lower feeding and maintenance costs.
Animal nutrition/ lowering the cost of producing milk at the farm-gate
- Feeding Cost Reduction: Intervention is necessary to reduce the feeding costs of animals by cultivating high-yielding, protein-rich green fodder grasses. This reduces reliance on expensive compound cattle feed and oil-meal concentrates.The focus of White Revolution 2.0 would clearly have to be on lowering the cost of producing milk at the farm-gate
- Introduction of Total Mixed Ration (TMR) Plant: Amul is establishing a 30-tonnes-per-day TMR plant at Sarsa in Anand. TMR will comprise dry and green fodder, concentrates, vitamins, and mineral mixtures, providing animals with a ready-to-eat mashed form of nutrition.
- Benefits of TMR: TMR will save farmers the cost of purchasing and storing fodder separately, as well as the effort of administering it alongside cattle feed. It offers a convenient and cost-effective solution for animal nutrition.
- Sourcing Fodder: The plan involves sourcing fodder from farmer producer organizations (FPOs), whose members will cultivate maize, jowar, hybrid napier, or oat grass and prepare silage for use in the TMR plant.
- Focus on High-Yielding Grasses: Farmers will focus on cultivating high-yielding grass varieties rich in protein content, which are essential for maintaining the health and productivity of dairy animals.
Conclusion-
To ensure a sustainable White Revolution 2.0, measures such as the adoption of advanced breeding technologies, the establishment of breeding centres, and focus on animal nutrition are crucial for enhancing milk production efficiency and economic viability.
Mains question for practice-
Q- Discuss the role of advanced breeding technologies, establishment of breeding centers, and strategies for reducing feeding costs in ensuring sustainable milk production to achieve White Revolution 2.0.(250 words)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Terms of state Assemblies and Lok Sabha
Mains level: Role of ECI in fixing the election schedule
Why in the news?
- The date of counting for Assembly elections in Arunachal and Sikkim has been advanced by two days to make sure that the terms of their existing Houses don’t end before the election process is complete.
Context-
- The Election Commission of India (ECI) holds a crucial responsibility in coordinating and supervising electoral procedures nationwide.
- This encompasses setting timetables for elections to legislative bodies like state assemblies and the Lok Sabha (House of the People).
What was the original schedule for the election and counting in these two states? (2024)
- Schedule Announcement: The schedule for Assembly elections in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, as well as the Lok Sabha elections, was announced on March 16. The Assembly elections in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim were set to be notified on March 20.
- Nomination Period: Candidates could file their nominations for the elections until March 27.
- Withdrawal Period: The deadline for withdrawing nominations was set for March 30.
- Date of Polling: Both Assembly and Lok Sabha elections were scheduled to take place on April 19, marking the first phase of polling.
- Seven-Phase Lok Sabha Elections: The Lok Sabha elections were planned to be held in seven phases on the following dates: April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 26, and June 1.
- One-Day Elections: Twenty-two states and Union Territories, including Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, were scheduled to conduct one-day elections.
- Counting Date: Counting for all seats in the Lok Sabha and the four Assemblies would occur on June 4, according to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar.
So what has changed now?
- Change in Counting Date: The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced a change in the counting date for Assembly seats in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim from June 4 to June 2.
- Reason for Change: ECI officials stated that the decision to change the counting date was made after realizing that the terms of the Assemblies in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim were ending on June 2.
- Completion of Election Process: The decision to bring forward the counting date was based on the constitutional mandate that the election process must be completed before the term of an Assembly ends.
- Ensuring Constitutional Compliance: By adjusting the counting date to align with the end of the Assembly terms, the ECI ensures that the electoral process remains per constitutional requirements.
What exactly does the Constitution say about the terms of state Assemblies and Lok Sabha?
- Lok Sabha Term: Article 83(2) outlines that the Lok Sabha unless sooner dissolved, continues for five years from the date appointed for its first meeting. Similar to state Assemblies, the expiration of the five years leads to the dissolution of the House.
- State Assembly Term: Article 172(1) of the Constitution specifies that every Legislative Assembly of every State shall continue for five years from the date appointed for its first meeting unless sooner dissolved. The expiration of the five years results in the dissolution of the Assembly.
