Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: cyber attacks
Mains level: evolving landscape of terrorism emphasizes the shift to cyberspace
Central idea
The article underscores the transformation of terrorism into cyberspace, emphasizing the significance of robust cybersecurity measures in the face of escalating state-sponsored cyberattacks.
Key Highlights:
- Mumbai holds the unfortunate title of the most terror-attacked city globally.
- The November 26, 2008 (26/11) attacks were the most audacious, lasting three days.
- Intelligence was available before 26/11 attacks, but preventive measures failed.
- Post-attack, significant changes were made in the police department and security apparatus.
Key Challenges:
- Despite reforms, the landscape of terror warfare has shifted to cyberspace.
- The Russia–Ukraine and Israel–Hamas conflicts demonstrate the growing threat of cyber warfare.
- State-sponsored cyberattacks against India increased by 278% between March 2021-September 2023.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- 26/11 terror attacks, cyberspace, cyber warfare, state-sponsored cyberattacks.
Key Examples and References:
- November 26, 2008, terror attacks in Mumbai.
- Israel-Hamas conflict and the failure of the Iron Dome against cyber threats.
- 2023 India Threat Landscape Report by Cyfirma.
Key Facts and Data:
- State-sponsored cyberattacks on India increased by 278% from March 2021-September 2023.
- India faced 13.7% of all global cyberattacks.
- 13.91 lakh cybersecurity incidents in India in 2022.
Critical Analysis:
- Cybersecurity is of paramount importance in a highly digitized world.
- Recent incidents, including Apple’s warning, highlight the urgency for robust cybersecurity measures.
- The need for nationwide education and training on cyber threats is crucial.
Way Forward:
- Urgent investment in robust cybersecurity measures across government, private sector, and individual citizens.
- Comprehensive education programs, starting in schools, to raise awareness about cyber threats.
- Adequate training and financial support for government agencies to strengthen cybersecurity.
In conclusion, the evolving landscape of terrorism emphasizes the shift to cyberspace, demanding urgent and comprehensive cybersecurity measures, education, and training to safeguard against potential online threats like a “cyber 26/11.”
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: na
Mains level: Maratha mobilization for reservation
![The Marathas' Demand for Reservation: A Litigation History [2014-21] - Supreme Court Observer](https://www.scobserver.in/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Maratha-Litigation-History-2640-x-1100-px.png)
Central Idea:
- The Maratha community’s demand for reservation in education and employment stems from a crisis of dominance, influenced by urban and rural challenges.
Urban Crisis:
- Well-paid jobs in urban areas, historically held by Marathas, have rapidly disappeared since the late 1990s.
- Large-scale manufacturing industries and establishments providing such jobs have closed or downsized, leading to increased competition for fewer opportunities.
- Marathas, historically socially superior, used their dominant caste position to secure a significant share of jobs, particularly in the public sector.
- Economic liberalization and the shrinkage of public sector jobs have intensified competition among Marathas for limited opportunities.
Rural Crisis:
- Closure of factories has led to the return of workers to villages, disrupting the pattern of workers retiring in villages and their offspring working in cities.
- Rural youth face challenges migrating to urban areas for better-paying jobs, impacting the financial support they traditionally provided to family members in villages.
- Informal sector jobs become the primary option for rural Maratha youth, diminishing their social standing and pride in rural settings.
- The focus on secure public sector jobs, which have also decreased, becomes crucial for rural Maratha youth.
Education Challenges:
- Increased aspirations for higher education among Marathas face a decline in government institutions and a rise in private unaided colleges with exorbitant fees.
- Marathas, with limited financial resources, compete for a limited number of open-category seats in public institutions.
- Decrease in government-run educational institutions exacerbates the challenges faced by Maratha aspirants.
Crisis of Dominance:
- The combination of urban and rural crises contributes to a crisis of dominance for the Marathas.
- Disturbance of caste hierarchy norms due to Dalit mobility and OBC economic and political assertion adds to Marathas’ anxiety.
- The demand for reservation reflects the need for increased formal sector jobs and the expansion of public educational institutions to address the crisis.
Key Highlights:
- Maratha community demands reservation in education and public employment, intensifying since 2016.
- Historically, Marathas dominated well-paid jobs, but recent urban and rural crises have led to increased competition and challenges.
- Closure of manufacturing industries, decreasing public sector jobs, and rural youth’s struggles contribute to the crisis.
- Educational aspirations face challenges with a decline in government institutions and increased private college fees.
Key Challenges:
- Disappearance of well-paid urban jobs, increased competition, and shrinking public sector employment.
- Rural crisis disrupts the traditional pattern of workers retiring in villages and offspring working in cities.
- Decline in government-run educational institutions, limited open-category seats, and rising private college fees.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- Urban crisis, rural crisis, crisis of dominance, economic liberalization, formal sector jobs.
- Reservation, Maratha mobilization, well-paid jobs, private unaided colleges, public sector employment.
Key Examples and References:
- Maratha protests since 2016, closure of manufacturing industries, decreased public sector jobs.
- Disturbance in traditional caste hierarchies due to Dalit mobility and OBC economic and political assertion.
Key Facts and Data:
- Marathas historically occupied over 29% of open-category jobs in government.
- Jobs in the private formal sector increased from 2% to 3.5%.
- Contractual government jobs increased from 0.7 million to 15.9 million in 2017-18.
- Only 22.2% of colleges are managed by the government as of 2019.
Critical Analysis:
- Maratha crisis stems from economic shifts, urban-rural dynamics, and disturbance in caste hierarchies.
- Limited opportunities, competition, and declining public sector jobs contribute to the community’s mobilization.
- Educational challenges add to the complexity, demanding a comprehensive solution.
Way Forward:
- Address urban and rural crises by creating more formal sector jobs.
- Expand public educational institutions and implement large-scale scholarship programs.
- Focus on inclusive policies to reduce competition and restore traditional patterns of employment.
Conclusion:
- The Maratha mobilization for reservation is rooted in the challenges posed by the disappearance of well-paid jobs, urban-rural dynamics, and the disruption of traditional caste hierarchies. Addressing these challenges requires a focus on creating more opportunities in the formal sector and expanding accessible public education.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: India's Maritime Vision 2030
Mains level: Blue Economy: Sustainable use of ocean resources for economic development
Central idea
The article underscores the evolving challenges in the maritime domain, emphasizing the shift from traditional military approaches to a developmental model for maritime security. It highlights the need for collaboration among developing nations to address unconventional threats, such as illegal fishing and climate change, while acknowledging the reluctance to prioritize collective action over political and strategic autonomy.
