Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Great Pacific Garbage Patch
Mains level: Not Much
Central idea: The article reports on a recent study which found evidence that coastal life forms have colonized plastic items in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a vast area in the North Pacific Ocean where plastic waste has accumulated due to ocean currents.
What is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP)?
|
Features |
| Location |
North Pacific Subtropical Gyre (NPSG), north of the equator in the Pacific Ocean |
| Currents |
Kuroshio, North Pacific, California, and North Equatorial currents, moving in a clockwise direction |
| Sources |
Any trash that enters one of these currents from any of the 51 Pacific Rim countries |
| Size |
Estimated to be 1.6 million sq. km |
| Age |
More than 50 years old |
| Plastic Content |
Estimated to contain 45,000-129,000 metric tonnes of plastic, predominantly in the form of microplastics |
| Visible Objects |
Heavier, more visible objects that haven’t yet broken down into smaller particles accounted for 92% in 2018 |
Findings of the new study
- Researchers from Canada, the Netherlands, and the U.S. have reported that coastal life forms have colonized plastic items in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.
- From November 2018 to January 2019, they collected 105 pieces of plastic debris, the most heavily plastic-polluted ocean gyre on the globe.
- Based on studying them, they reported that 98% of the debris items had invertebrate organisms.
Plastic inflicting into a coastal organism
- Organisms found on coasts were getting by on small floating islands of garbage out in the Pacific Ocean, which the researchers named the neopelagic community.
- They found organisms belonging to 46 taxa, and 37 of them were coastal; the rest were pelagic. Among both coastal and pelagic organisms, crustaceans were the most common.
- Nearly all taxa were of Northwest Pacific origin, including Japan.
- Eight of the remainder were from East Asia and five specifically from Japan. Four items were from North America.
- They found that 68% of the coastal taxa and 33% of the pelagic taxa reproduced asexually and that there was evidence of sexual reproduction among the hydroids and the crustaceans, among others.
Implications of the findings
- Marine plastic pollution has given rise to a new kind of standing coastal community in the open ocean.
- The neopelagic community is not misplaced but lives on plastic items in the garbage patch, including reproducing there.
- The finding recalls other studies that show the chemical bonding of plastic with rocks, sedimentary rocks embedded with plastic earrings in Brazil, and the formation of plastiglomerates in Hawaii.
What is neopelagic community?
- The neopelagic community refers to the group of organisms that inhabit the open ocean or the pelagic zone beyond the continental shelf.
- It is characterized by deep waters with very few physical structures or substrate for organisms to attach to.
- This community includes a wide variety of organisms, including zooplankton, fish, squid, and marine mammals, among others.
- These organisms have adapted to survive in the open ocean environment, which can be quite challenging due to factors such as temperature fluctuations, limited food availability, and the absence of physical structures for shelter.
- The neopelagic community is an important part of the global marine ecosystem, playing a key role in nutrient cycling and energy transfer between different levels of the food chain.
|
GPGP and its impact on marine life
- The GPGP has significant impacts on marine life due to the ingestion of plastic by marine animals, which can cause harm and even death.
- Plastic can also entangle and suffocate marine animals, leading to the disruption of ecosystems.
- The new study sheds light on the neopelagic community, which has adapted to living on plastic in the garbage patch.
Plastic pollution and its environmental impact
- Plastic pollution is a major environmental issue that affects land and water ecosystems worldwide.
- Plastic waste can take hundreds of years to decompose, and even then, it breaks down into microplastics that can persist in the environment indefinitely.
- The presence of plastic in the environment has negative impacts on biodiversity, ecosystem function, and human health.
Conclusion
- There are various solutions to plastic pollution, including reducing the use of single-use plastics, recycling, and promoting alternative materials.
- Governments and industries can also take steps to reduce plastic waste, such as implementing policies and regulations that reduce plastic use and increase recycling.
- Individual actions, such as reducing personal plastic consumption and properly disposing of plastic waste, can also make a difference.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Polar Crown Prominence (PCP)
Mains level: Not Much
Central idea: The article talks about an astrophotographer named Andrew McCarthy capturing an image of a plasma waterfall on the sun. The phenomenon is called Polar Crown Prominence (PCP).
Polar Crown Prominence (PCP)
- PCP is a solar phenomenon that occurs on the sun’s Polar Regions.
- It is a type of solar prominence, which is a large, bright, gaseous feature that extends out from the sun’s surface.
- A solar prominence is a large, bright, gaseous feature that extends out from the sun’s surface.
- It is made up of ionized gas (plasma) that is held in place by magnetic fields.
- Prominences are visible during total solar eclipses and can also be observed using specialized telescopes.
- PCPs are often associated with sunspots, which are dark regions on the sun’s surface that are caused by magnetic activity.
How are PCPs Formed?
- PCPs are formed by the interaction of magnetic fields on the sun’s surface.
- Magnetic fields are created by the movement of charged particles (plasma) in the sun’s interior.
- When these magnetic fields interact, they can create regions of intense magnetic activity, such as sunspots.
- PCPs are often associated with these regions of magnetic activity.
Why are PCPs Important?
- PCPs are important because they provide clues about the sun’s magnetic activity and how it affects the Earth’s environment.
- Solar activity, including PCPs, can cause disturbances in the Earth’s magnetic field, which can lead to auroras and disruptions in communication systems.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mangrove Pitta Bird
Mains level: Not Much
Central idea: The article talks about the first-ever census of mangrove pitta birds conducted in two coastal districts of Odisha, India.
About Mangrove Pitta
- The mangrove pitta (Pitta megarhyncha) belongs to the family of pittas, the Pittidae.
- The mangrove pitta species is distributed in India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia.
- These pitta species have fragmented distribution and considered ‘Near Threatened’ by IUCN. These pittas are monotypic species.
