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

    India ranks 134th in global human development index, says UNDP report

    Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Inclusive Growth & Issues

    Why in the news? 

    Recently, India’s progress in the global Human Development Index (HDI), as reported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

    Context-

    • India’s ranking on the United Nations Human Development Index (HDI) improved by one position in 2022 to 134 out of 193 countries compared to 135 out of 191 countries in 2021. Switzerland has been ranked number one.

    The Human Development Index (HDI)-

    About 

    The Human Development Index (HDI), initially introduced by the UNDP in 1990, is a statistical composite index. It measures a country’s average achievement across three fundamental dimensions:

    • Health: This dimension is represented by life expectancy at birth. It reflects the overall health and well-being of the population and their access to healthcare services.
    • Education: This dimension includes indicators such as expected years of schooling for children entering school and mean years of schooling for adults. It assesses the level of educational attainment and the availability of educational opportunities within a country.
    • Standard of Living: This dimension is measured by Gross National Income (GNI) per capita, adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP). It reflects the economic prosperity and living standards of the population, including income levels and access to basic necessities.

    Background

    • The Human Development Index (HDI) was developed by Pakistani economist Mahbub ul Haq and Indian economist Amartya Sen. It is used by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to assess a country’s development as part of the Human Development Report.
    • Alongside the Human Development Index (HDI), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) also presents the Human Development Report (HDR) which present-
    1. Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI),
    2. Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index (IHDI),
    3. Gender Inequality Index(GII) since 2010 and
    4. Gender Development Index (GDI) since 2014

    Key Points as per Report- 

    • India’s Rank on the HDI: India moved up one rank on the Human Development Index (HDI) from 135 in 2021 to 134 in 2022, with slight improvements in life expectancy and Gross National Income (GNI) per capita.
    • Comparison with Neighbors: India ranks below its southern neighbour Sri Lanka (ranked 78) and China (ranked 75) in the High Human Development category, and below Bhutan (ranked 125) and Bangladesh (ranked 129) in the Medium Human Development category.
    • Reducing inequalities: The report highlights a reverse trend in reducing inequalities between wealthy and poor nations. Despite interconnected global societies, collective action on climate change, digitalization, poverty, and inequality is lacking, leading to a widening human development gap.
    • Challenges in Democracy: While nine in 10 people worldwide endorse democracy, over half express support for leaders who may undermine it. Political polarization and limited control over government decisions are prevalent, leading to protectionist or inward-turning policy approaches.

    Action Plans as per report-

    • Multilateral Cooperation: Strengthen international cooperation and collaboration among governments, NGOs, businesses, and other stakeholders to address global challenges collectively. This could involve fostering dialogue, partnerships, and agreements that promote shared goals and responsibilities.
    • Policy Coordination: Enhance coordination and coherence in policymaking at national and international levels to ensure that policies address interconnected challenges comprehensively. This may involve integrating diverse perspectives, aligning strategies across sectors, and leveraging resources efficiently.
    • Investment in Sustainable Development: Increase investments in sustainable development initiatives that prioritize environmental conservation, social equity, and economic prosperity. This could include funding for renewable energy, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation programs.
    • Empowering Communities: Empower local communities and grassroots organizations to participate in decision-making processes and contribute to problem-solving efforts. This could involve providing resources, capacity-building support, and platforms for civic engagement.
    • Promotion of Dialogue and Understanding: Foster dialogue, empathy, and mutual understanding among diverse communities to mitigate polarization and build social cohesion. This could involve promoting education, cultural exchange programs, media literacy, and initiatives that promote tolerance and respect for human rights.
    • Transparency and Accountability: Enhance transparency, accountability, and integrity in governance structures and institutions to rebuild trust and confidence among citizens. This could involve strengthening anti-corruption measures, promoting open government initiatives, and ensuring inclusive and participatory decision-making processes.
    • Investment in Education and Awareness: Invest in education, public awareness campaigns, and media literacy programs to increase awareness of global challenges, their interconnections, and the importance of collective action. This could help foster a sense of shared responsibility and mobilize public support for collaborative solutions.
    • Promotion of Inclusive Economic Growth: Promote inclusive economic growth that benefits all segments of society, reduces inequality, and creates opportunities for marginalized populations. This could involve implementing policies that support job creation, entrepreneurship, social protection, and access to essential services.
    • Resilience Building: Build resilience to global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and economic crises by investing in preparedness, adaptation, and mitigation strategies. This could involve strengthening healthcare systems, disaster risk reduction measures, and social safety nets.
    • Advocacy and Leadership: Advocate for political leadership and commitment at all levels to prioritize collective action and address shared challenges effectively. This could involve mobilizing political will, engaging with policymakers, and holding leaders accountable for their actions.

