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  • CBDC pilot programmes for CPs, CDs likely: RBI

    Why in the news?

    RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das unveiled plans for a pilot program targeting the wholesale segment of Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) focusing on commercial papers (CPs) and certificates of deposits (CDs).

    What is Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)?

    • CBDC is a legal tender to be issued by the central bank in digital form; like rupee notes or coins, which are in physical form.
    • It was announced in the Union Budget 2022-23.
    • Subsequently, the Government amended Section 22 of the RBI Act, 1934 through the Finance Bill 2022. [Ref].
    • Working of CBDC:
      • Like fiat currency, it can also be exchanged between people. Simply, put it’s just like rupee (₹) notes but in digital form (e₹). 
      • However, unlike fiat currency that’s usually stored in banks and hence their liability, CBDC is a liability on the RBI’s balance sheet.
      • That’s why one does not necessarily need to have a bank account to own a digital rupee.

     

    About Commercial Papers (CPs) and Certificates of Deposits (CDs)

    Commercial Papers Certificates of Deposits
    Type of Instrument Unsecured promissory note Fixed-income financial instrument
    Issuer Large corporations, primary dealers, financial institutions Scheduled Commercial Banks, All-India Financial Institutions
    Maturity Period 1 to 364 days 3 months to 1 year (for SCBs), 1 to 3 years (for financial institutions)
    Minimum Investment Rs. 5 lakh or multiples thereof Rs. 1 lakh or multiples thereof
    Credit Rating Requirement Minimum credit rating required (e.g., A-2) from recognized rating agencies Typically issued by highly rated banks and financial institutions
    Collateral Unsecured Not applicable
    Purpose Short-term funding for corporations Short to mid-term investment for individuals and institutions
    Interest Rate Typically higher than bonds, fluctuates with market conditions Typically fixed, higher than savings accounts, fluctuates with market conditions
    Investment Eligibility Individuals, banking companies, corporate bodies (registered or incorporated in India), NRIs, FIIs, etc. Individuals, banking companies, other corporate bodies, NRIs, FIIs, etc.
    Issuing and Paying Agent (IPA) Only scheduled banks act as Issuing and Paying Agent Not applicable
    Trading Actively traded in Over-the-Counter (OTC) market, reported on Fixed Income Money Market and Derivatives Association of India (FIMMDA) reporting platform Not publicly traded
    Dematerialized Holding Can be held in dematerialized form through Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)-approved depositories Can be issued in dematerialized form through SEBI-approved depositories

     

    With inputs from: https://www.indiainfoline.com

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to the Indian economy, consider the following statements:

    1. ‘Commercial Paper’ is a short-term unsecured promissory note.
    2. ‘Certificate of Deposit’ is a long-term instrument issued by the Reserve Bank of India to a corporation.
    3. ‘Call Money’ is a short-term finance used for interbank transaction.
    4. ‘Zero-Coupon Bonds’ are the interest-bearing short-term bonds issued by the Scheduled Commercial Banks to corporations.

    Which of the pairs above is/are correctly matched?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 4 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 2, 3 and 4 only

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and the Science behind

    Why in the news?

    • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revolutionized medical diagnostics, offering non-invasive insights into soft tissues.
    • The pioneering efforts of Paul Lauterbur and Peter Mansfield led to its commercialization, earning them the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 2003.

    What is MRI?

    • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure used to obtain detailed images of soft tissues within the body.
    • It is particularly valuable for imaging sophisticated structures like the brain, cardiovascular system, spinal cord, joints, muscles, liver, and arteries.
    • MRI is instrumental in diagnosing and monitoring various conditions, including cancer, neurological disorders (such as Alzheimer’s and stroke), and cardiovascular diseases.
    • Functional MRI (fMRI) can also assess brain activity by monitoring changes in blood flow.

    Working Principle:

    • MRI utilizes the magnetic properties of hydrogen atoms (one proton with one electron around it), which are abundant in water and fat molecules found throughout the body.
    • The MRI machine generates a powerful magnetic field, aligning hydrogen atoms within the body.
    • Radiofrequency pulses are then applied, causing hydrogen atoms to absorb energy and emit signals.
    • These emitted signals are detected by sensors and processed by a computer to create detailed images of the body’s internal structures.

    Components of an MRI Machine:

    The MRI machine consists:

    • Superconducting Magnet: Large magnet (superconducting magnet) that produces a powerful and stable magnetic field.
    • Gradient Coils: Gradient magnets produce smaller magnetic fields with varying strengths and directions, allowing for precise imaging of specific body areas.
    • Radiofrequency Coils: This emit radiofrequency pulses to excite hydrogen atoms in the body. The frequency of pulse the ‘excess’ atoms have to absorb is called the Larmor frequency.
    • Detectors: It capture emitted signals from hydrogen atoms and convert them into image data for analysis.