Key Highlights:
- Evolution of Maritime Challenges: New dimensions in hard security challenges, including asymmetrical tactics and grey-zone warfare. Use of land attack missiles and combat drones reshaping the security landscape.
- Shift in Demand for Maritime Security: Growing demand from states facing unconventional threats such as illegal fishing, natural disasters, and climate change. Need for a broader approach beyond military means to address diverse maritime challenges.
- India’s Developmental Approach: Maritime Vision 2030 focuses on economic growth and livelihood generation through port, shipping, and inland waterway development. Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative with seven pillars, including maritime ecology, marine resources, and disaster risk reduction.
New Threats in Maritime Domain:
- Recent developments include Ukraine’s asymmetrical tactics and China’s maritime militias, indicating a shift to improvised strategies.
- Emerging threats involve grey-zone warfare, land attack missiles, and combat drones.
Demand for Maritime Security:
- Majority of recent demand stems from unconventional threats like illegal fishing, natural disasters, and climate change.
- Addressing these challenges requires commitment of capital, resources, and specialized personnel.
Global South’s Perspective:
- Developing nations perceive Indo-Pacific competition among powerful nations as detrimental to their interests.
- Challenges involve interconnected objectives in national, environmental, economic, and human security.
Challenges in Global South:
- Rising sea levels, marine pollution, climate change disproportionately impact less developed states, leading to vulnerability.
- Unequal law-enforcement capabilities and lack of security coordination hinder joint efforts against maritime threats.
Creative Models for Maritime Security:
- Maritime security transcends military actions, focusing on generating prosperity and meeting societal aspirations.
- India’s Maritime Vision 2030 emphasizes port, shipping, and inland waterway development for economic growth.
- Dhaka’s Indo-Pacific document and Africa’s Blue Economy concept align with a developmental approach.
Fight Against Illegal Fishing:
- Significant challenge in Asia and Africa marked by a surge in illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
- Faulty policies encouraging destructive methods like bottom trawling and seine fishing contribute to the problem.
India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative:
- Encompasses seven pillars, including maritime ecology, marine resources, capacity building, and disaster risk reduction.
- Advocates collective solutions for shared problems, garnering support from major Indo-Pacific states.
Challenges in Achieving Consensus:
- Implementation of collaborative strategy faces hurdles in improving interoperability, intelligence sharing, and establishing a regional rules-based order.
- Balancing sovereignty and strategic independence remains a priority for many nations, hindering consensus.
Key Challenges:
- Complexity of Unconventional Threats: Conventional military approaches insufficient; requires capital, resources, and specialist personnel. Challenges include illegal fishing, marine pollution, human trafficking, and climate change.
- Global South’s Coordination Challenges: Unequal law-enforcement capabilities and lack of security coordination among littoral states. Reluctance to prioritize collective action due to varying security priorities and autonomy concerns.
- Vulnerability of Less Developed States: Disproportionate impact of rising sea levels, marine pollution, and climate change on less developed states. Vulnerability stemming from inadequate resources to combat environmental and security challenges.
- Lack of Consensus and Reluctance: Reluctance among littoral states to pursue concrete solutions and collaborate. Paradox of non-traditional maritime security, where collective issues clash with political and strategic autonomy.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- Grey-Zone Warfare: Tactics that fall between peace and war, creating ambiguity in conflict situations.
- Asymmetrical Tactics: Strategies that exploit an opponent’s weaknesses rather than confronting strengths directly.
- Maritime Vision 2030: India’s 10-year blueprint for economic growth in the maritime sector.
- Blue Economy: Sustainable use of ocean resources for economic development.
- Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative: India’s initiative with pillars like maritime ecology, marine resources, and disaster risk reduction.
- IUU Fishing: Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
- Bottom Trawling and Seine Fishing: Destructive fishing methods contributing to illegal fishing.
Key Examples and References:
- Ukraine’s Asymmetrical Tactics: Utilization of unconventional strategies in the Black Sea.
- China’s Maritime Militias: Deployment in the South China Sea as an example of evolving threats.
- India’s Maritime Vision 2030: Illustrates a developmental approach to maritime security.
- Illegal Fishing in Asia and Africa: Rising challenge with negative environmental and economic impacts.
Key Facts and Data:
- Maritime Vision 2030: India’s 10-year plan for the maritime sector.
- Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative: Seven-pillar initiative for collective solutions in the maritime domain.
Critical Analysis:
- Shift to Developmental Model: Emphasis on generating prosperity and meeting human aspirations in addition to traditional security measures.
- Comprehensive Maritime Challenges: Recognition of diverse challenges beyond military threats, including environmental and economic goals.
- Littoral State Reluctance: Paradox in the Global South, where collective issues clash with autonomy, hindering collaborative solutions.
Way Forward:
- Collaborative Strategies:Improved interoperability, intelligence sharing, and agreement on regional rules-based order.
- Prioritizing Collective Action: Developing nations must prioritize collective action over sovereignty for effective maritime solutions.
- Sustainable Development Goals: Prioritize sustainable development goals in littoral states, addressing challenges such as illegal fishing and climate change.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Guru Nanak and his teachings
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Guru Nanak Jayanti commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism and the first of its ten Gurus.
- It is celebrated worldwide as Guru Nanak Gurpurab on Kartik Poornima, the full-moon day in the month of Katak (October–November).
Five Key Aspects of Guru Nanak’s Life
[1] Early Life and Philosophical Inclination:
- Born on April 15, 1469, in a Hindu family in Nankana Sahib (now in Pakistan).
- Displayed an early interest in philosophical and spiritual questions.
- Worked as an accountant before embarking on a spiritual journey with a Muslim minstrel, Mardana.
[2] Mystical Experience at Age 30:
- Had a transformative spiritual experience during an early morning ablution by a river.
- Received a divine mission to spread a message of unity and devotion.
- Emerged after three days with the profound declaration, “There is no Hindu, there is no Mussalman.”
[3] Extensive Travels and Interfaith Dialogue:
- Traveled widely, including to Sri Lanka, Baghdad, and Mecca, on journeys called ‘udaasis’.
- Engaged with various religious figures, including Hindu pandits and Sufi saints.
- Advocated for the oneness of God and universal brotherhood.
[4] Preaching the Oneness of God:
- Emphasized the unity of humanity and the presence of one God in all.
- Challenged religious orthodoxy and rituals, promoting a direct connection with the divine.
- His teachings laid the foundation for Sikhism, attracting followers from diverse backgrounds.
