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  • India’s Soil Erosion Trends: Insights from a New Study

    Why in the news?

    • Titled “Geospatial modelling and mapping of soil erosion in India,” the report marks the first attempt to classify soil erosion on a pan-India basis.
    • The study categorizes soil erosion into six classifications, ranging from “minor” to “catastrophic,” based on the amount of soil eroded per hectare over a year.

    Soil Erosion in India

    • Soil erosion is the process by which soil is removed or displaced from its original location, often due to the action of wind, water, or human activities.
    • It is a natural geological process accelerated by various factors such as deforestation, overgrazing, improper agricultural practices, urbanization, and climate change.

    Key trends in India

    • Nearly 30% of the country’s landmass is experiencing “minor” soil erosion.
    • Critical 3% (approx. 1500 sq km) faces “catastrophic” topsoil loss.
    • The Brahmaputra Valley in Assam emerged as the most significant hotspot for soil erosion, with close to 300 square kilometers or 31% of its surface soil lost to “catastrophic” erosion.
    • The lower Himalayan region, extending from Kashmir to Uttarakhand and beyond, and Odisha also face severe erosion challenges, posing threats to biodiversity and environmental stability.

    Causes of Soil Erosion

    1. Anthropogenic Causes: Soil erosion in India is primarily caused by human activities including deforestation, overgrazing, improper land use practices, and construction activities.
    2. Natural Causes: The monsoon season, characterized by heavy rainfall, exacerbates soil erosion, especially in regions with steep slopes and poor vegetation cover.

    Impact of Soil Erosion

    • Topsoil, essential for agriculture due to its nutrient-rich composition, is crucial for sustaining crop growth.
    • Erosion diminishes soil fertility, leading to reduced crop yields and agricultural productivity.

    Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) Methodology 

    • The Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) is a widely used empirical model for estimating soil erosion rates.
    • It is used to predict the average annual soil loss caused by sheet and rill erosion from specific field areas.
    • The RUSLE methodology considers various factors that contribute to soil erosion, including rainfall, soil erodibility, slope length and steepness, vegetation cover, and conservation practices.
    • The equation for RUSLE is:

    A = R * K * LS * C * P

    Where:

    A is the estimated average annual soil loss (in tons per acre per year).

    R is the rainfall factor, representing the erosive power of rainfall.

    K is the soil erodibility factor, representing the susceptibility of soil to erosion.

    LS is the slope length and steepness factor, accounting for the effect of slope on erosion.

    C is the cover management factor, indicating the impact of vegetation cover and land use practices on erosion.

    P is the conservation practice factor, reflecting the effectiveness of erosion control practices implemented.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] In India, the problem of soil erosion is associated with which of the following?

    1.    Terrace cultivation

    2.    Deforestation

    3.    Tropical climate’

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Sangeet Natak Akademi organizes ‘Shakti – Festival of Music and Dance’

    Why in the news?

    Sangeet Natak Akademi is set to host ‘Shakti, a festival of music and dance’ as part of its Kala Pravah series at 7 Shaktipeeths.

    Shakti – Festival of Music and Dance

    Events will be held at:

    1. Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati
    2. Mahalakshmi Temple, Kolhapur, Maharashtra
    3. Jwalamukhi Temple, Kangada, Himachal Pradesh
    4. Tripura Sundari Temple, Udaipur, Tripura
    5. Ambaji Temple, Banaskantha, Gujarat
    6. Jai Durga Shaktipeeth, Deoghar, Jharkhand
    7. Shaktipeeth Maa Harsidhi Temple, Jaisinghpur, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh

    What are Shaktipeeths?

    • Shaktipeeths are sacred sites in Hinduism associated with the Goddess Shakti or Devi, the divine feminine energy.
    • According to Hindu mythology, these sites are believed to be where various body parts of the goddess Sati/ Shakti fell to the earth when her body was dismembered by Lord Vishnu’s.
    • There are numerous Shaktipeeths spread across the Indian subcontinent and beyond, each considered highly sacred by devotees of the Goddess.