Focus of the Census
- In this census, a total of 179 individual mangrove pitta birds were counted.
- The census mainly focused on the mangrove patches along the coasts of Kendrapara and Jagatsingpur districts.
- Information was collected on the distribution, habitat, and breeding of mangrove pittas along the coastal mangroves.
- The census was carried out by point count method, either by walking in the forest or using country boats in the creeks.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: EC, Political parties and related provisions
Central Idea
- The Election Commission of India (EC) recently revised its list of recognised national and state parties.
The EC’s decision
- The EC recognised AAP as a national party and revoked the national party status of TMC, NCP and CPI.
- It also revoked the state party status granted to Rashtriya Lok Dal in Uttar Pradesh, Bharat Rashtra Samithi in Andhra Pradesh, People’s Democratic Alliance (Manipur), Pattali Makkal Katchi (Puducherry), Revolutionary Socialist Party (West Bengal) and Mizoram People’s Conference (Mizoram).
- The EC laid down strict technical criteria for a party to be recognised as a national party, based entirely on its electoral performance. A party may gain or lose national/state party status from time to time, depending on the fulfilment of these conditions.
Process of recognition and derecognition
- Election Symbols Order, 1968: The process of recognition and derecognition is stipulated under the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968, which lays down the criteria for recognition as a national or state party.
- Specific stipulations: The order has specific stipulations which also find concurrence in the EC’s Political Parties and Election Symbols, 2019 Handbook.
- Based on poll performance: The EC’s decision was based on a review of the parties’ poll performances since 2014.
What is a National Party?
- The name suggests that a national party would be one that has a presence ‘nationally’, as opposed to a regional party whose presence is restricted to only a particular state or region.
- National parties are usually India’s bigger parties.
- However, some smaller parties, like the communist parties, are also recognised as national parties.
- A certain stature is sometimes associated with being a national party, but this does not necessarily translate into having a lot of national political clout.
| Criteria |
National Party |
State Party |
| At least 6% of valid votes in 4+ states OR 4 Lok Sabha seats from at least 3 states OR recognition as a state party in at least 4 states |
✓ |
|
| 2% of all Lok Sabha seats in the last such election, with MPs elected from at least three states. |
✓ |
|
| Two seats plus a 6% vote share in the last Assembly election in that state |
|
✓ |
| One seat plus a 6% vote share in the last Lok Sabha election from that state |
|
✓ |
| 3% of the total Assembly seats or 3 seats, whichever is more. |
|
✓ |
| One of every 25 Lok Sabha seats (or an equivalent fraction) from a state. |
|
✓ |
| An 8% state-wide vote share in either the last Lok Sabha or the last Assembly polls. |
|
✓ |
Benefits of recognition as a national party
| Benefit |
Description |
| Election symbol |
The election symbol of the party will remain unchanged across India, making it easier for voters to identify and vote for the party. |
| Free broadcast/telecast time |
National parties get free broadcast/telecast time on Akashvani and Doordarshan during the general election, giving them greater visibility and reach. |
| Star campaigners |
National parties can have a maximum of 40 star campaigners whose travel expenses will not be counted in the accounts of the candidates. |
| Consultation with the Election Commission |
National parties will have the privilege of consultation with the EC in the setting of election dates, and giving inputs in setting electoral rules and regulations. |
| Top slots on the EVM/ballot paper |
Top slots on the EVM/ballot paper are reserved for national parties, giving them greater visibility and prominence on the ballot. |
Perception and legal challenges
- The greater impact, however, will be concerning the public perception of the party, which is why many who have lost national party status are planning to go to courts.
- Some parties are questioning the power of the EC though it stands legitimised by the Supreme Court.
- The EC has no discretion in the matter as the rules are very specific and repeatedly emphasise that a party is eligible if, and only if it fulfils all criteria.
Conclusion
- The EC’s decision to revise the list of recognized national and state parties has faced legal challenges from some parties questioning the power of the EC. However, the EC’s decision is based on strict technical criteria laid down by the EC and the process of recognition and derecognition is stipulated under the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968.
Mains Question
Q. The Election Commission of India (EC) recently revised its list of recognised national and state parties. In this light highlight the criteria for recognition of political parties and discuss the benefits of recognition as a national party
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Women's' rights and reforms
Mains level: Babasaheb Ambedkar's Contribution Towards Women's Rights
Central Idea
- Babasaheb Ambedkar’s contribution towards women’s rights is often overlooked, and he needs to be recognized as a champion of social justice, a visionary, and a philosopher. He advocated for women’s equal participation in both personal and professional spheres, was instrumental in drafting legislation to protect women’s rights, and played a key role in reducing working hours and improving working conditions.
Ambedkar’s Advocacy for Women’s Rights
- Equal participation of women: Ambedkar advocated for equal participation of women in both personal and professional spheres. He was the first man to raise his voice against the unequal treatment of women in factories and other workplaces.
- No of legislations: Ambedkar drafted legislation such as the Mines Maternity Benefit Act, which demanded equal pay and equal rights for coal mine workers, ensuring that the question of maternity leave for women was brought up and they were protected under labor laws.
- Improving working conditions: He was instrumental in reducing working hours and improving working conditions.
- Reproductive rights of women: Ambedkar was a strong believer in the reproductive rights of women and urged them to make their own choices about conception.
- Hindu Code Bill: Ambedkar’s most important contribution to the cause of women’s rights was the Hindu Code Bill, which revolutionized property and marriage practices and established laws of maintenance for women.
- Four acts, resulting from the Bill, were passed:
- The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, which gave women the right to divorce and maintenance;
- The Hindu Succession Act, 1956, which gave them the legal right to inherit property;
- The Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956, which allowed women to legally adopt a child; and
- The Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act, 1956, which allowed women to be the natural guardian of their children.
