The extreme conditions in eastern Spain which saw Valencia get a year’s worth of rainin just 8 hours can be blamed on an event locally known as Depresion Aislada en Niveles Altos (DANA).
What is DANA?
Depresion Aislada en Niveles Altos (DANA), is commonly referred to as the “cold drop” in English.
It is a meteorological phenomenon in the western Mediterranean region that brings intense rainfall and flooding.
The term “DANA” was coined by Spanish meteorologists to specifically describe this weather phenomenon.
Features and Location:
DANA occurs when cold airfrom the Polar Regions separates from the polar jet stream and descends over the warmer Mediterranean Sea.
The contrast between cold air aloft and warm, moist air near the surface causes atmospheric instability, leading to the rapid formation of cumulonimbus clouds and intense thunderstorms.
It primarily affects Spain and Portugal but can also impact Italy, France, and other areas around the Mediterranean Sea.
This occurs in autumn and spring, as temperature variations are more pronounced during these seasons.
PYQ:
[2014] The seasonal reversal of winds is the typical characteristic of:
Two earthquakes struck Iran sparking rumours of a nuclear test.
However, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) in Vienna swiftly refuted these claims using its International Monitoring System (IMS) designed to detect nuclear tests.
About International Monitoring System (IMS):
IMS is a global monitoring network established by the CTBTO to detect nuclear explosions anywhere in the world.
It is a global network of over 300 monitoring facilities across 89 countries, using seismic, infrasound, hydroacoustic, and radionuclide technologies to detect nuclear explosions worldwide.
The CTBTO shares IMS data with member-states in near real-time, ensuring access to accurate, verified data.
Over 16 gigabytes of data are transmitted daily from IMS stations to the CTBTO’s International Data Centre (IDC) in Vienna.
Analysts use this IMS data to distinguish natural events (like earthquakes) from nuclear explosions.
Created to implement the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), opened for signature in 1996.
Purpose of the CTBT
Aims to ban all nuclear explosions worldwide, regardless of purpose (military or civilian).
Key Elements of the CTBT
• Total Ban on Nuclear Tests: Prohibits all nuclear explosions.
• Verification Mechanisms: Establishes a global monitoring network and allows for on-site inspections.
• Distant Monitoring by IMS: Employs technologies for monitoring compliance.
Signature and Ratification
Signed by 183 states and ratified by 164; has not entered into force as eight specific states among 44 Annex-2 states have yet to ratify.
Key Non-Ratifying States
The states that have not ratified the treaty include United States, China, Iran, Egypt, Israel, India, Pakistan, and North Korea.
Compliance Verification
CTBT establishes a global monitoring network of over 300 facilities for detection and verification, along with provisions for on-site inspections.
Significance
Plays a crucial role in global efforts toward nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, fostering international cooperation and stability.
PYQ:
[2018] What is/are the consequence/consequences of a country becoming the member of the ‘Nuclear Suppliers Group’?
It will have access to the latest and most efficient nuclear technologies.
It automatically becomes a member of “The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)”.
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
[2011] Recently, the USA decided to support India’s membership in multilateral export control regimes called the “Australia Group” and the “Wassenaar Arrangement”. What is the difference between them?
The Australia Group is an informal arrangement which aims to allow exporting countries to minimize the risk of assisting chemical and biological weapons proliferation, whereas the Wassenaar Arrangement is a formal group under the OECD holding identical objectives.
The Australia Group comprises predominantly Asian, African and North American countries whereas the member countries of Wassenaar Arrangement are predominantly from the European Union and American Continents.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Q) What are the continued challenges for Women in India against time and space? (UPSC CSE 2019) Q) Are we losing our local identity for the global identity? Discuss. (UPSC CSE 2019) Q) “Though women in post-independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women and the feminist movement has been patriarchal.” Apart from women’s education and women empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu? (UPSC CSE 2021) Q) Explain why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian society. (UPSC CSE 2023)
Mentor’s Comment:
The tragic death of Anna Sebastian Perayil, a 26-year-old chartered accountant, underscores the human cost of a relentless work culture that often glorifies long hours and high productivity, leading to Mental health crises among young professionals.