    Conclusion-

    Strengthening multilateral cooperation, policy coordination, sustainable development investment, empowering communities, promoting dialogue, transparency, education, inclusive economic growth, resilience building, and advocating for leadership are vital for addressing global challenges collectively and fostering a sustainable future.

    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)

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  • Food Procurement and Distribution – PDS & NFSA, Shanta Kumar Committee, FCI restructuring, Buffer stock, etc.

    Food factor: On the latest retail inflation data

    Explained | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: PDS, Buffer Stock & Food Security

    Why in the news? 

    • India’s retail inflation remained virtually unchanged at 5.09% in February, even as food prices paid by consumers resurged from 8.3% in January to 8.66% in February.

    Context-

    • Most economists expect inflation to stay in the 5.1%-5.2% range in March as well, which would lift average inflation in the last quarter of this year over the 5% average projected by the RBI

    The primary reason behind the food inflation in February-

    • Vegetable Prices Surge: Vegetables experienced a significant price surge, with a seven-month high pace of 30.25% in February. This spike in vegetable prices contributed significantly to the overall food inflation.
    • Rise in Egg and Meat Prices: Prices of eggs and meat/fish also rose at a faster pace in February compared to January. Eggs witnessed a notable increase from 5.6% to 10.7%, while meat and fish prices rose from 1.2% to 5.2%.
    • Deceleration in Pulses and Spices Prices: While there was a slight deceleration in the inflation rate of pulses and spices compared to the previous year, these items still experienced steep price increases. Pulses inflation stood at 18.5%, and spices recorded a 13.5% increase.
    • Regional Disparities: Food inflation varied across different states, with some states experiencing inflation rates above the RBI’s upper tolerance threshold of 6%. States like Odisha, Telangana, Haryana, and Assam recorded high inflation rates, while others like Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal had relatively lower inflation rates.
    • Seasonal Factors and Supply Chain Issues: Seasonal factors, along with supply chain disruptions, could have contributed to the rise in food prices. Factors such as adverse weather conditions, transportation constraints, and supply-demand imbalances may have affected the availability and prices of food items in the market.

    To address inflation-related issues in the short term and long term, several measures can be considered:

    [A] Short-Term Measures:

    Supply-Side Interventions:

    • Increase the supply of essential commodities by releasing buffer stocks, if available.
    • Facilitate faster transportation of perishable goods through streamlined logistics and distribution channels.
    • Establish temporary market outlets to directly connect farmers with consumers, reducing intermediary costs and price hikes.

    Import Policies:

    • Relax import restrictions on essential food items to augment domestic supply and stabilize prices.
    • Expedite customs clearance procedures to ensure timely availability of imported goods in the market.

    Price Monitoring and Control:

    • Implement strict price monitoring mechanisms to prevent hoarding and profiteering.
    • Set up special task forces or committees to monitor price movements and take swift action against price manipulation.

    Demand Management:

    • Promote alternative dietary choices to alleviate pressure on high-priced items.
    • Encourage conservation and rational utilization of essential commodities through public awareness campaigns.

    [B] Long-Term Measures:

    Investment in Agriculture Infrastructure:

    • Enhance investment in agricultural infrastructure, including irrigation systems, cold storage facilities, and transportation networks, to improve productivity and reduce post-harvest losses.

    Crop Diversification and Technology Adoption:

    • Encourage farmers to diversify their crops to mitigate the impact of price volatility.
    • Promote the adoption of modern agricultural practices, including mechanization, precision farming, and biotechnology, to enhance crop yields and resilience to climate change.

    Market Reforms:

    • Implement market reforms to create a more efficient and transparent agricultural marketing system.
    • Facilitate the establishment of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and agricultural cooperatives to empower farmers and strengthen their bargaining power in the market.

    Food Processing and Value Addition:

    • Promote investment in food processing industries to add value to agricultural produce and reduce post-harvest losses.
    • Establish food processing clusters and agro-industrial parks to encourage entrepreneurship and create employment opportunities in rural areas.