- Pro-women Acts: The influence of these reforms led to other pro-women Acts such as the Equal Remuneration Act of 1976 and the Dowry Prohibition Act of 1961, which brightened the dark roads of women’s struggles.
Ambedkar’s Vision for Women’s Rights
- Women’s right to education: Ambedkar believed that education was crucial for the country’s progress and regularly spoke up for women’s right to education, defying the Manusmriti and the Dharmashastra.
- Targeted hierarchical social order: He targeted the hierarchical social order and condemned it for degrading women, and believed that endogamy was the root cause of caste consolidation.
- Caste system and atrocities on women: His 1917 paper, titled ‘Castes in India: Their Mechanism, Genesis and Development’ outlines how atrocities on women are rooted in the caste system.
- For instance: He denounced sati, child marriage, and the condemnation of widow remarriage, which were all meant to control women.
- Vision of equality: Ambedkar’s vision of equality despite caste, gender, race, and ethnicity differences is a pioneering thought of social justice.
Conclusion
- Ambedkar’s contribution towards women’s rights is often overlooked, and he needs to be recognized as a champion of social justice, a visionary, and a philosopher. His work to empower all sections of marginalized communities needs to be acknowledged, and his vision of equality despite caste, gender, race, and ethnicity differences is a pioneering thought of social justice. Women’s rights and their liberation are crucial for building a progressive society, and Ambedkar’s values and vision continue to guide feminist principles in India.
Mains Question
Q. Ambedkar’s contribution towards women’s rights is often overlooked. In this backdrop discuss his advocacy, contribution to Women’s Rights.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Resumption of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran and China's mediation efforts, concerns of US, Israel and India
Central Idea
- China’s mediation efforts have resulted in the resumption of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, which is significant in terms of regional stability and the changing dynamics of international diplomacy.
What is Mediation?
- Mediation is a deliberate attempt to reconcile differences between two parties, and it plays a significant role in international relations. In this op-ed, we will discuss China’s recent mediation efforts that led to the resumption of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran.
Background
- Conflicts in GCC: The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has been facing several tensions and conflicts since 2016, mainly related to Yemen and Syria. However, bilateral efforts have been underway since early 2016 to ease these tensions.
- Bilateral efforts: Talks were held in Baghdad and during Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s visit to China in February 2023. The Emir of Kuwait and the Sultan of Oman initiated steps that were responded to by Iran. All concerned were worried about the attacks on shipping and energy facilities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and the United Arab Emirates.
- Resumption of diplomatic relations: In a joint statement on March 10, 2023, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and China announced that an agreement has been reached between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Islamic Republic of Iran covering a resumption of diplomatic relations between them and a re-opening of their embassies and missions within a period not exceeding two months.
- Terms of the agreement: The agreement affirmed their respect for the sovereignty of states, non-interference in the internal affairs of states, and said the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of both countries shall meet to implement this, arrange for the return of their Ambassadors, and discuss means of enhancing bilateral relations.
- For instance; One agreement and seven achievements: Iranian National Security Adviser Ali Shamkhani lent credibility to the accord. A commentary in an Iranian newspaper on March 11 depicted the event as ‘One agreement and seven achievements’; it listed the latter as
- Tehran’s willingness to engage in dialogue;
- Failure of the U.S.’s effort to isolate Iran;
- Strengthening of the alliance of Islamic Countries;
- Failure of Israeli efforts against this agreement;
- Failure of U.S. effort to show the Iranian public that it has no choice but to agree to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with America;
- Beijing’s successful entry in West Asian relations, and
- Failure of dreams of regime change.
American and Israeli Reactions
- US; Change in terms of reference in international diplomacy For US:S. reactions, apart from unconcealed surprise, reflected the change in terms of reference in international diplomacy.
- Israel; a fatal blow to a regional coalition against Iran: Equally surprised was Israel, the other major player in the region, which saw it as a fatal blow to the effort to build a regional coalition against Iran.
The Indian stand
- India’s reaction to this development has been restrained: Apart from historical linkages, the region is in India’s proximate neighbourhood and within its security parameters.
- Trade a priority: It is the principal source of hydrocarbon imports, and increasingly of investments. It is also an important destination for manpower exports apart from being a major trading partner including projects.
- Policy of avoiding interference in bilateral and regional disputes: The official policy has focused on bilateral relations and avoidance of involvement in bilateral and regional disputes.
- Refrained from speculative ventures: Given these priorities, India has consciously refrained from speculative ventures in alternate security architectures apart from supporting cooperative security and freedom of waterways and of navigation.
Conclusion
- China’s mediation efforts have played a significant role in bringing Saudi Arabia and Iran to the negotiating table. This development is significant in terms of regional stability and the changing dynamics of international diplomacy. India’s response to this development has been restrained, focusing on bilateral relations and avoiding involvement in regional disputes. The region should not be viewed in competition with China, and India should not consider itself a surrogate for those who have been outplayed in power games.
Mains Question
Q. Analyze the significance of China’s mediation efforts in bringing Saudi Arabia and Iran to the negotiating table and its impact on international diplomacy. Evaluate India’s response to this development.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Constitution Bench
Mains level: Same sex marriages
The Supreme Court has announced the formation of a new Constitution Bench headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud to hear a series of petitions seeking legal recognition of same sex marriages.
What is a Constitution Bench?
- The constitution bench is the name given to the benches of the Supreme Court of India.
- The Chief Justice of India has the power to constitute a Constitution Bench and refer cases to it.
Constitution benches are set up when the following circumstances exist:
- Interpretation of the Constitution: Article 145(3) provides for the constitution of at least five judges of the court which sit to decide any case “involving a substantial question of law as to the interpretation” of the Constitution of India.