    Here are some major Shaktipeeths often seen in news:

     

    Temple Place (State/Country)
    Shankari Devi Temple Trincomalee (Sri Lanka)
    Kamakshi Amman Temple Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu)
    Shrinkala Temple Pradmunyee (Pandua, West Bengal)
    Chamundeshwari Temple Mysuru (Karnataka)
    Jogulamba Devi Alampuram (Telangana)
    Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Temple Srisailam (Andhra Pradesh)
    Mahalakshmi Temple Kolhapur (Maharashtra)
    Ekveera Temple Mahur (Maharashtra)
    Mahakaleswar Temple Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh)
    Kukkuteswara Swamy Temple Pithapuram (Andhra Pradesh)
    Biraja Temple Jajpur (Odisha)
    Bhimeswara Temple Draksharamam (Andhra Pradesh)
    Kamakhya Temple Guwahati (Assam)
    Alopi Devi Mandir Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh)
    Jwalamukhi Temple Jwalamukhi (Himachal Pradesh)
    Mangla Gauri Temple Gaya (Bihar)
    Vishalakshi Temple Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)
    Sharada Peeth Sharda, Kashmir (Pakistan Occupied Kashmir)

    About Sangeet Natak Akademi

    • It is the national level academy for performing arts set up by the Government of India.
    • It was set up by the Indian education ministry on 31 May 1952 and became functional the following year, with the appointment of its first chairman, Dr. P. V. Rajamannar.
    • Dr Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, inaugurated it on 28 January 1953 in a special function held in the Parliament House.

    Functions:

    • The academy functions as the apex body of the performing arts in the country to preserve and promote the vast cultural heritage of India expressed in music, dance and drama.
    • It also works with governments and art academies in states and union territories of the country. 

    Awards and fellowships:

    1. Sangeet Natak Akademi Award
    2. Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowships (Ratna Sadsya)
    3. Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar
    4. Tagore Ratna and Tagore Puraskar

  • 10th April 2024 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    [WpProQuiz 1644]

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  • [Prelims’24 Webinar]Make Micro-Thematic Notes to Attempt 7-8 Extra Qs in IAS Prelims 2024 | Webinar by Zeeshan Sir

    [Prelims’24 Webinar]Make Micro-Thematic Notes to Attempt 7-8 Extra Qs in IAS Prelims 2024 | Webinar by Zeeshan Sir

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  • [9 April 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Indian aviation, a case of air safety at a discount

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains: 

    Q) Examine the development of Airports in India through joint ventures under Public – Private Partnership (PPP) model. What are the challenges faced by the authorities in this regard? (UPSC CSE 2017) 

    Q) International civil aviation laws provide all countries complete and exclusive sovereignty over the airspace above their territory. What do you understand by ‘airspace’ What are the implications of these laws on the space above this airspace? Discuss the challenges that this poses and suggest ways to contain the threat. (UPSC CSE 2014) 

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO);

    Mains: Economy and Infrastructure; Civil Aviation in India; 

    Mentor comments: To put in place long-term efforts for our safe and secure future, we must break down the barriers between ‘Development’ and ‘Humanitarian Response’. Air Transport plays a pivotal role in promoting Economy and Tourism in India. India has an extensive civilian air transportation network and is amongst the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Presently, the Aviation Sector in India is facing serious safety concerns as Airline Management prioritizes commercial interests over passenger safety. 

    Let’s learn. 

    —

    Why in the News?

    The Civil Aviation Ministry and the DGCA need a more human-centric approach in airline management, addressing pilot shortages, and prioritizing safety over commercial interests is crucial for the Indian aviation sector to thrive.

