On Tuesday, June 18, the Marriage Equality Billwas approved by the Thai Senate, the upper house of Thailand’s National Assembly, with overwhelming support.
What does the Bill entail?
Gender-Neutral Language: The bill replaces gender-specific terms such as “husbands” and “wives” in Thai marriage laws with gender-neutral terms like “spouse” and “person”. This change allows any two individuals, regardless of their gender, to marry each other.
Equal Rights: Same-sex couples will have the same rights as heterosexual couples in various legal and practical aspects, including:
Adoption rights: Same-sex couples can adopt children.
Inheritance rights: They are entitled to inherit property from their spouses.
Tax benefits: They will receive similar tax benefits as heterosexual married couples.
Legal decision-making: They can make legal decisions on behalf of their spouses, such as consenting to medical treatment.
Recognition and Protection: The bill ensures that same-sex marriages are legally recognised and protected, providing stability and legal security to LGBTQ+ couples in Thailand.
Public Support: The bill’s passage reflects growing societal acceptance and support for LGBTQ+ rights in Thailand. Public opinion has been largely positive, with significant cross-party support in the Thai Senate and lower house of the National Assembly.
What about other Asian countries?
Criminalization: Many Asian countries, beyond those mentioned (Thailand, Taiwan, Nepal), still criminalize same-sex sexual activity. This includes countries like Malaysia, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, where laws derived from colonial-era penal codes often penalize homosexuality with imprisonment or fines.
Lack of Legal Recognition: Most Asian nations do not legally recognizesame-sex marriages or partnerships.
Even in countries where same-sex relations are not explicitly criminalized, there is often no legal framework for marriage or civil unions for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Legal Battles: In countries like India, legal battles continue as activists seek to overturn discriminatory laws and secure legal recognition for same-sex relationships, including marriage.
International Pressure: International human rights organizations and diplomatic efforts sometimes exert pressure on Asian governments to improve LGBTQ+ rights. However, progress is often slow and faces strong domestic resistance.
Note: Currently, same-sex marriage is legal in 36 countries (not including Thailand) globally, according to LGBTQ+ rights advocacy Human Rights Campaign.
Way forward:
Legal Challenges and Reform: Support ongoing legal challenges in courts across Asia to overturn discriminatory laws and promote legal recognition of same-sex relationships. This includes advocating for legislative reforms that protect LGBTQ+ rights, including the recognition of same-sex marriages or civil unions.
International Pressure and Diplomacy: Encourage international human rights bodies, governments, and diplomatic missions to engage with Asian countries diplomatically, urging them to uphold international human rights standards, including LGBTQ+ rights.
The Prime Minister has inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University, an international institution located near the ancient ruins of Nalanda in Rajgir, Bihar.
Revival of Nalanda University
The idea to revive Nalanda University was proposed by former president Dr APJ Abdul Kalam in 2006, leading to the passing of the Nalanda University Bill in 2010.
The university’s revival was operationally launched in 2014 from a temporary location.
Former president Pranab Mukherjee laid the foundation stone for the permanent campus in 2016, with construction starting in 2017 and culminating in today’s inauguration.
The Parliament established the university following decisions from the second East Asia Summit (EAS) in 2007 and the fourth EAS in 2009.
International Collaboration and Courses
Nalanda University has participation from 17 countries, including Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Indonesia, and others, which have signed MoUs to support the university.
It offers 137 scholarships to international students, sponsored by the ASEAN-India Fund, BIMSTEC, and Bhutan’s Ministry of External Affairs.
The university provides postgraduate and doctoral research courses, as well as short-term certificate courses.
Historical Background
Nalanda University was established in the 5th century CE in the ancient kingdom of Magadha (modern-day Bihar) and was the world’s first residential university.
Establishment and Patronage:
The Gupta dynasty, under Emperor Kumaragupta I, established Nalanda University in 427 AD, promoting it as a premier center for Buddhist scholarship.
It received substantial endowments from monarchs like King Harsha and rulers of the Pala Empire, enhancing its stature and influence across Asia.
Countries: It attracted scholars from China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia.
Subjects taught included medicine, Ayurveda, Buddhism, mathematics, grammar, astronomy, and Indian philosophy.
The university thrived under the patronage of the Pala dynasty during the 8th and 9th centuries CE and made significant contributions to mathematics and astronomy.
Aryabhatta, a pioneer of Indian mathematics and the inventor of zero, was one of the esteemed educators at Nalanda.
Admission and Academic Rigor
Admission to Nalanda was highly competitive, akin to today’s top institutions like IIT, IIM, or Ivy League schools.
Students underwent rigorous interviews and were mentored by scholars and Buddhist masters like Dharmapala and Silabhadra.
The university’s library, known as ‘Dharma Gunj’ or the ‘Mountain of Truth,’ contained 9 million handwritten palm-leaf manuscripts, making it the richest repository of Buddhist knowledge.