- President of India seeking SC’s opinion: When the President has sought the Supreme Court’s opinion on a question of fact or law under Article 143 of the Constitution. Article 143 of the Constitution provides for Advisory jurisdiction to the SC. As per the provision, the President has the power to address questions to the apex Court, which he deems important for public welfare.
- Conflicting Judgments: When two or more three-judge benches of the Supreme Court have delivered conflicting judgments on the same point of law, necessitating a definite understanding and interpretation of the law by a larger bench.
- The Constitution benches are set up on ad hoc basis as and when the above-mentioned conditions exist.
- Constitution benches have decided many of India’s best-known and most important Supreme Court cases, such as:
- K. Gopalan v. State of Madras (Preventive detention)
- Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (Basic structure doctrine) and
- Ashoka Kumar Thakur v. Union of India (OBC reservations) etc.
Why in news now?
- The Centre had expressed its concern about the “psychological impact” that same-sex unions could have on children, but refused to link its worries to stigma about same-sex relationships.
- The government’s recent affidavit sought to explain how same-sex marriage was antithetical to the view held by many in India that marriage was a “holy union, a sacrament and a sanskar” between a biological man and a woman.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Aspirational Toilets
Mains level: Swachh Bharat Mission and its success
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has issued a directive to all state governments to ensure that 25% of public toilet seats added in any city or urban unit are “aspirational toilets.”
What are Aspirational Toilets?
- The aspirational toilets scheme was launched in September 2022 as part of the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) 2.0, with an aim to help make cities open defecation free.
- A quarter of all new public restrooms in Indian cities will soon have high-end features such as luxurious bath cubicles, touchless flushing, breast-feeding rooms, and automatic sanitary napkin incinerators.
- These will be indicated as “aspirational toilets” on Google Maps.
Focus areas for constructing aspirational toilets
- The focus areas for constructing these luxury toilets will be tourist and religious destinations, as well as iconic cities.
- High-footfall locations such as markets, railway stations, inter-state bus depots, and national highways will be given priority.
- Guidelines have been issued to the states for constructing these toilets. It also includes low-height toilets and basins for children.
- Hand-dryers, paper napkins, and vending machines for sanitary napkins are proposed to be made available.
Maintenance and funding patterns
- One of the business models being explored for the maintenance of these toilets is attaching them with other public services such as restaurants, shopping malls, libraries, cinema halls, or even medicine shops, to make them self-sustaining.
- Experts have cautioned that a proper study must be done on the location and the way these toilets will be maintained before beginning any such project.
Back2Basics: Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) 2.0
|
Description
|
| Objective |
Make all cities in India “garbage-free” |
| Period |
5 years (1st Oct 2021 – 1st Oct 2026) |
| Focus |
Sustainable solid waste management, sustainable sanitation and treatment of used water, and promoting behavior change through citizen outreach |
| Segregation of waste |
All households and premises required to segregate their waste into “wet waste” and “dry waste” |
| Collection of waste |
Aims to achieve 100% door-to-door collection of segregated waste from each household/premise |
| Waste management |
Aims to achieve 100% scientific management of all fractions of waste, including safe disposal in scientific landfills, remediation of all legacy dumpsites, and the conversion of these sites into green zones |
| Sanitation |
Aims to promote holistic sanitation, with end-to-end solutions, treatment of used water before discharge into water bodies, and maximum reuse of treated used water |
| Citizen outreach |
Aims to create awareness and institutionalize “Swachh” behavior through large-scale citizen outreach |
| Institutional capacity |
Aims to create institutional capacity to effectively implement programmatic interventions to achieve mission objectives |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: SpaceX Starship
Mains level: Read the attached story
SpaceX is preparing for the first test flight of Starship, which is the most powerful rocket ever built.
About SpaceX Starship
- Starship is a fully reusable spacecraft designed and built by SpaceX with the primary goal of sending humans to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
Key objectives
- SpaceX aims to use Starship to establish a self-sustaining human settlement on Mars.
- The ultimate goal is to enable humans to become a multi-planetary species.
- It also aims to make Starship reusable, reducing the cost of spaceflight and bringing down the price to a few million dollars per flight.
- In the long run, the company aims to achieve full and rapid reusability of the spacecraft.
Features
|
Details
|
| Design and configuration |
- Made up of two parts: a 50-meter tall spacecraft and a 70-meter tall Super Heavy rocket booster.
- Spacecraft has six Raptor engines; Super Heavy Booster has 28 Raptor engines.
- Payload capacity of up to 100 metric tons and features a large heat shield.
- Interior can be configured for up to 100 passengers or cargo.
|
| Manoeuvrability |
- Designed to be fully reusable, with vertical take-off and landing on Earth, Moon, and Mars.
- Can be refuelled in orbit for deeper space travel and for establishing a human settlement on Mars.
|
| Construction and materials |
- Built using durable and cost-effective stainless steel material.
- Stainless steel also provides heat protection during re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere.
|
| Power and thrust |
- Powered by methane and liquid oxygen fueled Raptor engines.
- Generates 17 million pounds of thrust more than twice that of the Saturn V rockets used for the Apollo missions.
|
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: T Cell Immunity
Mains level: Covid resurgence
Central idea: The SARS-CoV-2 virus has the ability to evade CD8 T cells, which are important in reducing the viral load and clearing the infection by detecting and killing infected cells.
What is the news?
- A recent study has revealed that the SARS-CoV-2 virus has the ability to modulate MHC I expression in host cells.
- MHC I is crucial in alerting the immune system to virally infected cells.
- The virus has evolved multiple strategies to inhibit MHC I expression, which is not seen in the case of the influenza virus.
What is T Cell Immunity?
- Like B cells, which produce antibodies, T cells are central players in the immune response to viral infection.
- For your immune system to fight off any kind of invader, such as a virus, you need a kind of white blood cell called a B cell, which makes antibodies, and a similar-looking white blood cell called a T cell.
