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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    Rules that still manacle the captive elephant

    Explained | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Why in the News?

    The Captive Elephant (Transfer or Transport) Rules contain ambiguities that could enable the illegal trade of elephants.

    What are the current welfare standards for captive elephants?

    • Legal Framework: Elephants are protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, but enforcement is weak.
      • The Kerala High Court has issued directions to ensure compliance with the Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012, yet many elephants lack proper ownership documentation, indicating illegal possession.
    • Exploitation for Commercial Gain: Captive elephants are often used in religious festivals and tourism, which the Kerala High Court described as “commercial exploitation” devoid of concern for their well-being.
      • This exploitation is exacerbated by the competitive nature of temple festivals where the number of elephants paraded is prioritized over their welfare.
    • Physical and Psychological Impact: Captive elephants endure harsh conditions, including inadequate diets, lack of proper medical care, and exposure to stressful environments during festivals.
      • Mortality rates among captive elephants due to these factors is approximately 33% of recorded captive elephants in Kerala died between 2018 and 2024.

    What are the Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012? 

    • The rules for captive elephants mandate age-based definitions, housing space standards, nutritional requirements (e.g., 250 kg fodder for adults), regular health monitoring, and restrictions on using elephants in the musth.
    • A management committee oversees implementation, ensuring welfare through multi-department collaboration, including forestry, veterinary, and animal welfare representatives.

    What are the ambiguities in the Captive Elephant (Transfer or Transport) Rules?

    The Captive Elephant (Transfer or Transport) Rules, 2024, introduced by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC), aim to regulate the movement of captive elephants within and between states in India. However, these rules contain several ambiguities that raise concerns among animal rights activists and experts regarding their potential misuse

    • Ambiguity in Transfer Rules: Vague criteria for elephant transfers, such as inadequate care or potential for better maintenance, risk enabling unauthorized sales disguised as legitimate transactions.
    • Ownership Transfer Oversight: Shifting application responsibility to the deputy conservator of forests, instead of the CWW, weakens protections and facilitates improper transfers, potentially treating elephants as movable assets.
    • Transport Justification Gap: The absence of a requirement to justify temporary interstate transport allows leasing or renting of elephants, further commodifying and jeopardizing their welfare.
    • Weak Genetic Profiling: Despite mandates for recording genetic profiles, lax monitoring can enable illegal captures to be misrepresented as legitimate ownership.
    • Database Deficiency: The lack of a national database tracking ownership and genetic details of captive elephants hampers regulation and increases the risk of illegal transfers.
    • Inadequate Exploitation Safeguards: The rules fail to sufficiently prevent the commercial use of elephants in religious events or entertainment, incentivizing wild captures under false pretences.

    How do captivity conditions affect the physical and psychological well-being of elephants?

    • Physical Health: Elephants in captivity often suffer from malnutrition due to a poor diet that lacks the variety available in the wild. For instance, some are only fed glucose-rich fodder instead of a balanced diet.
    • Psychological Well-being: The social nature of elephants means that isolation and abusive training methods can lead to severe psychological distress. The use of capture belts and other coercive training devices has been criticized for causing both physical and emotional harm.
    • High Incidence of Distress: Anecdotal evidence suggests that captive elephants frequently exhibit signs of distress, including aggressive behavior or attempts to escape, which can endanger both themselves and surrounding humans.

    What reforms are necessary to improve the management and care of captive elephants? (Way forward)

    • Strengthening Regulation: There is a need for clearer regulations to prevent the commercial exploitation of elephants. The current rules allow for ownership transfers without prohibiting commercial transactions, which could facilitate illegal wildlife trade.
    • Implementation of Humane Practices: Mandating humane birth control measures and prohibiting the use of live elephants in entertainment could help reduce the number entering captivity.
      • Alternatives like electronic simulations could replace live elephants in religious ceremonies.
    • Monitoring and Accountability: The rules should require post-mortem examinations for deceased elephants during transfers to ensure accountability.
    • Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborative efforts involving civil society, government bodies, and NGOs are essential to develop comprehensive guidelines that prioritize elephant welfare over commercial interests.