Destruction and Rediscovery
In the 1190s, Bakhtiyar Khilji, a Turko-Afghan military general, destroyed Nalanda University by arson, which burned for three months and destroyed invaluable Buddhist manuscripts.
Some surviving manuscripts are preserved in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Yarlung Museum in Tibet.
The university was rediscovered in 1812 by Scottish surveyor Francis Buchanan-Hamilton and officially identified in 1861 by Sir Alexander Cunningham.
Scholarly Influence
Nalanda’s intellectual legacy includes contributions from scholars like Nagarjuna, known for his foundational work in the Madhyamaka school of Mahayana Buddhism, and his disciple Aryadeva.
Dharmapala’s commentaries further enriched Buddhist philosophy.
These scholars’ insights into metaphysics and epistemology extended Nalanda’s influence, shaping religious and philosophical thought across Asia and inspiring subsequent generations of thinkers.
Foreign Travellers Account of Nalanda University
Visit Period
Key Details
Xuanzang
7th century CE
Described Nalanda as vast with lecture halls and residential quarters.
Noted a large library with thousands of manuscripts.
Mentioned numerous teachers and students engaged in debates.
Provided detailed records of Nalanda’s organization and academic activities.
I-Tsing
7th century CE
Spent several years studying at Nalanda.
Emphasized rigorous academic environment.
Noted diverse student population from Asia.
Contributed to understanding Nalanda’s curriculum and scholarly environment.
Al-Biruni
11th century CE
Wrote about Nalanda’s reputation as a premier center of learning in India.
Highlighted its attraction for scholars across Asia.
Introduced Nalanda’s achievements to the medieval Islamic world.
PYQ:
[2020] Pala period is the most significant phase in the history of Buddhism in India. Enumerate.
[2018] Assess the importance of the accounts of the Chinese and Arab travellers in the reconstruction of the history of India.
[2014] Taxila university was one of the oldest universities of the world with which were associated a number of renowned learned personalities of different disciplines. Its strategic location caused its fame to flourish, but unlike Nalanda, it is not considered as a university in the modern sense. Discuss.
India is close to developing a gene therapy using CRISPR-Cas9, a gene-editing tool for sickle cell disease (SCD).
SCD is a genetic blood disorder prevalent among the Scheduled Tribes.
What is Sickle Cell Disease?
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a group of inherited blood disorders caused by a genetic mutation in the hemoglobin-β gene located on chromosome 11.
This mutation results in defective hemoglobin, which forms rod-like structures after releasing oxygen.
As a result, red blood cells become rigid and assume a sickle shape.
The disease is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning both parents must carry the abnormal gene for a child to inherit it.
Symptoms may not manifest immediately in newborns but can include extreme tiredness, fussiness, swollen hands and feet, and jaundice.
Implications:
The mis-shapen RBCs can block small blood vessels, leading to impaired blood flow and causing chronic anaemia.
Individuals with SCD often experience acute pain episodes, severe bacterial infections, and tissue damage due to inadequate blood supply.
Treatment:
Presently treatment includes medications for pain relief, regular blood transfusions to replace damaged red blood cells.
In rare cases, a bone marrow or stem cell transplant, which carries significant risks, is recommended.
Eliminating Sickle Cell Disease: Global and National Context
This progress follows the approval of CRISPR-Cas9 technology by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for a cell-based gene therapy to treat sickle cell disease in December 2023.
One of the main challenges for India is to develop a cost-effective therapy, as part of its mission to eradicate sickle cell disease by 2047, launched by Prime Minister in July 2023.
The mission aims to conduct over 7 crore screenings among vulnerable tribal populations across 17 States and Union Territories, with three crore screenings completed so far.
Back2Basics: CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing
CRISPR-Cas9 stands for Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats and CRISPR-associated protein 9.
It is a technology that allows geneticists and researchers to edit parts of the genome by altering sections of the DNA sequence.
Emmanuelle Charpentier and Jennifer Doudna’s work on CRISPR-Cas9 as a ‘molecular scissor’ earned them the 2020 Nobel Prize in chemistry.
The system consists of two key components:
Cas9: This is the enzyme that acts like a pair of molecular scissors. It is responsible for cutting the DNA strand at a specific location, allowing for the removal, addition, or alteration of DNA at that site.
Guide RNA (gRNA): This is a piece of RNA that is designed to find and bind to a specific sequence of DNA that matches its code. The gRNA guides the Cas9 enzyme to the exact spot in the genome where an edit is desired.
Mechanism:
The process begins with the design of a gRNA that matches the DNA sequence where an edit is needed.
Once inside the cell, the Cas9 enzyme and the gRNA form a complex that can identify and bind to the target DNA sequence.
The Cas9 then cuts the DNA at this location.
After the DNA is cut, the cell’s natural repair mechanisms can be harnessed to add or remove genetic material, or to make specific changes to the DNA.