- T cells can play different roles altogether.
- They can act as “killer cells”, attacking cells which have been infected with a virus or another kind of pathogen, or they can act as “helper cells” by supporting B cells to produce antibodies.
How do they function?
- Alongside antibodies, the immune system produces a battalion of T cells that can target viruses.
- Some of these, known as killer T cells (or CD8+T cells), seek out and destroy cells that are infected with the virus.
- Others, called helper T cells (or CD4+T cells) are important for various immune functions, including stimulating the production of antibodies and killer T cells.
- T cells do not prevent infection, because they kick into action only after a virus has infiltrated the body. But they are important for clearing an infection that has already started.
- In the case of COVID-19, killer T cells could mean the difference between a mild infection and a severe one that requires hospital treatment.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pralay Missile
Mains level: Strategic weapons
India is going to buy 250 more Pralay ballistic missiles for the services to strengthen them on the northern borders, further boosting the firepower of the defence forces.
Pralay Ballistic Missile
- Pralay is a tactical missile developed from India’s K-series of submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs).
- It has a range of 150-500 km and can carry warheads weighing between 350 to 700 kg.
- The missile is a canisters road-mobile system, which enhances its mobility and allows for quick preparation and launch of the missile.
- Pralay has the ability to perform manoeuvres in flight and follows a quasi-ballistic trajectory to maintain high speed, making it difficult for enemy missile defence systems to intercept.
Classification
- The Indian Defence Ministry has classified Pralay as a “conventional Surface-to-Surface missile”.
- This distinguishes it from the Agni series of missiles, which have the capability to carry either conventional or nuclear warheads.
Testing and launch
- The missile was launched on a quasi-ballistic trajectory in one of the two tests, which enhances its effectiveness against enemy missile defence systems.
- Satellite imagery of the test shows that Pralay is a canisterised road-mobile system, which adds to its mobility and flexibility in responding to evolving threats.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: National educations policy, Importance of History
Central Idea
- The controversy over the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) reducing the content on Mughal history in the school curriculum has sparked a heated debate in the country. While some argue that this move is part of a larger agenda to erase the Mughal legacy, others believe that it is a necessary step towards reducing the burden on students and providing a more balanced approach to teaching Indian history.
NCERT’s changes
- The NCERT removed overlapping material from grades 6 to 12 to reduce the burden on students.
- Grade 12 has been designed around themes in Indian history. It is divided into three parts spanning over 2,000 years. One theme out of 12 focuses on Kings and Chronicles. It revolves around the significant policies that redefined the landscape and mindset of the people. Akbar’s policies feature in this theme in the rationalized syllabus as well.
- This is over and above the extensive coverage they get in the middle school curricula, at the cost of the exclusion of the rest. Mughals have been overrepresented in Indian history books and were an obvious area for right-sizing.
What NCERT has said on omitting chapters?
- Part of rationalisation process: According to NCERT director, Chapters on Mughals have not been dropped. There was a rationalisation process last year because due to COVID, there was pressure on students everywhere.
- Reducing the burden without affecting the knowledge: The expert committees examined the books from standards 6-12. They recommended that if some sections or this chapter is dropped, it won’t affect the knowledge of the children and an unnecessary burden can be removed.
- Transition towards National Education Policy (NEP): NCERT working as per NEP, 2020. This is a transition phase. NEP 2020 speaks of reducing the content load. NCF (National Curriculum Framework) for school education is being formed, it will be finalised soon. Textbooks will be printed in 2024 as per NEP.
Need for a balanced approach
- Purpose of studying Indian history: The purpose of studying Indian history should be to understand who we are and how we got here, by understanding the demography, culture, and practices of the various components of India over the last two-and-a-half millennia.
- Dive deep into all polities: This requires us to dive deep into all polities that have resided in the subcontinental region for significant periods.
- Mughal history is just one part: Mughal history is just one part of just one period (medieval) of Indian history, and there is a lot more to our history that needs attention.
- Rich and long history: Indian history is too rich, long, and unwieldy for any curriculum to do justice.
- Children needs to have broader understanding: In the age of Wikipedia, we need to expose our children to the broad themes and grand sweep of history, create an understanding of their origins, and equip them with the tools and curiosity to read and research further as they grow.
- Step is in good direction: The current reorganization is a good step in that direction.
Conclusion
- The real debate should be how to teach 2,500 years of Indian history to children in an engaging and informative manner. Those quibbling over the current rearrangement lack both a perspective on the scale of Indian history and an understanding of the complexities of teaching it. They would be better served by picking up a few history books themselves.
Mains Question
Q. The national education policy speaks of reducing the content load and ensure the understanding in this light discuss the significance of teaching history of India in more rational and comprehensive manner.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Constitutional bodies
Mains level: Independence of Constitutional bodies and independent appointments
Central Idea
- The recent comments made by the Supreme Court regarding the independence of constitutional authorities in India is an important issue. The need for independent institutions and a system of checks and balances is essential to prevent the arbitrary use of power by the government. The appointment process of key constitutional positions needs to be safeguarded from the whims of the executive.
Need for Independent Institutions
- Executive interference: The Constituent Assembly of India had recognized the need for independent institutions to regulate sectors of national importance without any executive interference.
- Constitutional bodies: Various constitutional authorities such as the Public Service Commission, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG), the Election Commission of India (ECI), the Finance Commission, and the National Commissions for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST) and Backward Classes (BC) have been set up for this purpose.
- Need complete independence: Such constitutional bodies must be provided complete independence to enable them to function without fear or favor and in the larger interests of the nation.
Appointment Process for Constitutional Authorities
- Appointments are critical for independence: The appointment of individuals heading these institutions is critical to ensuring their independence.
