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  • Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

    Who were Velu Nachiyar and Anjalai Ammal?

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Who were Velu Nachiyar and Anjalai Ammal?

    Why in the News?

    Superstar Thalapathy Vijay launched his new party with speech highlighting his inspirations from Rani Velu Nachiyar and Anjalai Ammal.

    Contributions of Velu Nachiyar (1730-1796)

    • Born in 1730 to King Chellamuthu Sethupathy and Queen Sakandhimuthal of the Ramnad kingdom (now Tamil Nadu).
    • Trained in horse riding, archery, kalaripayattu, and silambam (South Indian martial arts).
    • Educated as a polyglot, fluent in Tamil, Urdu, English, and French, with a strong grasp of military strategy.
    • Married Muthu Vaduganatha Periyavudaya Thevar in 1746, supporting him as Queen of Sivagangai.
    • In 1772, Sivagangai was invaded by the British East India Company in alliance with the Nawab of Arcot; her husband was killed in battle.
    • Fled with her daughter Vellachi to Dindigul under the protection of Hyder Ali of Mysore.
    • Formed alliances with Hyder Ali and Gopala Naicker of the Marudu brothers to reclaim her kingdom.
    • Successfully fought against the British and reclaimed Sivagangai in 1780.
    • Ruled for a decade before passing the throne to her daughter in 1790.
    • Known as Tamil Nadu’s ‘Veeramangai’ (Brave Lady) and celebrated as an early Indian queen who resisted British colonialism.

    Significant role played by Anjalai Ammal (1890-1961)

    • Born in 1890 in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, to a weaver family.
    • Married Murugappan in 1908, and both joined the freedom struggle inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s principles.
    • Became active in the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1921, marking the beginning of her political involvement.
    • Played a significant role in:
      • Neil Statue Satyagraha, protesting a statue of Colonel James Neil.
      • Salt Satyagraha in 1930 and the Quit India Movement in 1942.
    • Served as President of the All India Women’s Congress in Madras in 1931.
    • Arrested multiple times for her activism; gave birth to her youngest son while serving a six-month prison term.
    • Prevented by the British from meeting Gandhi in 1934; met him in disguise, and he called her “South India’s Rani of Jhansi”.
    • First woman elected to the Madras legislature as a Congress representative.
    • Remained politically active until her death in 1961, remembered as a pioneer for women’s rights and freedom.

    PYQ:

    [2016] Discuss the role of women in the freedom struggle especially during the Gandhian phase.

    [2015] Consider the following statements:

    1. The first woman President of the Indian National Congress was Sarojini Naidu.

    2. The first Muslim President of the Indian National Congress was Badruddin Tyabji.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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  • Global Geological And Climatic Events

    What is DANA?

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 1: Geographical Features & Their Location

    Why in the News?

    The extreme conditions in eastern Spain which saw Valencia get a year’s worth of rain in just 8 hours can be blamed on an event locally known as Depresion Aislada en Niveles Altos (DANA).

    What is DANA?

    • Depresion Aislada en Niveles Altos (DANA), is commonly referred to as the “cold drop” in English.
    • It is a meteorological phenomenon in the western Mediterranean region that brings intense rainfall and flooding.
    • The term “DANA” was coined by Spanish meteorologists to specifically describe this weather phenomenon.

    Features and Location:

    • DANA occurs when cold air from the Polar Regions separates from the polar jet stream and descends over the warmer Mediterranean Sea.
    • The contrast between cold air aloft and warm, moist air near the surface causes atmospheric instability, leading to the rapid formation of cumulonimbus clouds and intense thunderstorms.
    • It primarily affects Spain and Portugal but can also impact Italy, France, and other areas around the Mediterranean Sea.
    • This occurs in autumn and spring, as temperature variations are more pronounced during these seasons.

    PYQ:

    [2014] The seasonal reversal of winds is the typical characteristic of:

    (a) Equatorial climate

    (b) Mediterranean climate

    (c) Monsoon climate

    (d) All of the above climates

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  • Nuclear Diplomacy and Disarmament

    Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO)

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

    Why in the News?

    • Two earthquakes struck Iran sparking rumours of a nuclear test.
      • However, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) in Vienna swiftly refuted these claims using its International Monitoring System (IMS) designed to detect nuclear tests.

