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  • International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

    Chang’e 6 Lunar Probe

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

    Why in the News?

    • On June 25, Chang’e-6 became the world’s first spacecraft to bring back samples from the far side of the Moon.
      • Chang’e-6 successfully returned with samples from the lunar far side, making China the first country to achieve this feat.

    About Chang’e-6 Mission 

    • The mission lasted 53 days, starting with a launch on May 3, 2024, and ending with the return capsule landing on June 25, 2024.
    • The lander descended into the South Pole-Aitken basin, one of the largest impact basins in the solar system, believed to contain material from the lunar mantle.
    • The lander used robotic scoops and drills to collect about 2 kilograms of lunar material, including both surface soil and subsurface samples.

    Components of Chang’e-6 

    1. Lander: Equipped with drills and scoops for sample collection.
    2. Ascender: Transported samples from the lunar surface to lunar orbit.
    3. Orbiter: Carried the samples from lunar orbit back to Earth.
    4. Returner: Brought the samples safely back to Earth.

    Collaboration and Payloads

    The mission carried instruments from international partners, including:

    • French DORN: Studied lunar dust and volatiles.
    • Italian INRRI: Measured distances using a retroreflector.
    • Swedish NILS: Detected negative ions on the lunar surface.
    • Pakistani ICUBE-Q CubeSat: Imaged the lunar surface and obtained magnetic field data.

    Scientific Goals  

    • Sample Analysis: Scientists aim to learn more about the Moon’s internal structure and the differences between its near and far sides.

    China’s Lunar Exploration Program

    • Chang’e-6 follows previous missions under China’s Lunar Exploration Program, marking the next step in incremental technological advancements.
    • Phases of Exploration: The program has four phases:
    1. First Phase: Reaching lunar orbit, completed by Chang’e 1 (2007) and Chang’e 2 (2010).
    2. Second Phase: Landing and roving, achieved by Chang’e 3 (2013) and Chang’e 4 (2019).
    3. Third Phase: Sample collection and return, accomplished by Chang’e 5 (2020) and Chang’e 6 (2024).
    4. Fourth Phase: Developing a robotic research station near the Moon’s South Pole, aiming for crewed lunar landings in the 2030s.

    Previous Lunar Sample Missions

    • Apollo 11 Mission (1969): The US mission brought 22 kg of lunar material, including 50 rocks.
    • Luna 16 Mission (1970): Soviet robotic mission brought lunar samples to Earth.
    • Chang’e-5 Mission (2020): Predecessor to Chang’e-6, returned 2 kg of lunar soil from the near side.

    Significance of Sample Return Missions

    • Laboratory Analysis: Allows the use of sophisticated instruments to study the chemical, isotopic, mineralogical, structural, and physical properties of samples.
    • Long-term Preservation: Samples can be preserved and re-examined by future generations with advanced technology.
    • Technological Feat: Recovering samples from the far side is a significant technological achievement.
    • Step Towards Human Exploration: Success of Chang’e-6 is seen as a step towards China’s goal of landing astronauts on the Moon by 2030.
    • Launch Pad for Deep Space: The Moon could serve as a base for future deep space missions and extraterrestrial exploration.

    Outcome: New Lunar Race

    • Global Participation: India, China, Japan, the US, and Russia launched lunar missions in 2023.
    • Future Missions: Over 100 Moon missions by governments and private companies are expected by 2030.
    • Long-term Goals: Unlike the 20th-century space race, today’s missions aim to establish a long-term presence and use lunar resources.

    India’s Chandrayaan-4 Mission

    • Chandrayaan-4, under development by ISRO, will also be a sample return mission to be launched tentatively by 2028.
    • Chandrayaan-3 landed near the Moon’s South Pole last year, about 600 km from the target area for Chandrayaan-4.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] Discuss India’s achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology helped India in its socio-economic development?

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  • Coronavirus – Economic Issues

    K-Shaped Economic Recovery fuels diverse Inflation Dynamics in India

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Why in the News?

    India is experiencing a K-shaped recovery, with uneven growth patterns. This recovery is causing divergent inflation trends, with food and rural prices rising faster than other goods and services, and urban inflation.