PYQ:
[2023] Consider the following statements in the context interventions being undertaken under Anaemin Mukt Bharat Strategy :
It provides prophylactic calcium supplementation for pre-school children, adolescents and pregnant women.
It runs a campaign for delayed cord clamping at the time of child-birth.
It provides for periodic deworming to children and adolescents.
It addresses non-nutritional causes of anaemia in endemic pockets with special focus on malaria, hemoglobinopathies and fluorosis.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) Only three
(d) All four
The National Human Right Commission (NHRC) issued notice to the Centre over reports from a Amazon company’s warehouse in Haryana’s Manesar.
Employees were allegedly forced to pledge not to take toilet or water breaks until unloading six trucks post 30-minute tea break.
NHRC’s Observations and Actions
NHRC views this as a serious human rights violation, potentially breaching labour laws and Ministry guidelines.
Notice was issued to the Secretary, Union Ministry of Labour and Employment for a detailed report within a week.
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
Government Initiatives for Worker Welfare in India:
Description
Constitutional Framework
Labour falls under the Concurrent List, allowing both Central and State governments to enact laws.
Articles 14, 16, and 39(c) ensure equality and welfare principles.
Judicial Interpretation under Randhir Singh vs Union of India (1982)
Upholds ‘Equal pay for Equal work’ through constitutional articles, promoting fairness in employment.
Legislative Framework
Introduction of 4 labour codes:
Code of Wages, 2019: Standardizes wage payments across sectors.
Industrial Relations Code, 2020: Consolidates laws related to industrial disputes and trade unions.
Social Security Code, 2020: Expands social security benefits coverage for workers.
Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020: Ensures safety and welfare standards in workplaces.
“Shramev Jayate” Initiative
Launched in 2014 to maximize benefits for workers through enhanced welfare initiatives.
Maternity Benefit Amendment Act, 2017
Increases paid maternity leave from 12 to 26 weeks, supporting maternal health and childcare.
PYQ:
[2015] “Success of ‘Make in India’ programme depends on the success of ‘Skill India’ programme and radical labour reforms.” Discuss with logical arguments.
[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”?
The monsoon has brought a measure of relief to animals especially the one-horned rhinoceros in Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary dealing with extreme heat.
About Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary boasts the highest density of one-horned rhinos globally, second only to Kaziranga National Park in Assam.
Often dubbed as ‘Mini Kaziranga,’ Pobitora shares a similar landscape and vegetation to its renowned counterpart.
The sanctuary shelters variousendangered species, including one-horned rhinoceros, leopards, leopard cats, fishing cats, jungle cats, feral buffaloes, wild pigs, and Chinese pangolins.
Approximately 72% of Pobitora’s area comprises a wet savannah dominated by Arundo donax and Saccharum grasses, while the rest is covered by water bodies.
About One-Horned Rhino:
IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable.
Habitat– Rhinos are mainly found in Assam, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh.
Assam has an estimated 2,640 rhinos in four protected areas, i.e. Pobitora Wildlife Reserve, Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park, Kaziranga National Park, and Manas National Park.
Note: About 2,400 of them are in the Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNPTR).
PYQ:
[2019] Consider the following statements:
The Asian lion is naturally found in India only
Double-humped camel is naturally found in India only
One-horned rhinoceros is naturally found in India only
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Q Refugees should not be turned back to the country where they would face persecution or human rights violation”. Examine the statement with reference to the ethical dimension being violated by the nation claiming to be democratic with an open society. (UPSC IAS/2021)
Q How far are India’s internal security challenges linked with border management, particularly in view of the long porous borders with most countries of South Asia and Myanmar? (UPSC IAS/2013)
Mentors comment: India, commemorating World Refugee Day (June 20), boasts a millennia-old legacy of asylum, from ancient Jews and fleeing Zoroastrians to modern refugees like East Bengalis, Tibetans, Sri Lankan Tamils, Nepalis, Afghans, and Rohingyas. Having faced a significant refugee crisis at independence, India empathetically supports refugees, acknowledging their plight and affirming its commitment to aiding their resettlement and recovery.
Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The global refugee crisis continues to escalate, with over 43.4 million refugees worldwide driven by ongoing conflicts.
About World Refugee Day • After the UN (United Nations) defined refugee rights in 1951, Africa established a day to honour them in 1970. • Later, acknowledging the worldwide refugee crisis, the UN General Assembly took a global approach in 2000, designating June 20th as World Refugee Day. • The Refugee Convention, 1951 defines who is a refugee, their rights, and the legal obligations of states towards them. • This day has become a powerful tool to raise awareness, build support, and celebrate the contributions of refugees everywhere.
India’s Historical Role in Refugee Protection
Long-standing Asylum Tradition: India has a long history of providing asylum, from ancient times with Jewish and Zoroastrian refugees to more recent instances involving East Bengalis, Tibetans, Sri Lankan Tamils, Nepalis, Afghans, and Rohingyas.
