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  • UPSC Optional Subjects List for IAS

    When you’re preparing for UPSC, optional subjects are a great way to maximise scoring. While there are seven papers in the UPSC mains, the last two papers are dedicated to UPSC optional subjects. You can choose from 48 optional subjects, based on what can fetch a maximum score for you. Irrespective of your education background, there’s flexibility in selecting one optional subject. However, you must not do so with whom, but with careful consideration. Let’s discover the list of UPSC optional subjects in the following discussion.

    UPSC Mains Exam: At a Glance

    UPSC mains exam consists of seven papers in total. Papers VI & VII are dedicated to exams on a chosen optional subject. They carry 500 marks out of 1750 in the UPSC mains.

    UPSC Mains Exam Pattern

    PaperTypeMarks
    Paper AIndian Language300
    Paper BEnglish300
    Paper IEssay250
    Paper IIGS 1250
    Paper IIIGS 2250
    Paper IVGS 3250
    Paper VGS 4250
    Paper VI & VIIOptional Subject500
    Total1750

    UPSC Optional Subject List 2024

    1. Agriculture
    2. Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science
    3. Anthropology
    4. Botany
    5. Chemistry
    6. Civil Engineering
    7. Commerce and Accountancy
    8. Economics
    9. Electrical Engineering
    10. Geography
    11. Geology
    12. History
    13. Law
    14. Management
    15. Mathematics
    16. Mechanical Engineering
    17. Medical Science
    18. Philosophy
    19. Physics
    20. Political Science and International Relations
    21. Psychology
    22. Public Administration
    23. Sociology
    24. Statistics
    25. Zoology

    UPSC Optional Subjects Literature

    In addition to the 25 UPSC optional subjects given above, you can choose a literature subject from any of the languages below as optional. All of them are Indian languages except English:

    Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Dogri, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Maithili, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Oriya, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Santali, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu, and English.

    Significance of UPSC CSE Optional Subjects

    • When you look at UPSC mains scores of two-three years, the average score of GS mains toppers is only 475-525 out of 1000. 
    • But the toppers of UPSC optional subjects have scored 350-370 out of 500–more than 70% of marks.

    So, taking advantage of UPSC optional subjects is the only way to secure a high score in UPSC. It also indicates the toughness of the exam, where the optional subject comes to your rescue towards success.

    • Choosing the wrong Civils optional subject can make a big difference in clearing UPSC Mains. While GS Mains scores for serious candidates may differ by 10-15 marks, the gap in optional subject scores can be as much as 40-60 marks.
    • UPSC doesn’t use scaling for optional subjects, unlike State PSC Exams. Instead, UPSC uses moderation, where marks are reviewed and adjusted by the chief examiner if needed.

    Most Preferred UPSC Optional List

    Though there are 48 subjects to choose from, UPSC allows only for choice for each candidate. So, it becomes crucial to pick the best one. In that connection, given below are the most chosen ones.

    • Geography: Covers physical, human, and environmental geography. Links well with General Studies papers.
    • History: Focuses on Indian and world history. You need to understand historical events and timelines.
    • Public Administration: Suitable if you’re interested in governance and government systems. Related to General Studies.
    • Sociology: Studies society and its issues and helps understand social problems.
    • Political Science and International Relations: For those into politics and world affairs.
    • Literature (English, Hindi, etc.) for literature lovers.
    • Anthropology: Studies human societies, cultures, and evolution.
    • Psychology: Focuses on human behaviour and mental processes. Covers personality and learning.

    Best Optional Subjects in Civils 2019 as per Success Rates

    Given below is the information related to the success rate of various UPSC optional subjects in 2019. It provides a clue into how you can maximise your Civils score.

    UPSC Optional SubjectsNo. of Candidates AppearedNo. of Candidates RecommendedSuccess Rate in Percentage
    Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science16318.80%
    Management54611.10%
    Commerce & Accountancy1832010.90%
    Economics2432610.70%
    Agriculture1241310.50%
    Medical Science2472610.50%
    Civil Engineering1461510.30%
    Law1861910.20%
    Sociology126312610.00%
    Anthropology11891089.10%
    Zoology4449.10%
    Psychology164159.10%
    Chemistry156138.30%
    Mathematics539458.30%
    Public Administration705588.20%
    Political Science & International Relations16621378.20%
    Electrical Engineering200168.00%
    Physics165127.30%
    Botany2827.10%
    History751516.80%
    Philosophy439276.20%
    Mechanical Engineering213125.60%
    Geography19161055.50%
    Geology3000.00%
    Statistics200.00%

    Choosing the Right UPSC Optional Paper

    As might seem, choosing UPSC optional subjects should not be guided by whim, but with thought and deliberation. UPSC optional subjects are an opportunity if you already have expertise in one of those subjects. By selecting such a subject, you can maximise your score with little effort, given the vast syllabus of UPSC. So, evaluate the below factors before selecting one of the UPSC optional subjects.