    What is K-Shaped Recovery?

    •  A K-shaped recovery is an economic scenario in which different sectors, industries, or groups within an economy recover from a recession at markedly different rates.
    • This results in a divergent economic recovery pattern, with some parts of the economy experiencing robust growth and others continuing to struggle or even decline.

    Features of K-Shaped Recovery

    • Divergent Recovery Rates: Certain sectors, such as technology and finance, may recover quickly and strongly. Other sectors, like hospitality and retail, may continue to struggle or recover much more slowly.
    • Income Inequality: High-income individuals and businesses may see significant improvements in their financial situations. Low-income individuals and small businesses may face prolonged financial hardships.
    • Sectoral Disparities: Industries that can adapt to remote work or have online business models (e.g., tech, e-commerce) thrive.

    Indian Context: Consumption Patterns Post-Pandemic

    • High-End Goods Demand: Post-pandemic recovery is driven by increased demand for higher-end goods and services.
    • Mass Consumption Items: Lower-income households’ consumption of mass-market items remains relatively subdued.

     Contrast Inflation Rate:

    • Rural vs. Urban Inflation: Rural inflation is outpacing urban inflation.
    • Food Prices vs. Other Goods: Food price inflation is higher compared to inflation in other goods and services.
    • Goods vs. Services Inflation: Goods inflation is higher than services inflation.
    • Input vs. Output Prices: Input prices are rising faster than output prices.

    Policy Implications

    • Sensitive Policymaking: Government policies need to be sensitive to the impact on different groups affected by supply-side shocks.
    • Careful Planning: Reforms should be carefully explained and planned to mitigate adverse impacts.

    PYQ:

    [2021] Do you agree that the Indian economy has recently experienced V-shaped recovery? Give reasons in support of your answer.

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  • International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

    China-France launches SVOM Satellite for Gamma-Ray Burst Study

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

    Why in the News?

    The Space Variable Objects Monitor (SVOM) satellite jointly developed by China and France was launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center.

    About Space Variable Objects Monitor (SVOM)

    • The SVOM is designed to study gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) resulting from explosive cosmic events like black hole births and neutron star collisions.
    • It is the first astronomy satellite developed jointly by China and France, following their collaboration on an oceanographic satellite launched in 2018.

    Importance of Studying Gamma-Ray Bursts (GRBs)

    • GRBs are highly energetic bursts of gamma rays, lasting from less than a second to several minutes, occurring in distant parts of the universe.GRBs can erupt with a luminosity a quintillion times that of the Sun.
    • Types of GRBs:
    1. Short GRBs: Result from collisions of neutron stars or a neutron star with a black hole, lasting less than two seconds, often followed by kilonovas.
    2. Long GRBs: Result from the explosive deaths of massive stars, lasting two seconds or longer.

    Mission and Objectives of SVOM

    • Primary Objective: To search for and study GRBs across the universe.
    • Data Collection: Measure and analyze electromagnetic radiation properties of GRBs.
    • Scientific Goals: Unlock mysteries about the universe’s evolution and gravitational waves, which are often associated with neutron star collisions.
    • Real-time Detection: Transmit GRB data to ground control within about one minute, enabling coordinated observations with ground-based stations globally.

    Features and Capabilities of SVOM

    • Satellite Specifications: Weighs 930 kg and is equipped with four payloads, two developed by France and two by China.
    • French Contributions: ECLAIRs and MXT telescopes to detect and capture GRBs.
    • Chinese Contributions:
    1. Gamma Ray Burst Monitor (GRM): Measures the spectrum of GRBs.
    2. Visible Telescope (VT): Detects and observes visible emissions immediately after a GRB.
    • Orbit Details: Placed in a low Earth orbit at an altitude of 625 km, with an orbital period of 96 minutes.

    Significance of SVOM’s Findings

    • Early Universe Insights: Aim to detect the earliest GRBs, providing information on the universe’s early stages and evolution.
    • Kilonova Detection: Capability to search for kilonovas, enhancing understanding of stellar evolution and the origin of heavy elements like gold and silver in the universe.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Recently, scientists observed the merger of giant ‘blackholes’ billions of light-years away from the Earth. What is the significance of this observation?