Partition Legacy: The partition of India in 1947, which caused one of the largest refugee crises in history, has ingrained a deep awareness of the plight of refugees in the national consciousness.
Issues related to Rohingya Sufferings
Trauma and Mental Health: Rohingya refugees in Delhi experience severe trauma, including anxiety, dissociative episodes, and depression, often due to past experiences in Myanmar and ongoing re-traumatization from living conditions and violence in India.
Living Conditions: Rohingya refugees live in shanty-like huts prone to accidental and intentionally set fires, leading to constant fear and re-traumatization.
Discrimination and Legal Status: Officially labelled as “illegal immigrants,” Rohingya refugees face severe discrimination in India. They are denied full access to education, healthcare, legal services, and formal employment opportunities.
Detention and Deportation: Fear of arbitrary detention and deportation is widespread, despite many having UNHCR refugee cards. At least 500 Rohingya, including women and children, are detained in centres across India without criminal charges, some for decades.
Civil Society and Funding: Civil society organizations working with Rohingya refugees face funding challenges due to cancelled FCRA licenses. Many support programs have shut down or reduced operations, leaving few UNHCR-supported organizations to cautiously continue their work.
About unsolved Tibetan issue
The Tibetan issue in India is a complex and contentious topic with historical, cultural, and political implications.
Ongoing Challenges
Tibetan Independence Movement: The Tibetan independence movement continues to push for greater autonomy and recognition of Tibet as a sovereign nation.
Chinese Censorship and Suppression: The Chinese government maintains strict control over information and suppresses any dissent or opposition to its rule in Tibet.
Current Situationof Tibetans
Declining Refugee Numbers: Over the last seven years, the Tibetan refugee community in India has dropped by 44 percent, from around 150,000 in 2011 to 85,000, according to Indian government data.
Economic Uncertainty: Many Tibetans face economic uncertainty due to limited job opportunities and restrictions on property ownership and bank credit.
Lack of Recognition: Tibetans are not officially recognized as refugees in India, instead being designated as “foreigners” under Indian law.
No National Refugee Law: India has no national refugee law, and its policies are not in accordance with international standards.
IndianMigrants’ Rights in GCC countries: Vulnerabilities of Migrant Workers: Migrant workers in GCC countries face systemic vulnerabilities due to the Kafala system, tying their legal status to employers who control their accommodation, wages, and freedom of movement. Lack of independent legal status and dependency on employers make them susceptible to exploitation, poor living conditions, and arbitrary deportations. Living Conditions and Safety: Many migrants live in crowded and substandard accommodations, which exacerbate risks during emergencies such as fires, as seen in the Mangaf tragedy. Safety standards in workplaces and living spaces often fall short, posing significant risks to migrants’ health and well-being. Legal Protections and Access to Justice: Legal protections for migrant workers vary, with some categories like domestic workers often excluded from labor laws and protections. Limited access to justice and the ability to organise or unionise further restrict their ability to advocate for improved rights and conditions.
Need for Legislation
Lack of Formal Framework: Despite its history, India has not signed the UN Refugee Convention or its 1967 Protocol and lacks a domestic asylum framework.
Private Member’s Bill: In February 2022, a Private Member’s Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha to establish a comprehensive Refugee and Asylum law, addressing these gaps. This Bill aimed to formalize the recognition and rights of asylum seekers and refugees, in line with international principles such as non-refoulement.
Current Legislative Landscape
General Foreigner-related Laws: Without a dedicated refugee law, refugees in India are subject to various general foreigner-related laws, leading to inconsistent and ad hoc management.
Need for Comprehensive Law: A comprehensive National Asylum Law is needed to provide clear guidelines for asylum seekers, ensure access to essential services, and enable refugees to rebuild their lives.
Judicial Support and International Responsibility
Supreme Court Affirmation: The Supreme Court of India has affirmed the rights of all individuals in India, including refugees, under Articles 14, 20, and 21 of the Constitution.
Landmark Cases: Landmark cases, such as the “National Human Rights Commission vs. the State Of Arunachal Pradesh & Anr” have highlighted the need for proper asylum procedures and protection against forcible eviction.
Framework for Refugee Rights: A formal refugee rights framework would reduce reliance on inconsistent judicial rulings and arbitrary decisions by government officials.
Way Forward
International Cooperation: Addressing the global refugee crisis requires international cooperation, and India must play its part domestically and on the world stage.
Enacting a National Asylum Law: Enacting a National Asylum Law would reinforce India’s commitment to humanitarian values and democratic principles, positioning the country as a leader in refugee protection.
Alignment with Vision of Vishwaguru: Upholding these values aligns with India’s vision of being a Vishwaguru, contributing to global humanitarian efforts and embodying the ideals articulated by leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru.
