Archives: News

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

Inequality can no longer be ignored

Explained | Indian Society | Mains Paper 2: Laws, Institutions & Bodies Constituted For The Vulnerable Sections
Why in the news?

The Congress’s party’s election manifesto, the Nyay Patra, has triggered a debate on inequality, concentration of wealth and the measures to address these.

The reason behind the inequality in India:
- - Taxation Disparities: India’s tax-GDP ratio is comparatively low, standing at 17% as opposed to 25% in Brazil, indicating room for improvement in revenue generation. The taxation structure in India leans towards indirect taxes, which contribute significantly (about two-thirds) to overall tax revenue collection.
  - Regressive Taxation Structure: India’s tax system is described as regressive, indicating that it disproportionately impacts low-income individuals compared to high-income individuals. Indirect taxes, which are a significant component of overall tax revenue, tend to burden lower-income groups more than higher-income groups.
  - Lack in Tax Progressivity: There are concerns about the lack of progressivity in India’s direct tax regime, where higher-profit companies enjoy relatively lower effective tax rates compared to lower-profit companies.
Welfare spending is low
- - Low Spending on Welfare and Social Sector: India’s expenditure on welfare and the social sector is significantly lower compared to other countries. Public spending on health remains low, approximately 1.3% of GDP, falling short of the National Health Policy (NHP) target of 2.5% of GDP by 2025.
  - Eventual decline Budget Allocations: Major budgetary allocations for programs like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), education, and budgets for children have either declined as a proportion of total expenditure or GDP.
Way forward
- Revenue Mobilization and Spending Priorities: There’s a pressing need to improve revenue mobilization progressively, ensuring that the burden of taxation is distributed fairly and equitably.
  - Simultaneously, increasing spending on areas that directly affect the lives of the poor is crucial. This includes healthcare, education, social protection programs, and employment generation schemes like MGNREGA.
- Achieving Policy Targets: Meeting targets set by policies like the NHP requires a concerted effort to ramp up healthcare spending in line with national goals.
Mains PYQ

Q) Despite the consistent experience of high growth, India still goes with the lowest indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and inclusive development elusive. (UPSC IAS/2019)

Q) Critically discuss the objectives of Bhoodan and Gramdan movements initiated by Acharya Vinoba Bhave and their success. (UPSC IAS/2013)
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Digital India Initiatives

[PREMIUM] An Overview of the Digitalization in Indian Economy

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

As per RBI findings, India’s core digital economy saw a rise from constituting 8.5% of GVA in 2019 to 12.5% in 2023, marking a growth rate of 15.6% over the span of 2019-2023.