    (a) ‘Higgs boson particles’ were detected.

    (b) ‘Gravitational waves’ were detected.

    (c) Possibility of inter-galactic space travel through ‘wormhole’ was confirmed.

    (d) It enabled the scientists to understand ‘singularity’.

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    TN to allow regulated culling of Wild Boars  

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

    Why in the News?

    • The Tamil Nadu government has approved the controlled hunting of wild boars causing distress to farmers near forest areas.
      • Presently, Wild boars are NOT listed as Vermin under the Schedule V of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

    About the Farmers’ Conflict Resolution Committee

    • The Committee includes representatives from the Departments of Forest, Revenue, Agriculture, and Horticulture, along with scientific experts and wildlife enthusiasts.
    • Objective: The committee was formed to study the impact of raids by elephants and wild pigs on agricultural crops.
    • Implementation Protocol:
      • Approval Process: The culling will require approval from a local three-member checking body.
      • Composition of the Checking Body: The body will include a forester or forest guard, the Village Administrative Officer, and the ward member.
      • Supervision: Culling operations must be conducted in the presence of these three members.

    Zoning for Culling Operations

    • Areas adjacent to reserve forests will be divided into three zones:
    1. Zone A: Within one kilometre from forest limits.
    2. Zone B: One to five kilometres from forest limits.
    3. Zone C: Beyond five kilometres from forest limits.
    • Restrictions: Shooting of wild pigs is prohibited within five kilometres of the reserve forest (Zones A and B).
    • Scientific Approach to Culling:
      • Scientific Methodology: The shooting of wild boars must adhere to a scientific approach, considering the intensity and frequency of conflict incidents.
      • Expert Concerns: Experts highlight the ecological role of wild boars and caution against indiscriminate killing.

    About Indian Wild Boar

    Details
    Scientific Name Sus scrofa cristatus
    Habitat and Distribution High grass, bushes, forests, high crops, dense forests, grasslands, scrublands, agricultural areas; Indian subcontinent, various altitudes from sea level to mountains
    Behaviour and Social Structure
    • Matriarchal ‘sounders’ led by an elder female;
    • Solitary adult males or loose bachelor groups;
    • Active during evening and night;
    • Territorial fights with predators.
    Diet
    • Omnivorous: excreta, tubers, roots, leaves, fruit, vegetables, standing crops, carrion, small animals, baby deer;
    • Prefers marshy areas and roots in swampy places
    Reproduction
    • Breeding year-round, peak seasons vary by region;
    • Gestation: around four months; Litter size: multiple piglets
    Ecological Role
    • Seed dispersal aiding plant propagation;
    • Important prey species maintaining predator-prey balance in the ecosystem
    Conservation Status
    • IUCN Red List: Least Concern
    • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule III

    Proposed reclassification to Schedule V (vermin) due to agricultural damage.
    Present Culling Section 11-B (1) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 allows the Chief Wildlife Warden to issue special orders to kill dangerous wild animals.

     

    Back2Basics: Schedule III of WPA, 1972

    • Protection Level: Lesser degree of protection compared to Schedule I and II.
    • Prohibition: Hunting of these species is prohibited except under special circumstances defined by the Act.
    • Penalties: Violations related to these species attract penalties, though they are less stringent than those for higher schedules.

    Species Listed in Schedule III: As per the latest available data, the following are examples of species listed under Schedule III of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972:

    1. Chinkara (Gazella bennettii): Also known as the Indian Gazelle, found in various parts of India.
    2. Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra): A species of antelope native to India.
    3. Blue Bull (Boselaphus tragocamelus): Also known as the Nilgai, the largest Asian antelope.
    4. Indian Wild Boar (Sus scrofa cristatus): A subspecies of the wild boar native to the Indian subcontinent.
    5. Sambar (Rusa unicolor): A large deer native to the Indian subcontinent.

    Legal Provisions:

    • Hunting Prohibition: Hunting any animal listed under Schedule III is prohibited except for purposes like scientific research, education, and when permitted by the authorities under specific conditions.
    • Penalties: The penalties for offenses involving Schedule III animals include imprisonment up to three years, or a fine up to Rs. 25,000, or both.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] In India, if a species of tortoise is declared protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, what does it imply?