    Mains question for practice:

    Q Discuss the ambiguities in the Captive Elephant (Transfer or Transport) Rules, 2024 and suggest reforms needed to address these issues. (250 words) 15M

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  • China approves dam over Brahmaputra

    Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

    China approves dam over Brahmaputra

    Why in the News?

    China has announced the construction of world’s largest dam on the Brahmaputra River (known as Yarlung Zangbo in Tibet), sparking concerns in India and Bangladesh, the lower riparian states.

    About the Dam

    • This project is part of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) and its long-term development strategy through 2035.
    • The dam will be constructed in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River in Tibet, near the Indian border.
    • It is situated at a massive gorge in the Himalayas, where the river takes a U-turn to flow into Arunachal Pradesh and then to Bangladesh.
    • Its investment exceeds $137 billion, dwarfing any other infrastructure project, including China’s Three Gorges Dam.
    Three Gorges Dam: It is a hydroelectric gravity dam that spans the Yangtze River near Sandouping in Yiling District, Yichang, Hubei province, central China, downstream of the Three Gorges.

    What are the concerns associated with the Dam Construction?

    • Geopolitical Control: China’s ability to regulate water flow raises fears of disruption and misuse during conflicts.
    • Environmental Impact: Risks to biodiversity, sediment flow, and downstream ecosystems in a fragile Himalayan zone.
    • Seismic Hazards: The dam’s location on a tectonic plate boundary increases earthquake risks.
    • Livelihood Disruption: Potential harm to agriculture, fishing, and local communities dependent on the river.
    • Transparency Issues: Limited data sharing and unilateral decisions heighten distrust among riparian states.

    PYQ:

    [2011] The Brahmaputra, Irrawady and Mekong rivers originate in Tibet and flow it through narrow and parallel mountain ranges in their upper reaches. Of these rivers, Brahmaputra makes a “U” turn in its course to flow into India. This “U” turn is due to:

    (a) Uplift of folded Himalayan series

    (b) Syntaxial bending of geologically young Himalayas

    (c) Geo-tectonic disturbance in the tertiary folded mountain chains

    (d) Both (A) and (B) above

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: United Nations

    UNGA adopts 10-Year Action Plan for Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs)

    IOCR | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Important International Institutions

    Why in the News?

    The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a 10-Year Action Plan for Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), aiming to address their unique challenges.

    UNGA adopts 10-Year Action Plan for Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs)

    Key Targets of the 10-Year Action Plan for LLDCs (2024–2034):

    The Programme of Action for LLDCs aims to address their unique challenges through targeted actions across 5 priority areas:

    • Structural Transformation and Innovation:
      • Promote economic diversification and industrialization.
      • Advance science, technology, and innovation to enhance productivity and competitiveness.
    • Trade Facilitation and Regional Integration:
      • Simplify and enhance trade processes to improve access to global markets.
      • Strengthen participation in regional and global trade agreements.
      • Reduce trade costs through better policies and infrastructure.
    • Transit, Transport, and Connectivity:
      • Develop and modernize transit infrastructure, such as roads, railways, and ports.
      • Improve connectivity to reduce dependence on neighboring countries.
      • Enhance customs procedures to ensure smoother transit of goods.
    • Resilience to Climate Change and Disasters:
      • Build adaptive capacities to address vulnerabilities caused by climate change.
      • Develop strategies to reduce disaster risks and mitigate environmental challenges.
    • Means of Implementation:
      • Mobilize financial resources, technical assistance, and international support.
      • Foster partnerships among governments, international organizations, and private sectors.

    What Are Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs)?