What is digitisation?
- Digitization refers to the process of converting information, data, or physical objects into digital format. Digitization enables information to be stored, accessed, and manipulated electronically, often leading to increased efficiency, accessibility, and flexibility compared to traditional analog methods.
Origin in World
- The origin of digitalization can be traced back to the late 19th century when Herman Hollerith developed a punch card system for tabulating data.
- Alan Turing’s theoretical work on computation in the early 20th century laid the foundation for the development of the first electronic computers in the 1940s, which were pivotal in digitizing various forms of information.
Origin in India
- Late 20th century: The origins of digitalization in India can be traced back to the late 20th century, with the advent of personal computers and the internet.
- Early 2000s:The government’s concerted efforts to drive digital transformation in the country began in the early 2000s with the launch of the National e-Governance Plan (NeGP) in 2006
- 2015: The NeGP aimed to make government services available to citizens electronically by improving online infrastructure and connectivity. This laid the foundation for the more comprehensive “Digital India” initiative, which was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015
Status of Digitalization in the Indian Economy
- Enhancement of E-Governance: The Digital India initiative has brought about substantial enhancements in e-governance services. Programs such as e-visas and the Digital Locker system have effectively modernized government services, leading to a reduction in paperwork and greater accessibility for citizens.
- E-Commerce market: India’s e-commerce market is expected to reach $200 billion by 2026. Major players like Flipkart and Amazon have expanded their reach, with the COVID-19 pandemic accelerating online shopping adoption.
- Digital transaction: The BHIM (Bharat Interface for Money) app, utilizing the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), has garnered immense popularity, enabling secure peer-to-peer transactions. By August 2023, UPI had processed more than 10 billion monthly transactions, amounting to INR 18 trillion ($204.77 billion).
- Startup Ecosystem in India: India’s rapidly growing startup ecosystem currently encompasses 110 unicorns valued at $347 billion, featuring prominent companies such as Paytm, Ola, and Zomato. These unicorns exemplify India’s prowess as a technology-driven entrepreneurial center.
- Digital Financial Inclusion: Digital financial services, propelled by programs such as Jan Dhan Yojana, have advanced financial inclusion by facilitating the opening of millions of bank accounts for those previously excluded from or underrepresented in the banking system.
- Surge in Broadband and Internet Usage: India has experienced a notable surge in broadband adoption, boasting 825 million mobile broadband subscribers as of July 2023. This uptick has resulted in heightened data consumption and escalated online engagement, especially among Generation Z.
Key challenges related to digitalisation in India:
- Lack of skills: Rapid technological change increase the demand of skilled workforce. Only 42% of India’s workforce possesses digital skills, highlighting the need for digital literacy and upskilling.
- Regulatory challenges: For businesses, especially startups, grappling with intricate digital regulations, e-commerce taxation, and intellectual property matters continues to present significant challenges.
- Privacy issues:The surge in digital transactions and data exchange has sparked notable concerns regarding privacy and data security. These concerns are being tackled by the Personal Data Protection Bill, which introduces regulatory intricacies.
- Cybersecurity: As digitization increases, the risk of cyber threats and attacks grows. India faced 91 lakh cybersecurity incidents in 2022, ranking third globally in the average cost of data breaches.
- Digital Divide: Despite advancements, there remains a digital gap, with rural areas experiencing restricted internet and technology accessibility, resulting in approximately 50% of the population being offline.
Measures to address these challenges:
- Digital Skills Development: Implement comprehensive digital literacy programs to enhance the skills of the workforce.
- Regulatory Simplification:Streamline digital regulations, especially for startups, to reduce complexities and facilitate smoother operations.Provide guidance and support to businesses on e-commerce taxation and intellectual property matters.
- Privacy and Data Security: Enforce the Personal Data Protection Bill to address privacy concerns and ensure data security.Enhance awareness campaigns to educate the public about data privacy and protection measures.
- Cybersecurity Measures: Strengthen cybersecurity infrastructure to combat the increasing cyber threats and attacks.Invest in advanced cybersecurity technologies and training programs to build a resilient defense system.
- Closing the Digital Divide:Expand digital infrastructure in rural areas to improve internet and technology accessibility.
Steps taken by government:
- Cybersecurity Framework: Enhance cybersecurity infrastructure and awareness, emphasizing collaboration between government agencies and the private sector under National Cyber Security Policy of 2021.
- Data Protection Laws: Enacted data protection laws and regulations, like the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, of 2023, to ensure privacy and responsible data handling.
- Expansion of Broadband : Accelerate efforts to expand broadband connectivity in rural and remote areas, leveraging public-private partnerships like the BharatNet project.
- Digital initiative: Comprehensive digital literacy initiatives targeting both urban and rural communities, exemplified by programs like the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA).
Conclusion:

Need to Implement widespread digital literacy programs to equip individuals with the necessary skills to navigate the digital landscape and emphasize upskilling and reskilling initiatives to meet the demands of rapid technological advancements.Encourage collaboration between the government and the private sector to drive digitization initiatives.