    (a) It enjoys the same level of protection as the tiger.

    (b) It no longer exists in the wild, a few individuals are under captive protection; and now it is impossible to prevent its extinction.

    (c) It is endemic to a particular region of India.

    (d) Both B and C stated above are correct in this context.

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  • Terrorism and Challenges Related To It

    Enemy Agents Ordinance: Strict Measures for Militant Assistance in J&K

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: External State & Non-State Actors: Challenges To Internal Security.

    Why in the News?

    • J&K Director General of Police stated that individuals assisting militants in J&K should be tried under the Enemy Agents Ordinance, 2005.

    Enemy Agents Ordinance: An Overview

    • It was first issued in 1917 by the Dogra Maharaja of J&K, the ordinance remains in effect.
    • The ordinance mandates death or rigorous imprisonment for life, or imprisonment up to 10 years with a fine for aiding the enemy or engaging in actions detrimental to Indian military operations.
    • Its Evolution:
      • Post-Partition Incorporation: The ordinance was retained as a law in J&K post-1947 and amended over time.
      • Changes Post-2019: Following the repeal of Article 370, the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act retained the Enemy Agents Ordinance and other security laws while replacing many state laws with Indian laws, such as the Indian Penal Code.

    Trial Procedures under the Ordinance

    • Special Judge Appointment: Trials are conducted by a special judge appointed by the government in consultation with the High Court.
    • Legal Representation: Accused individuals can only engage a lawyer if permitted by the court.
    • No Appeal Provision: Verdicts can only be reviewed by a High Court judge chosen by the government, with the decision being final.
    • Publication Bar: Unauthorized disclosure or publication of trial information is punishable by imprisonment up to two years, fine, or both.

    Notable Application of the Ordinance

    • Notable Cases: Many Kashmiris have been tried under the ordinance, including Maqbool Bhat, the founder of Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front, who was hanged in Tihar Jail in 1984.
    • Current Context: The Enemy Agents Ordinance continues to be a critical tool in addressing militant assistance in J&K, reflecting the stringent legal measures in place to maintain security.

    PYQ:

    [2019] The banning of ‘Jamaat-e-Islami’ in Jammu and Kashmir brought into focus the role of over-ground workers (OGWs) in assisting terrorist organizations. Examine the role played by OGWs in assisting terrorist organizations in insurgency affected areas. Discuss measures to neutralize the influence of OGWs.

    [2019] Indian government has recently strengthen the anti-terrorism laws by amending the unlawful activities (Prevention) Act, (UAPA), 1967 and the NIA Act. Analyze the changes in the context of prevailing security environment while discussing scope and reasons for opposing the UAPA by human rights organisations.

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  • Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

    Sucheta Kripalani (1908-1974): India’s first woman Chief Minister

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

    Why in the News?

    June 25 is the birth anniversary of “Sucheta Kripalani”, India’s first woman Chief Minister.

    Who was Sucheta Kripalani?

    • Sucheta Kripalani was born on June 25, 1908, in Ambala, Punjab. Daughter of S. N. Majumdar, a government surgeon. She studied at Indraprastha College for Women and St. Stephen’s College, University of Delhi.
    • She married J. B. Kripalani, a former Congress president and Gandhian, in April 1936 against familial and Mahatma Gandhi’s wishes.

    Political Journey and Chief Ministership

    • Early Career: Joined BHU to teach Constitutional History in 1929, participated in Satyagraha, and was imprisoned in 1940.
    • Congress Role: Organized the foreign affairs wing of AICC and later founded the All India Mahila Congress.
      • She won by a margin of 99 votes over Kamalapati Tripathi and was sworn in as CM on October 2, 1963.