    Challenges faced by Airline Services in India:

    • Technical and Safety Concerns: The safety of passengers is being gravely compromised due to the non-provision of the Runway End Safety Area. For example,  at Kozhikode’s Karipur Airport (Kerala).
      • Despite reassurances from the Civil Aviation Ministry and the DGCA, safety issues persist, such as the deferred regulations on pilot fatigue.
    • Resource Availability: The land resources needed by AAI [Airports Authority of India] for better landing and avoiding accidents are generally ignored or delayed by state governments.
    • Nexus between private players and government: Lack of Coordination between Airline owners and the Government for the implementation of safety policies needs to be resolved. For example, the present Flight Duty Time Limitations Regulations where the deadline for their implementation was June 1, 2024, were not taken seriously by private players.
    • Pilot Stress: Financial stress on pilots is also highlighted as a risk factor, with examples of past incidents linked to pilot suicide due to personal financial pressures.
      • Recognizing pilots as human beings who require time with their families, the importance of providing two days off per week for pilots is essential to ensure their well-being and maintain aviation safety.
    Global Scenario and System Overseas:

    The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) introduced the Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS) as a mandatory requirement due to the significant impact of fatigue on aviation safety. 

    Studies have shown that sleep deprivation and impaired reaction times due to fatigue are major contributors to accidents and incidents. 

    Countries like Japan, Singapore, and the United Kingdom emphasize fatigue management and rest periods for flight crew to mitigate these risks. 

    Pilots in these countries typically have two days off every week to reset their body clock, especially after long-haul flights. 

    Way Forward:

    • Change the Priority: The Indian aviation sector faces critical safety issues due to a lack of prioritization of safety over commercial interests by airline management. The need for a more human-centric approach, addressing pilot shortages, and emphasizing safety is essential for the sector’s success.
    • Need for Humanitarian Code: India should adopt the ICAO Annex 1 Standard which allows experienced Indian pilots abroad to return to India and utilize the present retired pilots for training and checks. 
    • Need for Updating policy implementations: Overcoming corruption, revising outdated rules, and focusing on transparency and brand loyalty are crucial for the sector’s improvement and the success of airline mergers.

  • Heat affects India’s aim to move from coal to renewables

    Why in the News? 

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recently said that India will have more than the ‘usual’ number of days with heat waves in this summer.

    Increasing Temperature in India and its impact as per IMD:

    • Temperature Predictions: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts “above-normal” temperatures for April-June 2024, with a probability of 55%-65% in one half of the country and over 65% in the other half. Few parts are expected to have normal or below-normal temperatures.
    • Effect of Heat on Agriculture: Higher heat negatively impacts crop yield, agricultural workers’ productivity, and water availability, varying in degree depending on the crop.
    • Consequences of Heat in Urban Area: Increased heat leads to higher power demand in urban and industrial centers, poses deadly risks for outdoor workers (such as at construction sites), overwhelms health service providers (especially affecting the very young and old), and highlights the importance of access to clean, cool water, indoor ventilation, and bathrooms.
    • Power Demand: The availability of power is crucial for addressing the effects of heat. A chart shows that in March 2024, the average evening peak-hour demand reached a new high of 190 GW.

    Major challenges around the Energy Demand and Government Targets:

    • Government Targets: The government aims to achieve 500 GW of power generation capacity from renewable energy sources by 2030. Additionally, it has committed to producing 50% of its power from non-fossil fuel energy sources by the same year.
    • Heat increases power demand: Heat boosts power demand in cities and industries, heightens risks for outdoor labor, strains healthcare services for vulnerable groups, and underscores the necessity of clean water, ventilation, and bathrooms. Power availability is fundamental for addressing these challenges.
    • Focus on Solar Power: A substantial portion of the renewable energy addition will come from solar power. However, due to the intermittent nature of solar output and the ongoing establishment of power storage capacity, coal is still relied upon to meet peak demand.
    • Coal’s Dominance: Chart 3 (above) illustrates the gross electricity generated using coal in India and coal’s share in total electricity generation. The coal’s share has remained between 70-74% since at least FY16.
    • Commercially Viable Energy Storage: In India, the most commercially viable energy storage forms currently are battery-based and Pumped Hydro Storage (PHS).
    • Renewable Energy Generation: Chart 4 depicts the gross electricity generated using renewable sources in India and the share of renewable sources in total electricity generation. The share of renewables, including solar, hydro, wind, etc., has remained between 20-25% since at least FY16

