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  • Roads, Highways, Cargo, Air-Cargo and Logistics infrastructure – Bharatmala, LEEP, SetuBharatam, etc.

    GPS-based Highway Toll Collection: The New Proposed System

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    In the news

    • The government’s plan to implement a new highway toll collection system based on the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) before the 2024 election model code of conduct kicks in.
    • In this article, we delve into the details of the proposed system, its challenges, privacy safeguards, and its relationship with the existing FASTag system.

    New Proposed Highway Tolling System

    • Utilization of GNSS: The system will employ an On-Board Unit (OBU) or tracking device fitted inside vehicles, leveraging the Indian satellite navigation system, GAGAN, for accurate location mapping.
    • ANPR Technology: It will use an automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) system through cameras installed on highways and deduct tolls based on the distance travelled by a vehicle.
    • Digital Image Processing: Co-ordinates of national highways will be logged digitally, and toll rates will be assigned based on the distance travelled by a vehicle, with toll amounts deducted from a wallet linked to the OBU.
    • Enforcement Mechanisms: Gantries mounted with CCTV cameras will monitor highways, capturing high-security registration plate images to prevent evasion, ensuring compliance with the tolling system.

    Challenges in Implementation

    • Recovery of Unpaid Tolls: Recovering toll amounts from non-compliant users poses a challenge, especially when digital wallets linked to OBUs are empty.
    • Evasion and Non-Compliance: Vehicles traveling without OBUs or deliberately switching them off, or misuse of OBUs to pay lower tolls, present enforcement challenges.
    • Infrastructure and Legal Amendments: Setting up ANPR-based systems and amending toll collection rules are essential for the effective implementation of the new system.

    Privacy Safeguards

    • Usage of GAGAN: Utilizing the indigenous GAGAN system instead of GPS ensures data security within the country, addressing privacy concerns.
    • Legal Framework: The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, aims to safeguard privacy, although concerns regarding increased state surveillance exist.

    Co-Existence with FASTags

    • Complementary Systems: The new tolling system will co-exist with FASTags, with no decision yet on mandating OBUs for all vehicles.
    • Operational Efficiency: While FASTags have achieved robust compliance, the GNSS-based system offers lower operational costs and streamlines toll collection processes.

    Key Statistics

    • FASTag Compliance: By December 2023, 98.9% of vehicles passing through toll fee plazas at national highways were FASTag compliant, reflecting widespread adoption.
    • Toll Collection Growth: Toll collection increased 1.5 times from ₹17,942 crore in 2016-2017 to ₹27,744 crore in 2020-2021 at National Highway fee plazas, showcasing the effectiveness of existing mechanisms.

    Conclusion

    • The proposed GNSS-based toll collection system represents a paradigm shift in highway tolling mechanisms, promising greater accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.
    • However, challenges such as recovery of unpaid tolls and infrastructure requirements need to be addressed for successful implementation.
    • With adequate safeguards for privacy and co-existence with FASTags, the new system holds the potential to revolutionize highway toll collection in India.

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  • Roads, Highways, Cargo, Air-Cargo and Logistics infrastructure – Bharatmala, LEEP, SetuBharatam, etc.

    Sela Tunnel: Enhancing Border Connectivity

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    In the news

    • The inauguration of the Sela Tunnel by Prime Minister Narendra Modi marks a significant milestone in India’s border infrastructure development, particularly in the strategic Tawang sector.

    About Sela Tunnel Project

    Details
    Location West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh

    On the Balipara-Chariduar-Tawang (BCT) Road
    Feat World’s longest bi-lane tunnel at an altitude above 13,000 feet.
    Connectivity  Ensures all-weather connectivity between Guwahati in Assam and Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh.
    Highway Excavated below the Sela Pass on the NH-13 component of the Trans-Arunachal Highway system.
    Construction Built by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) under Project Vartak.

    Construction commenced on April 1, 2019.
    Project Details Tunnel 1: Single-tube tunnel, 980m in length. –

    Tunnel 2: Bi-lane tunnel, 1555m in length, including one escape tube for emergencies.

    Roads: Approach to Tunnel 1 (7100m), road between the two tunnels (1340m), approach to Tunnel 2 (340m).