    Risk Management and Insurance:

    • Introduce crop insurance schemes and risk management tools to protect farmers from income volatility caused by price fluctuations and natural disasters.
    • Provide training and technical assistance to farmers to improve their risk assessment and management capabilities.

    Sustainable Agriculture Practices:

    • Encourage the adoption of sustainable agriculture practices, including organic farming, agroforestry, and soil conservation, to ensure long-term environmental sustainability and food security.

    Conclusion-

    To mitigate food inflation, short-term measures such as supply-side interventions and price monitoring are essential, while long-term solutions like investment in agriculture infrastructure and market reforms are crucial for sustainable food security.

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  • Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

    Nana Jagannath Shankarseth: The ‘Architect of Mumbai’

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

    Why in the news-

    • The Maharashtra cabinet has resolved to request the Ministry of Railways to rename Mumbai Central station after Nana Jagannath Shankarseth, a revered social reformer, educationist, and philanthropist often hailed as the “architect” of Mumbai.

    About Nana Jagannath Shankarseth (1803-1865)

    • Born on February 10, 1803, in Murbad, Thane, into the affluent Murkute family.
    • His father, Shankar Murkute, earned the nickname “Shankar Sheth” due to his success in the jewellery and diamond trade.
    • He contributed in terms of both ideas and money to multiple sectors, to lay a strong foundation for the Bombay City.
    • He was greatly inspired by the legendary merchant and philanthropist Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy.

    Contribution of Nana Jagannath Shankarseth

    • Founded the Bombay Association in 1852, the first political organization in Mumbai, fostering a platform for civic engagement and political discourse.
    • Played a pivotal role as one of the founding members of the Great Indian Peninsula Railway in 1853, contributing to India’s infrastructural development.
    • Recognized the importance of education in societal progress and opened the first school for girls in Mumbai in 1849, pioneering educational reform.
    • Co-founded the School Society and the Native School of Bombay, laying the foundation for educational institutions that nurtured future leaders such as Dadabhai Naoroji and Gopal Krishna Gokhale.
    • Established the Bombay Native Education Society in 1822, the first of its kind in Western India, to promote education among the masses.
    • Collaborated with Sir George Birdwood and Dr Bhau Daji in major reconstruction efforts in Mumbai starting in 1857, transforming the city’s urban landscape.
    • Became the first Indian to be nominated to the Bombay Legislative Council in 1861, advocating for policies that improved public welfare and urban amenities.
    • Honored with a marble statue at the Asiatic Society of Mumbai a year after his death in 1865, commemorating his contributions to society.

     

     

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2012:

    Q.The most effective contribution made by Dadabhai Naoroji to the cause of Indian National Movement was that he-

    1. exposed the economic exploitation of India by the British
    2. interpreted the ancient Indian texts and restored the self-confidence of Indians
    3. stressed the need for eradication of all the social evils before anything else

    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

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Q. Consider the following events:

    He founded the Bombay Association in 1852, the first political organization in Mumbai, fostering a platform for civic engagement and political discourse. Recognizing the importance of education in societal progress, he opened the first school for girls in Mumbai in 1849, pioneering educational reform. He became the first Indian to be nominated to the Bombay Legislative Council in 1861, advocating for policies that improved public welfare and urban amenities.

    The above description is mentioned about which of the following personality?

    a) Gopal Krishna Gokhale

    b) Maharshi Vitthal Ramji Shinde

    c) Nana Jagannath Shankarseth

    d) Dhondo Keshav Karve

     

     

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-United States

    [pib] Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF)

    IOCR | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Why in the news-

    What is the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF)?

    • It is a US-led initiative that aims to strengthen economic partnerships among participating countries to enhance resilience, sustainability, inclusiveness, economic growth, fairness, and competitiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.
    • The IPEF was launched in 2021 with 12 initial partners who together represent 40% of the world GDP.
    • The IPEF is NOT a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) but allows members to negotiate the parts they want to.

