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  • Air Pollution

    How can traffic which causes air pollution be controlled?    

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

    Why in the News?

    India has 83 of the world’s 100 most polluted cities. Air pollution caused 2.1 million deaths, with 99% breathing air below WHO standards.

    Share of Road Transport in India’s CO2 Emissions as per the International Energy Associates

    • Road transport is responsible for approximately 12% of India’s total CO2 emissions. Within this sector, heavy vehicles are a significant contributor to particulate matter (PM2.5) emissions, which are particularly harmful due to their ability to penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. 
    • Studies indicate that heavy vehicles contribute to about 60-70% of total vehicular PM emissions and 40-50% of total Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) emissions in urban areas. This highlights the critical role that road transport plays in India’s overall air pollution problem.

    Why has the vehicular scrapping policy not been effective in States like Karnataka and Maharashtra?

    • Insufficient Scrapping Facilities: Both states have a limited number of registered vehicle scrapping facilities (RVSFs). For instance, Karnataka has only two authorized RVSFs located in Devanahalli and Koratagere, which are unable to handle the volume of vehicles eligible for scrapping.
    • Voluntary Compliance: The policy’s reliance on voluntary participation has resulted in low engagement from vehicle owners. For example, the policy targets around 20 lakh vehicles for scrapping, but without mandatory compliance, many older, polluting vehicles continue to operate on the roads
    • Lack of Awareness and Less Incentives: There is a lack of awareness regarding the benefits of scrapping old vehicles among the public. Although the policy offers incentives, such as tax relief for scrapping vehicles may not be sufficient to encourage widespread participation.
    • Bureaucratic delays: The implementation of the scrapping policy has faced bureaucratic delays and inconsistencies. In Maharashtra, despite announcing incentives for scrapping old vehicles, the actual impact has been limited due to slow bureaucratic processes and a lack of effective enforcement.

    Steps taken: 

    The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has taken several significant steps towards enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing carbon emissions in the transport sector through the implementation of the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) norms. 

    • Introduction of CAFE Norms: The BEE has proposed the CAFE III and CAFE IV norms, which aim to set stringent targets for carbon emissions from passenger vehicles.
      • CAFE III, effective from 2027 to 2032, sets a target of 91.7 grams of CO2 per kilometer, while CAFE IV, from 2032 to 2037, aims for 70 grams of CO2 per kilometer. These targets are designed to drive innovation and encourage the adoption of cleaner technologies in the automotive sector.
    • Transition to WLTP Testing: A significant step is the commitment to transition from the Modified Indian Driving Cycle (MIDC) to the World Light Duty Vehicle Testing Procedure (WLTP) by March 31, 2027.
      • The WLTP provides a more accurate and globally harmonized measure of a vehicle’s fuel consumption and emissions, ensuring that the targets reflect real-world driving conditions more effectively.
    • Penalties for Non-Compliance: The BEE has outlined financial penalties for manufacturers that fail to meet the established fuel efficiency standards.
      • For instance, if a manufacturer’s average fuel efficiency exceeds the limit by up to 0.2 liters per 100 km, a penalty of ₹25,000 per vehicle applies. If it exceeds by more than 0.2 liters, the penalty increases to ₹50,000 per vehicle.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Infrastructure and Accessibility: Need to increase the number of registered vehicle scrapping facilities (RVSFs) across states like Karnataka and Maharashtra to make the process more accessible.
    • Strengthen Policy Enforcement and Incentives: Transition from voluntary to mandatory compliance for the scrapping of old and polluting vehicles. This can be supported by enhancing public awareness campaigns that highlight the environmental and financial benefits of vehicle scrapping.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata are the three Megacities of the country but air pollution is a much more serious problem in Delhi as compared to the other two. Why is this so? (UPSC IAS/2015)

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  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) Breakthrough

    Reshape the governance structures of AI companies      

    Explained | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Why in the News?

    Recently, corporations adopting stakeholder capitalism are focusing on products like Generative AI, which require governance models that balance profit-making with broader social responsibilities, reflecting a shift in corporate priorities.

    Data Access Issues

    1. Dependence on Data for AI Development: The advancement of AI technologies necessitates access to vast amounts of data, including personal and sensitive information. This reliance raises significant privacy concerns, as improper handling of this data can lead to breaches of privacy rights.
    2. Regulatory Scrutiny: Companies like Meta have faced regulatory challenges regarding data usage for AI training. For example, Meta was asked to pause its plans to train large language models using public content from Facebook and Instagram due to privacy concerns raised by regulators, highlighting the tension between data access and compliance with privacy laws.
    3. Algorithmic Bias: AI systems can perpetuate existing biases present in the data they are trained on, leading to discriminatory outcomes. For instance, Amazon discontinued a recruiting algorithm that displayed gender bias.