    • LLDCs are nations that lack access to a coastline and are surrounded by neighboring countries.
    • Currently, there are 32 LLDCs, primarily in Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America.
    • List of LLDCs:
      1. Africa: Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Lesotho, Malawi, Mali, Niger, Rwanda, South Sudan, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
      2. Asia: Afghanistan, Bhutan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Mongolia, Nepal, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan.
      3. Europe: Armenia, Azerbaijan, North Macedonia, Moldova, Serbia.
      4. South America: Bolivia, Paraguay.
    • Challenges Faced by LLDCs:
      • High Trade Costs: LLDCs face 1.4 times higher trade costs than coastal nations due to dependence on neighboring countries for transit and lengthy customs procedures.
      • Limited Market Access: Lack of direct access to global markets restricts their ability to compete internationally and increases transportation costs.
      • Infrastructure Deficits: Poor road, rail, and communication networks hinder connectivity and efficient trade operations.
      • Climate Vulnerability: LLDCs are highly susceptible to climate change impacts like droughts and floods, with limited resources to mitigate risks.
      • Economic and Political Dependence: Over-reliance on transit countries for trade routes leads to geopolitical challenges and limits economic diversification.

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  • Cyber Security – CERTs, Policy, etc

    UNGA adopts milestone Cybercrime Treaty

    IOCR | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Cyber Security

    Why in the News?

    The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has adopted a legally binding treaty on cybercrime, marking the culmination of a five-year effort by Member States. This is the first international criminal justice treaty negotiated in over 20 years.

    About UN Convention against Cybercrime: Important Facts

    • The UN Convention against Cybercrime is a legally binding treaty adopted by the UN General Assembly in December 2024.
    • Its primary aim is to prevent and combat cybercrime, enhance international cooperation, and protect human rights in cyberspace.
    • The convention was finalized after five years of negotiations and unanimously adopted by all 193 UN member states.
    • A signing ceremony is scheduled for 2025 in Hanoi, Vietnam.
    • Key Provisions:
    1. Addressing Cybercrime:
      • Targets crimes like terrorism, human trafficking, financial fraud, drug smuggling, and data theft facilitated by ICT platforms.
    2. Victim-Centric Approach:
      • Focuses on protecting victims, particularly vulnerable groups, and ensuring they receive justice.
    3. International Cooperation:
      • Promotes evidence-sharing, joint investigations, and capacity-building among Member States.
    4. Safeguarding Human Rights:
      • Balances the need for cybersecurity with the protection of freedom of expression, privacy, and access to information.
    5. Adaptability:
      • Allows for additional protocols to address emerging cyber threats, ensuring the convention remains relevant.
    6. Capacity-Building:
      • Provides support to develop cybercrime legislation, build infrastructure, and enhance law enforcement capabilities in Member States.
    7. Public Awareness:
      • Encourages global education campaigns and proactive measures to prevent cyber offenses.

    Significance:

    • Landmark in International Law: Marks the first international criminal justice treaty in over 20 years, representing a global commitment to cybersecurity.
    • Strengthening Cybersecurity: Offers tools and mechanisms to mitigate ICT-enabled threats that undermine global security and economies.
    • Protecting Vulnerable Groups: Emphasizes justice and protection for marginalized communities affected by online crimes.
    • Economic and Social Benefits: Preserves global economies, promotes investment in cybersecurity infrastructure, and safeguards individuals.
    • Flexibility for Future Threats: Incorporates provisions for additional protocols to handle new challenges, such as AI-driven cyber threats.

    PYQ:

    [2022] What are the different elements of cyber security? Keeping in view the challenges in cyber security, examine the extent to which India has successfully developed a comprehensive National Cyber Security Strategy.

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  • In news: Greenland

    World Mapping | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Effect Of Policies & Politics Of World On India’S Interests

    Why in the News?

    US President-elect Donald Trump has once again expressed interest in buying Greenland, and Greenland has again stated it is not for sale.

    In news: Greenland

    Why is the US so much interested in Greenland?

    • Greenland is strategically located in the North Atlantic Ocean, between Europe and North America, and across the Baffin Bay from Canada.
      • The US maintains a large air base in Greenland, the Pituffik Space Base (formerly Thule Air Base).
    • From here, the US can monitor and counter missile threats from Russia, China, and North Korea.
    • Greenland is abundant in rare earth minerals, critical for manufacturing electronics, electric vehicles, and weapons.
    • Melting ice caps due to global warming are opening new shipping routes in the Arctic.
      • Greenland’s position is crucial for controlling these waterways, with the US seeking to limit Russian and Chinese influence in the region.