     

    Four main “Pillars” of IPEF

     

    1. Trade that will include digital economy and emerging technology, labor commitments, the environment, trade facilitation, transparency and good regulatory practices, and corporate accountability, standards on cross-border data flow and data localisations;
    2. Supply chain resilience to develop “a first-of-its-kind supply chain agreement” that would anticipate and prevent disruptions;
    3. Clean energy and decarbonization that will include agreements on “high-ambition commitments” such as renewable energy targets, carbon removal purchasing commitments, energy efficiency standards, and new measures to combat methane emissions; and
    4. Fair Economy Agreement, with commitments to enact and enforce “effective tax, anti-money laundering, anti-bribery schemes in line with [American] values”.

     

    Members Countries include:

    • Currently, India and 13 countries other located in the Pacific Ocean are its members: Australia, Brunei, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, United States, and Vietnam.

    How is IPEF different from other trade deals?

    • No market access or tariff reductions have been outlined in the IPEF, although experts say it can pave the way to trade deals.
    • It’s not a take-it-or-leave-it arrangement, like most multilateral trade deals are.
    • Since the IPEF is not a regular trade pact, the members so far are not obligated by all four pillars despite being signatories.

    Practice MCQ:

    Regarding the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), consider the following statements:

    1. It is a US-led initiative launched in 2021.
    2. It is basically a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
    3. India is not a member of IPEF.

    How many of the given statements is/are correct?

    (a)   One

    (b)   Two

    (c)   Three

    (d)    None

     

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  • Food Processing Industry: Issues and Developments

    Mission Palm Oil: Achieving Self-sufficiency in Edible Oil Production

    Schemes | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Major Crops & Cropping Patterns

    Why in the news-

    • The Prime Minister highlighted the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) during his visit to Arunachal Pradesh, inaugurating the first oil mill under this mission.

    Why discuss this?

    • This results in a substantial outflow of $20.56 billion in foreign exchange, the need for self-reliance in edible oil production has become paramount.

    Edible Oil Consumption in India: Key Facts

    • India, the world’s biggest importer of vegetable oils, is likely to buy 15.6 million metric tons of cooking oils in the 2023-24 oil year, down from 16.6 million in the current year to Oct.
    • With India imports 57% of its vegetable oil demand.
    • These imports have shown a declining trend in recent months.
    • This decline is attributed to various factors such as reduced availability of palm oil for edible oil requirements due to producers diverting it for biodiesel production.
    • Additionally, the import of soyabean oil from Argentina increased sharply in February 2024, while imports from Brazil declined.
    • The top three vegetable oil imports – palm, soybean, and sunflower seed oil.
    • India’s vegetable oil sector accounts for 13% of the Gross Cropped Area, 3% of the Gross National Product, and 10% of the value of all agricultural commodities.
    • A substantial portion of India’s edible oil requirement is fulfilled through palm oil imports from Indonesia and Malaysia.

    Mission Palm Oil: A Catalyst for Self-Reliance

    • It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme launched in 2021 targeting a substantial increase in oil palm cultivation and crude palm oil production.
    • It has been introduced with a particular emphasis on the Northeast region and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

    Objectives:

    1. Expand oil palm acreage by an additional 6.5 lakh hectares by 2025-26
    2. Increase crude palm oil production to 11.2 lakh tonnes by 2025-26, reaching up to 28 lakh tonnes by 2029-30.
    3. Increase consumer awareness to maintain a consumption level of 19.00 kg/person/annum till 2025-26.

    Focus Areas

    (1)  Fixing of Viability Price

    • Oil palm farmers currently produce Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFBs), from which the industry extracts oil.
    • Presently, FFB prices fluctuate with international Crude Palm Oil (CPO) prices.
    • The Government of India will now assure price stability for FFBs, known as Viability Price (VP), shielding farmers from international CPO price fluctuations.
    • A Formula Price (FP), set at 14.3% of CPO and adjusted monthly, will be established. Viability gap funding will be the difference between VP and FP, directly disbursed to farmers’ accounts via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) when necessary.

    (2) Input Assistance

    • The scheme’s second major focus is to significantly enhance input assistance/interventions, including:
      1. Increasing assistance for oil palm planting material from Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 29,000 per hectare.
      2. Boosting support for maintenance and intercropping interventions.
      3. Providing special assistance of Rs. 250 per plant for replanting old gardens to rejuvenate them.
      4. Offering special assistance tailored for the North-East and Andaman regions, including provisions for half-moon terrace cultivation, bio-fencing, land clearance, and integrated farming.

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2019:

    Among the following, which one is the largest exporter of rice in the world in the last five years?