    About International Monitoring System (IMS):

    • IMS is a global monitoring network established by the CTBTO to detect nuclear explosions anywhere in the world.
    • It is a global network of over 300 monitoring facilities across 89 countries, using seismic, infrasound, hydroacoustic, and radionuclide technologies to detect nuclear explosions worldwide.
    • The CTBTO shares IMS data with member-states in near real-time, ensuring access to accurate, verified data.
      • Over 16 gigabytes of data are transmitted daily from IMS stations to the CTBTO’s International Data Centre (IDC) in Vienna.
    • Analysts use this IMS data to distinguish natural events (like earthquakes) from nuclear explosions.

    About Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO):

    Details
    Location Based in Vienna, Austria.
    Established Created to implement the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), opened for signature in 1996.
    Purpose of the CTBT Aims to ban all nuclear explosions worldwide, regardless of purpose (military or civilian).
    Key Elements of the CTBT • Total Ban on Nuclear Tests: Prohibits all nuclear explosions.
    • Verification Mechanisms: Establishes a global monitoring network and allows for on-site inspections.
    • Distant Monitoring by IMS: Employs technologies for monitoring compliance.
    Signature and Ratification Signed by 183 states and ratified by 164; has not entered into force as eight specific states among 44 Annex-2 states have yet to ratify.
    Key Non-Ratifying States The states that have not ratified the treaty include United States, China, Iran, Egypt, Israel, India, Pakistan, and North Korea.
    Compliance Verification CTBT establishes a global monitoring network of over 300 facilities for detection and verification, along with provisions for on-site inspections.
    Significance Plays a crucial role in global efforts toward nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, fostering international cooperation and stability.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] What is/are the consequence/consequences of a country becoming the member of the ‘Nuclear Suppliers Group’?

    1. It will have access to the latest and most efficient nuclear technologies.
    2. It automatically becomes a member of “The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)”.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) Both 1 and 2
    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

    [2011] Recently, the USA decided to support India’s membership in multilateral export control regimes called the “Australia Group” and the “Wassenaar Arrangement”. What is the difference between them?

    1. The Australia Group is an informal arrangement which aims to allow exporting countries to minimize the risk of assisting chemical and biological weapons proliferation, whereas the Wassenaar Arrangement is a formal group under the OECD holding identical objectives.
    2. The Australia Group comprises predominantly Asian, African and North American countries whereas the member countries of Wassenaar Arrangement are predominantly from the European Union and American Continents.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Myanmar

    A collective effort towards peace in Myanmar

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

    Why in the News?

    The 44th ASEAN Summit in Vientiane highlighted growing regional issues, especially Myanmar’s crisis. Despite ASEAN’s peace efforts, Myanmar’s turmoil persists, testing the group’s commitment to stability.

    What are the key challenges facing ASEAN and India in their efforts to stabilize Myanmar?

    • Lack of Consensus within ASEAN: ASEAN’s principle of consensus-based decision-making complicates strong, unified responses.
      • Nations like Indonesia and Malaysia advocate for firm action, while others, including Thailand and Laos, maintain closer ties with Myanmar’s military government, slowing decisive actions.
    • Failure of the Five-Point Consensus: Despite ASEAN’s efforts to enforce the 2021 Five-Point Consensus, which mandates an end to violence and inclusive dialogue, Myanmar’s military has shown little interest in cooperating, undermining ASEAN’s credibility.
    • Exclusion of Key Groups: ASEAN’s initiatives mainly engage the junta without including the National Unity Government (NUG) or Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs), limiting the inclusiveness and effectiveness of peace efforts.
    • Worsening Humanitarian Crisis: Myanmar’s civil war has led to massive displacement and humanitarian needs, with over 18.6 million people requiring aid.
      • This poses logistical and diplomatic challenges for ASEAN and complicates India’s border security and refugee policies.
    • Balancing Regional and Security Concerns for India: India faces a dilemma balancing its Act East Policy objectives and the need for stability on its Myanmar border.
      • Issues such as cross-border militancy, illegal activities, and the refugee crisis strain India’s relations with the junta and impact regional connectivity projects.

    How can Inclusive dialogue be achieved among all stakeholders in Myanmar?

    • ASEAN must involve non-state actors like the NUG, EAOs, and the People’s Defense Forces (PDFs) in dialogue efforts to ensure all key groups have a stake in Myanmar’s peace process.
    • Thailand’s recent ‘Troika’ proposal to host talks with ASEAN chairs (current, past, and future) and possibly other stakeholders indicates a potential pathway for more flexible discussions, albeit with the need for junta cooperation and broader participant involvement.
    • Establishing humanitarian corridors that operate beyond junta-controlled areas, with the cooperation of EAOs, could lay the groundwork for inclusive engagement and build trust among conflicting parties.