Focus include on graphite, gallium, and germanium to strengthen supply chains.
What are Critical Minerals?
Critical minerals are elements that are crucial to modern-day technologies and are at risk of supply chain disruptions.
These minerals are mostly used in making electronic equipment such as mobile phones, computers, batteries, electric vehicles, and green technologies like solar panels and wind turbines.
Many of these are required to meet the manufacturing needs of green technologies, high-tech equipment, aviation, and national defence.
List of critical minerals includes:
The centre has released a list of 30 critical minerals for India in 2023:
Identified Minerals: Antimony, Beryllium, Bismuth, Cobalt, Copper, Gallium, Germanium, Graphite, Hafnium, Indium, Lithium, Molybdenum, Niobium, Nickel, Platinum Group elements (PGE), Phosphorous, Potash, Rare Earth Elements (REE), Rhenium, Silicon, Strontium, Tantalum, Tellurium, Tin, Titanium, Tungsten, Vanadium, Zirconium, Selenium and Cadmium.
Fertilizer Minerals: Two minerals critical for fertilizer production, phosphorous and potash, are also included in the above list.
Critical Mineral Blocks in India
Distribution: There are 20 blocks spread across eight states, including Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Jammu & Kashmir.
Types of Licenses: Four blocks are for a Mining License (ML), allowing immediate mining post-clearance. The remaining 16 blocks are for a Composite License (CL), permitting further exploration before potentially converting to an ML.
Approvals Required: Licensees must obtain various approvals, including forest clearance and environmental clearance.
Forest Land: Approximately 17% of the total concession area, or 1,234 hectares, is forest land.
India’s Critical Mineral Imports
Lithium Imports: In FY23, India imported 2,145 tonnes of lithium carbonate and lithium oxide, costing Rs 732 crore.
Nickel and Copper Imports: The country imported 32,000 tonnes of unwrought nickel and 1.2 million tonnes of copper ore, costing Rs 6,549 crore and Rs 27,374 crore, respectively.
Import Dependence: India relies entirely on imports for lithium and nickel, and 93% for copper.
Country-wise dependence:
China: India heavily relies on China for the import of critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite.
Australia: India is actively engaged with Australia for acquiring mineral assets, particularly lithium and cobalt, to secure its supply chain for critical minerals.
Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile: India is engaging with these countries, known for their reserves of battery metals like lithium and cobalt, to diversify its sources for critical minerals.
India’s Strategic Mineral Initiatives
Amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 support expanded exploration.
Establishment of Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL) with equity from National Aluminium Company Ltd, Hindustan Copper Ltd, and Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Ltd for global mineral asset acquisition.
International Collaborations and Partnerships
India joined the U.S.-led mineral security partnership to secure critical mineral supply chains.
Creation of an India-U.S. advanced materials research forum to foster collaboration in universities, laboratories, and private sectors.
Bilateral technology collaboration on neodymium-iron-boron and studies on minerals like lithium, titanium, gallium, and vanadium.
Back2Basics: Indo-US Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (iCET)
Details
Initiation
Announced in May 2022, officially launched in January 2023
Management
Overseen by the National Security Councils of India and the US
Objectives
Enhance bilateral cooperation in critical and emerging technologies
Focus Areas of the Initiative
AI Research Agency Partnership
Defense Industrial and Technological Cooperation
Innovation Ecosystems
Semiconductor Ecosystem Development
Cooperation on Human Spaceflight
Advancement in 5G and 6G Technologies
Key Achievements
Quantum Coordination Mechanism
Public-private dialogues on telecommunications and AI
MoU on semiconductor supply chain
Defense industrial cooperation roadmap
Upcoming Initiatives
Finalization of major jet engine deal
Launch of India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X)
Strategic Trade Dialogue establishment
PYQ:
[2019] With reference to the management of minor minerals in India, consider the following statements:
Sand is a ‘minor mineral’ according to the prevailing law in the country.
State governments have the power to grant mining leases of minor minerals, but the powers regarding the formation of rules related to the grant of minor minerals lie with the Central Government.
State Governments have the power to frame rules to prevent illegal mining of minor minerals.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
AlphaFold 3, and AI System introduced in a May 2024 Nature paper, extends capabilities to predict protein-protein interactions, DNA, RNA structures, and their interactions.
Importance of Proteins
Proteins are crucial molecules regulating nearly every biological function.
They are composed of amino acids, which determine their structure and function.
Understanding protein folding is essential for comprehending cellular and organismal functions.
The Protein-Folding Problem
The process of protein folding is complex and not fully understood, known as the protein-folding problem.
It is vital for deciphering how cells, organisms, and life itself operate.
Frank Uhlmann emphasizes the significance of understanding protein structure for molecular biology.
What is AlphaFold?
Google DeepMind’s AlphaFold debuted in 2020, employs AI and machine learning to predict protein structures.