     

    Infrastructure Details

    • Strategic Location: Situated on the, the Sela Tunnel provides a crucial link between Guwahati and the strategically important Tawang sector in Arunachal Pradesh.
    • Military Significance: The tunnel facilitates faster military movement to Tawang, home to the Indian Army’s IV Corps, ensuring swift deployment and operational readiness along the border.
    • Operational Benefits: By bypassing foggy stretches at Nechiphu and snow-covered terrain at Sela Pass, the tunnel reduces travel distance by nearly 10 km and travel time by almost an hour for convoys, enhancing logistical efficiency.
    • Technology and Safety: Constructed using the new Austrian tunnelling method, the Sela Tunnel incorporates state-of-the-art safety features, meeting the highest standards set by the Defence Ministry.

    Geopolitical Context

    • Strategic Considerations: Tawang’s geographical significance extends to its proximity to the Brahmaputra plains and its role as a vital axis to Tezpur in Assam, strengthening India’s military posture.
    • Historical Significance: Tawang holds historical and cultural importance as the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama and a prominent centre of Tibetan Buddhism, adding to its strategic value.
    • Security Imperatives: Given China’s territorial claims over Tawang and Arunachal Pradesh, India remains vigilant, fortifying its military presence and infrastructure to safeguard its sovereignty.

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Sri Lanka

    Tamil Nadu Fishermen’s Plight over Katchatheevu Island

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

    In the news

    • Frustrated by the continuous actions against them by Sri Lankan authorities, Tamil Nadu fishermen announced an indefinite strike starting February 17, disrupting their daily activities.
    • The fishermen’s protest led to an unprecedented decision to abstain from the annual St. Antony’s Church festival at Katchatheevu, a significant event symbolizing their fishing rights.

    Katchatheevu Island: Historical Background

    • Colonial Influence: Katchatheevu, a 285-acre island, has its origins in a 14-century volcanic eruption. It was historically under the control of the Jaffna kingdom in Sri Lanka and later the Ramnad Zamindari in India.
    • British-Era Claims: Both India and Sri Lanka claimed Katchatheevu in the early 20th century to establish fishing boundaries. The ownership dispute continued even during the British Raj.

    1974 Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Agreement

    • Landmark Decision: Indira Gandhi’s government decided to cede Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka as part of the 1974 agreement, aiming to establish maritime borders.
    • Political Implications: The decision raised concerns in Tamil Nadu, where voices protested the lack of state assembly consultation and the impact on traditional fishing rights.
    • Fishing Ambiguity: The agreement allowed Indian fishermen access to Katchatheevu “hitherto,” but fishing rights remained ambiguous, leading to disputes.

    Sri Lankan Civil War and Beyond

    • Civil War Dynamics: The Sri Lankan civil war (1983-2009) shifted focus from the Katchatheevu issue as Sri Lanka’s naval forces grappled with internal strife.
    • Post-War Reality: Post the civil war, Sri Lanka reinforced maritime defense, leading to the arrest of Indian fishermen venturing into their waters, reigniting demands for Katchatheevu’s retrieval.

    Tamil Nadu’s Persistent Concerns

    • Political Backlash: Tamil Nadu politicians across parties raised objections against ceding Katchatheevu without state assembly consent, citing historical ties and livelihood impacts.
    • Legal Battles: Late J Jayalalitha’s AIADMK filed petitions challenging the 1974 agreement, arguing it affected traditional fishing rights. However, the Union government’s stance remained unaltered.
    • Government’s Position: Despite vocal demands from Tamil politicians, the Modi government maintained that the island’s status was finalized in 1974 and reclaiming it would require drastic measures.

    Contemporary Implications

    • Symbol of Sovereignty: Katchatheevu symbolizes regional and sovereignty concerns, reflecting tensions between Tamil Nadu’s interests and central government decisions.
    • Geopolitical Dilemma: The case highlights the delicate balance between historical claims, political sentiments, and international agreements in the context of bilateral relations.

    Conclusion

    • The island of Katchatheevu continues to serve as a reminder of India’s historical intricacies, reflecting the delicate balancing act between state interests, national decisions, and regional aspirations.
    • While Tamil Nadu’s calls for retrieval echo in the political corridors, the longstanding 1974 agreement and subsequent geopolitical realities create a complex landscape.
    • As the island’s fate intertwines with broader diplomatic relations, Katchatheevu remains a testament to the complexities of national sovereignty and regional sentiment.

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    7,396 Golden Langur in India, reveals survey

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

    Golden Langur

    In the news

    • The latest survey conducted by the Primate Research Centre NE India (PRCNE), Assam Forest Department has estimated a population of approximately 7,396 Golden Langur (Trachypithecus geei) in India.