    (a) China

    (b) India

    (c) Myanmar

    (d) Vietnam

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Consider the following statements:

    1. India is the world’s biggest importer of vegetable oils.
    2. The top three vegetable oil imports include – soybean, palm and groundnut oil.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    (a) Only 1

    (b) Only 2

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

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  • Electric and Hybrid Cars – FAME, National Electric Mobility Mission, etc.

    [pib] E- Vehicle Policy to promote India as a Manufacturing Destination for EVs

    Bills/Act/Laws | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    Why in the news-

    • The Union Government has approved a scheme aimed at promoting India as a manufacturing destination for e-vehicles (EVs) with the latest technology.
    • The policy aims to attract investments from reputed global EV manufacturers to bolster the EV ecosystem in the country.

    About E- Vehicle Manufacturing Policy

    • Access to Latest Technology: Indian consumers will gain access to the latest technology in EVs, aligning with the Make in India initiative.
    • Strengthening the EV Ecosystem: The policy aims to strengthen the EV ecosystem by fostering healthy competition among EV players, leading to high-volume production and economies of scale.
    • Reducing Import Dependency: By promoting domestic production, the policy aims to reduce imports of crude oil, lower the trade deficit, and curb air pollution, particularly in cities.
    • Key provisions of the Policy include:
    1. Minimum Investment Requirement: A minimum investment of Rs 4150 crore (∼USD 500 million) is required to qualify for the scheme.
    2. Timeline for Manufacturing: Manufacturers must set up manufacturing facilities in India within 3 years, start commercial production of e-vehicles, and achieve 50% domestic value addition (DVA) within 5 years.
    3. Domestic Value Addition (DVA): Localization levels of 25% by the 3rd year and 50% by the 5th year must be achieved during manufacturing.
    4. Customs Duty Incentives: A customs duty of 15% applies to vehicles with a minimum CIF value of USD 35,000 and above, subject to certain conditions.

    Additional Provisions and Requirements

    • Limit on Duty Forgone: The duty foregone on imported EVs is limited to the investment made or ₹6484 crore, whichever is lower.
    • Annual Import Limits: A maximum of 40,000 EVs can be imported annually, subject to investment thresholds.
    • Bank Guarantee Requirement: Investment commitments must be backed by a bank guarantee, which will be invoked in case of non-achievement of DVA and minimum investment criteria.
    • Bank Guarantee Invocation: The bank guarantee will be invoked if companies fail to meet the DVA and minimum investment criteria outlined in the scheme guidelines. 

    Various Policy Moves for Promoting E-Vehicles

    • FAME scheme II (2019): Offers incentives such as subsidies, tax rebates, and preferential financing for EV manufacturers and buyers.
    • National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (2013): Aims to achieve annual sales targets of 6-7 million hybrid and electric vehicles by 2020 through fiscal incentives.
    • Amendments to the Model Building Bye-laws (2016): It requires 20% of parking spaces in residential and commercial buildings to be allocated for EV charging facilities.
    • National Mission on Transformative Mobility and Battery Storage (2019): Aims to create an ecosystem for EV adoption and support the establishment of large-scale battery manufacturing plants.
    • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme (2021): It incentivises EV and component manufacturing.
    • Vehicle Scrappage Policy (2021): It incentivizes the scrapping of old vehicles and the purchase of new EVs.
    • Ministry of Power’s guidelines: It mandates charging stations every 3 km along grids and every 25 km on highways.

    Try this PYQ from CSE Mains 2019:

    Q. How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic development in India?

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  • Agricultural Sector and Marketing Reforms – eNAM, Model APMC Act, Eco Survey Reco, etc.

    [pib] Integration of Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Fisheries Scheme and JanSamarth Portal

    Schemes | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Economics Of Animal-Rearing

    Why in the news-

    • The Department of Fisheries inaugurated the integration of the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Fisheries scheme onto the JanSamarth Portal, marking a revolutionary step in providing credit facilities to fishers and fish farmers nationwide.

    JanSamarth Portal

    • It is a first-of-its-kind online platform for directly connecting lenders with beneficiaries. Citizens can avail loans under 13 Central government schemes under 4 loan categories.
    • The one-stop portal allows citizens to check eligibility, apply online and get digital approval.