    Contributions and Achievements

    • Educational Reforms: Waived school fees for girls up to Class 10 from January 1965. Established Meerut University and Kanpur University.
    • Social Reforms: Increased reservation for SCs in government jobs to 24% in Group C and 45% in Group D until the 18% target was achieved.
    • Infrastructure Developments: Established a Sainik School in Ghorakhal, a new medical college in Meerut, and the UP Awas Vikas Parishad. She created the post of agriculture production commissioner.
    • Crime Control: Neutralized many dacoits in the Chambal Valley with the help of the Police Radio Unit.
    • Anti-Corruption Stance: Emphasized the need to tackle growing corruption in public services, supporting the Union government’s initiative to appoint a vigilance commission.
    • Multifaceted Contributions: Involved in relief activities for the 1934 Bihar earthquake, Noakhali riots, Tibetan refugee rehabilitation, and the Indo-Pak War of 1971.
      • Criticism and Response: Faced criticism for being influenced by English, despite being a staunch supporter of Hindi. Advocated for creating an atmosphere for Hindi in governance.

    Later Life and Legacy

    • Post-CM Career: Served as Lok Sabha MP until 1971.
    • Impact: Her tenure as CM and various social contributions left a lasting impact on Indian politics and society, especially in terms of women’s leadership and social reforms.

    PYQ:

    [2011] With reference to the Indian freedom struggle, Usha Mehta is well-known for:

    (a) Running the secret Congress Radio in the wake of the Quit India Movement

    (b) Participating in the Second Round Table Conference

    (c) Leading a contingent of the Indian National Army

    (d) Assisting in the formation of Interim Government under Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru

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  • Port Infrastructure and Shipping Industry – Sagarmala Project, SDC, CEZ, etc.

    What is in Great Nicobar, site of NITI Aayog’s mega Island Project?

    National Parks/WSPrelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    Why in the News?

    • The opposition party has demanded the immediate suspension of all clearances granted to NITI Aayog’s Great Nicobar Island (GNI) Project.
    • It alleged violations of due process, legal and constitutional provisions protecting tribal communities.

    Great Nicobar Island: An Overview

    • Geography and Ecology: Southernmost tip of India, part of the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago comprising 600-odd islands.
    • Environment: Hilly, covered with lush rainforests, annual rainfall of around 3,500 mm.
    • Biodiversity: Hosts numerous endangered and endemic species including the giant leatherback turtle, Nicobar megapode, Great Nicobar crake, Nicobar crab-eating macaque, and Nicobar tree shrew.
    • Area: 910 sq km with mangroves and Pandan forests along the coast.
    • Indigenous Communities:
      • Shompen Tribe: Approximately 250 people live in interior forests, predominantly hunter-gatherers, classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group.
      • Nicobarese Community: Two groups – Great Nicobarese and Little Nicobarese, practice farming and fishing.
      • Resettlement: The Great Nicobarese were resettled in Campbell Bay after the 2004 tsunami.
    • Administrative Hub: Campbell Bay serves as the administrative hub, housing local offices of the Andaman and Nicobar administration and the panchayat.

    Back2Basics: “Nicobar Triangle”

    It is named after the Nicobar Islands, which are located at the northern apex of this triangular area.

    The islands within the Nicobar Triangle include:

    1. Nicobar Islands: This group of islands belongs to India and is situated to the south of the Andaman Islands. They are known for their diverse flora and fauna and are inhabited by indigenous tribes.
    2. Andaman Islands: Located to the north of the Nicobar Islands, the Andaman Islands are also part of India. They are well-known for their lush forests, coral reefs, and indigenous tribes.
    3. Indonesian Archipelago: To the south and southeast of the Nicobar Islands lies the Indonesian archipelago, which includes thousands of islands spanning a vast area between the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

    What is GNI Project?

    The GNI Project refers to the “Holistic Development of Great Nicobar Island,” a proposed mega project being piloted by NITI Aayog.

    • Implementing Agency: The project is to be implemented by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation (ANIIDCO).
    • Historical Context: Development plans for a port in Great Nicobar date back to the 1970s, aimed at leveraging its strategic location near the Malacca Strait.
    • The project aims to develop the southern end of the Andaman and Nicobar group of Islands in the Bay of Bengal by constructing –
    1. Transshipment port
    2. Dual-use military-civil international airport
    3. Power plant (450 MVA gas and solar-based) and
    4. A township over a span of 30 years on more than 160 sq. km of land, of which 130 sq. km is primary forest

    Features of the Project

    • Transshipment hub of the East: The proposed port will allow Great Nicobar to participate in the regional and global maritime economy by becoming a major player in cargo transshipment.
    • Naval control: The port will be controlled by the Indian Navy, while the airport will have dual military-civilian functions and will cater to tourism as well.
    • Urban amenities: Roads, public transport, water supply and waste management facilities, and several hotels have been planned to cater to tourists.