    Greenland: Everything you need to know

    Details
    About 
    • World’s largest island, located in the North Atlantic Ocean between Europe and North America; part of the Kingdom of Denmark.
    • An autonomous territory within Denmark, managing domestic affairs, while Denmark oversees defense, foreign policy, and some economic matters.
    • Population: ~57,000, primarily Inuit communities, concentrated along the coast.
    • Transitioned from a Danish colony to self-rule in 1979, gaining further autonomy in 2009.
    Geographical Features
    • Covers 2.16 million square kilometers, with ~80% under the Greenland Ice Sheet, a critical focus for studying climate change and sea-level rise.
    • Predominantly Arctic climate, with freezing temperatures most of the year; milder summers in the southern coastal areas.
    • Rich in rare earth minerals, iron ore, zinc, lead, and uranium, making it geopolitically significant.
    • Banned uranium mining in 2021 for environmental reasons.
    Political Features
    • Has its own parliament (Inatsisartut) and prime minister overseeing domestic policies; Denmark controls foreign relations and defense.
    • Closely tied to Denmark, with Danish subsidies accounting for ~60% of Greenland’s budget.
    • Some political groups advocate for full independence, though economic dependence complicates this goal.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] Consider the following countries :

    1. Denmark
    2. Japan
    3. Russian Federation
    4. United Kingdom
    5. United States of America

    Which of the above are the members of the ‘Arctic Council ‘?

    (a) 1, 2 and 3

    (b) 2, 3 and 4

    (c) 1, 4 and 5

    (d) 1, 3 and 5

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  • Economic Indicators and Various Reports On It- GDP, FD, EODB, WIR etc

    Architect of Indian Economic Reforms passes way

    Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth

    Why in the News?

    People around the world paid tribute to Dr. Manmohan Singh, known for opening up India’s economy and making it a global player, who passed away at the age of 92.

    How did Manmohan Singh’s reforms transform India’s economic landscape?

    • 1991 Economic Liberalization (LPG):  He abolished the “License Raj,” which required businesses to seek government approvals for setting up industries.
      • Example: The IT sector flourished, with companies like Infosys and Wipro gaining international prominence.
    • Tax Reforms and Currency Devaluation: Singh’s government implemented substantial tax cuts and devalued the Indian rupee to enhance competitiveness.
      • Example: Corporate tax was reduced from 50% (pre-1991) to around 35% by the mid-1990s, boosting business sentiment.
    • Welfare Schemes: Alongside economic liberalisation, Singh’s administration introduced welfare initiatives aimed at sharing the benefits of growth with the rural poor, thereby addressing socio-economic disparities.
      • Introduced schemes like MGNREGA (2005) and expanded rural credit, improving employment and poverty alleviation.
      • Poverty rates dropped from 37.2% (2004-05) to 21.9% (2011-12), and India’s middle class expanded significantly due to higher income levels.
    • Economy growth: As Finance Minister, in 1991 economic reforms addressed the balance-of-payments crisis by reducing the fiscal deficit from 8.4% of GDP (1991) to 5.7% (1993) and reviving GDP growth from 1.1% (1991-92) to 5.3% (1992-93) through measures such as dismantling industrial licensing, devaluing the rupee, and encouraging foreign investment.

    How did he left a lasting imprint on external relations?

    • US-India Civil Nuclear Deal (2008): He played a pivotal role in finalising the Civil Nuclear Agreement, which ended India’s nuclear isolation and strengthened strategic ties with the United States.
      • It also marked a shift in global recognition of India as a responsible nuclear power.
    • Strengthening India’s Strategic Partnerships: Deepened ties with major global powers, including the US, EU, Japan, and Russia, enhancing India’s diplomatic and economic engagement globally.
    • Championing India’s Role in Global Governance: Advocated for reforms in international institutions like the UN, IMF, and World Bank to reflect the rising stature of emerging economies, particularly India.
      • His leadership elevated India’s voice in global forums like G20 and BRICS.
    • Focus on Regional and Economic Integration: Fostered closer economic and diplomatic ties with ASEAN, SAARC nations, and other Asian neighbours, reinforcing India’s position in regional trade and security frameworks.
      • His outreach contributed to India’s Act East Policy and improved relations with key partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