    Advantages of MRI:

    • High-Resolution Imaging: MRI offers high-resolution imaging with excellent tissue contrast, allowing for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
    • Versatile Viewing Angles: It can visualize structures from various angles without the need for repositioning, providing comprehensive information.
    • Safety and Non-Invasiveness: MRI scans are non-invasive and do not involve ionizing radiation, making them safe for repeated use.
    • Enhanced Image Quality: Contrast agents can enhance image quality by highlighting specific tissues or abnormalities.

    Limitations of MRI:

    • High Costs: MRI machines are expensive to purchase and maintain, resulting in high healthcare costs for patients.
    • Requirement for Patient Stillness: Patients undergoing MRI scans must remain still for extended periods to prevent image distortion, which can be challenging for some individuals.
    • Discomfort or Anxiety: The strong magnetic fields and loud noises produced during MRI scans may cause discomfort or anxiety for patients.
    • Limitations with Metallic Implants: Certain metallic implants or objects can interfere with MRI scans, limiting their use in individuals with such implants.

    PYQ:

    [2020] With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following?

    1. Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units
    2. Create meaningful short stories and songs
    3. Disease diagnosis
    4. Text-to-Speech Conversion
    5. Wireless transmission of electrical energy

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only

    (b) 1, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 2, 4 and 5 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

  • Role of Fusobacterium in Colorectal Cancer

    Why in the news?

    • Researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in the US have identified specific subtypes of Fusobacterium nucleatum associated with colorectal cancer (CRC) tumors.
    • These subtypes, particularly Fusobacterium nucleatum animalis (Fna), have been found in relatively higher quantities in CRC tumors.

    About Fusobacterium nucleatum

    • Fusobacterium nucleatum is a species of bacteria commonly found in the human mouth.
    • It is a gram-negative anaerobic bacterium, meaning it does not require oxygen for growth.
    • While typically residing in the oral cavity, it has been associated with various diseases and conditions, including periodontal diseases and colorectal cancer.

    Association with Colorectal Cancer (CRC):

    • In cases of colorectal cancer (CRC), Fusobacterium nucleatum has been found within tumors in the gut.
    • Studies have shown that this bacterium can aid cancer cells in evading the immune system and promoting metastasis, or the spread of cancer to other parts of the body.
    • Its presence in CRC tumors has led to investigations into its potential role in the development and progression of colorectal cancer.

    Impact:

    • Assisting cancer cells in evading the immune system.
    • Promoting inflammation and creating an environment conducive to tumor growth.
    • Facilitating metastasis by interacting with cancer cells and promoting their spread to other tissues.

    PYQ:

    [2013] Improper handling and storage of cereal grains and oilseeds result in the production of toxins known as Aflatoxins which are not generally destroyed by normal cooking process. Aflatoxins are produced by:

    (a) Bacteria

    (b) Protozoa

    (c) Moulds

    (d) Viruses

  • Mass Coral Bleaching in Lakshadweep Sea

    The Agatti Reef is experiencing unprecedented mass coral bleaching.
    The Agatti Reef is experiencing unprecedented mass coral bleaching.

    Why in the news?

    Extreme heatwaves along the Indian coast, coupled with marine heatwaves, have triggered Mass Coral Bleaching events in the Lakshadweep Sea.

    Heatwaves Toll on Lakshadweep’s Coral:

    Researchers from the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) conducted surveys across various Lakshadweep Islands.

      • The Degree Heating Week (DHW) indicator in Lakshadweep has soared above 4 °C-weeks, as per the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
        • This elevation in DHW levels poses a substantial risk of coral bleaching, posing a severe threat to the region’s marine ecosystems.
    • Should DHW surpass 12 °C-weeks, it could trigger an unprecedented biodiversity crisis, leading to multispecies mortality.
    • Prolonged marine heatwaves since October 2023 have inflicted substantial stress on the coral reefs, exacerbating bleaching phenomena.
      • A marine heatwave is characterized by seawater temperatures exceeding a seasonally-varying threshold (often the 90th percentile) for at least 5 consecutive days.
    Degree Heating Week (DHW) indicator: It is a measurement used to assess the accumulated thermal stress that corals experience over an extended period, which can lead to coral bleaching. This indicator is expressed in °C-weeks, reflecting the exposure of coral reefs to elevated sea surface temperatures.