AlphaFold 2, released in 2021, significantly improved accuracy in protein structure prediction.
Derek Lowe acknowledges AlphaFold’s achievement in predicting structures effectively, although the deeper biological principles remain less explored.
AlphaFold 3’s Advancements:
It democratizes research by offering accessible structure prediction tools, even for non-experts.
Technology behind AlphaFold 3
Unlike its predecessors, AlphaFold 3 utilizes a diffusion model akin to image-generating software.
This approach involves training on noisy data and de-noising to predict accurate protein structures.
Working:
Given an input list of molecules, AlphaFold 3 generates their joint 3D structure, revealing how they all fit together.
It models large biomolecules such as proteins, DNA and RNA, as well as small molecules, also known as ligands — a category encompassing many drugs.
Applications of AlphaFold 3
AlphaFold 3 excels in predicting protein structures and interactions, aiding drug discovery efforts.
DeepMind’s spin-off, Isomorphic Labs, utilizes AlphaFold 3 for drug candidate identification.
Challenges
The model’s code restriction has sparked criticism among researchers for hindering scientific collaboration and transparency.
DeepMind initially withheld AlphaFold 3’s full code, prompting calls for open access from the scientific community.
Responding to backlash, DeepMind plans to release the complete code within six months.
PYQ:
[2020] With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following?
Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units
Create meaningful short stories and songs
Disease diagnosis
Text-to-Speech Conversion
Wireless transmission of electrical energy
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
The announcement by United States President Joe Biden in May to impose a new set of tariffs on various Chinese imports has reignited concerns about a new phase of economic decoupling globally.
According to the World Economic Forum, Economic Decoupling is a policy change that raises barriers to trade in goods and services where firms respond to these changes. If policy decoupling occurs despite the efforts of economic agents, the global economy is negatively affected.
Latest Tariff on Chinese Electric Vehicles (EV) by USA:
Reason for Tariff: The U.S. imports few EVs from China, and the decision to impose high tariffs on them reinforces President Biden’s pro-union stance and support for the United Auto Workers (UAW) efforts to increase domestic EV manufacturing.
Tariff Increase: The tariffs on Chinese EVs have been quadrupled from 25%.
Pre-emptive Measure: This tariff acts as a pre-emptive measure to protect the American auto industry from the fast-growing Chinese car and battery industry. The tariff aims to support traditional domestic automakers and the American auto union against competition from China.
Significant Observations of these decisions made by the USA on Global Geo-politics:
Firstly, the latest tariffs imposed by the USA which include steep increases for several other products, ranging from semiconductors to needles and syringes are the final nail in the coffin of US-China trade cooperation. The US and China are now in a full-blown economic war which will have far-reaching geopolitical consequences.
Secondly, the tariffs signal defeat. Biden and his political party feel obliged to join the anti-China, anti-trade fervor that has emerged as one of the very few unifying issues in a polarized country. Moreover, the tariffs, combined with US complaints that China is producing too much and putting pressure on the global economic system, speak to a deep-seated anxiety about America’s international competitiveness.
Long-term Effects
Protectionism: Continued tariffs may lead to a vicious cycle of tit-for-tat measures, exacerbating protectionism worldwide.
Global Green Transition: New import restrictions on Chinese clean energy products could delay global green transition targets and the expansion of renewables.
Economic Impact on Multinationals: Western multinationals dependent on China’s consumer market may see a dip in earnings due to China’s slowing growth and rising household debts.
Impact on Resource-rich Countries: Countries like Australia and Brazil, heavily reliant on exports to China, may face economic challenges due to a slowing Chinese economy and falling commodity prices.
Supply Chain Risks: The European Union’s de-risking strategy might lead to China tightening its control over critical raw mineral supply chains, complicating the global value chain of rare earths.
Southeast Asia’s Challenges: Despite potential benefits from shifting production and investment from China, Southeast Asia remains highly dependent on Chinese technology and investment.
India’s Manufacturing Struggles: India’s prospects of benefiting from decoupling dynamics are uncertain due to competition from neighboring countries and deep economic ties with China.
Potential Crisis
Psychological Impact on Investors: The cycle of escalation in tariffs and decoupling creates significant psychological effects on global investors.
Distance from WTO: The U.S. strategy involves deliberate distancing from the World Trade Organization (WTO), evidenced by blocking the appointment of judges to the WTO Appellate Body.
Geopolitical Rivalry: The intensifying geopolitical rivalry and fragmentation of the global economy pose a high risk to the liberal international order.
Risk to Global Stability: The ongoing decoupling strategy is likely to benefit neither the U.S., China, nor the rest of the world, leading to potential global instability.
Conclusion: The new tariffs and decoupling strategies, while aiming to protect domestic interests, risk escalating global protectionism and instability, highlighting the need for balanced, multilateral trade policies.