    About Golden Langur

    Details
    Identification
    • Recognizable by the color of their fur, which gives them their name.
    • Fur color changes with the seasons.
    • Young langurs are almost pure white.
    Geographic Range
    • Found in Assam, India, and neighboring Bhutan year-round.
    • Inhabits an area bordered by the foothills of Bhutan (north), Manas river (east), Sankosh river (west), and Brahmaputra river (south).
    Habitat
    • Occupies moist evergreen and tropical deciduous forests, along with some riverine areas and savannahs in Assam and Bhutan.
    • Prefers living in the upper canopy of sub-tropical forests in the south and temperate forests in the north.
    Conservation Status
    • IUCN: Endangered
    • CITES: Appendix I
    • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I
    Key Habitats
    • Ripu Reserve Forest and Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary serve as vital habitats.
    • Fragmented habitats face instability and threats.

     

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2012:

    Which one of the following groups of animals belongs to the category of endangered species?

    (a) Great Indian Bustard, Musk Deer, Red Panda and Asiatic Wild Ass

    (b) Kashmir Stag, Cheetal, Blue Bull and Great Indian Bustard

    (c) Snow Leopard, Swamp Deer, Rhesus Monkey and Saras (Crane)

    (d) Lion-tailed Macaque, Blue Bull, Hanuman Langur and Cheetal

     

    Post your answers.

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Connectome: the Map of the Brain

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

    connectome


    In the news

    • The human brain, composed of billions of neurons, orchestrates intricate processes that sustain life and enable complex cognitive functions.
    • Understanding these neural interactions is paramount, and scientists have achieved this through the concept of the connectome.

    What is Connectome?

    • Definition: The Connectome serves as a comprehensive map of neuronal connections, akin to a cartogram illustrating the intricate network of synapses transmitting electrical and chemical signals within the brain.
    • Neural Communication: Neurons communicate through synapses, where dendrites receive chemical signals converted into electrical impulses transmitted along the axon. Subsequently, the cell releases chemicals into synapses based on electrical inputs, facilitating communication with neighbouring neurons.

    Applications in Neuroscience

    • Functional Insights: Mapping the connectome provides invaluable insights into brain function, shedding light on processes underlying cognitive functions and elucidating the impact of neurological disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Alzheimer’s disease.
    • Drug Development: By unravelling cellular connections, researchers gain crucial knowledge about cognitive processes and associated disorders, informing the development of novel therapeutic interventions for conditions affecting neurological health.

    Challenges and Progress

    • Complexity of the Brain: The intricate nature of the brain and the vast amount of data it processes present significant challenges in mapping the connectome.
    • Simplified Understanding: Despite these challenges, the connectome has revolutionized scientists’ comprehension of the brain, offering a clearer understanding of neurological health and paving the way for advancements in neuroscience research.

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

    EoUs, SEZs to get RoDTEP sops

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

    In the news

    • In a significant move aimed at bolstering India’s export sector, the Centre recently announced the extension of tax refunds under the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) Scheme to outbound shipments from Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and Export Oriented Units (EOUs).

    About RoDTEP Scheme

    • Introduced by the Government as a duty remission scheme on exports, implemented from 1st January 2021.
    • Aimed at repealing and reducing taxes for exported products to boost exports in the country.
    • Administered by the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance.
    • Provides reimbursement of taxes, duties, and levies not refunded under any other mechanism, incurred by export entities in the manufacturing and distribution of exported products.
    • Includes direct costs incurred by exporters and prior stage cumulative indirect taxes on goods.

    Compliance with the WTO

    • Follows the global principle that taxes/duties should not be exported.
    • Replaced the Merchandise Export Incentive Schemes (MEIS) after a WTO dispute ruling against India.

    Eligibility Criteria

    • Applicable to all export sectors regardless of turnover, with the country of manufacturing of exported goods in India.
    • Applies to merchant or manufacturer exporters directly exporting goods.
    • Goods exported through e-commerce platforms are eligible.

    Refund process

    • Rebate provided to eligible exporters as a percentage of the Freight on Board (FOB) value of exports.
    • Remission issued as transferrable e-scrips maintained in an electronic credit ledger by CBIC.
    • E-scrips can be used for paying basic customs duty on imports or transferred electronically to another party.