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that 20% of Indians are expected to experience mental health disorders by the end of the year, with 5.6 crore suffering from depression and 3.8 crore from anxiety disorders
Most of the world’s largest multinationals are American, which shapes their work culture. Western work culture is not just about productivity; it’s deeply rooted in historical and religious contexts.
Today’s editorial addresses the alarming trend of adopting detrimental workplace practices from abroad, particularly from high-pressure environments in developed countries. It highlights the severe implications of such practices on mental health and overall employee well-being.
_
Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The tragic death of a 26-year-old Chartered Accountant has brought attention to the severe pressures faced by employees in high-stress environments.
The Lancet found a 35% increase in mental health disorders in India, reflecting the growing crisis
What are the characteristics of toxic work cultures imported from Western countries?
Historical Insights: After the USSR fell, the U.S. gained significant influence over global affairs, and its economic practices became the standard for success.
The idea of “the American way” (long hours and high productivity/Capitalist perspective) became synonymous with corporate culture, influencing companies worldwide.
Karl Marx pointed out over a century ago, longer working days can lead to higher profits if labor costs are kept low.
German sociologist Max Weber explored that Protestantism changed its attitudes toward work in Northern Europe.
American Influence on Work Culture: The term ‘Multinational Corporations’ is misleading because, despite their global operations, these companies are often closely tied to their home countries.
Max Weber cited American thinker Benjamin Franklin to illustrate this connection, suggesting that the work culture in MNCs is deeply rooted in historical religious values (cultural glorification of hard work) rather than modern management theories.
What is the actual scenario?
• Data from the International Labour Organisation (ILO) shows that while hard work has helped the U.S. economy grow, it doesn’t guarantee the highest living standards. In 2023, the U.S. ranked 12th globally in terms of per capita income, falling behind countries like Austria, Belgium, and Denmark. • The U.S. has improved only slightly compared to Switzerland. Interestingly, workers in most other countries listed worked fewer hours than those in the U.S. This shows that achieving greater wealth while working less is possible.
How does this imported ‘Capitalist perspective’ affect Indian professionals and their work culture?
High-Pressure Work Environment: American companies often expect long hours, leading to stress and burnout among Indian workers. The expectations set by American firms often clash with Indian cultural norms.
Indian work culture traditionally values relationships and teamwork, the imported capitalist model tends to prioritize efficiency and individual performance.
Indian professionals may struggle with the more egalitarian approach of American firms, which encourages open communication.
Hierarchical Structures Vs. Equality: Indian workplaces are typically hierarchical, with a strong emphasis on respect for authority and seniority. In Indian organizations, decision-making is often top-down, whereas American firms favor collaborative approaches.
This difference can make it challenging for Indian professionals to adapt, as they may feel uncomfortable speaking up or challenging their superiors even when encouraged to do so.
Work-Life Balance Challenges: Long hours and blur boundaries like working late or during weekends, make it hard for the employees to relax or find the space between work and personal life.
Rising stress levels contribute to mental health problems, including anxiety and burnout.
Women face additional pressures in balancing work demands with traditional family roles.
What steps can organizations take to mitigate these effects?
Employee Wellbeing Programs: Create wellness initiatives that include flexible work hours, mental health days, and access to counseling. These programs help reduce stress and improve morale.
Promote Work-Life Balance: Encourage flexible schedules and remote work options. This helps employees manage personal and professional commitments, reducing burnout.
Foster Open Communication: Build a culture where employees can discuss their workloads and mental health openly. Regular check-ins can help managers support their teams effectively.
Train Managers: Provide training for managers to be supportive leaders. Good management practices can enhance employee satisfaction and create a positive work environment.
Why this? SC called to address extra-legal demolitions like ‘Bulldozer justice’ at a pan-India level. We have drawn a chronology of SC judgments from 1978 to 2024 so you get comfortable with legal concerns. However, the quick revision table for Legal Principles & Bulldozer violations is the most important takeaway. You can use it for any other form of ‘extra-legal’ justice.
—-
UPSC Syllabus Anchoring:
1. GS1: Indian Society: Communalism, Urbanization, their problems, and remedies.
Note4Students: Understand “Bulldozer Justice” and analyse societal inequalities and communal conflicts in urban contexts. Make value added notes on social challenges and remedies.