    Conclusion: The Indian government should embrace Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy by prioritizing bold economic reforms, fostering global partnerships, and championing inclusive growth. Emphasizing strategic investments in infrastructure, skilling, and technology while deepening ties with regional and global partners can sustain long-term growth, reduce disparities, and solidify India’s leadership in global governance.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Has the Indian governmental system responded adequately to the demands of Liberalization, Privatization and Globalization started in 1991? What can the government do to be responsive to this important change? (UPSC IAS/2016)

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  • Cyber Security – CERTs, Policy, etc

    In the Pegasus case, a stark difference in the efficiency of law enforcement in India and the US

    Explained | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Cyber Security

    Why in the News?

    The US court ruling found the maker of Pegasus spyware guilty of hacking WhatsApp, while in India, the investigation ended quietly without any results.

    What are the implications of the US court ruling against NSO Group?

    • Legal Accountability Established: The US District Court’s ruling that NSO Group is liable for hacking WhatsApp users marks a significant legal precedent. It affirms that private companies engaged in illegal surveillance can be held accountable in a court of law, which may encourage other jurisdictions to take similar actions against such entities.
    • Protection of Privacy Rights: The ruling underscores the importance of user privacy and proprietary technology protection. It emphasizes that courts can act decisively to safeguard individual rights against corporate malfeasance, setting a standard for privacy protection that could influence global norms.
    • Pressure on NSO Group: The verdict amplifies economic and operational pressures on NSO Group, potentially leading to stricter regulations and oversight of surveillance technology firms worldwide. This could deter similar future actions by other companies in the industry.

    Why has India’s inquiry into the Pegasus allegations been ineffective?

    • Government Evasion: The Indian government’s refusal to confirm or deny the use of Pegasus spyware has significantly hampered any meaningful investigation. This silence has been framed as a matter of national security but is perceived as a deliberate evasion of accountability.
    • Lack of Cooperation: The Supreme Court’s appointed committee faced challenges due to the government’s lack of cooperation.
      • Key stakeholders like WhatsApp and Apple were not compelled to provide evidence or testimony, limiting the committee’s ability to draw conclusive findings.
    • Judicial Delays and Inaction: India’s judicial system is plagued by delays and inefficiencies, which have further stalled inquiries into Pegasus. Parliamentary debates have devolved into unproductive exchanges, failing to generate actionable outcomes.

     

    What are the legislations related to spyware attacks in India?

    • Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act):
      • Section 43: Criminalizes unauthorized access to computer systems and networks, making hacking a punishable offense.
      • Section 66: Addresses cybercrime and provides penalties for violations of computer-related laws.
      • Section 69: Allows government agencies to intercept data on grounds of national security but does not authorize the installation of spyware like Pegasus on devices without proper oversight.
    • Information Technology (Procedure and Safeguards for Interception, Monitoring and Decryption of Information) Rules, 2009: These rules require that no interception can occur without the direction and approval of a competent authority, aiming to provide some level of oversight.
    • Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA): Recently passed in 2023, this act has faced criticism for allegedly providing legal cover for state surveillance while lacking robust protections for individual privacy rights. Critics argue that its vague language allows for arbitrary government.

    What should be the next steps for Indian authorities following the US verdict? (Way forward)

    • Reinitiate Investigations: Indian authorities should consider reopening investigations into Pegasus with renewed vigour, leveraging insights from the US court ruling. This includes calling for transparency from technology companies involved in the case.
    • Engage with Stakeholders: Authorities should actively engage with WhatsApp, Apple, and other relevant parties to gather comprehensive evidence regarding the spyware’s use in India. This collaboration is crucial for establishing accountability.
    • Legislative Reforms: There is an urgent need for systemic reforms in surveillance laws and practices in India. Authorities should work towards creating robust frameworks that protect citizens’ privacy rights and establish clear guidelines for state surveillance activities.
    • Public Disclosure: To rebuild public trust, it is essential for the government to disclose findings from previous inquiries and commit to transparency moving forward. This includes making reports from technical committees publicly available

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Discuss different types of cyber crimes and measures required to be taken to fight the menace. (UPSC IAS/2020)

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  • Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

    Communist Party of India (CPI)

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Modern Indian History

    Why in the News?