- His teachings and hymns are compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism.
- He wrote in Punjabi, using a script known as Gurmukhi.
[5] Succession and Legacy:
- Spent his final years in Kartarpur, establishing a community with daily prayers and hymns.
- Introduced the practice of ‘langar’, a communal kitchen serving free meals.
- Chose Lehna (later Guru Angad) as his successor, bypassing his own sons.
- Passed away on September 22, 1539, leaving behind a legacy of spiritual and social reform.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Rythu Bandhu Scheme
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
Rythu Bandhu Scheme: Key Facts
- The Rythu Bandhu scheme is also known as Farmer’s Investment Support Scheme (FISS).
- It is a welfare programme for farmers started in 2018 by the Telangana government.
- Under the scheme, the state government provided the 58 lakh farmers in Telangana with ₹5,000 per acre of their land as a farm investment for two crops.
- There is no ceiling on the number of acres held by a farmer.
- So, a farmer who owns two acres of land would receive Rs 20,000 a year, whereas a farmer who owns 10 acres would receive Rs 1 lakh a year from the government.
- This investment is made twice a year, once for kharif harvest and once for Rabi harvest.
- It is the country’s first direct farmer investment support scheme where cash is paid directly to the beneficiary.
Reasons for suspension
- The election commission had allowed the disbursement of funds for the rabi harvest this season, provided they are not publicised, in accordance with the model code of conduct.
- However, the model code was violated after the state finance minister made a public announcement of the same.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Fibre Optic Technology
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the crucial role of the internet in maintaining global connectivity, facilitated largely by high-speed internet connections.
- These connections, enabling video chats, online payments, and virtual meetings, largely depend on the technology of optical fibers.
Understanding Optical Fibers
- Composition and Size: Optical fibers are thin strands of glass, almost as thin as a human hair, used for transmitting information.
- Information Transmission: They carry various forms of data, including text, images, and videos, at speeds close to that of light.
- Everyday Relevance: Optical fibers play a vital role in everyday communications like text messaging and phone calls.
- Fragility vs. Strength: Despite their thinness, these fibers are strong and durable when encased in protective materials.
- Versatility: They are flexible enough to be laid underground, underwater, or wound around spools.
Historical Perspective
- Charles Kao’s Contribution: About 60 years ago, physicist Charles Kao proposed using glass fibers for telecommunications, a suggestion that earned him a Nobel Prize in 2009.
- Replacing Copper Wires: Kao’s idea was initially met with skepticism but eventually replaced copper wires in telecommunication.
How Optical Fibers Work?
- Light as an Electromagnetic Wave: Light, part of the electromagnetic spectrum, can be controlled and guided through optical fibers.
- Total Internal Reflection: This phenomenon allows light to travel long distances within the fiber with minimal loss of power.
- Fiber Optic Communication System: This system includes a transmitter, the optical fiber, and a receiver to encode, carry, and reproduce information.
Data Transmission and Resistance
- High Data-Transmission Rate: Optical fibers can transmit data at rates of several terabits per second.
- Insensitivity to External Disturbances: Unlike copper cables, they are not affected by external factors like lightning or bad weather.
Development of Fiber Optic Cables
- Early Experiments: The concept of guiding light in transparent media dates back to the 19th century, with demonstrations by Jean-Daniel Colladon and others.
- Medical and Defense Applications: Early glass objects were used in medicine and defense before their adaptation for data transmission.
- Advancements in the 20th Century: Significant progress occurred in the 1950s and 1960s, including the development of glass-clad fibers and the invention of lasers.
Modern Manufacturing
- Fiber-Optic Cable Production: Today, glass fibers are produced using the fiber-drawing technique, ensuring high purity and engineered refractive index profiles.
- Loss Reduction: Modern optical fibers have significantly reduced signal loss, less than 0.2 dB/km.
Future of Fiber Optics
- Expanding Applications: Fiber optics technology is now integral to various fields, including telecommunication, medical science, and laser technology.
- India’s National Mission: The Indian government’s 2020 Union Budget announced a significant investment in quantum technologies and applications, highlighting the future potential of fiber optics.
- Quantum Optics and Communication: The technology stands at the forefront of a new era, with expanding possibilities in quantum optics and home connectivity.
Conclusion
- Impact of Fiber Optics: The evolution of fiber optics has revolutionized communication and connectivity, offering high-speed, reliable data transmission.
- Continued Growth and Innovation: As the technology continues to advance, its applications are likely to expand further, driving innovations in various sectors and enhancing global connectivity.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Dollarization
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Argentina faces over 100% inflation and widespread poverty, prompting public support for Milei’s unique economic policies.
- This has prompted the newly elected Javier Milei replacing the peso with the dollar, abolishing the Central Bank, and cutting government spending.
Concept of Dollarization
- Dollarization is the process by which a country adopts a foreign currency in addition to or instead of its national currency.
- Here are 2 types of dollarization:
- Full Dollarization: This occurs when a country adopts a foreign currency (such as the US dollar) as its sole legal tender. In this scenario, the foreign currency completely replaces the domestic currency for all financial transactions.
- Partial Dollarization: In this case, the foreign currency is used alongside the national currency. It often happens unofficially, where residents hold a significant portion of their assets or conduct a large number of their transactions in the foreign currency.
Motive behind Argentine move
- Hyperinflation Solution: Dollarization could break the cycle of rising prices and money supply, as the dollar is not easily manipulated for political gains.
- Growth Potential: By using dollars, economies might focus on exports and attract foreign investment, benefiting from the dollar’s stability.
Potential Challenges
- Loss of Monetary Policy Control: Adopting the dollar means losing the ability to control the money supply through domestic monetary policy.
- Dependence on Export Promotion: Economies must rely solely on export promotion for economic stability, as currency depreciation is no longer an option.
Ecuador’s Experience
- Economic Turnaround: Ecuador, after adopting the dollar, saw significant improvements in GDP growth, poverty reduction, and inflation control.
- Oil and Gas Reserves: Ecuador’s success was partly due to its natural resources, which helped maintain a steady dollar inflow.
- Beyond Dollarization: Ecuador’s economic prosperity was also due to effective fiscal policies and government interventions in the oil sector.
- Social Spending: Increased social spending played a crucial role in translating economic gains into societal benefits.
Comparative Analysis: Greece and the Euro
- Euro Adoption in Greece: Greece’s adoption of the euro initially spurred growth but later limited its fiscal and monetary policy options.