    Lakshadweep’s Coral Treasure: Agatti Reef

    • Agatti Island is part of the Lakshadweep archipelago, situated in the Arabian Sea.
    • The island is surrounded by extensive coral reefs, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
    • The coral reefs around Agatti Island are composed of various coral species, including branching corals like Acropora, table corals like Acropora Hyacinthus, and massive corals like Porites.
    • These corals form intricate reef structures that provide habitat and food for numerous marine organisms.

    What causes Coral Bleaching?

    • When exposed to conditions like heat stress, pollution, or high levels of ocean acidity, the zooxanthellae start producing reactive oxygen species not beneficial to the corals.
    • So, the corals kick out the colour-giving algae from their polyps, exposing their pale white exoskeleton and leading to coral starvation as corals cannot produce their own food.
    • Severe bleaching and prolonged stress in the external environment can lead to coral death.

    Back2Basics: Corals

    • Coral are made up of genetically identical organisms called polyps.
    • These polyps have microscopic algae called zooxanthellae living within their tissues in a mutualistic relationship.
    • The coral provides the zooxanthellae with the compounds necessary for photosynthesis.
    • In return, the zooxanthellae supply the coral with organic products of photosynthesis, like carbohydrates, which are utilized by the coral polyps for synthesis of their calcium carbonate skeletons.
    • Corals are marine invertebrates or animals which do not possess a spine.
    • They are the largest living structures on the planet.
    • Each coral is called a polyp and thousands of such polyps live together to form a colony, which grow when polyps multiply to make copies of themselves.
    • Coral reefs are also called the “rainforests of the seas”.

    Types of Coral

    Corals are of two types — hard corals and soft corals:

    1. Hard corals extract calcium carbonate from seawater to build hard, white coral exoskeletons. Hard corals are in a way the engineers of reef ecosystems and measuring the extent of hard coral is a widely-accepted metric for measuring the condition of coral reefs.
    2. Soft corals attach themselves to such skeletons and older skeletons built by their ancestors. Soft corals also add their own skeletons to the hard structure over the years. These growing multiplying structures gradually form coral reefs.

    Conditions needed for Corals to Flourish

    • Extensive submarine platforms for the formation of colonies by the coral polyps (not more than 90m below sea level).
    • High mean annual temperature ranging 20-21 degree Celsius.
    • Clean sediment-free water because muddy water or turbid water clogs the mouths of coral polyps resulting into their death.
    • Oceanic salinity ranging between 27-30 ppt.
    • Ocean currents and waves, as they bring food supply for the polyps.

     

    PYQ:

    2014: Which of the following have coral reefs?

    1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
    2. Gulf of Kachchh
    3. Gulf of Mannar
    4. Sunderbans

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3 only

    (b) 2 and 4 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

  • West Nile Fever Outbreak in Kerala 

    Why in the news?

    • The Kerala government disclosed the re-emergence of West Nile fever cases in Thrissur, Malappuram, and Kozhikode districts.
    • West Nile fever was first detected in Kerala in 2011, with a fatal case recorded in 2019 involving a six-year-old from Malappuram.

    What is West Nile Fever?

    • West Nile fever is caused by a West Nile Virus (WNV) transmitted through bites from infected Culex mosquitoes.
    • The WNV is a mosquito-borne, single-stranded RNA virus.
    • According to the WHO, it is a member of the flavi-virus genus and belongs to the Japanese Encephalitis antigenic complex of the family Flaviviridae.

    How does it spread?

    • It is transmitted by infected mosquitoes between and among humans and animals, including birds, which are the reservoir host of the virus.
    • Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds, which circulate the virus in their blood for a few days.
    • The virus eventually gets into the mosquito’s salivary glands.
    • During later blood meals (when mosquitoes bite), the virus may be injected into humans and animals, where it can multiply and possibly cause illness.
    • WNV can also spread through blood transfusion, from an infected mother to her child, or through exposure to the virus in laboratories.
    • It is not known to spread by contact with infected humans or animals.

    Symptoms of WNV infection:

    • The disease is asymptomatic in 80% of the infected people.
    • The rest develop what is called the West Nile fever or severe West Nile disease.
    • In these 20% cases, the symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, body aches, nausea, rash, and swollen glands.