    What role does India’s Foreign Policy play in addressing the Myanmar crisis? (Way forward)

    • Strategic Engagement and Regional Connectivity: Under its Act East Policy, India invests in key infrastructure projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, linking Myanmar and ASEAN.
    • Balanced Relations with Junta and Democracy Advocates: Need to principles of non-interference, India maintains ties with Myanmar’s military and democratic groups, addressing security needs while ethically supporting democratic aspirations.
    • As per Gujral Doctrine: India should engage constructively with Myanmar, respecting its sovereignty, promoting regional connectivity, and fostering dialogue among all stakeholders to enhance stability and mutual prosperity.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post-Cold War international scenario. (UPSC IAS/2016)

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  • Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

    Delimitation, women’s quota

    Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Laws, Institutions & Bodies Constituted For The Vulnerable Sections

    Why in the News?

    The Centre has hinted that the delayed Census might begin next year and finish by 2026, which would play a key role in redrawing constituencies and starting women’s reservations in elected bodies.

    What are the implications of the Women’s Reservation Bill for women’s political representation in India?

    • Increased Representation: The bill, once implemented, will reserve 33% of seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies for women, marking a significant increase in women’s representation and fostering a more inclusive legislative environment.
    • Long-Term Social Change: With more women in legislative positions, issues relevant to women’s rights, safety, and empowerment could receive greater legislative focus, driving long-term societal shifts toward gender equality.
    • Gradual Integration: By mandating women’s reservation for 15 years post-implementation, the bill allows time for systemic integration of women into Indian politics, potentially encouraging more women to enter politics.

    Key features of the Women’s Reservation Bill: 

    • Reservation of Seats: The bill reserves one-third of all seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women, including those seats already reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
    • Implementation Timeline: The reservation will come into effect after the next census is conducted and published, which has not yet been scheduled. The law is set to remain in place for 15 years, with provisions for extension.
    • Rotating Constituencies: Reserved seats will be rotated after each delimitation exercise to ensure fair representation across different regions.

    How does the delimitation process affect the implementation of the Women’s Reservation Bill?

    • Dependency on Delimitation: The reservation will only be implemented following a census-based delimitation exercise, making the timeline for reservation contingent on the next Census, expected to conclude in 2026.
      • Thus, the reservation may only be actionable around the 2029 general elections.
    • Impact on Seat Allocation: The delimitation exercise will likely increase the total seats in the Lok Sabha, which could make implementing the 33% reservation less disruptive.
      • For example, if Lok Sabha seats rise to around 770, this will allow for a more balanced accommodation of both male and female representatives without substantial loss of seats for male incumbents.

    Challenges and Criticisms Surrounding the Women’s Reservation Bill and Its Implementation:

    • Delay in Implementation: As the reservation is contingent on delimitation, the immediate impact of the bill remains deferred.
      • Critics argue that the reservation could be enacted sooner if it did not depend on the Census and delimitation.
    • Intra-Party Resistance: Male incumbents might resist the bill due to concerns over losing their seats, and political parties might face difficulties balancing this resistance with the need for compliance, despite an increase in overall seats.
    • Exclusion of Other Marginalized Women: The bill lacks sub-quotas for women from marginalized communities, such as SC/ST/OBCs, sparking criticism that it may predominantly benefit women from privileged backgrounds rather than addressing the political representation gap for all women.
    • Dependence on Census Accuracy: Any delays or inaccuracies in Census data could delay the bill’s impact or result in skewed representation due to reliance on outdated demographic data.

    Way forward: 

    • Expedite Delimitation and Census: Streamline Census and delimitation processes to ensure timely data collection and boundary adjustments, enabling earlier implementation of the reservation without prolonged delays.
    • Include Sub-Quotas for Marginalized Women: Introduce provisions for SC/ST/OBC sub-quotas within the reservation to ensure fair representation of women from diverse social backgrounds, addressing inclusivity concerns in political representation.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q “The reservation of seats for women in the institutions of local self-government has had a limited impact on the patriarchal character of the Indian Political Process.” Comment. (UPSC IAS/2019)

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  • Why India is at risk of becoming a ‘diminishing democracy’

    Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

    Why in the News?

    In her book “Democracy on Trial: Majoritarianism and Dissent in India”, Zoya Hasan points out that, though India’s democracy is strong in elections, it has struggled with fairness and freedoms due to growing majoritarianism since 2014.