Mains PYQ:
Q What are the key areas of reform if the WTO has to survive in the present context of ‘Trade War’, especially keeping in mind the interest of India? (15M) (UPSC IAS/2018)
Q1,Q2,Q3 are controversial questions in UPSC prelims and UPSC can use its own logic to decide the answer. We have taken our stand based on our knowledge.
We are all aware that prelims is becoming very unpredictable. It requires a very targeted approach.
First, you need to be aware of all the recurring micro themes from which UPSC repeatedly asks questions year after year. You must develop a solid command of these themes and ensure you don’t miss a question. Questions on these themes are on the tougher side. Next, you need to master adjacent themes and CA themes that are prominent in the same year.
Finally, the art of attempting the paper, taking guesses based on previous year patterns.
– https://wa.aisensy.com/vF6bRr
Q1. Consider the following:
Carabid beetles
Centipedes
Flies
Termites
Wasps
Parasitoid species are found in how many of the above kind of organisms?
a) only two
b)only three*
c) only four
d) all five
====
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
Parasitoids are small insects whose immature stages develop either within or attached to the outside of other insects, referred to as hosts, eventually killing it. Parasitoids have characteristics of both predators and parasites.
Various resources only list Beetles, Wasps and flies.
If the United States of America (USA) were to default on its debt, holders of US Treasury Bonds will not be able to exercise their claims to receive payment.
Statement-II:
The USA Government debt is not backed by any hard assets, but only by the faith of the Government.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?”
a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct
====
Answer: (d)
Explanation: Statement-I: Is incorrect because you can always exercise claims. You will not get it is a separate issue.
Statement-II: This statement is correct. US Government debt, such as Treasury Bonds, is backed by the full faith and credit of the US Government rather than any specific physical assets.
——————————————
3. Consider the following activities:
1. Identification of narcotics on passengers at airports or in aircraft
2. Monitoring of precipitation
3. Tracking the migration of animals
In how many of the above activities can the radars be used?
a) Only one
b) Only two
c) All three
d) None
====
Answer B
Explanation
1. Identification of narcotics on passengers at airports or in aircraft: This is typically done using X-ray scanners or advanced imaging technologies like millimetre wave scanners. Radars are unheard of in this context. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.
A distinction between IDENTIFICATION and DETECTION is needed. Even if some RADAR system is being developed for the detection of potential narcotics, it cannot identify on its own whether it is narcotics or some other hard substance. Thats more nuanced information.
2. Monitoring of precipitation: Radars, specifically weather radars, are commonly used to monitor precipitation. They can detect rain, snow, and other weather conditions by bouncing radio waves off precipitation particles. Hence, statement 2 is correct
3. Tracking the migration of animals: Radars can be used to track the migration of birds and other animals. They are often used in ornithological studies to monitor bird migration patterns. Hence, Statement 3 is correct
——————————————
4. Consider the following statements:
Statement-I:
Sumed pipeline is a strategic route for Persian Gulf oil and natural gas shipments to Europe.
Statement-II:
Sumed pipeline connects the Red Sea with the Mediterranean Sea.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I.
b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does explain Statement-I.
c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect.
d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct.
====
Answer: (a)
Explanation:
Statement I: The SUMED pipeline transports crude oil north through Egypt and has a capacity of 2.5 million barrels per day.
Total oil shipments via these routes accounted for about 12% of total seaborne-traded oil in the first half of 2023, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments accounted for about 8% of worldwide LNG trade.
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is between the Horn of Africa and the Middle East, connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea. Most exports of petroleum and natural gas from the Persian Gulf to Europe and North America pass through multiple chokepoints, including the SUMED pipeline and both the Bab el-Mandeb and the Strait of Hormuz. Therefore, statement I is correct.
Fig: Data is given by U.S. Energy Information Administration
Statement II: The Suez Canal and SUMED pipeline are located in Egypt and connect the Red Sea with the Mediterranean Sea. The Sumed pipeline connects the Red Sea with the Mediterranean Sea. Therefore, statement II is also correct.
——————————————
5. Consider the following statements:
Statement-I:
The European Parliament approved the Net-Zero Industry Act recently.
Statement-II:
The European Union intends to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040 and therefore aims to develop all of its own clean technology by that time.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
a) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I
b) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct, but Statement II does not explain Statement I
c) Statement I is correct, but Statement II is incorrect
d) Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II is correct
====
Answer: (c)
Explanation:
Statement I: The European Parliament has approved the Net-Zero Industry Act to enhance net-zero technology production within the European Union. Therefore, statement I is correct.
Statement II: The Act targets Europe to produce 40% of its net-zero technology needs by 2030 and capture 15% of the global market for these technologies. Therefore, statement II is incorrect.
——————————————
6. Consider the following statements:
1. The Red Sea receives very little precipitation in any form.
2. No water enters the Red Sea from rivers.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
====
Answer (A)
Explanation
Statement 1:The Red Sea is located in a desert region with very high temperatures and low humidity. This leads to very little rainfall or any form of precipitation.Hence statement 1 is correct.