    PYQ:

    [2017] Consider the following statements:

    1. In tropical regions, Zika virus disease is transmitted by the same mosquito that transmits dengue.

    2. Sexual transmission of Zika virus disease is possible.

    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

     

    Back2Basics: Type of Viruses 

    Subtypes Description Examples
    DNA Viruses Herpesviruses DNA viruses with a complex structure causing various diseases including cold sores, chickenpox, and mononucleosis. HSV-1, HSV-2, VZV, EBV
    Papillomaviruses DNA viruses associated with warts and certain cancers. HPV
    Adenoviruses DNA viruses causing a wide range of infections in humans. Adenovirus types causing respiratory, gastrointestinal, and ocular infections
    Poxviruses Large, complex DNA viruses responsible for diseases like smallpox. Variola virus (smallpox), Vaccinia virus
    RNA Viruses Positive-Sense RNA Viruses RNA viruses with genomes that can directly serve as mRNA, causing diseases like the common cold, Zika, and COVID-19. Picornaviruses, Flaviviruses, Coronaviruses
    Negative-Sense RNA Viruses RNA viruses requiring transcription into positive-sense RNA before translation, causing diseases like influenza and rabies. Orthomyxoviruses, Paramyxoviruses, Rhabdoviruses
    Retroviruses RNA viruses that use reverse transcriptase to integrate their genome into the host cell’s DNA. HIV, HTLV
    Double-Stranded RNA (dsRNA) Viruses RNA viruses with double-stranded RNA genomes causing gastroenteritis and other infections. Reoviruses
    Single-Stranded RNA (ssRNA) Viruses with Ambisense Genome RNA viruses with genomes containing both positive-sense and negative-sense RNA regions. Arenaviruses, Bunyaviruses
    Single-Stranded RNA (ssRNA) Viruses with Segmented Genome RNA viruses with genomes consisting of multiple segments, causing diseases like influenza and hemorrhagic fevers. Orthomyxoviruses, Bunyaviruses
    Single-Stranded RNA (ssRNA) Viruses with Circular Genome Satellite viruses with a circular RNA genome requiring helper viruses for replication. Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV)
    Enveloped Viruses Influenza Viruses RNA viruses surrounded by a lipid envelope causing seasonal flu outbreaks. Influenza A, B, C viruses
    Herpesviruses Enveloped DNA viruses causing diseases like cold sores, chickenpox, and mononucleosis. HSV-1, HSV-2, VZV, CMV
    Coronaviruses Enveloped RNA viruses causing diseases like severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and COVID-19. SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2
    HIV Enveloped retroviruses responsible for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Human immunodeficiency virus
    Ebola Virus Enveloped RNA virus causing severe hemorrhagic fever in humans. Ebola virus
    Non-enveloped Viruses Adenoviruses DNA viruses lacking a lipid envelope, causing various infections in humans. Adenovirus types causing respiratory, gastrointestinal, and ocular infections
    Papillomaviruses DNA viruses associated with warts and certain cancers, lacking an envelope. HPV
    Noroviruses RNA viruses causing gastroenteritis, lacking an envelope. Norovirus
    Rotaviruses RNA viruses causing severe gastroenteritis in infants and young children, lacking an envelope. Rotavirus
    Bacteriophages T4 Bacteriophage Viruses that infect bacteria, with a complex structure and lifecycle. T4 bacteriophage
    Lambda Phage Temperate bacteriophage capable of lysogenic and lytic cycles in E. coli. Lambda phage

  • [8 May 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: A dignified peaceful passing is everyone’s right

    Mains PYQ Relevance: 

    Q) Appropriate local community-level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieving ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain. (UPSC IAS/2018)
    Q) To enhance the prospects of social development, sound and adequate health care policies are needed particularly in the fields of geriatric and maternal health care. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020)

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: Right to life; Right to health; Right to die with dignity;

    Mains: Judicial Intervention in Health Care sector;

    Mentor comments: Death is inevitable, the one certainty in life. When the time comes, and if you have an incurable disease, how would you like to go? Would you prefer your bed in your home, with your loved ones around you? Or would you prefer being all alone in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with a tube in every orifice, hooked to machines that measure the functioning of every vital organ in your body, with each malfunctioning organ supported artificially? When facing an incurable illness, the choice between passing away at home surrounded by loved ones or in an ICU on life support is deeply personal (Right to Privacy). Some prefer the comfort and intimacy of home, while others seek every medical intervention, even if alone. There have been long debates on euthanasia and Palliative care for old people to protect their rights. Courts, through various decisions, have recognized the right to die with dignity as a fundamental right and an integral part of the right to life under Article 21.

    Let’s learn

    —

    Why in the News?

    Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the USA, died at 93 in his home surrounded by his family members (2004). However, India’s former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee died (2018), nine years after a stroke that had left him non-ambulant. 