Microtheme: Emerging Urban Issues
2. GS2: Polity, Governance, Constitution, and Social Justice: Separation of Powers, Fundamental Rights, Issues related to Poverty and Hunger
Note4Students: Link governance actions to constitutional safeguards, addressing state overreach and rights violations. Strengthen arguments on constitutional rights, governance, and judicial checks.
Microtheme: Local Self-government, Government Schemes and Policies
3. GS3: Economy, Development, Security: Government Policies and Interventions
Note4Students: Enhance your critique of urban developmental interventions and their socio-economic consequences.
4. GS4: Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude: Ethics in Public Administration, Conflict of Interest, Transparency, and Accountability, Case Studies
Note4Students: Build your practical, ethical reasoning in governance-related case studies and dilemmas. Explore ethical dilemmas in public administration, focusing on fairness, accountability, and integrity in governance decisions.
Microtheme: Social influence and persuasion, Attitude for Individuals, Probity in Governance
—-
What is bulldozer justice?
The practice where authorities demolish properties, often bypassing due process and legal procedures. While it is used to curb illegal constructions or encroachments, it raises concerns about constitutional rights, fairness, and the rule of law. The lack of judicial oversight in such actions undermines principles like due process, natural justice, and equal protection under the law.
Critics argue that bulldozer justice disproportionately impacts marginalized communities and violates Article 14 (equality before the law) and Article 21 (right to life and personal liberty) of the Indian Constitution. On the other hand, supporters see it as a swift and effective response to lawlessness and encroachments.
Opinions of Supreme Court:
Maneka Gandhi vs Union of India (1978): SC ruled that executive actions must be fair, just, and reasonable.
Municipal Corporation of Ludhiana vs Inderjit Singh (2008): SC held that no demolition can occur without notice and a hearing to the occupant, even in cases of illegal construction.
Olga Tellis vs Bombay Municipal Corporation (1985): SC stated that eviction without due process violates the right to livelihood under Article 21.
Punjab and Haryana HC on Nuh Demolitions (2023): The HC stopped the demolitions citing lack of due process and concerns of ethnic targeting.
Supreme Court bench comprising Justices Bhushan R Gavai and KV Viswanathan (2024):
Condemned the practice of demolishing properties based solely on accusations or convictions of individuals, stressing the importance of due process and natural justice.
Emphasized that even in cases of unauthorized construction, demolitions must follow proper legal procedures, underscoring the need for fairness and lawful action.
Called for the formulation of nationwide guidelines to ensure uniformity in demolition practices across all states, preventing arbitrary actions by authorities.
Legal Principles violated by Bulldozer Justice:
Legal Principles
Quick Explanation
Violation by Bulldozer Justice
Due Process of Law
Law requires fair treatment and legal procedures before action.
Demolitions without legal procedure.No judicial oversight or recourse.
Right to Property
Individuals have the right to own and protect property under the law.
Properties demolished without notice.No legal backing for actions taken.
Equality Before Law (Article 14)
All individuals must be treated equally by the law.
Marginalized groups targeted.Inconsistent application of law.
Rule of Law
Law must govern the actions of both citizens and authorities.
Arbitrary state actions.Legal frameworks bypassed by local authorities.
Right to Shelter
Every person has the right to adequate housing and protection.
People left homeless.No rehabilitation or alternative shelter provided.
Natural Justice
Fairness in legal processes with an opportunity to be heard.
No fair hearings before demolition.No opportunity to defend or appeal.
Separation of Powers
Clear division between judicial, executive, and legislative powers.
Municipal authorities exceed powers.Judiciary’s role in oversight bypassed.
Proportionality Principle
Government actions must be proportionate to the offense committed.
Collective punishments via demolitions.Excessive response to minor or alleged offenses.
What should be done?
UN Guidelines: The United Nations Basic Principles and Guidelines on Development-based Evictions and Displacement (2019)provide humanitarian directives, yet court rulings have been inconsistent and piecemeal which needs a comprehensive approach.
Exceptional Circumstances: Demolitions should only occur in exceptional cases and must adhere strictly to established legal processes.
Need for Proposed Phased Procedures:
Pre-Demolition Phase: Provide a reasoned notice with details on land records and resettlement plans, allowing adequate time for responses.
During Demolition Phase:Requires the presence of neutral government officials during demolitions.