Mains PYQ

Q Implementation of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) based projects/programmes usually suffers in terms of certain vital factors. Identify these factors and suggest measures for their effective implementation. (UPSC IAS/2019)

Q Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, coupled with lack of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic development? Examine with justification.(UPSC IAS/2021)
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Human Rights Issues

In news: National Human Rights Commission’s (NHRC) Accreditation

Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Statutory, Regulatory & Various Quasi-Judicial Bodies

Why in the news?

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is gearing up to defend India’s human rights processes at a critical meeting of Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) in Geneva.
A decision on retaining India’s NHRC’s “A status” accreditation is imminent at this summit.

About National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)

	Details
Establishment	A Statutory Body; Established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
Functions	Inquire into any violation of human rights Recommend immediate interim relief to victims or their families Intervene in court proceedings involving human rights violations Review constitutional and legal safeguards for human rights Study international instruments on human rights Promote human rights literacy Support the efforts of NGOs working in the field of human rights
Powers	Regulate its own procedure Possess all the powers of a civil court Proceedings have a judicial character
Chairperson	Must be a former Justice of the Supreme Court or Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Appointed by the President of India
Members	Four full-time members; Chairperson: former Supreme Court Justice or Chief Justice; Other Member: former Judge of the Supreme Court; Other Member: former Chief Justice of a High Court; Three Members: with knowledge or experience in human rights, including at least one woman – Seven ex-officio members: Chairpersons of National Commissions viz., National Commission for Scheduled Castes, National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, National Commission for Women , National Commission for Minorities, National Commission for Backward Classes, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights; and the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities.
Appointment	Appointed by the President, based on a committee recommendation including the Prime Minister, Speaker of Lok Sabha, Home Minister, Leaders of the Opposition in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and others Consultation with the Chief Justice of India for judicial appointments
Removal	Removal by order of the President of India Consultation with the Supreme Court before removal
Terms of Office	Hold office for a term of three years or until the age of 70 Ineligibility for further government employment after office Eligible for reappointment
Salaries	Determined by the Central government
Reporting	Submits annual or special reports to the Central government and the concerned State government Reports laid before the respective legislatures, along with a memorandum of action taken on the recommendations and reasons for non-acceptance of any recommendations
Limitations	The commission is not empowered to inquire into any matter after the expiry of one year from the date on which the act constituting the violation of human rights is alleged to have been committed Functions are recommendatory in nature, with no power to punish or award relief to violators Limited role concerning armed forces violations

GANHRI Concerns about India’s NHRC

India’s NHRC faced a potential downgrade in its accreditation status in 2023 due to concerns raised by the SCA regarding its operational independence and composition.

Political Interference: The NHRC-India faced objections related to political interference in appointments, compromising its independence.
Police Involvement: Involving the police in probes into human rights violations raised concerns about impartiality and fair investigations.
Lack of Cooperation: The NHRC’s poor cooperation with civil society was criticized, hindering its effectiveness in protecting human rights.
Lack of Diversity: The GANHRI highlighted the lack of diversity in staff and leadership positions within the NHRC. There is also lack of gender and minority representation.
Insufficient Protection of Marginalized Groups: The NHRC was found to have taken insufficient action to protect marginalized groups, contrary to the U.N.’s principles on national institutions (the ‘Paris Principles).

Back2Basics: GANHRI (Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions)
Purpose	Promote and protect human rights globally
Year Established	1993
Headquarters	Geneva, Switzerland
Members	National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) from 114 member institutions
Key Functions	Promoting and strengthening NHRIs worldwide Advocating for human rights at national, regional, and global levels Facilitating cooperation and sharing of best practices among NHRIs Providing capacity-building support to NHRIs etc.
Organizational Structure	President: Elected from GANHRI members for a specified term Bureau: Assists the President in overseeing GANHRI’s work Sub-Committees: Focused on specific thematic or regional issues
Key Documents	Paris Principles: Provide guidance for the establishment and operation of NHRIs GANHRI Strategy: Outlines the organization’s strategic objectives and actions
Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA)	Part of a five-year peer evaluation cycle for all 114 member institutions of GANHRI. Accreditation status holds significance as it determines its voting rights at international human rights forums.