    What factors contribute to the erosion of civil liberties in India?

    • Majoritarian Politics: Since a decade ago, India’s democracy has seen a shift toward majoritarianism, with the rights of minorities, particularly Muslims, facing marginalization.
      • This tilt toward majoritarian views fosters unequal treatment, weakening the universal protection of civil liberties and undermining the democratic principles of inclusion and equality.
    • Compromised Media Landscape: Traditionally, media acted as a watchdog on power, but now it frequently functions as a government advocate.
      • This shift has narrowed public discourse on civil rights and accountability, reducing the media’s role in preserving civil liberties.
    • Legislation Targeting Minorities: Laws such as the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) are seen as religiously discriminatory, especially when considered with the National Register of Citizens (NRC).
      • Such laws challenge the Constitution’s guarantee of equal rights for all citizens, placing undue pressure on certain communities and further eroding civil liberties.

    Role of Political Institutions in Undermining Democracy:

    • Judicial Autonomy and its Challenges: While the judiciary has traditionally been a pillar of democracy, recent trends indicate compromised judicial independence.
      • There are instances where courts appear reluctant to challenge the executive because political pressure may be impacting judicial autonomy, thereby diminishing an essential check on power.
    • Media’s Decline as a Check on Power: Media independence has weakened as corporate and political influences have taken root, limiting its role in holding power to account.
    • Legislative and Executive Power Dynamics: The increasing concentration of power within the executive, combined with a legislative body that often aligns with the ruling agenda, limits checks and balances.

    Impact of Political Polarization on Democratic Processes:

    • Divisive Identity Politics: Identity-based polarization is intensifying, with significant events such as the Ayodhya dispute and the Shaheen Bagh protests illustrating how political narratives can frame majority identities against minority rights.
    • Silencing of Dissent: Governmental responses to protests, like those against the CAA, often include the use of force, indicating reduced tolerance for opposition.

    Steps taken by the Election Commission of India:

    • Voter Education and Awareness Campaigns: The ECI has launched extensive voter education campaigns to promote awareness about the electoral process, emphasizing the importance of informed voting.
    • Monitoring and Regulation of Political Parties: The ECI has increased scrutiny over political parties’ funding and activities to ensure transparency.
    • Strengthening Electoral Laws: Recent amendments to electoral laws have been made to enhance the integrity of elections.
    • Use of Technology: The ECI has implemented technology-driven solutions such as Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) to ensure transparency and reliability in the voting process.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthening Institutional Independence: Reinforce the autonomy of key institutions like the judiciary, media, and law enforcement through stricter legal safeguards and transparent appointment processes.
    • Promoting Inclusive and Balanced Governance: Establish mechanisms to ensure equal representation and protection for all communities, addressing grievances through impartial review processes. Implementing inclusive governance policies can help counter majoritarian biases and foster a more cohesive democratic environment.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful? (UPSC IAS/2017)

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  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    [pib] Four replicas of Konark Wheels at Rashtrapati Bhavan

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    konark
    PC: konark.in

    Why in the News?

    Four replicas of the Konark wheels, made of sandstone, have been installed at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre and Amrit Udyan. 

    About Konark Wheels

    Details
    Design The temple is designed in the shape of a huge chariot drawn by 7 horses and features 24 wheels.
    Dimensions of Wheels Each wheel has a diameter of 9 feet 9 inches with 8 wider spokes and 8 thinner spokes.
    Symbolism of Wheels The wheels represent various time-related aspects:
    • 7 horses symbolize the days of the week.
    • 12 pairs of wheels signify 12 months.
    • 24 wheels represent 24 hours in a day.
    • 8 spokes symbolize prahars (three-hour periods).
    Architectural Features • The wheels are intricately carved, showcasing designs of foliage, animals, and figures of women in various poses.
    • Rims of the wheels have decorative carvings.
    Sun Dial Functionality Two of the wheels function as a sundial, accurately indicating time from sunrise to sunset using the shadow cast by the axel.
    Modern Representation
    • Featured in Indian currency, specifically in the old Rs. 20 and new Rs. 10 notes, representing Odisha’s rich cultural heritage.
    • Rs. 10 note released by the RBI on January 5, 2018, features the Konark Wheel on its reverse side.

    Its significance

    • The Konark Wheel, serving as an ancient sundial, symbolizes the advanced understanding of timekeeping and astronomy in 13th-century India.
    • Its intricate carvings reflect exceptional craftsmanship and cultural significance, embodying the cycle of life and the worship of Surya, the Sun God.
    • Its depiction on Indian currency highlights its enduring legacy and significance in promoting national identity and tourism in Odisha.