    Purpose vs. Strategy

    1. Conflict Between Purpose and Profit: Many companies, including OpenAI, initially adopted governance structures aimed at public benefit but faced challenges when profit motives clashed with their social objectives. The dismissal of CEO Sam Altman over concerns about prioritizing commercialization over user safety exemplifies this conflict.
    2. Shareholder Primacy: Despite the adoption of alternative governance models, the underlying shareholder primacy often prevails. The pressure to generate profits can overshadow the intended social benefits, leading to a situation where public good becomes secondary to financial gains.
    3. Corporate Governance issue: The governance issues faced by OpenAI, particularly the internal conflict that led to Altman’s firing, raise questions about the effectiveness of public benefit corporate structures in balancing profit and purpose, especially in tech companies reliant on investor capital.
    4. Potential Shift to For-Profit Structures: Rumors about OpenAI considering a transition to a for-profit governance model indicate a trend where companies may abandon their social objectives in favour of profit maximization.

    Workable Strategy (Way forward)

    1. Framing Ethical Standards: Developing comprehensive ethical guidelines for AI product companies is crucial. These standards should address data privacy, algorithmic fairness, and accountability, ensuring that AI technologies are developed responsibly and equitably.
    2. Incentivizing Public Benefit Objectives: Corporations should be incentivized to adopt public benefit purposes that align with their business strategies. This could involve financial incentives for companies that demonstrate long-term profit gains from socially responsible practices.
    3. Reducing Compliance Costs: To encourage adherence to public benefit objectives, it is essential to lower the compliance costs associated with implementing ethical practices.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) hasinitiated e-Governance as an integral part of government”. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020)

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  • Minority Issues – SC, ST, Dalits, OBC, Reservations, etc.

    Jiyo Parsi Scheme

    Schemes | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

    Why in the News?

    The Minister for Minority Affairs has launched a dedicated portal for Jiyo Parsi Scheme.

    What is the Jiyo Parsi Scheme?

    • It is a Central Sector Scheme launched in 2013-14 by the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
    • It aims to arrest the population decline of the Parsis, a minority community in India.
    • It focuses on stabilizing and increasing the Parsi population through scientific protocols and structured interventions.
    • Features of the Scheme:
      • Financial support for infertility treatments and related medical care in empanelled hospitals.
      • Assistance for childcare and support for elderly Parsis.
      • Programs to raise awareness and encourage participation within the Parsi community.
    • Target Groups:
      • Parsi married couples of childbearing age needing assistance.
      • Young adults and adolescents in the Parsi community for disease detection, with parental/legal guardian consent.

    Significance of the scheme:

    • This scheme has successfully facilitated the birth of over 400 Parsi children.
    • It preserves the cultural heritage and identity of the Parsi community.
    • It ensures the long-term sustainability of the community in India.
    • It demonstrates government commitment to supporting minority communities and promoting diversity.

    PYQ:

    [2011] In India, if a religious sect/community is given the status of a national minority, what special advantages it is entitled to?

    1. It can establish and administer exclusive educational institutions.
    2. The President of India automatically nominates a representative of the community to Lok Sabha.
    3. It can derive benefits from the Prime Minister’s 15-Point Programme.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

    Indian Astronomers discover new method for Solar Cycle Amplitude Prediction

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Why in the News?

    • Astronomers from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) have developed a new method to predict the amplitude of the upcoming solar cycle.

    What is Space Weather?

    • Space weather refers to the varying conditions within the solar system and its heliosphere, influenced by the Sun and solar wind.
    • The main components of space weather include: solar wind, coronal mass ejections, and solar flares.
    • These components can compress the Earth’s magnetosphere, triggering geomagnetic storms.
    • This can disrupt communication, power transmission, damage spacecraft electronics, and pose threats to astronauts.

    Solar Cycle and Its Importance

    • The activity of the Sun follows an approximately 11-year periodic cycle, marked by variations in the number of sunspots on the Sun’s surface.
    • This solar cycle influences space weather, Earth’s atmosphere, and climate variations.
    • Predicting the amplitude of the solar cycle is a major challenge in astrophysics, as it directly affects related phenomena and space weather.

    Research Findings

    • IIA researchers discovered that the width of supergranular cells on the solar surface during the minimum year of the solar cycle is correlated with the number of sunspots observed during the subsequent solar cycle maximum.
    • This simple method can be used to predict the strength of the upcoming solar cycle, which is valuable for space weather forecasting.

    What are Supergranular Cells?