- Austerity Measures: The Eurozone crisis forced Greece into austerity, highlighting the risks of adopting an external currency without policy autonomy.
Conclusion
- Not a Panacea: Dollarization, while potentially stabilizing, is not a standalone solution and requires complementary domestic policies.
- Argentina’s Uncertain Future: With Milei’s intent to slash government spending and abolish the Central Bank, Argentina’s economic future under his administration remains uncertain.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Teenage Galaxies, JWST
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Recently, the James Webb Space Telescope has provided detailed insights into slightly older galaxies, known as ‘teenagers’ in galactic terms, shedding light on their evolution and unique characteristics.
- This research is part of the CECILIA Survey, utilizing Webb to analyze the chemistry of distant galaxies, named after astronomer Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin.
Study of Teenage Galaxies
- Formation Period: The study focuses on galaxies that formed around 2-3 billion years after the Big Bang, which occurred about 13.8 billion years ago.
- Research Methodology: Researchers analyzed light across various wavelengths from 23 such galaxies using Webb, akin to studying their ‘chemical DNA.’
- Key Discoveries: These teenage galaxies exhibit distinct chemical compositions, indicative of intense star formation and rapid developmental phases.
Characteristics of Teenage Galaxies
- Contrast with Modern Galaxies: These galaxies show significant differences in appearance and behavior compared to contemporary galaxies.
- Developmental Mysteries: They undergo crucial, yet not fully understood, processes during this phase, shaping their final structure and nature.
- High Temperatures in Star-Forming Regions: Star-forming areas in these galaxies show temperatures around 24,000 degrees Fahrenheit, much higher than in present-day galaxies.
- Young Stars and Gas Properties: This temperature variation suggests differences in the stars and gas properties of teenage galaxies.
- Detected Elements: Observations identified these galaxies glowing with elements like hydrogen, helium, oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, argon, nickel, and silicon.
Significance of Oxygen and Nickel
- Oxygen’s Crucial Role: As a key component of galactic DNA and the third-most abundant element in the universe, oxygen is vital for tracking galaxies’ growth history.
- Nickel – An Unexpected Find: The presence of nickel, usually not bright enough to be observed in nearby galaxies, suggests unique aspects of massive stars in these galaxies.
- Undetected Elements: Astronomers believe that additional elements likely exist in these galaxies but remain undetected due to current technological limits.
Implications of the Findings
- Chemical Immaturity and Rapid Growth: The study indicates that these galaxies are in a phase of rapid formation and are still chemically immature.
- Insights into Star Formation: Understanding the chemical makeup of these galaxies provides valuable information about their star formation history and rate.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: HERVH and 'Jumping Genes'
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Recent breakthroughs in genetic research have shed light on the complexities of early embryonic development, particularly focusing on the inner cell mass, a key component in forming the human body.
Embryonic Development Explained
- Life’s Commencement: Life begins with the fusion of sperm and egg, creating a zygote, the first cell of a new individual.
- Cellular Multiplication: The zygote undergoes rapid cell division, marking the onset of embryonic development.
- Diverse Cell Differentiation: As the embryo develops, cells differentiate into various types, leading to the formation of organs and tissues.
- Journey to Birth: This intricate process culminates in the birth of a newborn after nine months of gestation.
Early Stages of Development
- Inner Cell Mass Formation: Early embryonic cells cluster around the inner cell mass, vital for the embryo’s development.
- Pluripotency of Cells: These cells are pluripotent, meaning they can develop into any cell type in the body.
- Scientific Focus: The inner cell mass is a primary subject of study due to its critical role in human development.
Gene Expression in Embryonic Cells
- Analyzing Gene Activity: Researchers study the proteins produced by genes to understand cell-specific gene expression.
- Deciphering Cell Development: This research provides insights into the active genes in each cell, revealing the mechanisms of cell development.
Discoveries in the Inner Cell Mass
- 2016 Research Insights: Manvendra Singh’s reanalysis of gene expression data identified a new group of non-committed cells in the inner cell mass.
- Enigma of Cell Death: These cells, unlike others, do not progress to later developmental stages and are eliminated early on.
HERVH Gene and Cell Survival
- HERVH’s Crucial Function: A 2014 study revealed that HERVH, a gene with virus-like properties, is essential for maintaining pluripotency in embryonic stem cells.
- Gene Expression Variations: Singh’s research showed that while most inner cell mass cells express HERVH, the non-committed cells that eventually die do not.
- Independent Confirmation: This discovery was corroborated by researchers at the University of Spain in lab-fertilized embryos.
Understanding ‘Jumping Genes’
- Transposons in Non-Committed Cells: The non-committed cells express transposons, or ‘jumping genes’, which can cause DNA damage and lead to cell death.
- HERVH’s Protective Role: HERVH protects most cells from the harmful effects of transposons, but cells lacking HERVH expression are vulnerable.
- Natural Selection in Embryos: The early human embryo acts as a selection ground, favoring cells with HERVH expression.
- HERVH’s Unique Nature: Interestingly, HERVH itself is a transposon but functions protectively rather than destructively.
Implications for Placenta and Beyond
- Placental Development: Cells that form the placenta also exhibit transposon activity but manage to survive without HERVH expression.
- Impact on Regenerative Medicine: Understanding HERVH’s role in cell pluripotency has profound implications for regenerative medicine and could influence embryo viability in fertility treatments.Top of Form
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: na
Mains level: constitutional principles in the execution of international obligations
Central idea
Tax treaties or protocols signed by the executive to alter or vary the provisions of the IT Act must withstand the rigours of the constitutional and statutory requirements
Key Highlights:
- Landmark Decision: The Supreme Court’s decision in Assessing Officer (International Tax) vs Nestle SA is a landmark ruling reaffirming the constitutional principle that international obligations assumed by the executive require specific legislative conditions for legal effect.
- Constitutional Framework: The judgment delves into the interplay between domestic law and international law within India’s constitutional framework, emphasizing the need for parliamentary approval when international obligations conflict with domestically enacted laws.
- Article 73 and Article 253: The powers of the Union executive, as per Article 73, are co-terminus with those of Parliament, allowing the executive to assume international obligations without legislation. However, Article 253 emphasizes the dualism between international law and municipal law, requiring a domestic legislative process for conflicting obligations.
- Delegated Powers: Parliament can delegate treaty-making powers to the executive, exemplified by tax treaties under section 90 of the Income Tax (IT) Act. The court clarifies that assuming international obligations and enforcing them domestically are distinct processes.