PYQ:

[2011] Consider the following:

Right to education.
Right to equal access to public service.
Right to food.

Which of the above is/are Human Right/Rights under “Universal Declaration of Human Rights”?

(a) 1 only

(b) 1 and 2 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

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International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

Advanced Composite Solar Sail System (ACS3) Project

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

Why in the news?

NASA has launched its Advanced Composite Solar Sail System (ACS3) spacecraft that uses sunlight for propulsion from New Zealand into space.

About Advanced Composite Solar Sail System (ACS3) Project

The spacecraft is slated to orbit 1,000 kilometers above Earth, deploying an 80-square-meter solar sail approximately 25 minutes after liftoff.
It harnesses sunlight as a renewable propulsion source, marking a novel advancement in space exploration.
It uses a compact CubeSat, similar in size to an oven, which facilitates propulsion by capturing solar particle energy.
Operational Phases:
The initial flight phase spans two months and involves subsystems checkout and solar sail deployment.
A series of pointing maneuvers will showcase orbit raising and lowering, validating the effectiveness of sunlight pressure on the sail.

The Technology Behind: Solar Sailing

Solar sails typically consist of lightweight, reflective materials such as Mylar or aluminized Kapton, which are deployed in space to capture sunlight.
The sail is often configured as a large, thin membrane with a large surface area to maximize the amount of sunlight it can intercept.
When sunlight reflects off a shiny solar sail, some of its momentum is transferred, giving the sail a small push.

Solar sailing offers several advantages over traditional propulsion methods, including:

Efficiency: Solar sailing does not require onboard fuel, making it a highly efficient and sustainable propulsion method for long-duration missions.
Continuous thrust: Unlike chemical rockets, which provide brief bursts of acceleration, solar sails can provide continuous thrust as long as they are exposed to sunlight.
Maneuverability: Solar sails can change their trajectory by adjusting the orientation of the sail relative to the direction of incoming sunlight. This allows for precise navigation and maneuvering in space.
Interstellar travel: Solar sailing has the potential to enable interstellar missions by gradually accelerating spacecraft to very high velocities over time, allowing them to explore distant star systems.

PYQ:

[2016] What is ‘Greased Lightning-10 (GL-10)’, recently in the news?

(a) Electric plane tested by NASA

(b) Solar-powered two-seater aircraft designed by Japan

(d) Reusable rocket designed by ISRO

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Trade Sector Updates – Falling Exports, TIES, MEIS, Foreign Trade Policy, etc.

India’s growing dependence on Chinese Imports

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

Why in the news?

India’s imports from China surged to over $101 billion in the fiscal year 2023-24, marking a significant increase from approximately $70 billion recorded in 2018-19.
The proportion of China’s industrial goods imports to India has risen from 21% to 30% over a span of 15 years, as highlighted in a report by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI).

India’s Import: GTRI study

The GTRI study revealed that imports from China have grown at a pace 2.3 times faster than India’s overall imports during the 15-year period.
Contrary to common belief, China has emerged as the top supplier in eight core industrial sectors, encompassing machinery, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and textiles, among others.
India is experiencing stagnant exports valued at around $16 billion annually.
Over a six-year period spanning from 2018-2019 to 2023-24, India’s cumulative trade deficit with China surpassed $387 billion, prompting apprehension among policymakers.

China’s Share of India’s Imports:

China accounted for 15% of India’s overall imports in 2023-24, with $101.8 billion out of a total of $677.2 billion.
Sector-wise Contributions:

Electronics, Telecom, and Electrical Products: China’s contribution was 38.4% in April-January 2023-24.
Clothing: Nearly 42% of India’s textile and clothing imports accounted from China.
Machinery Sector: China accounted for 39.6% of India’s overall imports.
Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sector: China’s share was 29.2%.
Plastics and Related Articles: China provided articles worth $4.8 billion, accounting for 25.8% of total imports in this sector.