    About KCC Fisheries Scheme

    • The GoI, in the year 2018-19, extended KCC facility to fisheries and animal husbandry farmers to help them to meet their working capital requirements.
    • Bank authorities have been instructed to issue KCC within 14 days of receipt of the completed application from the fish farmers.
    • Benefits Include:
    1. For the existing KCC holders the benefits of interest subvention and prompt repayment incentive will be admissible up to the credit limit of Rs. 3 lakhs including fisheries activities.
    2. In the case of new card holders, the credit limit is Rs. 2 lakhs to meet their working capital requirements for fisheries activities.
    3. In the KCC scheme @7% is the lending rate to farmers including @2% interest subvention per annum by GoI. Also, another @3% per annum is provided in case of prompt repayment as an additional incentive as per the existing guidelines.
    4. This implies that the farmers repaying promptly as above would get a loan @ 4% per annum effectively for loan amount upto Rs 2 lakhs.

    Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) Scheme

    • The KCC scheme was introduced on the recommendation of R.V. Gupta of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development.
    • The scheme was launched in 1998 to provide adequate and timely credit support from the banking system to the farmers.
    • It provides a single window with flexible and simplified procedures to the farmers for their cultivation and other needs like purchasing agriculture inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, pesticides etc. and drawing cash for their production needs.
    • The scheme was further extended for the investment credit requirement of farmers viz. allied and non-farm activities in the year 2004.
    • In 2018-19, it was extended to fisheries and animal husbandry farmers.

    Objectives include:

    1. To meet the short-term credit requirement for cultivation
    2. To manage post-harvest expenses
    3. To meet the consumption requirement of farmer’s household
    4. Working capital for maintaining the farm assets and activities allied to agriculture
    5. Investment credit requirement for agriculture-allied activities

    KCC scheme is implemented by:

    1. Commercial banks
    2. Regional Rural Banks (RRBs)
    3. Small Financial Banks, and
    4. Cooperative banks

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2020:

    Under the Kisan Credit Card scheme, short-term credit support is given to farmers for which of the following purposes?

    1. Working capital for maintenance of farm assets
    2. Purchase of combine harvesters, tractors and mini trucks
    3. Consumption requirements of farm households
    4. Post-harvest expenses
    5. Construction of family house and setting up of village cold storage facility

    Select the correct answer:

    (a) 1, 2 and 5 only

    (b) 1, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only

    (d) 1, 2, 4 and 5

     

    Practice MCQ:

    The JanSamarth Portal often seen in the news is related to:

    (a) Lending Facility

    (b) E-KYC

    (c) Consumer Grievances

    (d) Right to Information

     

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  • Defence Sector – DPP, Missions, Schemes, Security Forces, etc.

    AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters Fleet inducted to the Army

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

    Why in the news-

    • The Indian Army Aviation Corps inaugurated its first unit of AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters into its fleet at Jodhpur Air Base.

    AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters

    • The AH-64E Apache also known as ‘Apache Guardian’ is widely recognized as the world’s most advanced multi-role combat helicopter.
    • It originates from the United States and is manufactured by Boeing.
    • In February 2020, India sealed a deal with Boeing for the acquisition of six AH-64E for the Army, with an additional six helicopters contracted subsequently.
    • Several countries have acquired the AH-64E, including India, Egypt, Greece, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, Netherlands, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, UAE, and the UK.
    Indigenous Push

    • Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL), a joint venture between Boeing and Tata Advanced Systems Ltd. (TASL), was established in 2016 to manufacture fuselages for the AH-64 Apache.
    • TBAL’s Hyderabad facility has been delivering AH-64 Apache fuselages since 2018.
    • The advanced manufacturing facility will eventually become the sole producer of AH-64 fuselages in the world, with 90% of parts sourced from Indian suppliers.

    Combat Features

    • Engineered with an open systems architecture to integrate cutting-edge communications, navigation, sensor, and weapon systems.
    • Boasts enhanced thrust and lift capabilities, joint digital interoperability, improved survivability, and cognitive decision aiding.
    • Incorporates a new integrated infrared laser for simplified target designation and upgraded infrared imagery blending infrared with night vision capabilities.