- Extension of Assembly Term: During a Proclamation of Emergency, Parliament has the authority to extend the term of the Assembly by up to one year at a time, not exceeding six months after the Proclamation ceases to operate.
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How does this apply to the Assemblies of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim?
- Constitutional Mandate: The Constitution mandates that the term of Legislative Assemblies lasts for five years from the date of their first meeting unless dissolved earlier.
- Completion of Electoral Process: With the term of the Assemblies ending on June 2, 2024, the electoral process, including voting and counting, must be completed before this date to ensure a smooth transition to the new Assemblies.
What are the things that the ECI looks at while fixing the election schedule?
- Factors Considered by ECI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) considers various factors while fixing the election schedule, including weather conditions, festivals, important examinations, availability of school buildings for polling stations, and mobilization of teachers for election duty.
- Logistical Considerations: The ECI takes into account the country’s historical and geographic situation, as well as logistical requirements such as moving security forces to ensure free and fair elections.
- Term of the Legislature: The date of expiration of the term of the legislature is the primary consideration for fixing the election schedule. This date is known five years in advance, calculated from the date of the first sitting of the existing House.
- Completion of Election Process: The ECI aims to complete the election process at least one day before the end of the term of the House. Results are declared a few days prior, allowing time for documentation and other formalities.
Has something similar occurred earlier too?
- Change in Counting Date in Andhra Pradesh (2004): In 2004, the Election Commission of India (ECI) scheduled the counting of votes for the Assembly election in Andhra Pradesh on May 11, two days earlier than the scheduled counting for Lok Sabha and other states. This adjustment was made because the tenure of the Assembly in Andhra Pradesh was set to end on May 13.
- Changes for Festivals or Locally Relevant Events: The ECI has made changes to the announced election schedule to accommodate festivals or locally relevant events. For example, in Mizoram in the previous year, the date of counting for the Assembly election was changed from December 3 to December 4 to avoid a clash with Sunday, which holds special significance for the Christian-majority population.
- Delinking Counting in Specific States: The ECI has previously drawn up schedules that delink the counting in a particular state from the counting in the rest of the country or from the counting of other elections held simultaneously. This strategy allows for the smooth conduct of elections while respecting the constitutional timeline for the end of the term of the House.
Conclusion:
The Election Commission adjusts the counting date for Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim Assemblies to align with the constitutional mandate. Factors like legislative terms, logistical considerations, and past precedents guide the ECI in fixing election schedules.
Mains PYQ-
Q- Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct. (UPSC IAS/2022)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Price stabilization fund
Mains level: Significance of Price stabilization fund
Why in the news?
The government has approved the inclusion of wheat and rice under its price stabilization fund to provide subsidies for the quantity allocated under Bharat atta and rice sale.
Context: After it started selling Bharat atta and rice as part of its retail intervention in a bid to tame inflation as prices are soaring ahead of general elections
What is the Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF)?
A Price Stabilization Fund is established to mitigate excessive fluctuations in specific commodity prices. The fund’s resources are typically deployed to moderate high or low prices through various initiatives, such as procuring particular goods and distributing them as needed, ensuring prices stay within a desired range. |
Background-
- During the fiscal year 2014-15, the Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) was instituted within the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare (DAC&FW) to manage the fluctuating costs of crucial agricultural commodities like onions, potatoes, and pulses.
- These commodities will be procured directly from farmers or their organizations at farm gates or designated marketplaces, and subsequently offered to consumers at a more affordable rate. Any incurred losses in the coordination between the central government and the states during these operations must be divided.
The significance of the Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) in the context of recent expansion to include of wheat and rice-
- Addressing Inflationary trends : The inclusion of wheat and rice under the PSF marks a significant expansion beyond the previously covered commodities like onions, potatoes, and pulses. This expansion reflects the government’s commitment to addressing inflationary trends across a broader spectrum of essential food items.
- Buffer Stock Management: The PSF is utilized to build up buffer stocks of key food commodities such as wheat and rice. These stocks are strategically released into the market during periods of price surges to stabilize prices and ensure affordability for consumers.