- Section 90 of IT Act: The judgment interprets section 90, titled “Agreement with foreign countries or specified territories,” emphasizing the necessity of a notification for the implementation of agreements related to the avoidance of double taxation.
- MFN Clauses: Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) clauses, aimed at altering taxation provisions, must be notified for incorporation into domestic tax law. Failure to do so would create uncertainty in the tax system, with no constitutional or statutory backing for unnotified application.
- Chaos and Uncertainty: Unnotified application of MFN clauses could lead to chaos and uncertainty, with taxpayers and assessing officers interpreting and applying the clauses based on individual understanding, lacking legal foundation.
- Scope of Judgment: The judgment’s scope is limited to the need for a notification for the implementation of MFN clauses, and questions related to diplomatic accountability or the executive’s capacity to prolong the performance of international obligations were not addressed.
- Importance of Constitutional Principles: The Supreme Court’s decision is applauded for upholding democratic principles, ensuring that international obligations assumed by the executive align with constitutional and statutory requirements.
Challenges:
- Future Events Contingency: The activation of MFN clauses contingent upon future events poses challenges in their timely application and raises questions about the executive’s diplomatic accountability.
Key Phrases:
- Dualism of Legal Systems: The constitutional framework recognizes international law and municipal law as separate and distinct legal systems.
- Domestic Legislative Processes: International obligations conflicting with domestic laws must undergo legislative processes for enforceability in courts.
- Separation of Powers: The judgment underscores the importance of the doctrine of separation of powers in judicially incorporating international obligations into domestic law.
Critical Analysis:
The court’s decision provides a robust interpretation of constitutional principles, ensuring that assumed international obligations align with domestic legal processes. The focus on the necessity of notifications for the implementation of MFN clauses reflects the court’s commitment to maintaining clarity and avoiding chaos in the tax system.
Key Examples and References:
- Article 73 and 253 of the Constitution: The judgment extensively refers to constitutional provisions such as Article 73 and Article 253 to establish the legal framework.
Way Forward:
- Legislative Precision: Policymakers should ensure precision in legislative processes, especially concerning the implementation of international obligations, to avoid legal ambiguities.
- Clarity in Notification: The executive should prioritize clarity in notifications, particularly when activating clauses contingent upon future events, to prevent interpretational challenges.
- Review of Existing Treaties: Periodic reviews of existing tax treaties to ensure they align with constitutional and statutory requirements and to address any potential issues related to conflicting obligations.
- Enhanced Diplomatic Engagement: Diplomatic efforts should focus on ensuring that assumed international obligations are seamlessly integrated into domestic legal frameworks to uphold constitutional principles.
The Supreme Court’s judgment serves as a guide for maintaining the sanctity of constitutional principles in the execution of international obligations, particularly in the context of tax treaties.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) JAM Trinity
Mains level: DBT's success
Key Highlights:
- India’s Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system lauded globally as a “logistical marvel.”
- DBT utilizes digital infrastructure to directly transfer government scheme benefits, covering 310 schemes across 53 ministries.
- The JAM Trinity (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile) post-2017-18 maximized DBT’s impact.
Dignity of the Poor:
- DBT’s overlooked benefit is its preservation of the dignity of the poor.
- Without corruption or leakages, DBT eliminates the need for the poor to parade for government benefits.
- Shift in approach—government benefits reaching the poor directly without intermediaries.
Poverty Perspectives and Historical Context:
- Discussion on poverty perspectives, referencing Michael Young’s “The Rise of The Meritocracy.”
- Challenge to the prevailing view that poverty is an individual’s fault, offering an alternative, rights-based approach.
- Advocacy for understanding poverty from an individual rights perspective and addressing historical contexts.
Rights-Based Approach to Poverty:
- Recognition of basic security rights for citizens regarding food, shelter, and health.
- Emphasis on shared societal responsibility for poverty, especially by the rich and elite.
- Contrast with technical solutions, highlighting the need to work with the poor.
Preserving Dignity in Design:
- Importance of not just providing benefits but also considering how they are delivered.
- DBT as a mechanism that ensures rightful benefits reach the poor while preserving their dignity.
- Elimination of the poverty parade with the government reaching the poor.
Replicating DBT Success:
- Suggestion to replicate the DBT design in other areas, with a focus on the judiciary.
- Reference to the judiciary’s challenges and an appeal to ensure justice reaches the poor efficiently.
- Call for collective efforts to address complex problems.
Challenges:
- Unquantifiable nature of preserving dignity makes it challenging to measure its impact.
- The need for broader societal shifts in perspectives on poverty and shared responsibilities.
Key Phrases:
- JAM Trinity (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile)
- Poverty parade
- Rights-based approach
- Shared societal responsibility
- Technical solutions vs. working with the poor
- Veil of ignorance (Rawlsian perspective)
- Dignity preservation in program design
Critical Analysis:
- Emphasis on the overlooked aspect of preserving dignity brings a unique perspective.
- The article challenges prevailing views on poverty, advocating for a rights-based approach.
- DBT is presented as a successful model, but challenges of replicating its success are acknowledged.
- The article connects poverty perspectives with societal responsibilities and justice delivery.
Key Examples and References for quality enrichment of mains answers:
- Michael Young’s “The Rise of The Meritocracy”
- The Tyranny of Experts by William Easterly
- Reference to the judiciary’s challenges and the appeal of the first woman tribal President.
Key Data and Facts:
- 310 government schemes across 53 ministries utilize DBT.
- Estimated savings of 1.14% of GDP attributed to DBT.
- 79,813 cases pending before 34 judges in the judiciary.
Key Terms:
- Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
- JAM Trinity
- Rights-based approach
- Poverty parade
- Veil of ignorance
- Shared societal responsibility
Way Forward:
- Advocacy for applying DBT’s success in other sectors, particularly the judiciary.
- Acknowledgment of complexity but a call for collective efforts to address challenges.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Composition of Constitution Benches
Mains level: Suggestion to split the Supreme Court into a Final Court of Appeal and a permanent Constitution Bench
Central idea
The article discusses the challenges faced by the Supreme Court of India, the historical proposals for structural changes, and the recent proposal to create Constitution Benches as a permanent feature. It explores the need for regional benches to alleviate the overwhelming caseload and enhance the court’s efficiency, considering historical recommendations and current demands for reform.
Jurisdictions of the Supreme Court:
- Original, appellate, and advisory jurisdictions under the Constitution.
- Functions as a Constitutional Court and Court of Appeal.
Composition of Constitution Benches:
- Typically comprise five, seven, or nine judges.
- Deliberate on issues related to constitutional law.