    Back2Basics: Konark Sun Temple

    konark

    • Approximately 64 km from Bhubaneswar.
    • Built in the 13th century (around 1250 CE) during the reign of King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
    • Dedicated to Surya, the Sun God.
    • Exemplifies Kalinga architecture, known for its intricate stone carvings and elaborate sculptures.
    • Constructed from Khondalite stone, which is durable and intricately carved.
    • Designed as a chariot with 7 horses and 24 wheels.
    • Structure originally included a sanctum (deul) and a jagamohan (assembly hall) that have largely collapsed but were once adorned with exquisite carvings.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] Which of the following is/are famous for Sun temples?

    1. Arasavalli

    2. Amarakantak

    3. Omkareshwar

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Languages and Eighth Schedule

    Maithili missed out on Classical Status

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Why in the News?

    While five languages were granted classical status earlier this month, Maithili was not considered as the Bihar government had not officially forwarded the proposal, despite ongoing demands for its inclusion.

    Maithili missed out on Classical Status

    About Maithili Language

    • Maithili belongs to the eastern sub-group of the Indo-Aryan branch of languages.
      • It is believed to have evolved from Magadhan Prakrit.
      • The poet Vidyapati (14th century) popularized Maithili, establishing its importance in literature and folk culture.
    • It was added to the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution in 2003, making it one of the 22 officially recognized languages of India.
      • It is an optional subject in the UPSC exams, providing an opportunity for candidates to take it as a paper.
      • It was granted second official language status in Jharkhand in 2018.
    • It is spoken primarily in Bihar and Jharkhand in India, with a significant presence in Nepal.
      • According to the 2011 Census, there are around 12 million Maithili speakers in India.
      • It is the second most spoken language in Nepal, especially in the Terai region.
    • Mithilakshar, also known as Tirhuta, is the original script used for writing Maithili.
      • It belongs to the same family as Bangla, Assamese, Odia, Tibetan, and Nepali scripts.
      • The script’s oldest records date back to 950 AD, found in Sahodara stone inscriptions.

    About Eighth Schedule:

    Details
    Purpose Lists the official languages of India as recognized by the Constitution.
    Relevant Articles Part XVII (Articles 343 to 351) of the Constitution outlines provisions for official languages.
    Key Constitutional Provisions • Article 344(1): Mandates the formation of a Commission by the President to recommend steps to promote Hindi after five years of the Constitution’s commencement.
    • Article 351: Promotes the development of Hindi as a medium to represent India’s composite culture.
    Languages in the Eighth Schedule Currently includes 22 languages:
    Initially Included (14 languages): Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Oriya, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.
    Later Additions: Sindhi (21st Amendment, 1967), Konkani, Manipuri, Nepali (71st Amendment, 1992), Bodo, Dogri, Maithili, Santhali (92nd Amendment, 2003).
    Official Language Status Hindi (in Devanagari script) is the official language of India, with English as an additional official language for administrative purposes.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] Consider the following languages:

    1. Gujarati
    2. Kannada
    3. Telugu

    Which of the above has/have been declared as ‘Classical Language/Languages’ by the Government?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • The Crisis In The Middle East

    United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA)

    Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Important International Institutions

    Why in the News?

    Israel’s Knesset has banned the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating within its borders, citing alleged ties between UNRWA staff and Hamas.

    What is Israel’s Knesset?

    • The Knesset is Israel’s unicameral parliament, established in 1949.
    • It consists of 120 members, elected every four years through proportional representation, and is responsible for legislation, government oversight, and electing the president.

    About UNRWA:

    Details
    Full Name United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)
    Establishment Established by the UN General Assembly in 1949.
    Primary Purpose To provide relief, healthcare, and education for Palestinian refugees displaced after the 1948 Arab-Israeli war.
    Headquarters Originally in Beirut, moved to Vienna in 1978, and relocated to Gaza in 1996.
    Mandate Renewal The mandate has been renewed repeatedly, currently extended until June 30, 2026.
    Fields of Operation Operates in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.
    Beneficiaries Supports over five million Palestinian refugees and their descendants displaced in 1948 and 1967.
    Services Provided • Education
    • Healthcare
    • Social services
    • Infrastructure improvement
    • Microfinance
    • Emergency assistance
    Funding Sources Primarily funded by voluntary contributions from UN member states, with limited funding from the UN Regular Budget for staffing costs.
    Leadership Led by a Commissioner-General, appointed by the UN Secretary-General with General Assembly approval.
    Controversies • Disputed mandate regarding descendants of original refugees.
    • Allegations of staff affiliations with militant groups.
    Global Response Condemned by the international community regarding bans and criticisms, with calls to support UNRWA’s humanitarian role.