    • Assess your academic background and choose a subject you’ve studied extensively.
    • Consider your interests and select a topic you genuinely enjoy learning about.
    • Evaluate syllabus overlap with General Studies to maximise preparation efficiency.
    • Check past years’ question papers to understand the exam pattern and type of questions asked.
    • Analyse scoring trends to gauge which subjects consistently yield high marks.
    • Review available study resources to ensure adequate material for thorough preparation.
    • Consult successful candidates for guidance on their selection of UPSC optional subjects.

    Conclusion

    UPSC optional subjects carry huge weightage and potential in helping aspirants gain maximum marks in the exam. So, paying attention and doing enough research is important before going to choose one. Making the right and strategic choice can put you ahead of the competition very easily.

    FAQs

    What is an optional subject in UPSC?

    UPSC mains consists of seven papers for a total of 1750 marks. While the first five papers are about General studies, the choice of subject in the last two papers (VI & VII) is left to candidates. It is known as the optional subject in UPSC. Choosing the best optional can make a huge difference to the final score.

    How many optional subjects are there in UPSC?

    As per the official notification of 2025, there are 48 UPSC optional subjects to choose from.

    What are the 26 optional subjects in UPSC?

    The 26 optional subjects are Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Anthropology, Botany, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Commerce and Accountancy, Economics, Electrical Engineering, Geography, Geology, History, Law, Management, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Medical Science, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science and International Relations, Psychology, Public Administration, Sociology, Statistics, Zoology.

    Can I choose a UPSC optional subject different from my education background?

    Yes, you can choose a UPSC optional subject different from your educational background. The selection should be based on your interests, strengths, and the subject’s potential to score well.

  • [24th September 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Weighing in on business as usual with China

    [24th September 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Weighing in on business as usual with China

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q)  “The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.” Explain. (UPSC CSE 2021)

    Q) Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times Discuss. (UPSC CSE 2020)

    Q) The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is viewed as a cardinal subset of China’s larger ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative. Give a brief description of CPEC and enumerate the reasons why India has distanced itself from the same. (UPSC CSE 2018)

    Mentor’s Comment:  The Galwan Valley clash in June 2020 marked a significant deterioration in India-China relations, leading to profound shifts in the geopolitical and strategic calculus of both nations. The confrontation, which resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers and at least 4 Chinese soldiers, was the deadliest since the 1962 India-China war.

    The future of economic cooperation between India and China will largely depend on how both nations navigate their geopolitical tensions and mutual dependencies. While there are opportunities for collaboration through investment and trade, significant barriers remain due to unresolved border disputes and India’s strategic shift towards self-reliance. As both countries reassess their positions in a rapidly changing global landscape, their economic relationship will likely continue to be characterized by cautious engagement rather than robust cooperation.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    On September 12, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar noted that approximately 75% of disengagement issues along the border have been resolved, yet emphasized the ongoing challenge of militarization at the border.

    • Further, during the BRICS NSA meeting in St. Petersburg, both sides agreed to expedite efforts for complete disengagement in the remaining areas.

    What are the implications of China’s border policies on India-China relations?

    • Escalation of Tensions: China’s aggressive border policies, particularly since the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, have led to heightened militarization along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), creating an environment of distrust and hostility between the two nations.
    • Strategic Reassessment: The violent confrontations have prompted India to reassess its approach towards China, moving from a stance of cautious engagement to one of strategic vigilance and preparedness for potential conflict. This includes a call for greater military readiness and strengthening alliances, such as with the Quad.
    • Impact on Bilateral Relations: Chinese attempts to compartmentalize the border dispute from broader bilateral ties are increasingly seen as untenable by India.
      • The Indian government insists that progress in overall relations is contingent upon resolving border issues.
    • Domestic Sentiment and Policy Changes: The public’s perception of China has deteriorated sharply following military confrontations, leading to calls for boycotting Chinese products and a general hardening of attitudes towards Beijing.
      • This shift in sentiment is influencing India’s foreign policy, pushing for a more adversarial stance.
    • Geopolitical Dynamics: China’s assertive policies in South Asia, including its close ties with Pakistan and investment initiatives through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), have intensified competition with India for regional influence.
      • This rivalry complicates diplomatic efforts and fosters a security dilemma.
    What role does the QUAD play in India’s new military strategy?