Back2Basics: Top Importers of India

S. No	Importer	Share of India’s Imports
1.	China (Biggest Importer in India)	15.43%
2.	United Arab Emirates	7.31%
3.	United States	7.07%
4.	Switzerland	3.82%
5.	Hong Kong	3.12%
6.	Singapore	3.09%
7.	Indonesia	2.89%
8.	South Korea	2.85%

PYQ:

[2017] ‘China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’, In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbor.

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

In news: Pripyat River

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 1: Salient Features Of World’S Physical Geography

Why in the news?

The WWF has issued a stark warning regarding the dredging of the Pripyat River, adjacent to the Chernobyl nuclear disaster site.
Concerns mount as the Pripyat River could transform into a permanent repository of radioactive substances, contaminating the water and food sources.

About Pripyat River

Pripyat River is a significant waterway in Eastern Europe. It flows through Ukraine, Belarus, and a small portion of Russia.
It is primarily situated within the Polesian Lowland, a region characterized by marshes, wetlands, and forests.
The Pripyat River is approximately 761 km (473 miles) long.
Physical Features:

Tributaries: It has numerous tributaries, including the Stokhid River, Styr River, and Horyn River. The largest tributary of the Pripyat is the Teterev River, which joins it from the right bank.
Drainage Basin: Its basin covers an area of around 121,000 square kilometers (46,700 square miles). It is one of the major tributaries of the Dnieper River, which eventually flows into the Black Sea.

Notable event: The Pripyat River gained international attention due to its proximity to the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, where the catastrophic nuclear accident occurred in 1986.

About Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster

The Chernobyl Disaster occurred on April 26, 1986.
It took place at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, near the town of Pripyat in northern Ukraine, then part of the Soviet Union.
The explosion and subsequent fire released a large amount of radioactive material such as cesium-137 and strontium-90 into the atmosphere, resulting in widespread contamination.

PYQ:

[2020] Consider the following pairs?

River — Flows into

Mekong — Andaman sea
Thames — Irish Sea
Volga — Caspian Sea
Zambezi — Indian Ocean

Which of the pairs above is/are correctly matched?

(a) Only 1

(b) Only 2

(d) None of the above/More than one of the above

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Foreign Policy Watch- India-Central Asia

[PREMIUM] Travelling Central Asia

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

Why in the news?

The Central Asia region is in the spotlight since it is facing challenges with political instability, ethnic tensions, and the threat of extremism, especially after the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan.

About Central Asia

Central Asia, often referred to as the heart of Asia, is a vast and diverse region located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.
It encompasses the area between the Caspian Sea in the west and China in the east, and from Russia in the north to Afghanistan and Iran in the south.
Central Asia is comprised of five main countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
This region has a rich history, serving as the historical crossroads of the Silk Road, which facilitated trade and cultural exchange between Europe and Asia for centuries.

Geographical Details:

Mountains:

Tian Shan: This mountain range stretches across Central Asia, forming a natural border between Kyrgyzstan and China. It is renowned for its majestic peaks, including Pobeda Peak, the highest point in Kyrgyzstan.
Pamir Mountains: Known as the “Roof of the World,” the Pamir Mountains are located in Tajikistan and extend into neighboring countries. They contain some of the world’s highest peaks, including Ismoil Somoni Peak (formerly known as Peak Communism) and Kongur Tagh.
Alay Mountains: Situated in southern Kyrgyzstan, the Alay Mountains are a subrange of the Tian Shan. They are characterized by rugged terrain and deep valleys.
Turkestan Range: This mountain range runs through southern Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, forming part of the border between the two countries.