    • Supergranular Cells are large convective cells on the Sun’s surface, with diameters of about 30,000 km.
    • These cells are part of the solar convection zone where hot plasma rises, cools as it reaches the surface, and then sinks back down in a continuous cycle.
    • Characteristics:
      • Supergranular cells are larger than granules, another type of convective cell on the Sun. Its borders, known as supergranular lanes, are about 5,000 km thick.
      • Plasma within these cells moves from the center of the cell toward the edges, where it sinks back into the Sun’s interior. This movement creates a network of lanes that can be observed on the solar surface.
      • Supergranular cells are associated with the magnetic field concentrations on the Sun’s surface, often where sunspots and other magnetic features appear.

    PYQ:

    [2022] If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth?

    1. GPS and navigation systems could fail.
    2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.
    3. Power grids could be damaged.
    4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.
    5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.
    6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.
    7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over pola-regions could be interrupted.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only
    (b) 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only
    (c) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only
    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7

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  • Tiger Conservation Efforts – Project Tiger, etc.

    Corbett Tiger Reserve

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

    Why in the News?

    The Jim Corbett National Park and Tiger Reserve authorities have recently concluded an awareness campaign to celebrate World Elephant Day (August 12).

    About Corbett Tiger Reserve

    Details
    Location
    • Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand.
    • Spread over Pauri, Nainital, and Almora districts.
    Establishment
    • Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park (first National Park of India).
    • Renamed Corbett National Park in 1957 in honor of Jim Corbett.
    • Total area now extends to 1,288.31 sq. km.
    Terrain
    • Several valleys, with rivers Ramganga, Pallaen, and Sonanadi flowing through them.
    Geographical Features
    • Spread over the Bhabar and lower Shivalik regions.
    • Porous tract with boulders and sand deposits, deep water table.
    Flora
    • Sal and mixed forests, with grasslands called ‘Chaur’.
    • Evergreen Sal, Sheesham, and Kanju trees are common.
    • Lantana weed is a widespread irritant in the reserve.
    Fauna
    • Home to tigers and elephants as key species.
    • Also hosts leopards, small carnivores, ungulates like sambar and spotted deer, birds, reptiles (gharials, crocodiles), and fishes.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under “Critical Tiger Habitat”?

    (a) Corbett

    (b) Ranthambore

    (c) Nagarjunasagar- Srisailam

    (d) Sunderbans

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  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) Breakthrough

    National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS)

    Prelims Only | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: E-Technology In The Aid Of Farmers

    Why in the News?

    The Centre has launched the AI-based National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) to help farmers connect with agriculture scientists and experts for pests’ control.

    What is the National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS)?

    • The NPSS is an AI-based platform launched by the government on August 15, 2024.
    • It is designed to help farmers connect with agricultural scientists and experts for effective pest control using their phones.
    • It aims to reduce farmers’ dependence on pesticide retailers.
    • It provides data for selected crops i.e. Rice, Cotton, Maize, Mango and Chilies.

    How will farmers use it?

    • Farmers can take photos of infested crops or pests using the NPSS platform, which are then analyzed by scientists and experts.
    • Then they will suggest the correct quantity of the pesticide at the right time, reducing excessive pesticide use.
    • Target Groups: Approximately 14 crore farmers across India.

    Significance

    • It will reduce crop damage, improve pest management practices, and reduce the risk of soil damage by minimizing excessive pesticide use.

    PYQ:

    [2014] With reference to Neem tree, consider the following statements:

    1. Neem oil can be used as a pesticide to control the proliferation of some species of insects and mites.

    2. Neem seeds are used in the manufacture of biofuels and hospital detergents.

    3. Neem oil has applications in pharmaceutical industry.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Civil Services Reforms

    The Seductive Trap of the Civil Services    

    Explained | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Civil Service

    Why in the News?

    Public service doesn’t have exclusive rights to serve the nation, nor does it offer any special opportunities for doing so.

    Present Status of Civil Services in India

    1. Reputation and Credibility: Recent controversies, such as the case of IAS probationer Puja Khedkar, who has allegedly misused quotas and provided false documentation shadow over the credibility of UPSC.
    2. High Aspirations and Struggles: The civil service job is a highly demandable career in India. It is often viewed as a prestigious and stable option which leads to a competitive environment where many aspirants repeatedly attempt the UPSC exams leading to mental health struggles and societal pressure. 
    3. Coaching Industry Influence: The expansive coaching industry thrives on the aspirations of civil service candidates by capitalizing on the high failure rates and the desperation of aspirants.