- Article 145(3) mandates a minimum of five judges for substantial constitutional questions.
Broad Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court:
- Hears cases in Division Benches (two judges) or full Benches (three judges).
- Addresses diverse topics, from film prohibitions to allegations against public officials.
- Notable instances of entertaining frivolous public interest litigations.
Current Caseload and Need for Structural Change:
- 79,813 pending cases before 34 judges, prompting calls for structural reforms.
- CJI D.Y. Chandrachud’s recent announcement on establishing varied-strength Constitution Benches permanently.
Historical Proposals for Structural Change:
- Tenth Law Commission (1984) proposed splitting the Supreme Court into Constitutional and Legal Divisions.
- Eleventh Law Commission (1988) reiterated the need for division, aiming at wider justice availability.
- Bihar Legal Support Society v. Chief Justice of India (1986) expressed the “desirability” of a National Court of Appeal.
- 229th Law Commission Report (2009) recommended regional benches for non-constitutional issues.
Colonial Legacy and Evolution of the Supreme Court:
- Three Supreme Courts during colonial times (Bombay, Calcutta, Madras).
- Indian High Courts Act of 1861 replaced Supreme Courts with High Courts.
- Government of India Act, 1935, created the Federal Court of India.
- The Supreme Court, established on January 28, 1950, under Article 124 of the Constitution.
Increasing Judges and Overburdened Court:
- Evolution of the Supreme Court from eight judges in 1950 to 34 in 2019.
- Overburdened court issuing around 8-10 decisions yearly through Constitution Benches.
- Only four out of 1,263 decisions in 2022 from Constitution Benches.
Critical Analysis:
- Overburdened Judiciary: High number of pending cases (79,813) indicates the burden on the Supreme Court. The overwhelming workload affects the efficiency of the court in delivering timely justice.
- Historical Proposals: Historical proposals, like the Tenth Law Commission’s suggestion in 1984, proposed splitting the Supreme Court into Constitutional and Legal Divisions.The aim was to make justice more accessible and reduce litigants’ fees.
- Regional Benches Proposal: The 229th Law Commission Report (2009) recommended establishing regional benches to hear non-constitutional issues. The proposal aimed to decentralize workload and allow the Supreme Court to focus on constitutional matters.
- Historical Background: Evolution of the Supreme Court from colonial times with the creation of regional Supreme Courts. Transformation from three Supreme Courts (Bombay, Calcutta, Madras) to the current centralized structure.
Key Examples and References:
- Bihar Legal Support Society v. Chief Justice of India (1986) suggested establishing a National Court of Appeal.
- The 229th Law Commission Report (2009) recommended regional benches.
Key Facts:
- The Court sits in benches of varying sizes, as determined by the Registry on the directions of the Chief Justice of India (CJI), who is the Master of the Roster
- The Supreme Court was founded on January 28, 1950, under Article 124 of the Constitution.
- Workforce increased from 8 judges in 1950 to 34 judges in 2019 due to rising caseload.
Way Forward:
- Suggestion to split the Supreme Court into a Final Court of Appeal and a permanent Constitution Bench.
- A Constitution Bench (V. Vasanthkumar v. H.C. Bhatia) analyzing and proposing measures to protect citizens’ access to the Supreme Court.
- Opportunity to address structural gaps by designating appeal benches as regional benches under CJI’s guidance.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: AAINA Dashboard
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has introduced the ‘AAINA Dashboard for Cities’ portal (aaina.gov.in).
About AAINA Dashboard
- The AAINA Dashboard is envisioned as a permanent platform for ULB-related data, with regular updates.
- It invites Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across India to voluntarily share their key data regularly through a user-friendly data entry form on the portal.
- The primary objectives of the AAINA Dashboard are:
- City Benchmarking: Enable cities to assess their performance relative to other cities.
- Inspiration: Inspire cities by identifying areas for improvement and showcasing possibilities.
- Peer Learning: Promote peer learning and engagement among cities.
Dashboard Structure
The AAINA Dashboard will categorize data submitted by ULBs into five key pillars:
- Political & Administrative Structure
- Finance
- Planning
- Citizen-Centric Governance
- Delivery of Basic Services
Data Submission Process
- ULBs will contribute their data, including audited accounts and self-reported performance metrics, by logging into the dashboard’s portal.
- ULBs will have the flexibility to update their information as needed, ensuring that the dashboard remains a dynamic and up-to-date resource.https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1976720
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Plant Eavesdropping
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The scent of freshly cut grass, more than just a pleasant aroma, is a part of a complex plant communication system involving Green Leaf Volatiles (GLVs).
- For plants, these GLVs are not just fragrances but crucial signals that alert them to imminent threats, such as herbivore attacks.
Concept of Plant Eavesdropping
- Inter-Plant Communication: Plants have the remarkable ability to ‘eavesdrop’ on the distress signals of their neighbors, preparing themselves for similar threats.
- Agricultural Implications: Understanding this natural warning system could revolutionize pest control in agriculture, potentially reducing the need for harmful pesticides.
Understanding Plant Defense Mechanisms
- Research involving mustard plants (Arabidopsis thaliana) has shown that calcium plays a crucial role in plant defense, with calcium levels spiking in response to damage.
- Using genetically modified plants that fluoresce in response to calcium surges, researchers have been able to visually track plant reactions to physical damage and GLV exposure.
- Experiments have demonstrated that plants can detect and respond to GLVs emitted by neighboring plants, as evidenced by fluorescence in modified mustard plants.
- Among the GLVs, specific compounds like E-2-HAL and Z-3-HAL were found to trigger significant responses in plants.
Gene-Level Defense Response
- Activation of Defense Genes: Exposure to GLVs leads to the activation of certain defence-related genes in plants, suggesting that they perceive these volatiles as danger signals.
- Implications for Plant Protection: This gene activation could be a crucial step in natural plant defense mechanisms against herbivores.
Implications and Future Directions
- Natural Pest Control: The study opens up possibilities for using GLVs in agricultural pest control, potentially reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.
- Alternative Strategies: While promising, researchers also consider other substances like jasmonic acid, balancing pest control with the plant’s growth and fruit production.
- Expanding Plant Sensory Research: The findings encourage further exploration into plant perception and response to external stimuli, particularly in natural environments where signaling dynamics are more complex.
- Challenges in Field Studies: One of the main challenges in studying plant volatile signaling in natural settings is the dilution of these compounds in the open air.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Amplifi 2.0 Portal
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in India has taken a significant step towards fostering data-driven policymaking by launching the Amplifi 2.0 portal.