- Subsidy Allocation: The government provides subsidies to agencies like the Food Corporation of India (FCI) for supplying wheat and rice to central procurement agencies. This subsidy support helps in maintaining the affordability of these commodities, particularly under the Bharat brand, which is sold at subsidized prices.
- Inflation Mitigation: The inclusion of wheat and rice in the PSF is aimed at mitigating rising food inflation, which has been a concern ahead of general elections. By intervening in the market through strategic buffer stock management and subsidized sales, the government seeks to curb inflationary pressures and ensure food affordability for consumers.
- Policy Response to Market Dynamics: The decision to expand the PSF reflects a proactive policy response to address market dynamics, particularly concerning rising rice prices. By taking measures to stabilize prices and increase availability through the PSF, the government aims to alleviate the burden on consumers and mitigate potential electoral repercussions associated with food inflation.
The Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) addresses inflationary pressures and aids in maintaining food affordability through several mechanisms:
- Buffer Stock Management: The PSF accumulates buffer stocks of essential food commodities during periods of surplus production or lower prices. These stocks are strategically released into the market during periods of scarcity or price surges. By increasing the supply of commodities during shortages, the PSF helps stabilize prices and prevents excessive inflation.
- Subsidy Provision: The PSF provides subsidies to support the procurement and distribution of essential commodities. These subsidies enable the government to sell commodities at lower prices, making them more affordable for consumers. Subsidies can also incentivize increased production, leading to a greater supply of commodities and further price stability.
- Market Intervention: The PSF allows for direct intervention in the market to address sudden price fluctuations. By purchasing commodities during periods of low prices and selling them during periods of high prices, the PSF helps moderate price volatility and ensures that prices remain within a reasonable range.
- Consumer Protection: By stabilizing prices and ensuring the availability of essential food items, the PSF protects consumers from sudden spikes in food prices, which can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Affordable food prices contribute to improved food security and overall economic stability.
- Incentivizing Domestic Production: The PSF incentivizes domestic production by providing a guaranteed market for farmers’ produce at stable prices. This encourages farmers to increase their production levels, contributing to overall food security and helping to mitigate inflationary pressures.
Conclusion: The government is expanding the Price Stabilization Fund to include wheat and rice amid soaring food prices ahead of elections. This aims to manage inflation by subsidizing essential commodities and maintaining buffer stocks.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Exercise IMT TRILAT- 2024
Mains level: NA
Why in the news-
- INS Tir and INS Sujata are set to participate in the second edition of the India-Mozambique-Tanzania (IMT) Tri-Lateral (TRILAT) Exercise.
Exercise IMT TRILAT- 2024
- It is a biennial exercise conducted by the navies of India, Mozambique and Tanzania.
- The first edition of the exercise took place in October 2022.
- It seeks to enhance India’s commitment to maritime security and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.
- Through this joint exercise, the Indian Navy aims to foster mutual trust and understanding with its maritime partners in Mozambique and Tanzania.
Phases of the Exercise
- Harbour Phase: Activities include joint harbour training such as Damage Control, Fire Fighting, Visit Board Search and Seizure procedures, Medical Lectures, Casualty Evacuation, and Diving operations.
- Sea Phase: Focuses on countering asymmetric threats, Visit Board Search and Seizure procedures, boat handling, manoeuvres, firing exercises, and joint EEZ surveillance.
PYQ:
2017: Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS):
- Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy.
- IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime co-operation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Practice MCQ:
Consider the following statements about Exercise IMT TRILAT:
- It is an annual exercise conducted by the navies of India, Mozambique and Tanzania.
- The first edition of the exercise took place in October 2022.
Which of the given statements is/are correct?
- Only 1
- Only 2
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
Mains level: NA
What is the news-
- Neeraj Mittal, Secretary of the Department of Telecommunications, Government of India was unanimously elected as co-chair of the Digital Innovation Board of International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
About ITU Digital Innovation Board
- This board is established under the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Alliance for Digital Development.
- It comprises of Ministers and Vice Ministers of Telecom/ICT of 23 Member Countries.