    • Hence, communicating end-of-life wishes is crucial to ensure one’s final moments align with their values.

    What is the difference between Life support System and Palliative Care?

    Life support SystemPalliative Care System
    What is it?It aims to prolong life by artificially maintaining vital bodily functions.It focuses on improving quality of life by relieving symptoms, pain, and distress, regardless of prognosis.
    Treatment It involves invasive medical interventions like ventilators, dialysis, and feeding tubes.It emphasizes comfort-oriented, non-curative treatments to alleviate suffering.
    GoalsTo sustain life, even if it means prolonging the dying process.To enhance quality of life and provide comfort, even if it means foregoing life-prolonging treatments.
    TimingUsed in critical, end-stage illness when curative treatment is no longer possible.Can be provided at any stage of a serious illness, even alongside curative treatments.

    End-of-Life Practices: West vs. India

    • West Scenario: Advance directives for common, terminally ill allowed Natural Death by withdrawing life support.
    • Europe Scenario: Only 10.3% die on life support, others shifted to Palliative Care.
    • Indian Scenario:
      • 70% of incurable patients die on life support in ICUs, alone.
      • The remaining 30% die through “Left Against Medical Advice” – ethically questionable. A survey in Pune showed 83% prefer to die at home.
    What is the LAMA/DAMA Practice?

    Left Against Medical Advice/Discharged Against Medical Advice (LAMA/DAMA) refers to a patient leaving the hospital against the advice and recommendation of their treating healthcare providers.

    Its Causes:  Financial constraints, Belief in alternative therapies, Dissatisfaction with care, Terminal/advanced illness, and Lack of understanding about the treatment process. It adversely affects patient outcomes, increasing the risk of mortality and the need for readmission.

    The practice is considered ethically questionable, as it represents unplanned treatment limitations without a formal shift to palliative care.

    Challenges in Indian Context:

    • ICU Routinisation: 
      • Society has a mistaken belief in prolonging life at all costs and accepts ICU death as normal 
      • In recent years, a lack of adherence to ethical principles and routinization of intensive care deaths has become more common.
    • Lack of Legal Clarity:
      • Lack of death literacy and inability to make informed decisions plays a major setback in Indian Society.
      • Further, the absence of a Legal Framework for End-of-life Care in India creates wider challenges for hospital staff and patients.
      • The term “Passive Euthanasia” is considered a misnomer by ICMR. Withholding or withdrawing life support in futility is not euthanasia but allowing natural death.

    Initiatives taken on Palliative Care and Living Wills:

    • By WHO:
      • WHO defines health as “physical, social, and mental well-being” beyond just the absence of disease.
      • World Health Day (April 7) has passed and the theme for 2024 was “My health, my right”. 
    • By India (through Judicial intervention):
      • SC in 2018 recognized passive euthanasia and the ‘Right to die with dignity’ as a fundamental right subject to guidelines.
        • India’s Supreme Court (three-member Bench) ruled that the ‘Right to Health’ includes the ‘Right to palliative care’.
      • SC verdict of 2023 recognizes advance medical directives and withdrawal of life support in futility cases.

    Conclusion: The Lancet Commission Report 2022 speaks on the Value of Death and that modern society has become death-illiterate. Therefore, it is much required to bring awareness in our Indian Society on the value system of “dignified death”.

  • PYQ Based Dominate Prelims Open Test 2 – Online/Offline

    PYQ Based Dominate Prelims Open Test 2 – Online/Offline

    Attempt the Test HERE

    Attempt the Test

    Open Test Date – 11th May (Saturday)

    Test Timings

    • GS 1 – 9:30 – 11:30 AM
    • CSAT – 2:30 – 4:30 PM
    • DISCUSSION – 4:45 – 6:00 PM

    Both Online Mode and Offline Mode (Delhi ORN Centre and Pune Centre)

    Our open tests have the highest hit ratios because we follow 2 simple principles, 5 categories, and 80 themes.

    1. 4 categories of questions

    The actual UPSC prelims paper can be said to follow broadly 5 categories – 1.⁠ ⁠Core, 2.⁠ ⁠Non-core, 3.⁠ ⁠Logical, 4.⁠ ⁠Ultra-hard (Skippable). We are aligning very closely with this distribution. 

    1.⁠ ⁠Core: These questions are from core sources like standard books, monthly magazines, and Atomic Notes. You are expected to answer ALL of these questions correctly.