Amplifi 2.0 Portal
- Amplifi 2.0 stands for Assessment and Monitoring Platform for Liveable, Inclusive, and Future-Ready Urban India portal.
- It was introduced by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
- This platform aims to provide easy access to raw data from Indian cities, facilitating researchers, academics, and stakeholders in their efforts to formulate informed urban policies.
- Currently, 258 urban local bodies have been onboarded, and data for 150 cities is accessible on the platform.
- Objectives:
- To make data from all 3,739 municipal corporations accessible through the portal.
- Offer a wide range of data, including total consumption, water quality testing, healthcare expenditure, slum population statistics, and road accident fatalities.
Significance
- Previously, the Ministry used data provided by civic bodies to rank cities based on four indices.
- These indices encompassed ease-of-living, municipal performance, climate smart cities assessment, and data maturity assessment.
- The government plans to release various reports based on subsets of these four indices, shifting towards a more data-centric approach.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Forward Bloc, Netaji's split from INC
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- A veteran leader’s centenary who was associated with Netaji Bose’s All Indian Forward Bloc (AIFB), was celebrated.
All Indian Forward Bloc (AIFB)
|
Details |
| Foundation |
May 3, 1939 by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at Makur near Unnao (Uttar Pradesh) |
| Original Purpose |
To consolidate left-wing elements within the Indian National Congress and develop an alternative leadership |
| Key Early Members |
S.S. Kavishar (Vice-President), Lal Shankarlal (General Secretary), Vishwambhar Dayalu Tripathi, Khurshed Nariman, Annapurniah, Senapati Bapat, Hari Vishnu Kamath, Pasumpon U. Muthuramalingam Thevar, Sheel Bhadra Yagee, Satya Ranjan Bakshi |
| First All India Conference |
June 20-22, 1940, in Nagpur; declared as a socialist political party |
| Publication |
“Forward Bloc” newspaper started by Netaji in August 1939 |
| Bose’s Arrest and Exile |
Arrested in July 1940, escaped in January 1941, sought support in the Soviet Union and Germany |
| World War II Activities |
Continued anti-British activities in India, notably in Bihar, without direct coordination with Bose or INA |
| Post-War Reorganization |
Reorganized in February 1946 in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh; declared as a socialist party |
| 1946 Elections |
Contested elections to the Constituent Assembly and provincial legislatures; won several seats |
| Arrah Conference |
2nd All India Conference in January 1947 in Arrah, Bihar |
| Post-Independence Status |
Re-established as an independent political party after India’s independence |
Try this PYQ:
Who among the following were the founders of the “Hind Mazdoor Sabha” established in 1948?
(a) B. Krishna Pillai, E.M.S. Namboodiripad and K.C. George
(b) Jayaprakash Narayan, Deen Dayal Upadhyay and M.N. Roy
(c) C.P. Ramaswamy Iyer, K. Kamaraj and Veeresalingam Pantulu
(d) Ashok Mehata, T.S. Ramanujan and G.G. Mehata
Post your answers here.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Biogas , Natural Gas, LPG
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The Centre plans to enhance its domestic energy sustainability by introducing mandatory blending of compressed biogas (CBG) with Natural Gas.
Mandatory Biogas Blending
This initiative aims to reduce the country’s reliance on natural gas imports and lower emissions.
- Initial Phase (April 2025): The mandatory blending of CBG with natural gas will begin at 1%. This blend will be suitable for use in automobiles and households.
- Progressive Increase (By 2028): The government plans to gradually increase the mandatory blending percentage to around 5% by 2028. This step will further reduce the dependence on pure natural gas.
Why such move?
- India is among the world’s largest importers of oil and gas, with nearly half of its gas consumption relying on imports.
- The blending initiative is designed to curb import costs and enhance energy security.
- These measures align with India’s broader objective of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
Comparative Analysis of Biogas, Natural Gas, and LPG
|
Biogas |
Natural Gas |
LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) |
| Composition |
Organic matter decomposition (mainly methane and CO2). |
Fossil fuel (primarily methane). |
Byproduct of natural gas processing (propane, butane). |
| Production |
Anaerobic digestion of organic waste. |
Extracted from underground, requires refining. |
Obtained during natural gas processing and refining. |
| Energy Content |
Lower due to high CO2 content. |
High, efficient for heating and power. |
High per volume, efficient in liquefied state. |
| Environmental Impact |
Renewable, carbon-neutral. |
Cleaner than coal/oil, but emits greenhouse gases. |
Fewer pollutants than gasoline/diesel, emits greenhouse gases. |
| Uses |
Heating, electricity, vehicle fuel, cooking in rural areas. |
Heating, electricity, industrial processes, vehicle fuel. |
Heating, cooking, vehicles, industrial applications. |
| Storage/Transport |
Stored as gas or liquid; requires tanks. |
Pipelines for gas; LNG for long-distance. |
Pressurized tanks as liquid. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Special Category Status
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Recently, Bihar govt passed a resolution seeking Special Category Status (SCS) for the state.
- This demand comes in light of the revelations from the “Bihar Caste-based Survey, 2022,” which unveiled that nearly one-third of Bihar’s population continues to grapple with poverty.
Special Category Status (SCS): An Overview
- Definition: SCS is a classification conferred by the Central government to support the development of states facing geographical or socio-economic disadvantages.
- Origins: SCS was instituted in 1969, based on the recommendations of the 5th Finance Commission (FC).
- Criteria: Five criteria are assessed before granting SCS, including factors like hilly terrain, low population density, and economic backwardness.
- Historical Allocation: Initially, three states—Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, and Nagaland—were granted SCS. Subsequently, eight more states, including Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, received this status.
Benefits of having SCS
- Financial Assistance: SCS states used to receive grants based on the Gadgil-Mukherjee formula, accounting for approximately 30% of total central assistance.
- Devolution of Funds: Post the abolition of the Planning Commission and the recommendations of the 14th and 15th FCs, SCS assistance has been subsumed into increased devolution of funds for all states (now 41% in the 15th FC).
- Funding Ratio: SCS states enjoy a favourable 90:10 Centre-State funding split for centrally sponsored schemes, compared to 60:40 or 80:20 for general category states.
- Additional Incentives: SCS states receive concessions in customs and excise duties, income tax rates, and corporate tax rates to attract investments.
Why Bihar’s Demand for SCS?
- Resource Challenges: Bihar attributes its poverty and underdevelopment to limited natural resources, irregular water supply for irrigation, recurring floods in the north, and severe droughts in the south.