Statement 2: Due to its location, there are no major rivers flowing into the Red Sea. The water in the Red Sea comes primarily from the inflow of saltier water from the Gulf of Aden through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
In how many of the above rows is the given information correctly matched?
a) Only one
b) Only two
c) All three
d) None
====
Answer: (A)
Explanation
● Dhuandhar: This waterfall is located on the Narmada River, but the region is not Malwa. It is in Madhya Pradesh Mahakoshal region. Hence, pair 1 is incorrectly matched.
The map is attached-
● Hundru: This waterfall is indeed located on the Subarnarekha River within the Chota Nagpur Plateau. Hence, pair 2 is correctly matched.
● Gersoppa (also known as Jog Falls): This waterfall is on the Sharavati River in the Western Ghats, not the Netravati River. Hence, pair 3 is incorrectly matched.
Therefore, Option A is correct
——————————————
Q8. With reference to the ‘Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan’, consider the following statements:
1. This scheme guarantees a minimum package of antenatal care services to women in their second and third trimesters of pregnancy and six months post-delivery health care service in any government health facility.
2. Under this scheme, private sector health care providers of certain specialities can volunteer to provide services at nearby government health facilities.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
====
Answer B
Explanation
No provisions for post-delivery care. There is a separate program for that.
The program aims to provide assured, comprehensive and quality antenatal care, free of cost, universally to all pregnant women on the 9th of every month.
➔ PMSMA guarantees a minimum package of antenatal care services to women in their 2nd / 3rd trimesters of pregnancy at designated government health facilities. There is no mention of Post pregnancy health care services. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.
➔ The programme follows a systematic approach for engagement with the private sector which includes motivating private practitioners to volunteer for the campaign developing strategies for generating awareness and appealing to the private sector to participate in the Abhiyan at government health facilities. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
——————————————
Q9. The North Eastern Council (NEC) was established by the North Eastern Council Act, 1971. Subsequent to the amendment of NEC Act in 2002, the Council comprises which of the following members:
1. Governor of the Constituent State
2. Chief Minister of the Constituent State
3. Three Members to be nominated by the President of India
4. The Home Minister of India
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
a) 1, 2 and 3 only
b) 1, 3 and 4 only
c) 2 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
====
Answer: A
Explanation
It is only a matter of chance that the Home Minister is appointed by the President to be the Chairman time and again. But the Act doesnt have a provision stating the Home Minister.
The NEC Act was amended by the Parliament in 2002 (Act No. 68 of 2002). The ‘North Eastern Areas’ now means the area comprising the States of Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim and Mizoram.
The Council now has as its members the Governors of the States mentioned above, the Chief Ministers of the said States and three Members nominated by the President. The President will nominate the Chairman of the Council and he need not be nominated from amongst the other Members.
——————————————
Q10. With reference to the Government of India Act, 1935, consider the following statements:
1. It provided for the establishment of an All India Federation based on the union of the British Indian Provinces and Princely States.
2. Defence and Foreign Affairs were kept under the control of the federal legislature.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
====
Answer: (a)
Explanation
Statement I: Doesnt say ONLY. So it is true.
The Act of 1935 provided for the establishment of an All India Federation consisting of Provinces and Princely States as units. Therefore, statement 1 is correct.
The Act also contains the provisions for Chief Commissioners’ Provinces of British Baluchistan, Delhi, Ajmer-Merwara, Coorg and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The area known as Panth Piploda, and such other Chief Commissioners’ Provinces as may be created under this Act.
Statement II: Logically speaking, Defence and Foreign Affairs cant be given to federal units. They are too critical.
The Act divided the powers between the Centre and units in terms of three lists, Federal List (for Centre containing 59 items), Provincial List (for provinces containing 54 items) and the Concurrent List (for both containing 36 items). The creation of a ‘Federation of India’ that consisted of two levels:
Central Executive and Parliament,
Provinces and Princely states.
It discarded the ‘dyarchy’ system at the provincial level and allowed for the emergence of popularly elected provincial legislatures. Dyarchy was introduced at the central level, key subjects like defence and foreign affairs were under the direct control of the Governor General.
A federal court was established.
The franchise was expanded to 14% of the population from 3%.
Separate electorates were provided for Muslims, Sikhs and others, but not to Depressed Classes.
Governor enjoyed critical emergency powers.
Residuary powers were given to the Viceroy. However, the federation never came into being as the princely states did not join it. But this has formed the basis of Schedule VII of the Constitution of India, 1950.Therefore, Statement 2 is Incorrect.
To get PDF of all recurring micro themes, get in touch
![[20th June 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Blueprints beyond borders, for solace and shelter](https://www.civilsdaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20-June-1568x882.jpg)