    Significance of the project

    • Economic significance: The proposed port would allow GNI to become a significant player in cargo transhipment, as it is positioned equidistant from Colombo, Port Klang (Malaysia), and Singapore.
    • Strategic significance: The proposal to develop GNI has been on the table since the 1970s, and it has been highlighted repeatedly as a crucial element for national security and consolidation of the Indian Ocean Region.
      • In recent years, the escalating Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean has added greater urgency to this imperative.

    Issues with the Project

    • The project entails the deforestation of 130 sq km, and felling 10 lakh trees, threatens biodiversity at Galathea Bay, displaces indigenous tribes, lacks thorough impact assessments, and poses seismic risks to vulnerable communities.

    Due-process Violations highlighted by the ‘Opposition’

    (1) Did not recognise the grant ownership: The island administration did not recognise or grant ownership of any forest land to local tribespeople as per FRA, a requisite step under the Forest Conservation Rules, 2017, before Stage-I clearance is granted.

    • This is despite the fact that Rule 6(3)(e) of Forest Conservation Rules-2017 (FCR) requires that any diversion of forest land first requires the District Collector to recognise and vest rights to locals under the FRA.
    • The legislation allows forest communities the right to control and manage the use of the forest land over which they hold titles, and their consent is mandatory for diverting it.

    (2) Inconsistencies with Stage-I Clearance: The Stage-I clearance for the project was granted in October 2022, two years after the application was received. Monthly progress reports show that the district administration did not process any claims over forest land under the FRA in the 26 months since project sanction.

    (3) Withdrawal of Consent: Weeks after the Stage-I clearance was granted, the Tribal Council at Campbell Bay withdrew the consent granted by the Gram Sabha.

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  • Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

    Srinagar gets tag of ‘World Craft City’, fourth from country

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

    Why in the News?

    Srinagar has become the fourth Indian city to be recognised as a ‘World Craft City’ by the World Craft Council (WCC), three years after it was designated as part of the UNESCO Creative City Network (UCCN) for crafts and folk arts.

    Craft Sector in Kashmir

    • The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage-Kashmir (INTACH-K) is working with the J&K Handicrafts department to map Srinagar’s craft sector in preparation for the final nomination.
    • Srinagar boasts a rich artisanal heritage, with over 20,000 registered craftsmen engaged in various disciplines such as papier mâché, walnut wood carving, hand-knotted carpets, and more.
    • Handicrafts contribute significantly to the local economy, with approximately 2.64% of J&K’s overall economic output attributed to the sector by 2016-17.
    • Notable Craft: Papier-Mache, Walnut Wood Carving, Carpets, Sozni embroidery and Pashmina and Kani shawls.

    About World Craft Council (WCC International)

    Details
    What is it? Non-profit, Non-governmental organization
    Working
    • Establishment in 1964;
    • Registered in Belgium as an international association without lucrative purpose (AISBL).
    • Affiliated to the UNESCO
    Founders Kamaladevi Chattopadhay and Aileen Osborn Webb
    Purpose To promote fellowship among craftspersons worldwide, foster economic development through craft-related activities, organize exchange programs, workshops, conferences, seminars, and exhibitions, and offer encouragement and advice to artisans.
    Legal Status
    • Registered in Belgium as an international association without lucrative purpose (AISBL)
    • WCC is organized into five regions: Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and North America.
    Meetings
    • European branch meets annually;
    • The General Assembly occurs every four years (took place in Chennai in 2012).

    What is World Craft City (WCC) Designation?