- Safeguarded from the whims of the executive: While empowering the President of India to appoint all constitutional authorities, the Constitution-makers had kept in mind those institutions whose independence is of paramount importance to the country and the manner in which the independence of these authorities could be safeguarded from the whims of the executive
Appointment of Judges and Other Constitutional Positions
- The Constitution provides for certain conditions to be fulfilled by those who may be considered for such appointments.
- Role of governors: The appointment of Judges of the Supreme Court and the High Court, the CAG of India, and Governors are to be kept free from political or executive pressure.
- For instance, appointment of the CAG:
- In the draft Constitution, the article for the appointment of the CAG had provided that, there shall be an Auditor General who shall be appointed by the President. The Constituent Assembly further discussed that The Auditor-General should be always independent of either the legislature or the executive.
- The process of selecting a person to be appointed as the CAG of India should begin by appointing a committee consisting of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, the Chief Justice of India, and the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee to shortlist names to be considered for appointment as the CAG of India; and a panel of three names should be forwarded to the President for him to make the final selection as in Article 148 of the Constitution of India.
- Appointment of CEC and EC’s: The Supreme Court has taken an important step in ensuring the independence of the Election Commission of India by divesting the executive of its sole discretion in appointing the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (ECs) by forming a committee to suggest suitable names to man these constitutional posts.
- Appointment of Governors: The Court expressed serious concern over the active role being played by Governors in State politics, observing that Governors becoming part of political processes is disconcerting. The appointment process for Governors needs to be unrestricted and unfettered to ensure that the President is free from the influence of the Legislature.
Conclusion
- It is necessary to ensure the independence of constitutional authorities to enable them to function without fear or favor and in the larger interests of the nation. The appointment process for key constitutional positions must be safeguarded from the whims of the executive. The recent comments of the Supreme Court regarding the independence of constitutional authorities in India are a reminder of the need to ensure that the appointment process for such positions is free from political or executive pressure.
Mains Question
Q. The issues over the independence of constitutional authorities in India is often in the headlines. In this light discuss why is it necessary to ensure the independence of constitutional authorities, and what are the implications of failing to do so?
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Forex reserves, BoP
Mains level: Read the attached story
India’s forex reserves increased by $6.306 billion to $584.755 billion last week, according to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Why discuss this?
- In October 2021, India’s forex reserves reached an all-time high of $645 billion.
- Since then, the reserves have been declining.
What is Foreign Exchange (Forex) Reserve?
- Foreign exchange reserves are important assets held by the central bank in foreign currencies as reserves.
- They are commonly used to support the exchange rate and set monetary policy.
- In India’s case, foreign reserves include Gold, Dollars, and the IMF’s quota for Special Drawing Rights.
- Most of the reserves are usually held in US dollars, given the currency’s importance in the international financial and trading system.
- Some central banks keep reserves in Euros, British pounds, Japanese yen, or Chinese yuan, in addition to their US dollar reserves.
India’s forex reserves cover:
- Foreign Currency Assets (FCAs)
- Special Drawing Rights (SDRs)
- Gold Reserves
- Reserve position with the International Monetary Fund (IMF)
Countries with the highest foreign reserves
- Currently, China has the largest reserves followed by Japan and Switzerland.
- India earlier overtook Russia to become the fourth-largest country with foreign exchange reserves. (Data from August 2022)
- China – $3,349 Billion
- Japan – $1,376 Billion
- Switzerland – $1,074 Billion
- Russia – $597.40 Billion
Why are these reserves so important?
- All international transactions are settled in US dollars and, therefore, required to support India’s imports.
- More importantly, they need to maintain support and confidence for central bank action, whether monetary policy action or any exchange rate intervention to support the domestic currency.
- It also helps to limit any vulnerability due to sudden disturbances in foreign capital flows, which may arise during a crisis.
- Holding liquid foreign currency provides a cushion against such effects and provides confidence that there will still be enough foreign exchange to help the country with crucial imports in case of external shocks.
Initiatives taken by the government to increase forex
- To increase the foreign exchange reserves, the Government of India has taken many initiatives like AatmaNirbhar Bharat, in which India has to be made a self-reliant nation so that India does not have to import things that India can produce.
- Other than AatmaNirbhar Bharat, the government has started schemes like Duty Exemption Scheme, Remission of Duty or Taxes on Export Product (RoDTEP), Nirvik (Niryat Rin Vikas Yojana) scheme, etc.
- Apart from these schemes, India is one of the top countries that attracted the highest amount of Foreign Direct Investment, thereby improving India’s foreign exchange reserves.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NISAR, Seismic Zones
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central idea
- The ISRO and the NASA have jointly developed a forthcoming satellite called NISAR.
- It will map the most earthquake-prone regions in the Himalaya.
What is NISAR?
- NISAR stands for NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar.
- The mission aims to provide global measurements of the causes and consequences of land surface changes using advanced radar imaging.
- The satellite is equipped with two types of synthetic aperture radars (SAR): L-band and S-band, which will allow for high-resolution, all-weather imaging of the Earth’s surface.
- The NISAR satellite is expected to be launched in January 2024.
How it will be used for earthquake monitoring?
- It will generate data that can potentially give advance warning of land subsidence and identify places that are at greatest risk from earthquakes.
- The geoscience community can use this to determine how strain is building up in various parts of the Himalayas.
- Strain refers to the deformation that occurs in rocks when it is under pressure from other rocks.
- Movements of continental plates that are sliding, colliding, or subducting against each other cause strain.
- With a frequency of 12 days and the ability to provide images even under cloudy conditions, NISAR would be a valuable tool to study deformation patterns, such as in Joshimath.
Strain Map already in place
- In 2021, scientists from the Geological Survey of India published a “strain map” of the Himalayas based on data from 1,252 GPS stations along the Himalayas.