    About the Kothari Commission: 

    • The Kothari Commission, officially known as the Education Commission of 1964-66, was established by the Government of India to comprehensively evaluate the educational system and recommend reforms. It was chaired by Dr. D. S. Kothari.
    • The Commission aimed to align education with national development goals and address various shortcomings in the existing system. 
    • Its report, titled “Education and National Development,” was submitted on June 29, 1966.

    Suggestions from the Kothari Commission:

    The Kothari Commission’s recommendations, which aimed to reform education and public service, can provide a framework for addressing the current challenges in the civil services:

    1. Age Limit Adjustments: The government should reduce the upper age limit for candidates from around 34-35 years to 25 years, with allowances for special categories which could help mitigate the prolonged pursuit of civil services and reduce the burden on young aspirants.
    2. Limiting Attempts: Restricting the number of attempts to three, with an additional attempt for special categories which could help streamline the process and discourage the excessive commercialization of coaching services that exploit aspirants’ ambitions.
    3. Broadened Perspectives on Service: Encouraging young people to view various professions as valid forms of national service rather than solely focusing on government positions.

    Way forward: 

    • Reforming Recruitment and Training Processes: To enhance credibility and transparency in civil services recruitment, the UPSC and related bodies could implement stricter verification processes for candidates’ credentials, including quotas and documentation.
    • Diversifying Career Awareness and Opportunities: The government, along with educational institutions like CBSE can promote awareness of diverse career paths beyond civil services, emphasizing the value of contributing to the nation through various professions.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Initially Civil Services in India were designed to achieve the goals of neutrality and effectiveness, which seems to be lacking in the present context. Do you agree with the view that drastic reforms are required in Civil Services. Comment (UPSC IAS/2017)

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  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    Freedom from dependence, a new era in health care

    Explained | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1: Population & Associated Issues

    Why in the News?

    India’s healthcare since globalization has improved greatly, and is globally recognized due to skilled professionals, effective policies, and strong institutions which draw patients from over 147 countries.

    Economic implications of being a preferred Medical Destination:

    • Foreign Exchange Savings: India saves billions in foreign exchange as fewer Indians need to travel abroad for advanced medical treatments.
    • Revenue Generation: The influx of international patients generates over $9 billion annually, contributing to economic growth.
    • Job Creation: The medical tourism sector creates employment opportunities in healthcare, hospitality, transportation, and pharmaceuticals.
    • Cost-Effective Treatments: India’s affordable yet high-quality medical services attract patients globally, further boosting the economy.

    What are the challenges? 

    • Shortage of Healthcare Professionals
        • Current Shortage: India is estimated to be short of around 600,000 doctors, leading to a doctor-patient ratio of approximately 0.7 doctors per 1,000 people, which is significantly lower than the World Health Organization’s recommended ratio of 1 doctor per 1,000 people.  
        • Future Demand: By 2030, the demand for healthcare professionals in India is expected to double, driven by an ageing population and the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases.
    • Inadequate Public Healthcare Spending
        • Low Expenditure: As of 2021-22, India’s public healthcare expenditure stood at 2.1% of GDP, which is significantly lower than that of many developed countries, For instance, countries like Japan and France spend about 10% of their GDP on healthcare, while the United States spends 16.9%.
        • Comparison with Neighbors: Even neighbouring countries like Bangladesh and Pakistan allocate over 3% of their GDP to public healthcare.
    • Unequal Access to Healthcare
        • Urban-Rural Disparity: There is a stark disparity in healthcare access between urban and rural areas. Rural regions often lack basic healthcare facilities, leading to limited access to quality services for a significant portion of the population.  
        • Healthcare Infrastructure: India’s healthcare infrastructure is inadequate to meet the growing demands of its population. For instance, India has one of the lowest per capita bed counts in the world, with only about 0.5 hospital beds per 1,000 people, compared to the OECD average of 4.7 beds per 1,000 people.
    • High Out-of-Pocket Expenditure
      • Financial Burden: Approximately 75% of healthcare expenditure in India is borne out-of-pocket by individuals and families.

    Need for a Strong Vision (Way forward)

    • “Heal in India” Initiative: The Prime Minister’s vision of “Heal in India” emphasizes positioning India as a global healthcare leader. This initiative is not merely a slogan but a strategic approach to enhance India’s reputation as a preferred medical destination.
    • Youth Engagement: Inspiring the youth to pursue careers in healthcare is crucial for sustaining growth in this sector. By encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship among young Indians, the country can ensure a robust healthcare system.
    • Investment in Public Healthcare: Increase public healthcare spending to improve infrastructure, especially in rural areas, and bridge the urban-rural disparity.
    • Focus on Medical Device Manufacturing: Promote domestic production of medical devices under the “Make in India” initiative to reduce dependency on imports.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Appropriate local community-level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain. (UPSC IAS/2018)

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  • Wetland Conservation

    3 more Ramsar Wetland sites now in India, taking total to 85

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

    Why in the News?