    • The WCC initiative was launched in 2014 by the World Crafts Council AISBL (WCC-International).
    • It recognizes the pivotal role local authorities, craftspeople, and communities play in cultural, economic, and social development worldwide.
    • India has only 3 cities designated as World Craft City:
    1. Jaipur (Kundan Jadai (Gem setting), Meenakari Jewellery, Lac-based craft, Gotta Patti Work etc. )
    2. Mysuru (Kinnal paintings, Sandalwood carvings, Rosewood Inlay etc. )
    3. Mamallapuram (Stone Carving continuing since Pallava dynasty (275 CE to 897 CE))

    PYQ:

    [2018] Safeguarding the Indian art heritage is the need of the moment. Comment (10M) 

    [2018] Consider the following pairs:

    1. Puthukkuli shawls — Tamil Nadu
    2. Sujni embroidery — Maharashtra
    3. Uppada Jamdani saris — Karnataka

    Craft Heritage of which of the pairs given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 1 and 2

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 2 and 3

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  • Indian Missile Program Updates

    Philippines hails BrahMos Missiles as a ‘game changer’

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: External State & Non-State Actors: Challenges To Internal Security.

    Why in the News?

    • The BrahMos cruise missiles so inducted are termed a “game changer” by the Philippines envoy. The missiles provide credible defence and deterrent capabilities to the Philippines’ armed forces.

    About BrahMos Missiles

    • BrahMos is a joint venture between the DRDO and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya.
    • The name BrahMos comes from the two rivers, the Brahmaputra of India and the Moskva of Russia.
    • The first successful test in 2001 was conducted from a specially designed land-based launcher.

    Capabilities:

    • BrahMos is a medium-range ramjet supersonic cruise missile.
    • Launched from: submarines, ships, aircraft, or land.
    • It is the fastest supersonic cruise missile in the world.
    • It has two stages:
    1. The first stage comprised a solid-fuel rocket booster and
    2. The second stage comprises a liquid-fueled ramjet. ( because it provides the capability to manoeuvre and increase the range of missiles)

    Warhead:

    • Ship-launched and land-based missiles can carry a 200 kg warhead,
    • Aircraft-launched variant (BrahMos A) can carry a 300 kg warhead.

    Variants and Range 

    • The missile travels at speeds of Mach 2.8 to 3.0, which is being upgraded to Mach 5.0.
    • A hypersonic version of the missile, BrahMos-II, is also presently under development with a speed of Mach 7-8 to boost aerial fast strike capability.
    • Initially restricted by the Missile Technology Control Regime to a range of 290km, the BrahMos missile’s range was extended to 450km following India’s entry into the regime in June 2016.
    • Ongoing efforts aim further to extend the missile’s range beyond 600km, enhancing its operational reach and effectiveness in various scenarios.

    India-Philippines Relations: A quick recap

    • Context: 2023 marked the 75th anniversary of bilateral relations between India and the Philippines.
    • Equipment Transfers: These agreements facilitated government-to-government procurement of defence material and equipment.

    Details of the BrahMos Deal

    A MoU on defence cooperation was signed in 2006, reinforced by a 2017 MoU on defence industry and logistics cooperation.

    • Contract Details: In January 2022, the Philippines signed a $375 million deal with India for three batteries of shore-based anti-ship BrahMos missiles.
    • First Export Customer: The Philippines became the first export customer for the joint India-Russia venture.
    • Delivery Milestone: The first batch of missiles was delivered in April 2024.
    • Boost to India’s Defence Export: This deal marks India’s first overseas export of the BrahMos, showcasing India’s growing defence industry capabilities.

    Bilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation

    • Trade Milestone: In 2023, bilateral trade crossed the $3 billion mark for the first time, with a trade balance in India’s favour.
    • Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA): Ongoing negotiations for a PTA aim to enhance trade balance and diversification.
    • Trade Partnerships: India is among the top 15 trade partners for the Philippines.

    Modernisation of the Philippines Armed Forces

    • Phase-3 Modernisation: The Philippines armed forces are in phase-3, termed Horizon-3, of their modernisation programme.
    • Focus Areas: They are looking at acquiring ships, aircraft, and radars, and enhancing Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA).
    • Strategic Goals: Aiming to defend entitlements and secure their Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) against China over its claims for the South China Sea.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] Which reference to the Agni-IV Missile,

    which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It is a surface-to-surface missile.
    2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.
    3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Medical Education Governance in India

    NTA Reform Panel to Check Irregularities in Exams

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    Why in the News?