- It identified regions that had the greatest odds of generating earthquakes of magnitude above 8 and their extent.
- However, these many stations are still too few, and there’s only one satellite (Sentinel) that we rely on.
- With NISAR, the costliest space mission ever, we can have a game-changer in earth-science observation.
Seismic Zones of India
India is divided by Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) into 4 seismic zones based on the level of seismicity and the frequency of earthquakes that occur in that particular region.
These zones are as follows:
1. Zone 2: This is a low seismic zone comprising of areas with the lowest risk of earthquakes. It includes regions like the northeastern states of India, parts of J&K, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
2. Zone 3: This is a moderate seismic zone comprising of areas that are at moderate risk of earthquakes. It includes regions like Gujarat, Haryana, Delhi, parts of UP, Bihar, West Bengal, and parts of Jharkhand.
3. Zone 4: This is a high seismic zone comprising of areas that are at high risk of earthquakes. It includes regions like the A&N Islands, parts of Himachal Pradesh, J&K, Uttarakhand, and the entire northeastern region.
4. Zone 5: This is a very high seismic zone comprising of areas that are at the highest risk of earthquakes. It includes regions like the entire state of J&K, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, the entire northeastern region, parts of Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and the A&N Islands. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mahad Satyagraha
Mains level: Dalit movement
Central idea
- B.R. Ambedkar’s life was full of milestones, and he was the first Dalit to study at Elphinstone College in Bombay.
- He was also the chair of the drafting committee of the Constitution of India and became the first law minister of independent India.
- Moreover, he contributed significantly to the movement for Dalit emancipation, awakening Dalit consciousness and leading the community’s bid for political power.
Context of the Mahad Satyagraha
- The Mahad Satyagraha of 1927 was one of the earlier and most significant milestones in Ambedkar’s life.
- The events leading up to it began in August 1923, when the Bombay Legislative Council passed a resolution to allow the Untouchable classes to use all public water sources.
- Although the Bombay government adopted the resolution, the situation on the ground remained unchanged, with upper-caste Hindus still not allowing lower castes to access public water sources.
What happened at the Satyagraha?
- Ramchandra Babaji More, a Mahad-based Dalit political leader, approached Ambedkar to preside over a conference of the Untouchables in Konkan, and Ambedkar agreed.
- Around 2,500 delegates, workers, and leaders of Depressed Classes attended the conference, including boys of fifteen to old men of seventy.
- On the first day of the conference, progressive non-Dalit leaders addressed the attendees and promised to help them in their struggle.
- Ambedkar stressed creating “a wave of awakening” among the lower caste people of Konkan.
- After the day’s proceedings, Ambedkar and the other organizers and attendees marched to the nearby Chavadar tank the next morning, where people from untouchable communities were not allowed to draw water from.
- They implemented the resolution by picking up water with their cupped hands and drank it.
Key event: Burning of Manusmriti
- Despite the court injunction prohibiting Babasaheb and other Dalits from going to the tank or taking water from it until further orders, the Satyagraha was held on a much larger scale on December 26, 1927.
- Although most people wanted to go ahead, the Satyagraha was suspended on the advice of Ambedkar, and unlike the last time, no water was drawn from the Chavadar tank.
- Ambedkar and his followers burnt the Manusmriti, a powerful rejection of the caste system, for the first time in symbolic action.
Significance of the Satyagraha
- The Mahad Satyagraha is considered to be the “foundational event” of the Dalit movement.
- The community collectively displayed its resolve to reject the caste system and assert their human rights for the first time.
- It became the blueprint for organizing future movements against the caste system and its practices.
- It marked an important point in Ambedkar’s political journey, catapulting him to the leadership of the downtrodden and oppressed classes in the country.
Try this PYQ:
Which of the following parties were established by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar?
- The Peasants and Workers Party of India
- All India Scheduled Castes Federation
- The Independent Labour Party
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 2 and 3 only
Post your answers here.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Magnetoresistance
Mains level: NA
Researchers in the UK, led by Nobel laureate Andre Geim, have discovered magnetoresistance in graphene – a single-atom-thick layer of carbon atoms bonded in a honeycomb pattern – that further distinguishes this ‘wonder’ material.
Graphene’s anomalous Giant Magnetoresistance (GMR)
- Graphene displayed an anomalous giant magnetoresistance (GMR) at room temperature.
- GMR is the result of the electrical resistance of a conductor being affected by magnetic fields in adjacent materials.
- It is used in hard disk drives and magnetoresistive RAM in computers, biosensors, automotive sensors, micro-electromechanical systems, and medical imagers.
What is GMR?
- GMR is a phenomenon where the electrical resistance of a conductor is affected by magnetic fields in adjacent materials.
- Say a conductor is sandwiched between two ferromagnetic materials (commonly, metals attracted to magnets, like iron).
- When the materials are magnetised in the same direction, the electrical resistance in the conductor is low.
- When the directions are opposite each other, the resistance increases.
Significance of the finding
- The magnetoresistance observed in the graphene-based device was almost 100 times higher than that observed in other known semimetals in this magnetic field range.
- In the study, the magnetoresistance in monolayer graphene at 27º C held between two layers of boron nitride increased by 110% under a field of 0.1 tesla.
- To compare, the magnetoresistance in these conditions increases by less than 1% in normal metals.
- The team attributed this to the presence of a ‘neutral’ plasma and the electrons’ mobility.
Try this MCQ
Which of the following best describes magnetoresistance?
(a) The magnetic resistance of a conductor to electrical current flow
(b) The phenomenon where the electrical resistance of a conductor is affected by magnetic fields in adjacent materials
(c) The ability of a conductor to produce a magnetic field when an electrical current is passed through it
(d) The resistance of a magnet to demagnetization by an external magnetic field
Post your answers here.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bioluminiscence
Mains level: NA
The blooms of Noctiluca Scintillans, commonly known as “sea sparkle or bioluminescence” are being witnessed along the coasts of Visakhapatnam, AP.