    Strategic Significance of the Induction

    • Enhancing Combat Capability: The induction of Apache helicopters marks a significant advancement for the Army Aviation Corps, providing formidable firepower and maneuverability in combat scenarios.
    • Complementing Indigenous Capabilities: The Apaches will complement the indigenous Light Combat helicopter (LCH), strengthening the Army’s aerial combat capabilities.
    • Replacing the ageing arsenal: The Apache fleet is set to will replace the Russian Mi-35 attack helicopters in service.

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2018:

    Q.What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news?

    (a) An Israeli radar system

    (b) India’s indigenous anti-missile programme

    (c) An American anti-missile system

    (d) A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea

    Practice MCQ:

    What is “AH-64E Apache Guardian “, sometimes seen in the news?

    (a) Multi-role Helicopter

    (b) Radar

    (c) Anti-Tank Missile

    (d) Air-Defence System

     

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  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) Breakthrough

    U.S. to moot first-of-its-kind resolution at UN seeking equal global access to AI

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

    Why in the news? 

    • The United States is leading an effort at the United Nations to create rules for Artificial intelligence (AI).

    Context- 

    • The draft resolution, which recognizes the rapid acceleration of AI development and use, aims to close the digital divide between countries.
    • The United States initiated negotiations with all 193 UN member nations about three months before the statement.
    • It plans to make sure that nations have the necessary capabilities to take advantage of the technology when it comes to detecting diseases and predicting floods.

    What are the provisions proposed through the New framework?

    • Encouragement for Regulatory and Governance Approaches: The resolution encourages various entities, including countries, organizations, communities, and individuals, to develop and support regulatory and governance frameworks for safe AI systems. It emphasizes the importance of safeguarding against improper or malicious use of AI systems.
    • Global Movement Towards AI Regulations: Countries worldwide, including the U.S., China, and the EU, are working on AI regulations. The EU is set to finalize comprehensive AI rules, and other nations and groupings like the G20 are also developing AI regulations.
    • Assistance to Developing Countries: The U.S. draft resolution calls for helping developing countries access the benefits of digital transformation and safe AI systems. It stresses the importance of respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms throughout the lifecycle of AI systems.
    • Support for UN Development Goals:  It particularly aims to support the UN’s 2030 goals, including ending hunger and poverty, improving health, and achieving gender equality.

     

    Need Global support to pass the resolution: 

    • For Principles: The resolution aims to garner global support for a set of principles for developing and using AI. It intends to guide the use of AI systems for beneficial purposes while managing associated risks.
      • If approved, the resolution is deemed a historic advancement in promoting safe, secure, and trustworthy AI on a global scale.
    • Consensus Support: After several drafts, the resolution achieved consensus support from all member states. It will be formally considered later in the month.
    • Non-Legally Binding: Unlike Security Council resolutions, General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding. However, they serve as important indicators of global opinion.

    How it will positively impact the well-being of the Society all over?

    AI can play a crucial role in both detecting diseases and predicting floods by leveraging various data sources, advanced algorithms, and computational power-

    Disease Detection with AI:

    • Medical Imaging Analysis: AI algorithms can analyze medical images such as X-rays, MRI scans, and CT scans to detect abnormalities or signs of diseases like cancer, tuberculosis, or pneumonia.
      • Deep learning models, such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs), have shown remarkable accuracy in identifying patterns in medical images.
    • Health Monitoring and Predictive Analytics: AI-powered health monitoring devices can continuously collect data such as heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose levels.
      • Machine learning algorithms can analyze this data to detect anomalies or early signs of diseases, allowing for early intervention and prevention.
    • Diagnostic Decision Support Systems: AI-based diagnostic systems can assist healthcare professionals in diagnosing diseases by analyzing patient data, symptoms, medical history, and laboratory test results.
      • These systems can provide accurate and timely recommendations, improving diagnostic accuracy and efficiency.

    Flood Prediction with AI:

    • Data Analysis and Modeling: AI algorithms can analyze various data sources such as weather patterns, topography, soil moisture, river levels, and historical flood data to build predictive models. Machine learning techniques, including regression, decision trees, and neural networks, can identify complex relationships between these factors and predict the likelihood and severity of floods.
    • Remote Sensing and Satellite Imagery: AI can analyze satellite imagery and remote sensing data to monitor changes in land use, vegetation, and water bodies. This information can be used to assess flood risks and predict flood events in vulnerable areas.
    • Real-time Monitoring and Early Warning Systems: AI-powered sensors and monitoring devices can continuously collect data on rainfall, river levels, and water flow rates. Machine learning algorithms can analyze this data in real time to detect sudden changes or anomalies indicative of imminent flooding. Early warning systems can then alert authorities and communities, enabling them to take preventive measures and evacuate residents if necessary.