Rehabilitation Phase: Need to establish a swift mechanism for affected persons to challenge demolition decisions and seek remedies such as compensation and restitution.
Back2Basics
Justice
Justice is the maintenance of what is just and fair. In the modern state, justice implies ensuring and protecting minimum rights and entitlement for all.
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
“A democracy cannot thrive where power remains unchecked and justice is reserved for a select few. Ignoring these cries and failing to respond to this movement is simply not an option — for peace cannot exist where justice is not served.” – John Lewis
Types of Justice:
Hello,
We have a confession: we’re here to compete with your notes! Burning Issues magazine is your go-to resource as your exam approaches, designed to help you through the anxiety and overwhelm of preparing for the Civil Services Examination.
Many aspirants struggle despite reading current affairs for a year. This often happens because they interpret current affairs as merely news. As a UPSC aspirant, it’s essential to analyze these topics from the perspectives of General Studies 1, 2, 3, and 4, and that’s exactly what Elevate does.
This magazine features two sections: Burning Issues and Prelims Tidbits. Burning Issues covers current affairs that may appear in your Mains papers and teaches you how to think about these topics from different GS perspectives in just two pages.
Prelims Tidbits simplifies your Prelims preparation by distilling key facts, data, and concepts into easy-to-recall points framed around basic questions: What? Who? How? When?
So, dive in! Every page is crafted to enhance your UPSC prep. With consistency and this magazine, you’re not just preparing; you’re mastering the exam. The journey is about understanding and applying your knowledge effectively.
The 44th ASEAN Summit in Vientiane highlighted growing regional issues, especially Myanmar’s crisis. Despite ASEAN’s peace efforts, Myanmar’s turmoil persists, testing the group’s commitment to stability.
What are the key challenges facing ASEAN and India in their efforts to stabilize Myanmar?
Lack of Consensus within ASEAN: ASEAN’s principle of consensus-based decision-making complicates strong, unified responses.
Nations like Indonesia and Malaysia advocate for firm action, while others, including Thailand and Laos, maintain closer ties with Myanmar’s military government, slowing decisive actions.
Failure of the Five-Point Consensus: Despite ASEAN’s efforts to enforce the 2021 Five-Point Consensus, which mandates an end to violence and inclusive dialogue, Myanmar’s military has shown little interest in cooperating, undermining ASEAN’s credibility.
Exclusion of Key Groups: ASEAN’s initiatives mainly engage the junta without including the National Unity Government (NUG) or Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs), limiting the inclusiveness and effectiveness of peace efforts.
Worsening Humanitarian Crisis: Myanmar’s civil war has led to massive displacement and humanitarian needs, with over 18.6 million people requiring aid.
This poses logistical and diplomatic challenges for ASEAN and complicates India’s border security and refugee policies.
Balancing Regional and Security Concerns for India: India faces a dilemma balancing its Act East Policy objectives and the need for stability on its Myanmar border.
Issues such as cross-border militancy, illegal activities, and the refugee crisis strain India’s relations with the junta and impact regional connectivity projects.
How can Inclusive dialogue be achieved among all stakeholders in Myanmar?
ASEAN must involve non-state actors like the NUG, EAOs, and the People’s Defense Forces (PDFs) in dialogue efforts to ensure all key groups have a stake in Myanmar’s peace process.
Thailand’s recent ‘Troika’ proposal to host talks with ASEAN chairs (current, past, and future) and possibly other stakeholders indicates a potential pathway for more flexible discussions, albeit with the need for junta cooperation and broader participant involvement.
Establishing humanitarian corridors that operate beyond junta-controlled areas, with the cooperation of EAOs, could lay the groundwork for inclusive engagement and build trust among conflicting parties.
What role does India’s Foreign Policy play in addressing the Myanmar crisis? (Way forward)
Strategic Engagement and Regional Connectivity: Under its Act East Policy, India invests in key infrastructure projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, linking Myanmar and ASEAN.
Balanced Relations with Junta and Democracy Advocates: Need to principles of non-interference, India maintains ties with Myanmar’s military and democratic groups, addressing security needs while ethically supporting democratic aspirations.
As per Gujral Doctrine: India should engage constructively with Myanmar, respecting its sovereignty, promoting regional connectivity, and fostering dialogue among all stakeholders to enhance stability and mutual prosperity.