    Its role and significance:

    • Humanitarian Aid: UNRWA provides essential support, including food, shelter, healthcare, and education to over five million Palestinian refugees.
    • Education and Empowerment: Operates schools for 500,000 children and supports microfinance programs to promote economic self-sufficiency.
    • Crisis Response: Plays a vital role in emergency situations and advocates for the rights of Palestinian refugees on an international level.

    PYQ:

    [2015] Amnesty International is:

    (a) an agency of the United Nations to help refugees of civil wars

    (b) a global Human Rights Movement

    (c) a non-governmental voluntary organization to help very poor people

    (d) an inter-governmental agency to cater to medical emergencies in war-ravaged regions

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  • Disasters and Disaster Management – Sendai Framework, Floods, Cyclones, etc.

    TN declares Heatwaves a State-specific Disaster

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Disaster Management

    Why in the News?

    • The Tamil Nadu government has officially declared heatwaves a State-specific disaster.
      • It announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹4 lakh for families of individuals who die from heat-related causes, including those involved in relief operations.

    Key Details of the Declaration

    • Purpose: This declaration allows the government to provide immediate relief to those affected by extreme heat, especially during the severe temperatures of April and May 2024.
    • Funding: Relief efforts will be supported by the State Disaster Response Fund.
    • Other State-specific disasters in TN: Sea erosion, lightning, thunder, whirlwinds, and gale winds as State-specific disasters to ensure relief assistance for those impacted by these events.

    Note: 

    • Kerala in March this year, declared man-animal conflict as a state-specific disaster, becoming the first state in the country to do so.
    • Once an issue is declared a state-specific disaster, the onus to deal with it shifts to the state disaster management authority, which, powered by the Disaster Management Act, can take quicker and more decisive action.
    • Also, district collectors can directly intervene in their capacity as the chairman of the district disaster body.

     

    heatwave

    About Heatwaves:

    Details
    Definition A heatwave is a prolonged period of excessively hot weather, relative to the usual climate of a region.
    Occurrence Typically occurs in India between March and June.
    Declaration by IMD
    • Plains: The maximum temperature is at least 45°C
    • Hills: The maximum temperature is at least 30°C
    • Coastal regions: The maximum temperature is at least 37°C and the departure from normal is at least 4.5°C
    Formation • High-Pressure Systems: Develop when high pressure settles over a region for days or weeks.
    • Air Sinking: Forces air to sink, warming and drying it.
    • Increased Radiation: Fewer clouds lead to higher surface temperatures.
    • Surface Winds: Warm air from lower latitudes or continental winds intensify heat.
    Criteria for Declaring a Heatwave At least two stations in a meteorological subdivision must meet one of the following criteria for two consecutive days (declared on the second day):
    Based on Departure from Normal:
    – Heat Wave: Temperature departure of 4.5°C to 6.4°C above normal.
    – Severe Heat Wave: Temperature departure of >6.4°C above normal.
    Based on Actual Maximum Temperature (plains only):
    – Heat Wave: Maximum temperature reaches 45°C or higher.
    – Severe Heat Wave: Maximum temperature reaches 47°C or higher.
    Duration Typically lasts a minimum of four days but can extend to seven or ten days.
    Longest Recorded Spell: May 2015, lasting from 18 to 31 May.
    Impact of Heatwaves • Heat Strokes: Increased risk, especially for the elderly and those with chronic illnesses.
    • Increased Healthcare Costs: Higher hospital visits and death rates from related illnesses.
    • Reduced Productivity: Extreme heat affects the output of over 1 billion workers.
    • Risk of Wildfires: Heat domes can lead to wildfires.
    • Effect on Vegetation: Prolonged heat damages crops and leads to droughts.
    • Increased Energy Demands: Higher electricity usage for cooling, driving up rates.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Bring out the causes for the formation of heat islands in the urban habitat of the world.

    [2013] The annual range of temperature in the interior of the continents is high as compared to coastal areas. What is / are the reason / reasons?

    1. Thermal difference between land and water

    2. Variation in altitude between continents and oceans

    3. Presence of strong winds in the interior

    4. Heavy rains in the interior as compared to coasts

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 1 and 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

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