    Major Dilemma For India: Cannot ignore Coal immediately:

    • Coal is projected to continue as the backbone of the Indian energy system until the next two decades and its phase-down will require active policies on critical minerals, according to a report by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM)- Ahmedabad.
    • The report, titled ‘Synchronising energy transitions towards a possible Net Zero for India: Affordable and Clean Energy for All,’ asserted that net zero is not possible without substantial nuclear power and renewable energy generation by 2070.
    • To achieve net-zero energy systems by 2070, the report mentioned that the electricity sector will need to decarbonize well before that.

     

    Way Forward: 

    • NDC Goals: The remaining gaps in emissions will be offset through sequestration in forestry and tree cover as envisaged in our Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
    • Need for Technological intervention: There is no silver bullet to achieve net zero. The transition needs multiple pathways to be adopted with the co-existence of myriad technologies in our energy basket.

     

    Mains PYQ

    Q Discuss the implications of heightened heat waves in India, as highlighted by recent statements from the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

  • Marching ahead with technology absorption

    Why in the news? 

    The Indian Army is observing the year 2024 as the ‘Year of Technology Absorption’.

    • The Indian military is moving in the right direction, but the challenge lies in sustaining technology absorption with a nuanced understanding of the requirements

    What is Technology absorption in terms of disruptive technology (DT)?

    It comprises Artificial intelligence, Autonomous Weapon Systems such as drones, sensors, robotics, space technology, and hypersonic weapon systems (also called Legacy Systems)

    Challenges in Technology absorption:

    • Compatibility issues: Incorporating new technologies into existing structures or systems, known as legacy systems, can be challenging due to compatibility issues and the need for adaptation.
    • More time in Training and Skills Development: Ensuring that personnel are adequately trained to operate and maintain new technologies is crucial. The acquisition of technical skills and knowledge may require significant investment and time.
    • Lack of Resource: Limited resources, both financial and human, may constrain the absorption of technologies because need to require more funds to maintain preexisting military hardware. Due to this military has left very less amount of money to the absorption of technologies
    • Cybersecurity Concerns: With the integration of advanced technologies comes the risk of cyber threats and vulnerabilities. Safeguarding systems and networks against cyber-attacks becomes paramount.
    • Supply Chain Management: Dependence on external suppliers for critical components or technologies can introduce risks related to reliability, availability, and security of supply chains like fighter jet engine import from the USA

    Technological Absorption needs to be governed organically:

    • Acknowledge the Sensitivity: Recognize existing vulnerabilities and sensitivities within the military structure and operations. Identify gaps between current capabilities and future needs.
    • Need to Understand Latest Technologies:  Understanding the latest advancements in technology and their potential applications in military operations. Understand the context in which these technologies can be effectively utilized.
    • Integrating at Unit-Level: Ensure that technology absorption is not limited to higher levels of command but is visibly manifested at the unit level. Democratize the use of technology to empower frontline personnel.
    • Macro-Level Aspects: Address macro-level aspects such as organizational restructuring, human resource management, cultivation of specialists at various levels, civil-military fusion, data integrity management, and procurement policies tailored for Defense Technologies (DTs).
    • Learn from Recent Wars: Analyze lessons learned from recent and ongoing conflicts to inform future planning and decision-making like the Russia Conflict

    Mains question for practice 

    Q Discuss the Challenges in Technology absorption in terms of disruptive technology (DT).And give suggestive measures to resolve the challenges

  • The citizen’s ‘climate rights’

    Why in the news? 

    The Supreme Court recently held that people have a fundamental right to be free from the adverse effects of climate change while emphasizing that countries like India must uphold their international obligations for healthy and sustainable development [M K Ranjitsinh & Ors. vs Union of India].