    [2023] Consider the following organizations/ bodies in India:

    1.⁠ ⁠The National Commission for Backward Classes

    2.  The National Human Rights Commission

    3.  The National Law Commissions

    4.  The National Consumer Disputes Redressal CommissionHow many of the above are constitutional bodies?

    (a) Only one

    (b) Only two

    (c) Only three

    (d) All four

    2.⁠ ⁠Non-core: These questions are 1 level above what is present in core sources. E.g. Political Parties during the freedom movement, Ancient Medieval terms, and terms around Buddhism Jainism.  

    [2023] Consider the following statements:

    1.⁠ ⁠India has more arable area than China.

    2.⁠ ⁠The proportion of irrigated area is more in India as compared to China.

    3.⁠ ⁠The average productivity per hectare in Indian agriculture is higher than that in China.

    How many of the above statements are correct?

    (a) Only one

    (b) Only two

    (c)  All three

    (d) None

    3.⁠ ⁠Logical: Not solvable by knowledge alone but through logical approach. 

    [2023] Consider the following statements:

    1.⁠ ⁠Some mushrooms have medicinal properties.

    2.⁠ ⁠Some mushrooms have psychoactive properties

    3.⁠ ⁠Some mushrooms have insecticidal properties

    4.⁠ ⁠Some mushrooms have bioluminescent properties.

    How many of the above statements are correct?

    (a) Only one

    (b) Only two

    (c) Only three

    (d) All four

    4.⁠ ⁠Ultra-hard (Skippable): Needs to be skipped (if attempted by student, it’s a case of over-attempt. Because knowing what not to attempt is as important as knowing what to attempt. 

    [2023] Consider the following fauna:

    1.⁠ ⁠Lion-tailed Macaque

    2.⁠ ⁠Malabar Civet

    3.⁠ ⁠Sambar Deer

    How many of the above are generally nocturnal or most active after sunset?

    (a)  Only one

    (b) Only two

    (c)  All three

    (d) None

    2. 80 most repeated UPSC themes 

    We are being very precise. We won’t ask you a broad question on Species. 

    When it comes to high-profile species like tigers, elephants, and other critically endangered species, UPSC is asking for conservation efforts or behavioural patterns. We will ask you something similar. We are this detail-oriented. 

    This is true for all subjects. For instance, in Economics, detailed questions on inflation, bonds, differentiated banks, etc. are more difficult. 

    We have 80 detailed themes and our questions will be framed on similar lines. 

    [CSP2017]Q. The term ‘M-STrIPES’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of

    (a)Captive breeding of Wild Fauna

    (b)Maintenance of Tiger Reserves

    (c)Indigenous Satellite Navigation System

    (d)Security of National Highways

    [CSP2020]Q. Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under “Critical Tiger Habitat”?

    (a) Corbett

    (b) Ranthambore

    (c) Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam

    (d) Sunderbans

    [CSP2021]Q. With reference to Indian elephants, consider the following statements:

    1.The leader of an elephant group is a female.

    2.The maximum gestation period can be 22 months.

    3.An elephant can normally go on calving till the age of 40 years only.

    4.Among the States in India, the highest elephant population is in Kerala.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 4 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 3 and 4 only

    Attempt the Test

    Attempt Test Here

  • [7 May 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: A half-hearted climate change verdict

    Mains PYQ Relevance: 
    Q) ‘Clean energy is the order of the day.’ Describe briefly India’s changing policy towards climate change in various international fora in the context of geopolitics. (UPSC IAS/2022)
    Q) Does the right to a clean environment entail legal regulation on burning crackers during Diwali? Discuss in the light of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution and judgments of the apex in this regard. (UPSC IAS/2015)
    Q) Starting from inventing the ‘basic structure’ doctrine, the judiciary has played a highly proactive role in ensuring that India develops into a thriving democracy. In light of the statement, evaluate the role played by judicial activism in achieving the ideals of democracy. (UPSC IAS/2014)

    Prelims:
    Which of the following are regarded as the main features of the “Rule of Law”?  (UPSC IAS/2018)
    1) Limitation of powers
    2) Equality before law
    3) People’s responsibility to the Government
    4) Liberty and civil rights
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
    (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 4 only (c) 1, 2 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims:  Rights to Life (Article 21) and Equality (Article 14); Right to be free of ill effects;

    Mains: Judiciary on Environment and Climate Change;

    Mentor comments: “Vidya dadati Vinayam” is an ancient Sanskrit phrase meaning knowledge leads to happiness. India is an important piece of the global climate puzzle. It houses close to twenty percent of the world’s population, 2.4% of the world’s land area, and 7%–8% of all recorded species, including over 45,000 species of plants and 91,000 species of animals. A significant responsibility of the fate of India rests on how the Indian Judiciary deals with the increasing climate change-related cases. Now, recently the SC in M K Ranjitsinh & Ors. vs. Union of India & Ors. case ruled that the people have a right to be free from the adverse effects of climate change which should be recognised by Article 14 and Article 21 of the Constitution. This judgement comes with its own set of challenges that we need to consider.