    • Counterbalancing China: The Quad is a platform for India to collaborate with the United States, Japan, and Australia to counter China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific. This alignment helps India enhance its military capabilities and strategic posture against potential threats from China.
    • Enhanced Defense Cooperation: Quad Group has facilitated joint military exercises, like Malabar naval exercises, which strengthen interoperability, enhancing India’s naval capabilities and readiness to respond to regional threats.Participation in the Quad allows India to extend beyond military cooperation to global challenges such as climate change and public health.
    • Capacity Building and Strategic Autonomy: India leverages the Quad to build its defense capabilities through technology sharing and joint initiatives focused on maritime security, cyber defense, and humanitarian assistance.India seeks to maintain its strategic autonomy by not fully aligning itself with U.S. This approach allows India to navigate its complex relationships with both China and other regional players without compromising its interests.
    • Economic Opportunities: The Quad enhances India’s attractiveness as an investment destination, particularly post-COVID-19, by promoting economic cooperation among member states. For Example, vaccine distribution highlights India’s role as a leader in regional health security.

    How should India respond to China’s demands for normalization of relations?

    • Conditional Normalization: India should continue to insist on restoring the status quo ante along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) as a prerequisite for any significant diplomatic engagement with China.
    • Diplomatic Engagement: India should engage in diplomatic discussions with China at various levels, including military-to-military talks and high-level political exchanges, to address mutual concerns and build confidence.
    • Balanced Approach to FDI: While maintaining security concerns, India could selectively ease restrictions on Chinese Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) that align with its economic interests. This approach could facilitate economic ties while ensuring that strategic sectors remain protected.
    • Strengthening Alliances: India should enhance collective security through QUAD and counterbalance China’s regional influence. This multilateral approach can give India greater leverage in its dealings with China.

    What is the future of economic cooperation given the current geopolitical climate? (Way Forward)

    • The future of economic cooperation will largely depend on how both nations navigate their geopolitical tensions and mutual dependencies.
    • The “China plus one” strategy presents significant opportunities for India’s economic growth, particularly as global companies seek to diversify their supply chains away from China.
    • According to a Nomura report, India’s exports could nearly double from $431 billion in 2023 to $835 billion by 2030, driven by demand from firms relocating to India as they seek alternatives to China. 

    While there are opportunities for collaboration through investment and trade, significant barriers remain due to unresolved border disputes and India’s strategic shift towards self-reliance.

  • NBFC sector resilient under scale-based regulations framework: RBI bulletin

    Why in the News?

    During the transition to the Scale-Based Regulation (SBR) framework, the NBFC sector experienced double-digit credit growth, maintained adequate capital levels, and saw a reduction in delinquency ratios.

    What is Scale-Based Regulation (SBR)?

    • The SBR framework was first outlined in October 2021 and became effective on October 1, 2022.
    • It aims to categorize NBFCs based on their size, activities, and perceived riskiness rather than merely distinguishing between systemically important and non-systemically important entities.

    What are the key points presented by RBI on the resilience of the NBFC sector?

    • Improvement in Asset Quality: Since the introduction of the Scale-Based Regulation (SBR) framework in October 2022, the asset quality of NBFCs has improved, with lower gross non-performing asset (GNPA) ratios.
      • By December 2023, GNPA ratios had decreased to 2.4% for government-owned NBFCs and 6.3% for non-government NBFCs, reflecting enhanced risk management.
    • Double-Digit Credit Growth: The NBFC sector maintained strong credit growth throughout 2023, driven by a diversified funding base, including retail credit (gold loans, vehicle loans, and housing loans) and expanding into industrial and service sectors.
    • Improved Profitability: The sector witnessed a rise in profitability, as evidenced by better returns on assets (RoA) and equity (RoE).
    • Net NPA (NNPA) Performance: Upper layer NBFCs had lower GNPA ratios than middle layer NBFCs, but the latter maintained sufficient provisions for riskier portfolios, ensuring that their NNPA ratios were also controlled.
    • Compliance with SBR: Major NBFCs in the “Upper Layer” identified by the RBI under the SBR framework, such as LIC Housing Finance, Bajaj Finance, and L&T Finance, have complied or initiated steps to comply with listing requirements.

    Regulatory measures  taken up by the NBFC sector 

    • Scale-Based Regulation (SBR) Framework: Introduced in October 2022, the SBR framework categorizes NBFCs into different layers based on their size, systemic importance, and risk profile. For instance, strengthen asset quality, capital requirements, and risk management.
    • Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) Norms: Effective from October 2024, PCA norms will apply to government-owned NBFCs. These measures aim to enhance financial discipline, focusing on capital adequacy and asset quality.
    • Diversification of Funding Sources: Due to rising risk weights on bank lending, NBFCs have diversified their funding base by reducing dependence on bank borrowings and expanding into secured retail credit.
    • Listing Compliance: Many NBFCs in the upper layer have complied or are in the process of complying with listing requirements as part of regulatory mandates.