Mains PYQ:
Q Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post-Cold War international scenario. (UPSC IAS/2016)
The Centre has hinted that the delayed Census might begin next year and finish by 2026, which would play a key role in redrawing constituencies and starting women’s reservations in elected bodies.
What are the implications of the Women’s Reservation Bill for women’s political representation in India?
Increased Representation: The bill, once implemented, will reserve 33% of seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies for women, marking a significant increase in women’s representation and fostering a more inclusive legislative environment.
Long-Term Social Change: With more women in legislative positions, issues relevant to women’s rights, safety, and empowerment could receive greater legislative focus, driving long-term societal shifts toward gender equality.
Gradual Integration: By mandating women’s reservation for 15 years post-implementation, the bill allows time for systemic integration of women into Indian politics, potentially encouraging more women to enter politics.
Key features of the Women’s Reservation Bill:
Reservation of Seats: The bill reserves one-third of all seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women, including those seats already reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
Implementation Timeline: The reservation will come into effect after the next census is conducted and published, which has not yet been scheduled. The law is set to remain in place for 15 years, with provisions for extension.
Rotating Constituencies: Reserved seats will be rotated after each delimitation exercise to ensure fair representation across different regions.
How does the delimitation process affect the implementation of the Women’s Reservation Bill?
Dependency on Delimitation: The reservation will only be implemented following a census-based delimitation exercise, making the timeline for reservation contingent on the next Census, expected to conclude in 2026.
Thus, the reservation may only be actionable around the 2029 general elections.
Impact on Seat Allocation: The delimitation exercise will likely increase the total seats in the Lok Sabha, which could make implementing the 33% reservation less disruptive.
For example, if Lok Sabha seats rise to around 770, this will allow for a more balanced accommodation of both male and female representatives without substantial loss of seats for male incumbents.
Challenges and Criticisms Surrounding the Women’s Reservation Bill and Its Implementation:
Delay in Implementation: As the reservation is contingent on delimitation, the immediate impact of the bill remains deferred.
Critics argue that the reservation could be enacted sooner if it did not depend on the Census and delimitation.
Intra-Party Resistance: Male incumbents might resist the bill due to concerns over losing their seats, and political parties might face difficulties balancing this resistance with the need for compliance, despite an increase in overall seats.
Exclusion of Other Marginalized Women: The bill lacks sub-quotas for women from marginalized communities, such as SC/ST/OBCs, sparking criticism that it may predominantly benefit women from privileged backgrounds rather than addressing the political representation gap for all women.
Dependence on Census Accuracy: Any delays or inaccuracies in Census data could delay the bill’s impact or result in skewed representation due to reliance on outdated demographic data.
Way forward:
Expedite Delimitation and Census: Streamline Census and delimitation processes to ensure timely data collection and boundary adjustments, enabling earlier implementation of the reservation without prolonged delays.
Include Sub-Quotas for Marginalized Women: Introduce provisions for SC/ST/OBC sub-quotas within the reservation to ensure fair representation of women from diverse social backgrounds, addressing inclusivity concerns in political representation.
Mains PYQ:
Q “The reservation of seats for women in the institutions of local self-government has had a limited impact on the patriarchal character of the Indian Political Process.” Comment. (UPSC IAS/2019)
In her book “Democracy on Trial: Majoritarianism and Dissent in India”, Zoya Hasan points out that, though India’s democracy is strong in elections, it has struggled with fairness and freedoms due to growing majoritarianism since 2014.
What factors contribute to the erosion of civil liberties in India?
Majoritarian Politics: Since a decade ago, India’s democracy has seen a shift toward majoritarianism, with the rights of minorities, particularly Muslims, facing marginalization.
This tilt toward majoritarian views fosters unequal treatment, weakening the universal protection of civil liberties and undermining the democratic principles of inclusion and equality.
Compromised Media Landscape: Traditionally, media acted as a watchdog on power, but now it frequently functions as a government advocate.
This shift has narrowed public discourse on civil rights and accountability, reducing the media’s role in preserving civil liberties.
Legislation Targeting Minorities: Laws such as the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) are seen as religiously discriminatory, especially when considered with the National Register of Citizens (NRC).
Such laws challenge the Constitution’s guarantee of equal rights for all citizens, placing undue pressure on certain communities and further eroding civil liberties.