    Let’s learn

    —

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court of India’s extension of Constitutional Rights to Life and Equality to include protection from Climate Change offers hope after the ecological crisis.

    Previous 2021 judgment:

    The SC had directed the installation of bird diverters on existing overhead power lines and the undergrounding of power lines in the GIB’s priority habitat areas.

    The 2024 order:  The SC acknowledged the practical challenges raised by the government and renewable energy companies in implementing the blanket ban on overhead power lines.
    The SC lifted the ban on overhead power lines for 77,000 sq km but upheld it for a 13,000 sq km core habitat area of the GIB.

    Formation of Expert Committee: The SC constituted a 7-member expert committee which is tasked with suggesting conservation measures for endangered GIB by identifying areas where power lines can be constructed and exploring the alternatives for their protection.

    The committee has to submit its report to the SC by July 31, 2024, after which the court will take a final decision on the way forward.

    Limitations with present order: 

    To meet India’s climate commitments declared at COP 26 (2021), it includes net zero carbon emissions by 2070, generation of 500 GW by non-fossil fuel sources and a 50% share of total power generation to renewable energy by 2030. However, it comes with certain challenges as follows:

    • Inclusion of Problematic Energy Sources: The judgment includes large hydropower and nuclear plants in ‘non-fossil-fuel‘ and ‘renewable’ energy, which have significant negative impacts, the Mega-dams in the Himalayas can cause destabilization, biodiversity loss, and community displacement.
    • Adverse Impacts of Mega-Renewable Projects: The Court has tried to balance the need for land (and airspace) for solar and wind energy production in Rajasthan and Gujarat, with the imperative of protecting the Great Indian Bustard.
      • Large solar and wind projects have significant negative impacts, Pavagada Solar Park (Karnataka) took away grazing and agricultural land and destroyed wildlife.
    • Lack of Environmental Assessment and Clearance: Renewable energy projects are excluded from Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and clearance procedures, so their impacts are not assessed.
    • Continued Investment in Coal: Despite significant investment in renewable energy, the government is not reducing investments in coal. The new coal mining blocks continue to be given a green signal, including in biologically diverse and socially sensitive areas.

    Alternatives should have been considered:

    • Decentralized Renewable Energy Sources: The Rooftop and Decentralized Renewable Energy sources could yield over 600 GW, offering a more sustainable alternative to mega-projects. They have already benefited millions in Indian villages, aligning with provisions for Equality and a Clean Environment.
    • Efficient Energy Use and Demand Management: Questions should be raised about energy wastage in transmission, inefficient appliance use, and luxury consumption. Demand management and power redistribution could address energy needs more effectively, reducing the necessity for new power production.
    • Rights of Nature and Earth Jurisprudence: The Court could have considered the growing global movement recognizing the ‘Rights of Nature’, crucial for just climate action. Recognition of the rights of rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna could serve as a model to safeguard nature and habitats against climate-damaging actions.
    • Incorporating Expert Committee Mandate: The Court could enhance the judgment’s impact by tasking the expert committee to explore alternative, less damaging ways of meeting energy demands, including decentralized renewables and reducing waste/luxury consumption.
    Flaws in the Indian Development Model

    India’s development model heavily relies on mega-industrial, infrastructural, and extractive projects that cause deforestation and displacement of communities, violating constitutional rights.

    The government’s proposal to deforest 130 sq. km of rainforest and take up tribal lands in Great Nicobar violates the Court’s observation of protecting indigenous communities’ traditional lives and cultures.

    Way Forward – Need for Transformative Change Organically:

    • If the Court had taken its observations to their logical conclusion, it could have directed the government to re-examine such destructive projects. This could have provided grounds for a fundamental shift towards real sustainability and justice in tackling climate change.
    • However, the judgment has reinforced the ecologically flawed, undemocratic, and socially disruptive path promoted by the Government of India.

  • India press freedom score falls, says Reporters sans Frontieres

    Why in the news?

    India’s score in the World Press Freedom Index fell over the last year, from 36.62 to 31.28, according to Reporters Without Borders. In South Asia, India finds itself ranked at 159th, while its neighbor Pakistan stands marginally higher at 152.