    December 26, 2024, marks the 100th foundation day of the Communist Party of India (CPI). The CPI has played a pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle, social reforms, and political evolution.

    About the Communist Party of India (CPI)

    • Reasons for Formation:
      • Founded on December 26, 1925, at the Kanpur Conference, inspired by the 1917 Russian Revolution.
      • Earlier efforts included the Tashkent group (1920) led by M.N. Roy and Abani Mukherji, supported by the Comintern (Communist International).
      • Faced early repression through cases like:
        • Kanpur Bolshevik Conspiracy Case (1924).
        • Meerut Conspiracy Case (1929–1933).
      • Dissatisfaction with Gandhian methods and moderate nationalism.
      • Inspiration from the Soviet Revolution (1917) and global socialist movements.
    • Split (1964):
      • Ideological rift during the Cold War over alignment with the Soviet Union or China.
      • Led to the creation of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPI(M).

    Prominent Leaders and Key Contributions

    • Prominent Leaders:
      • M.N. Roy (1920s): Founder of the Tashkent group; advocated socialism and anti-colonialism.
      • Abani Mukherji (1920s): Drafted the Indian Communist Manifesto.
      • S.A. Dange (1924): Founding CPI member; labour leader implicated in the Kanpur Conspiracy Case.
      • Muzaffar Ahmed (1920s): Mobilized workers and peasants; key figure in AITUC (1920).
      • Shaukat Usmani (1920s–1930s) and M. Singaravelu (1925): Early CPI activists.
    • Key Contributions:
      • Demand for Poorna Swaraj (1927):
        • Advocated for complete independence, influencing the Indian National Congress (INC).
      • Workers and Peasants Movements (1920s–1950s):
        • Mobilized workers through AITUC (1920) and peasants through All India Kisan Sabha (1936).
        • Led uprisings like the Telangana Rebellion (1946–1951).
      • Opposition to British Rule (1920s–1947):
        • Organized strikes and protests during the Quit India Movement (1942).
    • Achievements of CPI
      • In the First Lok Sabha (1952–57), CPI was the single largest opposition party.
      • In 1957, CPI won the state elections in Kerala, becoming the first democratically elected communist government in independent India.
    Note: The All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), India’s oldest trade union federation, was founded in 1920 by Lala Lajpat Rai and others in Bombay to represent India at the ILO (International Labour Organisation).

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following events:

    1. The first democratically elected communist party government was formed in a State in India.
    2. India’s then largest bank, ‘Imperial Bank of India’, was renamed ‘State Bank of India’.
    3. Air India was nationalised and became the national carrier.
    4. Goa became a part of independent India.

    Which of the following is the correct chronological sequence of the above events?

    (a) 4 – 1 – 2 – 3

    (b) 3 – 2 – 1 – 4

    (c) 4 – 2 – 1 – 3

    (d) 3 – 1 – 2 – 4

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  • The Crisis In The Middle East

    United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF)

    IOCR | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: International Institutions

    Why in the News?

    UN Secretary-General paid tribute to Brigadier General Amitabh Jha of India, who died serving with the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan Heights.

    About United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF)

    • The UNDOF is a peacekeeping mission established by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to oversee the implementation of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Syria following the 1973 Yom Kippur War.
      • The Yom Kippur War (October 6-24, 1973) was fought between Egypt and Israel (in the Sinai) and Israel and Syria (in the Golan Heights).
    • It operates in the Golan Heights, a region of strategic importance and long-standing contention.
    • The UNSC formally established UNDOF under Resolution 350 to:
    1. Maintain the ceasefire.
    2. Supervise the disengagement of forces.
    3. Monitor the separation zones established by the agreement.
    • UNDOF became operational on June 6, 1974, with an initial deployment of approximately 1,200 personnel.
    • Its mandate is renewed every 6 months by the UNSC, emphasizing its ongoing role in maintaining stability.