    • The Environment Ministry announced the designation of three more wetlands: Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary (TN), Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary (TN) and Tawa Reservoir (MP) as Ramsar Sites.
      • This makes the total Ramsar sites count in India to 85.

    About the newly designated Ramsar Sites:

    Location Geographical Features Key Species Ecosystem
    Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary Tiruppur District, Tamil Nadu Located on the banks of Nanjarayan Tank;

    ~125 hectares

    		 Herons, egrets, pelicans Wetland habitats, surrounded by agricultural lands
    Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary Villupuram District, Tamil Nadu Brackish water wetland near Bay of Bengal;

    ~5,000 hectares

    		 Flamingos, pelicans, storks, waterfowl Mix of freshwater and saltwater habitats, includes mangroves
    Tawa Reservoir Hoshangabad District, Madhya Pradesh Part of Narmada River Basin, foothills of Satpura Range;

    ~225 sq. km

    		 Mahseer fish, surrounded by Satpura forests Aquatic life, forested surroundings

     

    Important Facts:

    • India became a signatory to the Ramsar Convention in 1982.
      • India is one of the contracting parties to the Ramsar Convention, which was signed in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971.
    • With the inclusion of these 3 new sites, India now has 85 Ramsar sites, covering a total area of 13,58,068 hectares.
    • Tamil Nadu currently has the highest number of Ramsar sites in India, with 18 sites, followed by Uttar Pradesh with 10 sites.
    • India’s Ramsar wetlands constitute about 10% of the total wetland area in the country, spread across 18 states.
    • UK leads globally with 175 sites, followed by Mexico with 142 sites.
      • Bolivia, however, has the largest area under Ramsar protection, spanning 148,000 sq. km.
    • According to the National Wetland Inventory and Assessment by ISRO, India’s wetlands cover approximately 1,52,600 sq. km., which is 4.63% of total geographical area.
    • India has 19 types of wetlands, with Gujarat having the largest area, followed by Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. Under Ramsar Convention, it is mandatory on the part of the Government of India to protect and conserve all the wetlands in the territory of India.
    2. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 were framed by the Government of India based on the recommendations of the Ramsar Convention.
    3. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 also encompass the drainage area or catchment regions of the wetlands as determined by the authority.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 3 and 3

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  • Terrorism and Challenges Related To It

    What is the drug Captagon?

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Why in the News?

    Captagon, the “poor man’s cocaine,” has become increasingly popular among young adults in the Middle East and North Africa.

    What is the Drug Captagon?

    • Captagon is a synthetic drug that was originally developed in Germany in the 1960s and 1970s.
    • It was initially created as a pharmaceutical treatment for attention deficit disorders, narcolepsy, and sometimes depression.
    • The primary active ingredient in Captagon is fenethylline, a compound that, once ingested, is metabolized into two powerful stimulants: amphetamine and theophylline.
    • These substances stimulate the central nervous system, leading to increased alertness, reduced fatigue, and a sense of euphoria.

    How Addictive is Captagon?

    • Captagon is highly addictive due to its powerful effects on the brain and body.
    • As a psychostimulant, Captagon significantly impacts the central nervous system, leading to a range of effects that can make it very difficult for users to stop taking the drug once they start.
    • It is also reportedly used by fighters in conflict zones to enhance their endurance and suppress fatigue.
    • The primary effects of Captagon include:
    1. Euphoria: Users often experience an intense feeling of happiness or well-being.
    2. Increased Wakefulness: The drug reduces the need for sleep, keeping users awake and alert for extended periods.
    3. Enhanced Physical and Mental Performance: Users may feel stronger, more focused, and more capable of performing both physically and mentally demanding tasks.
    • However, the heavy use of Captagon comes with serious risks such as cognitive impairment, cardiovascular issues, and risk of addiction.

    Where is Captagon Made?

    • In recent years, Syria the “narco state” of Middle East has emerged as the largest producer of Captagon.
    • Its production increased after 2011 Arab Spring protests, which led to civil unrest and conflict in the region.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. The United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) has a ‘Protocol against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land, Sea and Air’.
    2. The UNCAC is the ever-first legally binding global anti-corruption instrument.
    3. A highlight of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) is the inclusion of a specific chapter aimed at returning assets to their rightful owners from whom they had been taken illicitly.
    4. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is mandated by its member States to assist in the implementation of both UNCAC and UNTOC.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3 only
    (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
    (c) 2 and 4 only
    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

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