     

    Background of M K Ranjitsinh & Ors. vs Union of India Case:

      • The case was related to the conservation of the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (GIB).
      • In 2021, a writ petition was filed by retired government official and conservationist M K Ranjitsinh, seeking protection for the GIB and the Lesser Florican, which are on the verge of extinction.
      • On April 19, 2021 order by SC was imposed restricting the setting up of overhead transmission lines in a territory of about 99,000 sq km in the GIB habitat in Rajasthan and Gujarat.
    • The Supreme Court has ruled that people have a “right to be free from the adverse effects of climate change”, which should be recognized by Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution.
    • This judgment was by a three-judge Bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud and Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra.

    The Recent Modification over Earlier Judgement given by the SC:

    Who applied for modification of an earlier case?

    • The Ministry of Power, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy had applied to modify the 2021 order on grounds that
    • It had adverse implications for India’s power sector, and undergrounding power lines was not possible
    • The Paris Climate Treaty (2015) is one of the key grounds for seeking a modification of the 2021 order.

    What SC did say in this case?

    • Underground powerlines: The apex court modified its April 2021 order giving directions for underground high-voltage and low-voltage power lines, and directed experts to assess the feasibility of undergrounding power lines in specific areas after considering factors such as terrain, population density, and infrastructure requirements
    • The earlier direction was not feasible: The ruling acknowledged that its earlier directions, “besides not being feasible to implement, would also not result in achieving its stated purpose, i.e., the conservation of the GIB”.
    • Suitable relationship between FR and DPSP: The court emphasized that when addressing environmental concerns outlined in the Directive Principles of State Policy, they must be interpreted in conjunction with the right to life and personal liberty as enshrined in Article 21.

    How have the Courts interpreted Article 21 earlier?

    • Article 21 as the Heart of Fundamental Rights: The Supreme Court (SC) recognizes Article 21 of the Constitution as central to fundamental rights, emphasizing that the right to life encompasses more than mere existence but includes all rights necessary for a meaningful and dignified life.
    • Inclusion of Environmental Rights within Article 21: In the 1980s, the SC expanded Article 21 to include the right to a clean environment, along with various other rights such as education, shelter, clean air, livelihood, and medical care.
    • Actualizing New Rights: Despite the recognition of these new rights, citizens often face challenges in exercising them, particularly in cases concerning environmental issues like clean air.

     

    What are the implications of the judgment for environmental jurisprudence?

    • Strengthening Environmental and Climate Justice: The judgment emphasizes bolstering environmental and climate justice by recognizing the multifaceted impacts of climate change on various communities.
    • Expansion of Article 14 and Right to Life: The judgment expands the scope of Article 14 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law, to encompass environmental concerns.
    • Influence on Public Discourse and Government Policies: The judgment is expected to influence public discourse on environmental issues, shaping perceptions and priorities regarding environmental protection.
    • Establishment of Legal Precedent: By acknowledging the “right against adverse effects of climate change,” the judgment establishes a significant legal precedent.

    Conclusion: The Supreme Court’s recognition of citizens’ “right to be free from adverse effects of climate change” expands constitutional protections, strengthens environmental justice, influences policy discourse, and sets a crucial legal precedent.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q Does the right to clean environment entail legal regulation on burning crackers during Diwali? Discus in the light of Article 21 of Indian Constitution and judgements of the apex in this regard.(UPSC IAS/2015) 

    Q The most significant achievement of modern law in India is the constitutionalization of environmental problems by the Supreme Court.” Discuss this statement with the help of relevant case laws. (UPSC IAS/2022) 

  • Why have ‘Madrasas’ been in the spotlight in Uttar Pradesh? | Explained

    Why in the news? 

    Recently the three-judge Supreme Court Bench stayed a ruling of the Allahabad High Court on the U.P. Board of Madrasa Education Act 2004 calling it an infringement of the Fundamental Rights guaranteed under the Constitution.

    • Earlier, the HC had dubbed the U.P. Board of Madrasa Education Act “Unconstitutional” and asked for immediate closure of the madrasas. It called for the relocation and integration of the madrasa students with regular schools.