- The Alliance establishes the Board to provide strategic guidance, expertise and advocacy regarding its mission of building critical local enablers.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship Alliance
- ITU has started this Alliance to respond to significant unmet needs of ITU Membership in the area of innovation.
- It is based on the Kigali Action Plan adopted at the World Telecommunication Development Conference 2022 (WTDC-22) and the Outcomes of the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2022 (PP-22).
- The Alliance has three main vehicles: –
- Digital Transformation Lab
- Network of Acceleration Centres
- Digital Innovation Board
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What is the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)?
- The ITU is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) responsible for issues related to information and communication technologies (ICTs).
- It was established in 1865 as the International Telegraph Union, making it one of the oldest international organizations.
- In 1932, the organization was renamed the International Telecommunication Union to reflect its broader mandate.
- It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
- Its functions include:
- Allocate global radio spectrum and satellite orbits,
- Develops the technical standards that ensure networks and technologies seamlessly interconnect, and
- Strives to improve access to ICTs to underserved communities worldwide.
Membership:
- ITU’s membership includes 193 member states (countries) and over 900 private sector entities, including telecommunications companies, equipment manufacturers, research institutions, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
- India has been an active member of the ITU since 1869 and has been a regular member of the ITU Council since 1952.
PYQ:
2020: In India, the term “Public Key Infrastructure” is used in the context of
- Digital security infrastructure
- Food security infrastructure
- Healthcare and education infrastructure
- Telecommunication and transportation infrastructure
Practise MCQ:
The global telecom body International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has recently elected India as the co-chair of the Digital Innovation Board. Which of the following statements about ITU is/are correct?
- It is the United Nations specialised agency for Information and Communication Technologies.
- Its entry is open to all countries, Private Companies as well as institutions.
- India has been a member of ITU since 1869.
Select the correct option:
- All are correct
- Only 3
- 1 and 3
- 1 and 2
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: World Happiness Report , India's ranking
Mains level: Not Much
What is the news-
- India was ranked 126th out of 143 nations in the World Happiness Report 2024, a global happiness index which was released, March 20 to mark the UN’s International Day of Happiness.
About the World Happiness Report
- The WHR is an annual publication of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.
- It is released in partnership by Gallup, the Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre, the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), and the World Happiness Report’s Editorial Board
- It measures three main well-being indicators: life evaluations, positive emotions, and negative emotions (described in the report as positive and negative affect).
- The report considers six key factors: social support, income, health, freedom, generosity, and the absence of corruption.
- It was adopted by the UN General Assembly based on a resolution tabled by Bhutan.
Key Highlights of the 2024 Report
- Top: For the seventh successive year, Finland topped the list of the happiest countries in the world.
- Runner-ups: The other countries in the top ten were Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, Israel, the Netherlands, Norway, Luxembourg, Switzerland and Australia.
- Bottom: Afghanistan was at the bottom of the list.
Indian Scenario
- Ranking: India maintains its position at 126th in the happiness index. Surprisingly, it is behind Pakistan, Libya, Iraq, Palestine and Niger.
- Neighbourhood: China was ranked 60th, Nepal at 93, Pakistan at 108, Myanmar at 118, Sri Lanka at 128 and Bangladesh at 129th spots.
- Influencing Factors: Marital status, social engagement, physical health, and satisfaction with living arrangements influence life satisfaction among older Indians.
- Gendered Happiness: Older Indian women tend to report higher life satisfaction despite facing more stressors and health challenges.
- Key Predictors: Factors like education level, social caste, social support, perceived discrimination, and self-rated health significantly impact life satisfaction among older Indians.
PYQ:
2018: “Rule of Law Index” is released by which of the following?
- Amnesty International
- International Court of Justice
- The Office of UN Commissioner for Human Rights
- World Justice Project
Practice MCQ:
With reference to the World Happiness Report, 2024, consider the following statements:
- The report is an annual publication of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.
- It was adopted by the UN General Assembly based on a resolution tabled by Bhutan.
- India’s ranking has been consistently improved in this report in last two years.
How many of the given statements is/are correct?
- One
- Two
- Three
- None
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