    Back2Basics:

    (1) Export Oriented Units (EOUs)

    Details
    Establishment EOUs are established under the provisions of the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992, and the Export Import Policy.
    Regulation Regulated by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
    Benefits
    • Duty-free procurement of raw materials.
    • Reimbursement of GST and duty on fuels.
    • Fast track clearance facilities.
    • Exemption from industrial licensing for certain sectors.
    Qualification Project must have a minimum investment of Rs. 1 crore in plant and machinery, except for specific sectors like software technology parts and biotechnology parks.
    Geographical Scope EOUs can be set up anywhere in India based on scheme criteria.
    Comparison with SEZs
    • SEZs are demarcated enclaves outside Customs jurisdiction.
    • SEZs enjoy tax exemptions, while EOUs pay taxes that can be claimed as refunds later.

     

    (2) Special Economic Zones (SEZs)

    Details
    Inception Date SEZ policy in India was first implemented on April 1, 2000.
    Objective
    • Enhance foreign investment and provide an internationally competitive and hassle-free environment for exports.
    • Promote exports and ensure a level playing field for domestic enterprises.
    SEZ Act 2005 Enacted to provide the legal framework covering all important aspects of SEZ development and operations.
    Setting up SEZs
    • Any private/public/joint sector, state government, or its agencies can establish an SEZ.
    • Foreign agencies can also set up SEZs in India.
    Role of State Governments
    • State government representatives are consulted during the proposal consideration phase.
    • States must ensure the availability of basic infrastructure like water and electricity before recommending proposals.
    Government Control
    • Statutory functions are controlled by the government in all SEZs.
    • The central government controls operation and maintenance in central government-controlled SEZs; the rest are privatized.
    Exemption from Labor Laws
    • SEZs are subject to normal labor laws enforced by state governments.
    • A single-window clearance mechanism and simplified procedures/returns have been requested from state governments.
    Monitoring Units in SEZs Annually by a unit approval committee consisting of a development commissioner, customs, and state government representatives.
    Special Features for Business Units
    • Business units in SEZs are entitled to incentives and a simplified operating environment.
    • No license is required for imports, including second-hand machinery.

     

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2016:

    Recently, India’s first ‘National Investment and Manufacturing Zone’ was proposed to be set up in

    (a) Andhra Pradesh

    (b) Gujarat

    (c) Maharashtra

    (d) Uttar Pradesh

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  • Promoting Science and Technology – Missions,Policies & Schemes

    IndiaAI Mission launched

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

    IndiaAI Mission

    In the news

    • The Union Cabinet’s recent approval of the IndiaAI Mission marks a pivotal step towards harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) for national development.
    • With a significant financial outlay and multifaceted objectives, this mission aims to bolster India’s AI capabilities across various sectors, fostering innovation and addressing societal challenges.

    What is IndiaAI Mission?

    • Objectives: Launched under the auspices of the Digital India Corporation (DIC), the IndiaAI Mission seeks to establish a robust AI ecosystem conducive to innovation and growth.
    • Key Initiatives: From enhancing computing infrastructure to promoting AI applications in critical sectors like healthcare and governance, the mission encompasses diverse initiatives aimed at fostering AI-driven solutions.
    • Public-Private Partnership: Leveraging a public-private partnership model, the mission endeavours to synergize governmental resources with private sector expertise, ensuring effective implementation and scalability.

    Core Pillars of IndiaAI Mission

    1. IndiaAI Compute Capacity: Building scalable AI computing infrastructure to meet the evolving demands of AI startups and research endeavours.
    2. IndiaAI Innovation Centre: Spearheading the development and deployment of indigenous AI models tailored to specific sectors’ needs.
    3. IndiaAI Datasets Platform: Facilitating access to high-quality datasets to fuel AI innovation and research.
    4. IndiaAI Application Development Initiative: Promoting the application of AI solutions to address challenges in critical sectors.
    5. IndiaAI FutureSkills: Fostering AI talent by expanding educational programs and training initiatives at various academic levels.
    6. IndiaAI Startup Financing: Supporting deep-tech AI startups through streamlined funding mechanisms to drive innovation.
    7. Safe & Trusted AI: Ensuring responsible AI deployment through the development of indigenous tools and frameworks.

    Strategic Significance

    • National Development Agenda: The IndiaAI Mission aligns with the government’s vision of leveraging technology for inclusive growth and development.
    • Global Competitiveness: By showcasing India’s prowess in AI innovation and application, the mission enhances the country’s global standing and competitiveness.
    • Economic Impetus: By fostering AI-driven entrepreneurship and innovation, the mission catalyzes economic growth and job creation, leveraging India’s demographic dividend.
    • Regulatory Landscape: While fostering innovation, the mission underscores the need for responsible AI governance and regulatory frameworks to address ethical and safety concerns.