    A seven-member high-level committee was constituted under the chairmanship of K. Radhakrishnan, former ISRO Chairman, by the Ministry of Education to reform the National Testing Agency (NTA).

    About National Testing Agency (NTA)

    • NTA is a premier, specialist, autonomous and self-sustained testing organization to conducts entrance examinations for admission/fellowship in higher educational institutions.
    • It was established in 2017 with a grant amount of Rs.25 crore from the Union Government.
    • NTA is responsible for conducting exams such as:
      • Joint Entrance Examination – Main (JEE Main)
      • National Eligibility cum Entrance Test-Undergraduate (NEET-UG) as well as NEET PG
      • National Eligibility Test (NET)
      • Common Management Admission Test (CMAT)
      • Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test (GPAT).
    • The NTA is chaired by an eminent educationist who will be appointed by the Ministry of Education.
    • There will be a Board of Governors comprising members from user institutions.

    National Testing Agency (NTA) Under Scrutiny

    • The NTA has been criticized after the NEET paper leak controversy and the subsequent scrapping of exams like UGC-NET due to “lack of integrity”.
    • The committee aims to establish a robust process for conducting various entrance examinations end to end.

    NTA Reform Panel: Committee Composition

    • Committee Head: K. Radhakrishnan, former Chairman of ISRO and Chairman of the Board of Governors at IIT-Kanpur.
    • Two-Month Timeline: The committee aims to meet ten times over the next two months to develop comprehensive recommendations.
    • Key Issues and Focus Areas:
      • Data Security Protocol: Develop a manual to fix a data security protocol to prevent question paper leaks.
      • Printing and Process Integrity: Review processes for printing question papers, onboarding printers, and training staff to minimize external participation.
      • Organisational Restructuring: Consider adding a data security vertical in the NTA organogram and implementing transparent processes, requiring organizational restructuring.
    • Examination Investigation and Security:
      • Root Cause Analysis: The committee will investigate the initial cause of question paper leaks to identify and plug gaps.
      • Modes of Examination: Examine different modes of conducting examinations:
    1. JEE (Mains) and JEE (Advanced) are computer-based tests.
    2. NEET-UG is conducted in pen-paper Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) mode.

    Challenges faced by NTA

    • Infrastructure Limitations: Currently, India lacks the infrastructure to conduct computer-based tests online for more than three lakh students simultaneously.
    • Large-Scale Exams: NEET-UG involves up to 24 lakh students appearing in pen and paper OMR mode at once.

    Conclusion

    • The reforms are critical to restoring the integrity of entrance examinations in India, ensuring secure and fair testing processes.
    • The committee’s recommendations will play a pivotal role in shaping the future operations of the NTA and entrance examination protocols.

    Back2Basic:  University Grants Commission (UGC)

    Details
    Establishment
    • Came into existence on 28th December, 1953.
    • Became a statutory organization by an Act of Parliament in 1956.
    Legislation The UGC Act, 1956.
    Nodal Ministry Ministry of Human Resource Development (now Ministry of Education).
    Responsibilities
    • Providing funds to universities and colleges.
    • Coordination, determination, and maintenance of standards of teaching, examination, and research in institutions of higher education.
    Mandate
    • Promoting and coordinating university education.
    • Determining and maintaining standards of teaching, examination, and research in universities.
    • Framing regulations on minimum standards of education.
    • Monitoring developments in collegiate and university education.
    • Disbursing grants to universities and colleges.
    • Serving as a link between the Union and state governments and institutions of higher learning.
    • Advising Central and State governments on measures necessary for the improvement of university education.
    Unique Distinction Only grant-giving agency in India with the dual role of funding and maintaining standards in higher education institutions.
    Functions
    • Promoting and coordinating university education.
    • Determining and maintaining standards of teaching, examination, and research in universities.
    • Framing regulations on minimum standards of education.
    • Monitoring developments in collegiate and university education.
    • Disbursing grants to universities and colleges.
    • Serving as a link between the Union and state governments and institutions of higher learning.
    • Advising Central and State governments on measures necessary for the improvement of university education.
    Link Role Acts as a vital link between Union and State governments and institutions of higher learning.
    Advisory Role Advises the Central and State governments on necessary measures for the improvement of university education.

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