Water Bodies:

Amu Darya: Also known as the Oxus River, the Amu Darya is one of the major rivers in Central Asia. It originates in the Pamir Mountains and flows through Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan before emptying into the Aral Sea (though much of its water is diverted for irrigation).
Syr Darya: Another important river in Central Asia, the Syr Darya, originates in the Tian Shan Mountains. It flows through Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan, eventually joining the Amu Darya in the Aral Sea basin.
Aral Sea: Once the fourth-largest lake in the world, the Aral Sea has shrunk dramatically due to diversion of its tributary rivers for irrigation purposes. Its decline has had severe ecological and economic consequences for the region.
Issyk-Kul: Located in eastern Kyrgyzstan, Issyk-Kul is one of the largest alpine lakes in the world. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is a popular tourist destination.

Deserts:

Karakum Desert: Covering much of Turkmenistan, the Karakum Desert is characterized by vast expanses of sand dunes and sparse vegetation. It is home to the Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the “Door to Hell.”
Kyzylkum Desert: Situated primarily in Uzbekistan, with parts extending into Kazakhstan, the Kyzylkum Desert is known for its red sands and arid climate. It is sparsely populated, with nomadic herders and wildlife such as gazelles and wild boars.

Mineral Resources:

Oil and Gas: The Caspian Sea region, in particular, is known for its oil and gas deposits, with countries like Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan actively involved in their exploration and extraction. The discovery of large oil fields, such as the Tengiz Field in Kazakhstan and the Galkynysh Field in Turkmenistan, has attracted international investment and contributed to economic growth in the region.
Uranium: Kazakhstan is one of the world’s leading producers of uranium, with significant deposits located in the south of the country. Other Central Asian countries, such as Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, also have uranium reserves, although they are less developed than those in Kazakhstan.
Precious Metals: Kyrgyzstan has a long history of gold mining, with several large-scale mines operating in the country. Uzbekistan is also a significant producer of gold, with the Muruntau Gold Mine being one of the largest in the world.
Copper, Aluminum, and Iron: These resources are primarily found in mountainous regions, such as the Tian Shan and Pamir Mountains. Countries like Uzbekistan and Tajikistan have large deposits of copper ore, which are mined for domestic use and export. Additionally, Kazakhstan is a major producer of aluminum, with significant reserves of bauxite, the primary source of aluminum.

Climate

Central Asia experiences a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters.
However, the climate varies significantly depending on altitude and proximity to mountain ranges.
In general, the region is characterized by low precipitation and high evaporation rates, leading to arid and semi-arid conditions in many areas.
The mountains influence local climates, with cooler temperatures and higher precipitation levels in upland areas.

Major Disputed Areas:

	Countries Involved	Description
Bagys and Turkestanetz	Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan	Disputed settlements involved in border negotiations between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Turkestanetz ultimately attributed to Uzbekistan, while Kazakhstan retained control over significant water reservoirs. Negotiations primarily occurred in the early 2000s. The area is characterized by flat plains and arid landscapes, typical of Central Asian geography.
Arnasy Dam	Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan	Part of the land negotiations between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, particularly significant during the dissolution of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s. The area surrounding the dam is marked by river valleys and semi-arid terrain, with the Arnasy River being a prominent feature.
Sokh and Shakhi-Mardan Enclaves	Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan	Uzbek enclaves located in Kyrgyzstan, particularly contentious and mined by Uzbekistan as part of their border security measures. Tensions in this area have been ongoing since the collapse of the Soviet Union, with occasional flare-ups in violence. The region is characterized by mountainous terrain, including the Pamir-Alay and Turkestan mountain ranges.
Ferghana Valley	Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan	A fertile region shared by Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, known for its complex network of enclaves and high degree of inter-ethnic tensions. Disputes often arise over control of strategic points such as border crossings and access to water resources, leading to occasional clashes and violence. Tensions in the Ferghana Valley have persisted since the early 1990s. The valley is surrounded by the Tian Shan and Alay mountain ranges, with the Syr Darya river flowing through it.
Vorukh Enclave	Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan	A Tajik enclave within Kyrgyzstan, part of the complex border issues in the Ferghana Valley. Tensions in this enclave date back to the Soviet era but have intensified since the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The enclave is nestled in the mountainous terrain of the Ferghana Valley, near the Zeravshan Range.
Chardara Reservoir and Lake Arnasai	Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan	Areas discussed in border negotiations between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. The negotiations occurred primarily in the late 1990s, with Kazakhstan securing a neck of land that provided a direct transport connection to the rest of the country. The region is characterized by flat plains and agricultural land surrounding the reservoir and lake. The Chardara Reservoir is fed by the Syr Darya river.
Osh City and Osh Volost	Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan	Areas that were contentious during the national delimitation in the Soviet period, particularly in the 1920s. They were included in the Kirghiz Autonomous Oblast despite a high percentage of Uzbek residents who opposed this inclusion. The area is characterized by mountainous terrain, including the Fergana Range.
Isfara Valley	Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan	A narrow, densely populated valley straddling the border between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, disputes in this region often stem from territorial claims, resource allocation, and control of strategic points such as border crossings and water sources. Tensions have been ongoing since the early 1990s. The valley is surrounded by mountain ranges, including the Pamir-Alay and Turkestan ranges, and is known for its agricultural productivity.
Batken Region	Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan	Located in southern Kyrgyzstan, bordered by Tajikistan to the south and Uzbekistan to the west, disputes in this region are primarily related to territorial claims, control of strategic areas, and occasional clashes between border communities. Tensions have been particularly notable since the mid-1990s. The region is characterized by rugged mountain terrain, including the Pamir-Alay and Turkestan ranges.
Karakalpakstan	Uzbekistan	An autonomous republic within Uzbekistan, disputes in this region are mainly related to water scarcity, ecological degradation, and the socio-economic impact of the shrinking Aral Sea. Tensions over these issues have escalated since the mid-20th century. Karakalpakstan is characterized by flat, arid plains and is situated adjacent to the shrinking Aral Sea.
Caspian Sea	Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan	The world’s largest inland body of water bordered by Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan, disputes often revolve around issues such as maritime boundaries, resource exploration rights, and environmental conservation. Negotiations over the status of the Caspian Sea and its resources have been ongoing since the early 1990s. The Caspian Sea is characterized by its vast expanse of water and surrounding coastal regions.

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Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

In news: Yangli Festival

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

Why in the news?

Tiwa tribals dance recently celebrated the Yangli festival at Bormarjong village, in Karbi Anglong district, Assam.

About Tiwa Tribals

Tiwa tribes, also known as Lalungs, inhabit both the hills and plains of Assam and Meghalaya states.
They hold the status of a Scheduled Tribe in Assam.
The hill-dwelling Tiwa villagers engage in traditional practices such as Jhum cultivation, horticulture, and the cultivation of local crops and vegetables.
Their language belongs to the Tibeto-Burman linguistic group.

About Yangli Festival

The Yangli festival is celebrated before starting the paddy sowing
It is also known as the Lakshmi Puja of the Tiwa people.
It is celebrated with traditional rituals, emphasizing the community’s strong ties to agriculture, their primary livelihood.
It serves as an occasion for prayers seeking a bountiful harvest and divine protection for crops against pests and natural calamities.
It is held once in 5 years.
In April, Khelchawa festival is celebrated by Tiwa tribes marking close of the harvest season.

Celebratory Activities:

Festivities commenced with traditional rituals and vibrant dances.
It continues with a joyous gathering along the riverbanks.
It draws participation from over five hundred individuals representing various groups like Amchi, Rangkhai, and Magrat.
Ceremonial animal sacrifices, including poultry and goats, are performed to honour the goddess and ensure her benevolence upon the Tiwa people’s granary, known as “NoBaro.”

PYQ:

[2014] Every year, a month long ecologically important campaign/festival is held during which certain communities/ tribes plant saplings of fruit-bearing trees. Which of the following are such communities/tribes?

(a) Bhutia and Lepcha

(b) Gond and Korku

(d) Sahariya and Agariya

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Digital India Initiatives

State-level DPI Adoption Index

Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: E-Governance

Why in the news?