    Integration with National Policy

    • Comprehensive Approach: The IndiaAI Mission complements existing national initiatives, such as the Digital India campaign and efforts to boost electronics manufacturing.
    • Strategic Alignment: The mission’s focus on AI infrastructure and talent development aligns with broader policy objectives aimed at fostering a conducive ecosystem for technology-driven innovation.
    • International Parallels: The government’s approach mirrors global trends, with other nations also prioritizing AI development and regulatory frameworks to balance innovation with safety and ethics.

    Challenges and Regulatory Considerations

    • Navigating Regulatory Landscape: While promoting AI innovation, policymakers must navigate complex regulatory landscapes to ensure ethical AI deployment and safeguard against potential risks.
    • Balancing Innovation and Regulation: Striking a balance between fostering innovation and implementing regulatory safeguards remains a critical challenge for policymakers globally.
    • Lessons from International Models: Drawing insights from international models, India can devise a regulatory framework that fosters innovation while upholding ethical and safety standards.

    Conclusion

    • In conclusion, the IndiaAI Mission heralds a new era of AI-driven innovation and development in India, offering a strategic roadmap to harness the transformative potential of AI for societal benefit.
    • By fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors and prioritizing talent development, this mission underscores India’s commitment to emerging as a global leader in AI innovation while navigating regulatory challenges to ensure responsible and ethical AI deployment.

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  • Forest Conservation Efforts – NFP, Western Ghats, etc.

    Rajasthan’s Proposal to Classify Orans as Deemed Forests

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

    sacred grove oran

    In the news

    • A recent state government notification has struck fear in Rajasthan community dwellers about losing access to forest produce and livelihoods.
    • Communities, particularly those in western Rajasthan, are concerned about the state’s proposal to classify Oran, Dev-vans and Rundhs (sacred groves) as deemed forests.

    What are Sacred Groves?

    • Sacred groves of India are forest fragments of varying sizes, which are communally protected, and which usually have a significant religious connotation for the protecting community.
    • It usually consists of a dense cover of vegetation including climbers, herbs, shrubs and trees, with the presence of a village deity and is mostly situated near a perennial water source.
    • Sacred groves are considered to be symbols of the primitive practice of nature worship and support nature conservation to a great extent.
    • The introduction of the protected area category community reserves under the Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act, 2002 has introduced legislation for providing government protection to community-held lands, which could include sacred groves.

    Historical references

    • Indian sacred groves are often associated with temples, monasteries, shrines, pilgrimage sites, or with burial grounds.
    • Historically, sacred groves find their mentions in Hindu, Jain and Buddhist texts, from sacred tree groves in Hinduism to sacred deer parks in Buddhism for example.
    • Sacred groves may be loosely used to refer to natural habitat protected on religious grounds.
    • Other historical references to sacred groves can be obtained in Vrukshayurveda an ancient treatise, ancient classics such as Kalidasa’s Vikramuurvashiiya.
    • There has been a growing interest in creating green patches such as Nakshatravana

    Regulation of activities in Sacred Grooves

    • Hunting and logging are usually strictly prohibited within these patches.
    • Other forms of forest usage like honey collection and deadwood collection are sometimes allowed on a sustainable basis.
    • NGOs work with local villagers to protect such groves.
    • Traditionally, and in some cases even today, members of the community take turns to protect the grove.

    Threats to such grooves

    • Threats to the groves include urbanization and over-exploitation of resources.
    • While many of the groves are looked upon as abode of Hindu deities, in the recent past a number of them have been partially cleared for construction of shrines and temples.

    Total grooves in India

    • Around 14,000 sacred groves have been reported from all over India, which act as reservoirs of rare fauna, and more often rare flora, amid rural and even urban settings.
    • Experts believe that the total number of sacred groves could be as high as 100,000.
    • They are called by different names in different states:
    1. Sarna in Bihar
    2. Dev Van in Himachal Pradesh
    3. Devarakadu in Karnataka
    4. Kavu in Kerala
    5. Dev in Madhya Pradesh
    6. Devarahati or Devarai in Maharashtra
    7. Law Kyntang or Asong Khosi in Meghalaya
    8. Kovil Kadu or Sarpa Kavu in Tamil Nadu

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

    Why do we celebrate Women’s Day on March 8?

    Prelims Only | Trivia | Mains Paper 1: Role Of Women & Women Organization

    women

    In the news

    • March 8 marks International Women’s Day (IWD), a global observance celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.
    • Rooted in historical movements for women’s rights, IWD serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality.