    Structural Mandate and Functions

    UNDOF’s core responsibilities include:

    • Ceasefire Maintenance:
      • Monitor and ensure adherence to the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Syria.
    • Supervision of Disengagement:
      • Oversee the withdrawal of forces to their respective areas as per the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement.
    • Monitoring Areas of Separation and Limitation:
      • Area of Separation (AOS):
        • A demilitarized zone controlled by UNDOF, where no military activity is permitted.
        • Approx. 80 km long, ranging from 200 m to 8 km wide.
        • Marked by barrel lines for identification on the ground.
      • Areas of Limitation:
        • Zones on both Israeli and Syrian sides where the number of troops and types of weapons are restricted.

    Functions:

    • Observation and Reporting:
      • Monitor troop movements and ensure no violations of the agreement occur.
      • Regularly report to the UN Secretary-General and the UNSC on ground conditions.
    • Civilian Assistance: Facilitate the return of Syrian civilians to their homes in the AOS under the agreement.
    • Verification of Compliance: Conduct inspections to ensure adherence to restrictions in Areas of Limitation.
    • Confidence-Building Measures: Act as a neutral party to reduce tensions between Israel and Syria.
    • Liaison Services: Maintain open communication channels between Israeli and Syrian forces to prevent misunderstandings or escalation.

    PYQ:

    [2015] The area known as ‘Golan Heights’ sometimes appears in the news in the context of the events is related to:

    (a) Central Asia

    (b) Middle East

    (c) South-East Asia

    (d) Central Africa

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  • Animal Husbandry, Dairy & Fisheries Sector – Pashudhan Sanjivani, E- Pashudhan Haat, etc

    Matsya Seva Kendras

    Schemes | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Economics Of Animal-Rearing

    Why in the News?

    India’s fisheries sector, contributing to the livelihoods of over 3 crore fishers and producing a record 175 lakh tons of fish in 2022-23, is being strengthened through initiatives like Matsya Seva Kendras.

    About Matsya Seva Kendra (MSK)

    • MSKs are one-stop centers established under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to support fishers and fish farmers.
    • They provide a wide range of technical, advisory, and capacity-building services aimed at modernizing the fisheries sector and ensuring sustainable practices.
    • Role of MSKs:
      • Offer water, soil, and microbial analysis to address disease management and improve aquaculture productivity.
      • Conduct capacity-building programs for fishers, focusing on sustainable practices and advanced aquaculture techniques.
      • Empower women and weaker sections with 60% financial assistance for setting up MSKs.
      • Mobilize start-ups, cooperatives, and fish farmer producer organizations to share best practices.
      • Promote regenerative and conservation practices to tackle challenges posed by climate change.

    About Pradhan Mantri Matsya Samapada Yojana (PMMSY):

    • The scheme aims to bring about a Blue Revolution through sustainable and responsible development of India’s fisheries sector.
    • It was launched as part of the ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’ package with an investment of ₹20,050 crore, the highest-ever allocation for the fisheries sector.
    • It is implemented across all States and Union Territories from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25.
    • It provides insurance coverage, financial assistance, and Kisan Credit Card (KCC) facilities to fishers.
    • It is implemented as an umbrella scheme with two components:
      • Central Sector Scheme: Entirely funded by the Central Government.
      • Centrally Sponsored Scheme: Cost shared between the Centre and States/UTs.

    How Do Sagar Mitras Support Fishers?

    • Sagar Mitras act as a vital link between the government and sea-borne fishers, facilitating access to information and resources in coastal regions.
    • Role of Sagar Mitras:
      • Collect data on marine catch, price trends, and market requirements.
      • Provide updates on local regulations, weather conditions, and potential fishing zones.
      • Educate fishers on hygienic fish handling, sustainable fishing techniques, and compliance with regulatory measures.
      • Act as a key contact during emergencies, offering information on natural calamities and safety protocols.

    PYQ:

    [2018] Defining the Blue Revolution, explain the problems and strategies of fisheries in India. 

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