The World Bank, in collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MEITY), is spearheading the development of a state-level Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) adoption index.

About State-Level DPI Adoption Index

World Bank confirmed that the project was in its preparatory stages.
The envisioned state-level DPI index aims to identify gaps and opportunities for strengthening the DPI for the digital economy, promoting financial inclusion, and fostering public-private innovation.
The index will assess different states based on their adoption levels of DPIs, intending to incentivize increased utilization of these digital systems.

What is Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)?

DPI refers to the foundational digital infrastructure that enables the delivery of digital services and facilitates digital interactions between citizens, businesses, and governments.
It encompasses various technological components, policies, and frameworks aimed at enhancing digital connectivity, accessibility, and efficiency in public service delivery.

DPI, as defined by the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration (September 2023) “is a set of shared digital systems that are secure and interoperable, built on open technologies, to deliver equitable access to public and/or private services at a societal scale”.

Three Pillars of DPI:

DPI primarily focuses on three key pillars: identity, payments, and data management.
India has pioneered the development of all three DPI pillars through its India Stack Platform, setting a global benchmark.
1. Identity: Aadhar serves as India’s digital ID system.
2. Payment: The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) facilitates real-time fast payments.
3. Data Management: The Data Empowerment and Protection Architecture (DEPA) ensures consent-based data sharing.

India’s Initiatives Leveraging DPI

Digital India: Initiatives like Digital Locker, e-sign framework, and the National Scholarship Portal are integral parts of the Digital India campaign.
BharatNet: This project aims to provide affordable internet connectivity to rural India, leveraging high-speed broadband networks.
National Health Stack: Designed to revolutionize healthcare, this infrastructure facilitates health data exchange and interoperability.
National Knowledge Network (NKN): Facilitating collaborative research and innovation, NKN promotes knowledge sharing.
UMANG: The Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance offers access to various government services and schemes.
Government e-Marketplace (GeM): An online platform streamlining procurement processes for government agencies.

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Global Geological And Climatic Events

Sympathetic Solar Flares

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

Why in the news?

A rare celestial event unfolded as four solar flares called as Sympathetic Solar Flares simultaneously, signaling the onset of the Sun’s dynamic 11-year solar cycle.

What is a Solar Cycle?

Given the Sun’s dynamic nature, electrically charged gases on its surface generate powerful magnetic fields, known as magnetic fields.
These magnetic fields undergo stretching, twisting, and tangling due to the constant movement of gases on the Sun’s surface, resulting in solar activity.
Scientists monitor solar cycles using sunspots. Solar activity fluctuates throughout the solar cycle, which typically spans about 11 years.
The onset of a solar cycle typically features minimal sunspot activity, termed as a solar minimum.
For instance, the last Solar Cycle 25 commenced in December 2019, characterized by a low number of sunspots.

What are Sympathetic Solar Flares?

Sympathetic solar flares are solar eruptions that occur in close temporal and spatial proximity to another solar flare or eruption.
These events are believed to be interconnected through magnetic fields or other physical processes occurring on the Sun.
When a solar flare or eruption happens on the Sun, it releases a burst of electromagnetic radiation and charged particles into space.
In some cases, the energy released during these events can cause disturbances in the Sun’s magnetic field.
These disturbances can trigger the occurrence of additional flares loop or eruptions in nearby regions of the Sun’s surface.
This event follows coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and intense plasma bursts.

Implications for Earth

Potential impacts include disruptions to power grids, interference with communication networks, and increased radiation exposure for astronauts and aircraft passengers.
Solar storms can lead to spectacular natural light shows known as auroras, which are typically visible near the Earth’s magnetic poles.

PYQ:

[2012] The increasing amount of carbon dioxide in the air is slowly raising the temperature of the atmosphere, because it absorbs:

(a) the water vapour of the air and retains its heat

(b) the ultraviolet part of the solar radiation

(d) the infrared part of the solar radiation

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