Noctiluca Scintillans
- Scintillans is a bioluminescent specie that brightens the seawater during the night.
- It grazes on other micro-organisms such as larvae, fish eggs, and diatoms. But the unicellular phytoplankton that lives inside it can photosynthesize, turning sunlight into energy.
- They help their host cell survive even when food was scarce.
- Thus, N. Scintillans acts as both a plant and an animal
Threats posed
- According to marine experts, the phenomenon is an indicator of climate change.
- While smaller blooms may be harmless, slow-moving larger blooms may have an impact on deep-sea fishes.
- The toxic blooms of N. Scintillans were linked to massive fish and marine invertebrate kills.
- Though the species does not produce a toxin, it was found to accumulate toxic levels of ammonia, which is then excreted into the surrounding waters, possibly acting as the killing agent in blooms.
- They have displaced microscopic algae called diatoms, which form the basis of the marine food chain. This has deprived food for the planktivorous fish.
Back2Basics: Bioluminescence
- It is the property of a living organism to produce and emit light.
- Animals, plants, fungi and bacteria show bioluminescence. A remarkable diversity of marine animals and microbes are able to produce their own light.
- It is found in many marine organisms such as bacteria, algae, jellyfish, worms, crustaceans, sea stars, fish and sharks.
- Luminescence is generally higher in deep-living and planktonic organisms than in shallow species.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Gond Painting
Mains level: Contribution of GI tags in tribal economy
The Gond painting of Madhya Pradesh has received the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
Other recent GI tags awarded in UP
10 products from UP got GI Tag on March 31:
- Aligarh Tala
- Bakharia Brassware
- Banda Shazar Patthar Craft
- Pratapgarh Aonla (Amla)
- Ramnagar Bhanta (Brinjal)
- Muzaffarnagar Gur (jaggery)
- Banarasi Pan
- Nagina Wood Craft
- Hathras Hing
- Banaras Langda Aam
|
Gond Art
- Gond painting is a traditional art of Madhya Pradesh and belongs to the Gond tribe.
- Patangarh village of Dindori district is famous for Gond paintings, where there is an artist in every house.
- Their work is famous in the state and abroad for its unique style, theme, and motifs.
- Gond art has been passed down through generations, traditionally adorning the walls of each artist’s home in Patangarh.
Features of Gond Painting
- Gond paintings showcase the beauty of nature, including trees, plants, animals, the moon, sun, river, drains, God, and Goddesses.
- The paintings also portray daily life activities such as food, plough making, and even how the king used to fight.
Back2Basics: Geographical Indication (GI)
- A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
- Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
- India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 w.e.f. September 2003.
- GIs have been defined under Article 22 (1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
- The tag stands valid for 10 years.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: India's philosophy and fundamentals
Mains level: India's philosophical heritage
Central Idea
- The philosophical underpinnings of India’s civilization are unique and powerful, and they empower India to withstand waves of invasions, natural calamities, and societal challenges. India’s worldview and approach towards human life make India stand out as a beacon to the world. However, many Indians remain ignorant of their own philosophical heritage, and building on these foundational values can serve as building blocks for India’s soft power.
The Fundamentals of Indian Philosophy
- Indian philosophy cannot be ascribed to any particular scripture.
- The fundamentals of the perceived philosophy of India have come from many scriptures, and the Indian approach is to let a thousand flowers bloom.
The Five Tenets that Make India Stand Out
India’s philosophy has at least five fundamental tenets that make it stand out: 1. Spiritual democracy, 2. Unity in diversity, 3. Confluence with nature, 4, antyodaya, and 5. vasudhaiva kutumbakam. These tenets reflect the teachings of sages and philosophers such as Gautama Buddha, Adi Shankara, and Guru Nanak.
- Spiritual Democracy: India rejects any monopolistic approach to ways of worship, and it welcomes diversity in ways of worship. This approach reflects the fundamental unity of all that exists, and sages call it by various names.
- Unity in Diversity: India’s unity is inherent in its diversity, and this diversity is our innate unity that manifests in myriad ways. India not only accommodates but also celebrates the pervasive diversity.
- Confluence with Nature: India does not aspire to conquer nature, but instead, it has a tradition of sincere and deepest gratitude towards nature. Many Indian traditions and rituals reflect this approach, and sustainability is a part of our philosophy of human life.
- Antyodaya: India’s unique concept of antyodaya puts the last man first. The most deprived are the most deserving when it comes to the distribution of the fruits of development. Antyodaya encompasses both social and economic justice and takes us beyond the binary of capitalism and socialism.
- Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: India has imagined the entire world as one family, where values like mutuality, sharing, and collectivism are given primacy. This approach nips in the bud all the uncalled-for apprehensions about ultra-nationalistic or jingoistic approaches.
- India can build on its unique philosophical heritage, which can serve as building blocks of India’s soft power.
- India’s foundational values are needed now more than ever, as the global community faces conflicts and wars emanating from weird ideas of supremacy, oneupmanship, and monopolistic spirituality.
Conclusion
- India’s philosophy and approach towards human life and worldly concerns are unique and powerful, and they make India stand out as a beacon to the world. India’s soft power can build on its unique philosophical heritage, and India can use this to assert itself even in the most complex and unpredictable future. The key challenge is to establish that India is capable of walking the talk and using its philosophy to deal with societal challenges. Indian philosophy empowers us to handle the contemporary challenges, and it has gained India huge goodwill among the global community.
Mains Question
Q. India’s philosophy and approach towards human life and worldly concerns are unique and powerful, and they make India stand out as a beacon to the world. Discuss
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