    Conclusion-

    In the way forward, global consensus on AI principles is vital. Continued efforts in developing regulatory frameworks and assisting developing nations are essential. AI’s role in disease detection and flood prediction underscores its potential for addressing global challenges effectively.

    Mains Question for Practise-

    Discuss the global efforts towards establishing regulatory frameworks for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its applications in healthcare and disaster management. Examine the significance of international cooperation in ensuring the safe and beneficial deployment of AI technologies. (250 words)

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Africa

    The Flaring Conflict in Eastern Congo | Explained

    Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2:

    Why in the news? 

    • Renewed clashes in eastern DRC between the Congolese army and Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have raised global concerns.

    Context:

    • The conflict exacerbates the humanitarian crisis in the region, with increased fatalities, displacements, and food security risks.
    • The United Nations and several Western countries denounce the attacks and urge the M23 rebels to halt their offensive

    What is the conflict?

    • Origin: Conflict in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) stems from the aftermath of the Rwandan genocide in 1994, where extremist Hutus killed hundreds of thousands of minority ethnic Tutsis and Hutu moderates.
    • Refugee Crisis: Following the genocide, around two million Rwandan refugees fled to eastern Congo, leading to tensions between local Congolese and Rwandan emigrants.
    • First Congo War: Ethnic tensions escalated into the First Congo War, pitting Zairean soldiers against Tutsi militias and the Alliance of Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Congo (AFDL), supported by Rwanda and Uganda.
    • Political Changes: The AFDL captured Kinshasa, leading to the renaming of Zaire as the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in 1997.
    • Africa’s World War: The Second Congo War erupted in 1998, characterized as “Africa’s world war,” involving various armed groups, including the Rwanda-backed rebel group, the Rally for Congolese Democracy (RCD).
      • Despite multiple peace agreements, violence persists in the region, making it one of the deadliest conflicts since World War II.

    Who are the M23 rebels?

    • Formation of  M23 rebels: The March 23 Movement (M23) was formed in 2012 to defend Tutsi interests against Hutu militias, stemming from a 2009 ceasefire agreement. It broke away from the Congolese army, accusing the government of failing to integrate Tutsis.
    • Recent Resurgence: M23 resurged in 2022, citing attacks by Hutu militias. Recent attacks near Goma have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, leading to protests urging Rwanda’s withdrawal of support.
    • Escalating Tensions: Violence has strained relations between the DRC and Rwanda, with the DRC accusing Rwanda of backing M23 rebels. Rwanda denies these allegations and attributes the escalation to Congo’s decision to send back regional peacekeepers.
    • Potential Regional Escalation: The worsening violence raises concerns about regional tensions and the involvement of more countries. Attacks on civilian settlements have caused significant casualties and forced health and aid workers to withdraw.

    Measures to resolve these issues- 

    • Regional Cooperation: Foster cooperation among neighboring countries to address cross-border security challenges and prevent the spread of violence. Establishing joint patrols and intelligence-sharing mechanisms can enhance security along shared borders.
    • Peacekeeping Missions: Increased peacekeeping efforts can help stabilize conflict-affected areas and create conducive conditions for peace talks.
    • Socio-Economic Development: Invest in socio-economic development initiatives in conflict-affected areas to address underlying drivers of instability and marginalization. Providing livelihood opportunities, access to education, healthcare, and infrastructure can help alleviate poverty and promote social cohesion.
    • Disarmament and Reintegration: Implement effective disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) programs which should include vocational training, psychosocial support, and community-based reconciliation efforts.
    • International Support: Mobilize international support and Regional organizations, donor countries, and civil society actors to provide timely and coordinated assistance to affected populations.

    Conclusion:

    The conflict in eastern DRC, fueled by historical grievances and ethnic tensions, requires diplomatic engagement, regional cooperation, peacekeeping missions, comprehensive peace agreements, socio-economic development, disarmament, international support to achieve lasting peace and stability.

    Mains PYQ-

    The anti-colonial struggles in West Africa were led by the new elite of Western-educated Africans. Examine. (UPSC IAS/2016)

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