Role of Political Institutions in Undermining Democracy:
Judicial Autonomy and its Challenges: While the judiciary has traditionally been a pillar of democracy, recent trends indicate compromised judicial independence.
There are instances where courts appear reluctant to challenge the executive because political pressure may be impacting judicial autonomy, thereby diminishing an essential check on power.
Media’s Decline as a Check on Power: Media independence has weakened as corporate and political influences have taken root, limiting its role in holding power to account.
Legislative and Executive Power Dynamics: The increasing concentration of power within the executive, combined with a legislative body that often aligns with the ruling agenda, limits checks and balances.
Impact of Political Polarization on Democratic Processes:
Divisive Identity Politics: Identity-based polarization is intensifying, with significant events such as the Ayodhya dispute and the Shaheen Bagh protests illustrating how political narratives can frame majority identities against minority rights.
Silencing of Dissent: Governmental responses to protests, like those against the CAA, often include the use of force, indicating reduced tolerance for opposition.
Steps taken by the Election Commission of India:
Voter Education and Awareness Campaigns: The ECI has launched extensive voter education campaigns to promote awareness about the electoral process, emphasizing the importance of informed voting.
Monitoring and Regulation of Political Parties: The ECI has increased scrutiny over political parties’ funding and activities to ensure transparency.
Strengthening Electoral Laws: Recent amendments to electoral laws have been made to enhance the integrity of elections.
Use of Technology: The ECI has implemented technology-driven solutions such as Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) to ensure transparency and reliability in the voting process.
Way forward:
Strengthening Institutional Independence: Reinforce the autonomy of key institutions like the judiciary, media, and law enforcement through stricter legal safeguards and transparent appointment processes.
Promoting Inclusive and Balanced Governance: Establish mechanisms to ensure equal representation and protection for all communities, addressing grievances through impartial review processes. Implementing inclusive governance policies can help counter majoritarian biases and foster a more cohesive democratic environment.
Mains PYQ:
Q To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful? (UPSC IAS/2017)
Four replicas of the Konark wheels, made of sandstone, have been installed at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre and Amrit Udyan.
About Konark Wheels
Details
Design
The temple is designed in the shape of a huge chariot drawn by 7 horses and features 24 wheels.
Dimensions of Wheels
Each wheel has a diameter of 9 feet 9 inches with 8 wider spokes and 8 thinner spokes.
Symbolism of Wheels
The wheels represent various time-related aspects:
• 7 horses symbolize the days of the week.
• 12 pairs of wheels signify 12 months.
• 24 wheels represent 24 hours in a day.
• 8 spokes symbolize prahars (three-hour periods).
Architectural Features
• The wheels are intricately carved, showcasing designs of foliage, animals, and figures of women in various poses.
• Rims of the wheels have decorative carvings.
Sun Dial Functionality
Two of the wheels function as a sundial, accurately indicating time from sunrise to sunset using the shadow cast by the axel.
Modern Representation
Featured in Indian currency, specifically in the old Rs. 20 and new Rs. 10 notes, representing Odisha’s rich cultural heritage.
Rs. 10 note released by the RBI on January 5, 2018, features the Konark Wheel on its reverse side.
Its significance
The Konark Wheel, serving as an ancient sundial, symbolizes the advanced understanding of timekeeping and astronomy in 13th-century India.
Its intricate carvings reflect exceptional craftsmanship and cultural significance, embodying the cycle of life and the worship of Surya, the Sun God.
Its depiction on Indian currency highlights its enduring legacy and significance in promoting national identity and tourism in Odisha.
Back2Basics: Konark Sun Temple
Approximately 64 km from Bhubaneswar.
Built in the 13th century (around 1250 CE) during the reign of King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
Dedicated to Surya, the Sun God.
Exemplifies Kalinga architecture, known for its intricate stone carvings and elaborate sculptures.
Constructed from Khondalite stone, which is durable and intricately carved.
Designed as a chariot with 7 horses and 24 wheels.
Structure originally included a sanctum (deul) and a jagamohan(assembly hall) that have largely collapsed but were once adorned with exquisite carvings.
PYQ:
[2017] Which of the following is/are famous for Sun temples?
1. Arasavalli
2. Amarakantak
3. Omkareshwar
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