    Try this PYQ from CSE Mains 2019:

    Q. What are the continued challenges for Women in India against time and space?

    International Women’s Day: It’s Origin

    • First National Woman’s Day: The precursor to IWD dates back to February 28, 1909, when the Socialist Party of America designated this day to honour the 1908 garment workers’ strike in New York City, where women demanded better working conditions and voting rights.
    • First Wave Feminism: These protests were part of the broader First Wave Feminist movement, advocating for women’s suffrage, equal pay, and fundamental rights.
    • Global Initiatives: The call for an International Women’s Day gained momentum at the Second International Conference of Working Women in 1910, where Clara Zetkin proposed the idea of a global day of celebration to press for women’s demands.

    Historical Milestones

    • Russian Influence: March 8 gained prominence globally due to protests by Russian women on February 23, 1917 (according to the Julian calendar), demanding an end to war and food shortages. This date aligned with March 8 on the Gregorian calendar, becoming the symbolic date for IWD celebrations.
    • Role in Russian Revolution: Women’s participation in the 1917 protests played a pivotal role in galvanizing public opinion against the monarchy, ultimately leading to the Russian Revolution and the establishment of a communist state.
    • Global Recognition: Over the years, IWD has garnered international recognition, with governments and organizations commemorating the day to honor women’s contributions to society and advocate for gender equality.

    Evolution and Contemporary Significance

    • Continued Advocacy: Despite progress, challenges persist, necessitating ongoing advocacy for women’s rights and gender equality.
    • Global Celebration: IWD serves as a platform to celebrate women’s achievements and address areas needing improvement, such as leadership representation and gender-based violence.
    • Policy and Recognition: Governments and organizations worldwide recognize IWD’s importance, with initiatives like Women’s History Month emphasizing women’s contributions throughout history.
    • Ongoing Struggle: The fight for gender equality continues, reaffirming the significance of IWD as a rallying point for collective action and solidarity.

    Conclusion

    • International Women’s Day is a testament to women’s resilience and activism throughout history.
    • From its grassroots origins to its global recognition today, IWD embodies the progress made and the challenges that remain in achieving gender parity.
    • As the world celebrates the achievements of women past, present, and future, IWD serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action for a more inclusive and equitable world.

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  • Air Pollution

    Meghalaya’s Byrnihat Most Polluted ‘City’ in India

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

    meghalaya

    In the news

    • The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) recently released data shedding light on air pollution levels across urban centers in India during February 2024.
    • Surprisingly, Meghalaya’s Byrnihat emerged as the most polluted ‘city’ in the nation, sparking concerns about air quality in the otherwise cleaner Northeast region.

    About Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA)

    • CREA is a non-profit think tank researching energy and air pollution based in Helsinki (Finland).
    • It was established in 2019 with the goal of tracking the impacts of air pollution by providing data-backed research products.

    Key Insights

    (1) Alarming Pollution Levels in NE

    • Pollution Pinnacle: Byrnihat, an industrial town near the Assam border, recorded the highest levels of PM2.5 pollution in India, with a monthly average concentration of 183 µg/m3.
    • Byrnihat vs. National Averages: Byrnihat’s PM2.5 levels were significantly higher than those in Bihar’s Araria, the second-most polluted city, highlighting the severity of pollution in the former.
    • Northeastern Representation: Other northeastern cities such as Nalbari, Agartala, Guwahati, and Nagaon also featured among the 30 most polluted cities in India, indicating a broader regional trend of worsening pollution levels.

    (2) Cleanest Cities and Regional Disparities

    • Positive Performers: Sivasagar, Silchar, Aizawl, and Imphal emerged as the cleanest cities in the region, with PM2.5 concentrations below the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS).
    • National Rankings: Sivasagar secured the second position nationally, underscoring its exemplary air quality standards.

    (3) Silver Lining: Improvements and Opportunities

    • Positive Trends: February witnessed a notable improvement in air quality, with 36 cities classified under the ‘good’ category, reflecting positive strides in pollution mitigation efforts.
    • Opportunities for Progress: The data signals opportunities for collaborative action and policy interventions to address environmental challenges and safeguard public health.

    Implications and Recommendations

    • Monitoring Imperative: The data underscores the urgent need to enhance air quality monitoring infrastructure in the northeastern states to effectively track pollution levels.
    • Environmental Concerns: Unregulated industrial operations, inadequate public transportation, rampant construction, and other factors contribute to the deteriorating air quality in the region, necessitating stringent regulatory measures.

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