- Industrial Shift: The state’s bifurcation led to the relocation of industries to Jharkhand, creating unemployment and investment voids.
- Per-Capita GDP: Bihar’s per-capita GDP, at around ₹54,000, consistently ranks among the lowest in India.
- Welfare Funding: Chief Minister Nitish Kumar asserts that Bihar houses approximately 94 lakh poor families and that SCS recognition would generate about ₹2.5 lakh crore, crucial for funding welfare initiatives over the next five years.
SCS Demands from Other States
- Andhra Pradesh: Since its bifurcation in 2014, Andhra Pradesh has sought SCS due to revenue loss post-Hyderabad’s transfer to Telangana.
- Odisha: Odisha’s appeal for SCS underscores its vulnerability to natural disasters, such as cyclones, and a significant tribal population (around 22%).
- Central Government’s Response: Despite these demands, the Central government, citing the 14th Finance Commission’s report, which recommended against granting SCS to any state, has consistently rejected them.
Is Bihar’s Demand Justified?
- Criteria Fulfillment: Bihar meets most SCS criteria but lacks hilly terrain and geographically difficult areas, crucial for infrastructural development.
- Alternative Solutions: In 2013, the Raghuram Rajan Committee proposed a ‘multi-dimensional index’ methodology instead of SCS, which could be revisited to address Bihar’s socio-economic challenges effectively.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kambala, Jallikattu
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Kambala races were held on this weekend in Bengaluru and many parts of Karnataka.
- This event has faced legal scrutiny in the past, with the Supreme Court temporarily outlawing Kambala, along with Jallikattu and bullock-cart racing, in 2014.
What is Kambala?
- Kambala is a folk sport predominantly practised in the coastal districts of Karnataka, especially where Tulu-speaking communities are prevalent.
- Traditionally, races were organized in slushy paddy fields post-harvest.
- The Kambala Samithi now hosts weekly events from late November to mid-April at various venues across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.
- For many, especially the Bunt community, Kambala is a prestigious event.
- Buffalo pairs are meticulously groomed throughout the year in the hopes of winning major races.
Different Kambala Categories
- Negilu (Plough): Entry-level buffalo pairs participate in their first Kambala race using lighter ploughs.
- Hagga (Rope): Jockeys race buffaloes with just a rope tied to both.
- Adda Halage: Participants stand on a horizontal plank dragged by buffaloes, unlike Hagga and Negilu where jockeys run behind.
- Kane Halage: A wooden plank tied to buffaloes, with water gushing out through holes as it’s dragged. The height of splashing water determines the winner.
Kambala’s Popularity across Karnataka
- While Kambala’s popularity is concentrated in coastal Karnataka, movies like ‘Kantara’ in 2022 have widened its appeal across the state.
- The film’s success is credited with generating interest in the sport, making it more popular even beyond its traditional strongholds.
- Historically, the Koraga community faced discrimination during Kambala events. They were considered “untouchable” and ill-treated.
- Critics argue that the sport is still dominated by higher caste groups, while lower caste individuals often perform menial tasks during the event.
Why was Kambala banned by the Supreme Court?
- Several organizations, including People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), alleged animal abuse during traditional sporting events.
- Concerns included the tying of buffalo noses with ropes and continuous whipping during races, seen as cruelty.
- The Supreme Court, hearing these petitions, banned Kambala, Jallikattu, and bullock-cart racing in 2014.
How was the ban lifted?
- In January 2016, the Environment Ministry issued a notification allowing the continuation of bull training for such traditional events, recognizing their cultural significance.
- Specific conditions were set to minimize bull suffering.
- State governments also amended the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, providing exemptions for these events.
- A five-judge constitutional bench upheld these amendments made by Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra governments in May.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ozone Layer and Ozone Hole
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Recent research published in the journal Nature Communications has revealed a concerning trend in the Antarctic ozone layer during mid-spring (October).
- Contrary to previously reported recovery trends in total ozone, the core of the Antarctic ozone in mid-spring has experienced a significant 26% reduction since 2004.
Ozone Layer and Ozone Hole
| Location |
Stratosphere, approximately 10-30 km above Earth’s surface. |
| Composition |
Composed of ozone (O3) molecules.
Unit of measurement: Dobsob Unit (DU) |
| Function |
Acts as a protective shield, absorbing and blocking a significant portion of harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. |
| Importance |
Essential for protecting life on Earth by preventing excessive UV radiation, which can harm living organisms and the environment. |
| Ozone-depleting Substances |
Threatened by ODS like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, and other synthetic compounds commonly used in refrigeration, air conditioning, and aerosol propellants. |
| Montreal Protocol |
An international treaty adopted in 1987 to phase out the production and consumption of ODS, resulting in significant recovery of the ozone layer. |
| Current Status |
The ozone layer is in the process of recovery due to the success of the Montreal Protocol. |
| Environmental Impact |
Protects ecosystems, prevents skin cancer, cataracts, and other health issues in humans. |
| Additional Facts |
• The size of the ozone hole over Antarctica varies annually, opening in August and closing in November or December.
• Special winds caused by the Earth’s rotation create a unique climate over Antarctica, preventing mixing with surrounding air.
• When these winds subside, the hole closes. |
Shift in Ozone Trends
- Mid-Spring Ozone Depletion: The study’s findings reveal a notable decline in mid-spring (October) ozone levels within the middle stratospheric layer, contrary to previous expectations of recovery.
- Early Spring Recovery: Surprisingly, early spring (September) still shows slight ozone increases or a modest recovery of the ozone hole.
Implications of Ozone Variability
- Antarctic Stratospheric Ozone: Antarctic stratospheric ozone plays a critical role in influencing climate patterns across the Southern Hemisphere.
- Understanding Ozone Variability: Ongoing research aims to understand the reasons behind the observed ozone variability, particularly in the context of the Southern Hemisphere’s atmospheric changes.
Key Findings
- Recovery Trends Re-evaluated: When considering satellite data from 2022, previously reported recovery trends in Antarctic spring total ozone, observed since 2001, no longer hold.
- Middle Stratosphere Impact: The middle stratosphere has witnessed continued, significant ozone reduction since 2004, culminating in a 26% loss within the core of the ozone hole.
- Potential Causes: The study suggests that changes in the mesosphere, the atmospheric layer above the stratosphere and the ozone layer, may be driving this reduction.
- Major triggers: Scientists speculate that the extensive ozone hole this year may be linked to volcanic eruptions in Hunga Tonga, Tonga, between December 2022 and January 2023.
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