    Key Highlights of the Report:

    • Deterioration Since 2014: Press freedom in India has significantly deteriorated since 2014.
    • Government vs Media Nexus: The government is criticized for maintaining a close relationship with big media families, leading to a lack of independence and critical journalism being labeled as “anti-national and anti-India“.
    • Self-Censorship: Fear of political backlash has forced journalists to censor themselves, as Modi’s supporters aggressively target critical reporting of the government.
    • Corporatization of Media: There’s an increasing trend of wealthy businessmen close to Modi owning a majority of mainstream media outlets, which undermines media independence and diversity.
    • BBC Raids: Recent raids on the BBC offices in India have drawn international criticism and contributed to India’s declining press freedom ranking.
    • Comparative Analysis: While India’s press freedom declines, neighboring countries like Pakistan and Sri Lanka have improved, although they still lag behind global leaders in press freedom rankings.

    India’s Initiative of “Index Monitoring Cell”:

    • Purpose of the Cell: The Index Monitoring Cell has been set up to work on improving India’s press freedom ranking. It will consist of representatives from various government agencies and credible journalists suggested by the Press Council of India.
    • Ranking Parameters: The cell will engage with agencies publishing the World Press Freedom Index, like Reporters Without Borders, for a better understanding of the parameters and methodology used for the rankings. This will help formulate an action plan to address the issues identified.
    • Coordination with State Governments: The cell will coordinate with state governments to appoint nodal officers who can provide regular updates on the state of press freedom and any issues faced by journalists at the local level.
    • Engagement with Stakeholders: This aims to improve communication and visibility of steps taken to support press freedom and address concerns raised by global media watchdogs.
    • Reporting Mechanisms: Setting up proper reporting mechanisms is crucial to ensure that the data and information provided to ranking agencies are up-to-date and accurate. This will help in portraying a clearer picture of the press freedom landscape in India.

    Conclusion: India needs to enact and strengthen laws to protect the freedom of the Press and ensure journalists’ safety. This includes legislation to prevent harassment, attacks, and threats against journalists, as well as provisions for swift and effective legal recourse in cases of censorship or intimidation.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q What do understand by the concept “freedom of speech and expression”? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do the films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2014)

  • Why Youth Unemployment is India’s biggest challenge?

    Why in the News?

    The India Employment Report (IER) 2024, brought out by the Institute for Human Development (IHD) and the International Labour Organisation (ILO), has attracted widespread attention.

    • The analysis compares four years — 2000, 2012, 2019, and 2022 — which capture the changes over the past 22 years.

    Positives in the IER Report, 2024:

    • Employment Quality Improvement: The report highlights a robust improvement in employment conditions as indicated by the Employment Condition Index, with an increase in non-farm employment and a decline in agriculture employment, suggesting structural transformation in the economy.
    • Female Workforce Participation: There has been a significant increase in the female workforce participation rate, albeit mainly in the agricultural sector and in own-account and unpaid family work. The Female workforce participation (FWFP) rate from 24.5% in 2019 to 37.0% in 2023.
    • Labour Market Resilience Amidst COVID: Despite the global slowdown induced by the pandemic, the labor market in India bounced back well, with wages of casual workers increasing, leading to a reduction in extreme poverty and deprivation.
    • Unemployment Trends: Unemployment and underemployment rates increased until 2018 but have declined thereafter. The unemployment rate has declined from 6 percent in 2018 to 3.2 percent in 2023.

    Challenges as per the IER Report, 2024:

    • Emerging Employment Challenges: Challenges include a skewed employment pattern towards agriculture, increasing capital and skill-intensive production processes, low women’s participation, and rising educated youth unemployment.
    • Youth Unemployment Focus: The report emphasizes youth unemployment as a principal challenge, especially among educated youth, who account for a significant portion of total unemployment.
    • Informal Employment: Despite improvements, the majority of jobs remain informal and of lower productivity, with over 90% of employment being informal and 83% in the informal sector.

    Way Forward 

    • Policy Recommendations: Policy measures suggested include making production more employment-intensive, improving job quality, addressing labor market inequalities, enhancing skills training, and generating reliable statistics to better understand labor market dynamics.
    • Demographic Advantage: India is likely to have a demographic advantage for the next decade, and policy measures are recommended to leverage this advantage for robust economic growth.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Besides the welfare schemes, India needs deft management of inflation and unemployment to serve the poor and the underprivileged sections of the society. Discuss.(UPSC IAS/2022)

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