    Why are madrasas in the spotlight?

    • Uttar Pradesh has approximately 25,000 madrasas, out of which 16,500 are recognized by the U.P. Madrasa Education Board.
      • Only 560 madrasas receive grants from the government, leading to complaints of delayed payment and salary arrears.
      • Irregular madrasas, often lacking resources, provide only elementary learning.
    • In 2022, the U.P. Government ordered a survey to identify unrecognised or illegal madrasas.
    • A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed to investigate alleged foreign funding sources for the madrasas, claiming over ₹100 crore had been received from abroad over three years. However, evidence supporting these claims was not made public.

    About Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004:

    • The Act sought to oversee and administer the operations of madrasas (Islamic educational institutions) in Uttar Pradesh, providing guidelines for their establishment, recognition, curriculum, and management.
    •  It led to the formation of the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education, tasked with regulating and supervising madrasa activities throughout the state.

    Concerns Regarding the Act:

    • Limited Curriculum: Upon examination of madrasa syllabi, the High Court noted a curriculum heavily focused on Islamic studies, with limited emphasis on modern subjects.
    • Conflict with Higher Education Standards: The Act raised concerns regarding its conflict with Section 22 of the University Grants Commission (UGC) Act, 1956, which led to questions about its compliance with higher education norms

    Conclusion: Madrasas in Uttar Pradesh are under scrutiny due to a recent Supreme Court stay on the Allahabad High Court ruling, citing infringement of fundamental rights. Concerns persist over grants, quality of education, and compatibility with higher education standards.

  • What is Consumer Confidence Survey?

    Why in the news?

    • The latest Consumer Confidence Survey conducted by the Reserve Bank of India in March 2024 reveals a significant boost in consumer confidence, particularly regarding future expectations.
    • It says consumer confidence has hit highest level in nearly 5 years.

    What is Consumer Confidence Survey (CCS)?

    • The RBI conducts a bi-monthly Consumer Confidence Survey to measure consumers’ perceptions of the prevailing economic situation.
    • It was started in 2015 with surveys in 13 major cities.
    • The survey is conducted across various cities and measures consumer confidence on parameters such as the economy, employment, price, income, and spending.
    • The survey consists of questions regarding consumers’ sentiments over various factors in the current situation and future.

    Here are a few parameters that help aggregate overall confidence:

    1. Spending: The consumer is asked about the willingness to spend on major consumer durables, purchasing vehicles, or real estate. This measures the overall spending scenario on necessities as well as luxuries for the next quarter.
    2. Employment: The consumer is asked about current and future ideas on employment situations, joblessness, job security, which reflects the sentiments of the current or expected employment in the country.
    3. Inflation: The consumer is asked about interest rates and levels of prices of all goods, tracking the price expected by consumers and their spending on basic necessities.

    Components of CCS:

    1. Current Situation Index (CSI): It measures overall consumer sentiment regarding the present economic situation.
    2. Future Expectations Index (FEI): It analyses consumer sentiment for the next 12 months.

    CSI and FEI are calculated based on people’s views about the economy, their income, spending, job opportunities, and prices compared to the previous year and expectations for the year ahead.

    Key Highlights of the recent report

    • Future Expectations Index (FEI) has climbed by 2.1 points to reach 125.2, marking its highest level since mid-2019, indicating heightened optimism among consumers for the year ahead.
    • Current Situation Index (CSI) has surged by 3.4 points to reach 98.5, marking its highest level since mid-2019.

    PYQ:

    [2018] As per the NSSO 70th Round “Situation Assessment Survey of Agricultural Households”, consider the following statements-

    1. Rajasthan has the highest percentage share of agricultural households among its rural households.

    2. Out of the total agricultural households in the country, a little over 60 percent belong to OBCs.

    3. In Kerala, a little over 60 percent of agricultural households reported to have received maximum income from sources other than agricultural activities.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 2 and 3 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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