    What are the emerging risks that NBFCs need to cater? (Way forward) 

    • Cybersecurity Risks: With the increasing use of digital platforms, NBFCs need to enhance cybersecurity measures to safeguard against evolving cyber threats.
    • Climate Risk: The financial impact of climate change poses a new risk. NBFCs must integrate climate-related risks into their risk management frameworks to mitigate potential disruptions.
    • Financial Assurance Functions: The RBI emphasizes that assurance functions like risk management, compliance, and internal audit are critical in maintaining resilience in the face of rapid changes in the financial landscape.
    • Evolving Regulatory Environment: As the financial sector continues to evolve, NBFCs must stay ahead of regulatory changes and ensure that their risk management practices are aligned with emerging threats and new regulations.

  • Why Ambedkar and Gandhi disagreed on question of separate electorates for SC’s?

    Why in the News?

    On September 20, 1932, Mahatma Gandhi began a fast unto death in Yerawada Jail, Pune, to protest against the provision of separate electorates for Scheduled Castes.

    Gandhi vs Ambedkar on Caste

    • Gandhi’s Views on Caste: Initially orthodox, Gandhi supported social prohibitions like restrictions on inter-dining and inter-marriage but later rejected untouchability, referring to untouchables as “Harijans.” However, he did not reject the institution of caste itself, as it was tied to Hindu religious practices.
    • Ambedkar’s Radical Approach: Ambedkar believed that to truly abolish caste, one needed to attack the divine authority of the Hindu scriptures (shastras) that justified it. He argued that reforms short of rejecting the religious basis of caste were insufficient.
      • Ambedkar’s strategy was to focus on lower castes achieving political power to challenge their subjugation within the Hindu social order.

    Ambedkar’s Argument for Separate Electorates

    • Distinct Identity of Depressed Classes: Ambedkar argued that the Depressed Classes (Scheduled Castes) formed a distinct group, separate from the Hindus. Despite being part of Hindu society, they did not enjoy equal treatment and were subject to systemic oppression.
    • Political Machinery for Representation: Ambedkar advocated for separate electorates with a double vote system, where Scheduled Castes would vote for their own candidates as well as in the general electorate.
    • Protection from Majority Rule: Ambedkar warned that joint electorates would allow the Hindu majority to control the election of Dalit representatives, making it impossible for lower castes to effectively protect their interests against the tyranny of the majority.

    Why Gandhi Opposed Separate Electorates

    • Integration of Lower Castes: Gandhi opposed separate electorates because he believed they would marginalize lower castes further.
      • Instead of being restricted to a limited share of seats, Gandhi thought lower castes should aim for broader participation in political leadership.
    • Fear of Dividing Hindu Society: Gandhi feared that separate electorates would divide Hindu society, further weakening it.
      • He believed this division would help the British continue their “divide and rule” policy, undermining India’s struggle for independence.
    • Strategic Concerns: The introduction of separate electorates for Scheduled Castes, in addition to those for Muslims, would fragment the Hindu political base, reducing the power and influence of upper-caste Hindu leadership.

    Culmination of the Debate: The Poona Pact

    • Gandhi’s Fast: In 1932, Gandhi went on a fast unto death to oppose separate electorates, pressuring Ambedkar to concede. Ambedkar, despite his misgivings, agreed to the Poona Pact, which provided for reserved seats for Scheduled Castes but within a joint electorate.
    • Ambedkar’s Dissatisfaction: Ambedkar was never fully satisfied with the outcome, believing the joint electorate allowed upper-caste Hindus to nominate Dalit representatives, effectively controlling their political voice.

    Conclusion: The Gandhi-Ambedkar debate on caste culminated in the Poona Pact, with Gandhi opposing separate electorates to maintain Hindu unity, while Ambedkar sought political power for lower castes. Though Ambedkar agreed, he remained dissatisfied with the compromise.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B R Ambedkar, despite having divergent approaches and strategies, had a common goal of amelioration of the downtrodden. Elucidate. (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • How Supreme Court strengthened child pornography law?

    Why in the News?

    In a recent ruling, the Supreme Court has tightened child pornography laws, declaring that viewing, possessing, or failing to report such content is punishable under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, regardless of whether the material is shared or transmitted.

    What is the law in question?

    • The Supreme Court expanded the interpretation of Section 15 of the POCSO Act, which deals with “Punishment for storage of pornographic material involving child”.
    • In 2019, the POCSO Act was amended to introduce three connected offences under Sections 15(1), (2) and (3) with increasing grades of punishment:
      1. Any person, who stores or possesses pornographic material involving a child, but fails to delete, destroy or report the same to the designated authority with an intention to share or transmit child pornography.
      2. Any person, who stores or possesses such material for transmitting, propagating, displaying or distributing in any manner at any time except for reporting or use as evidence in court.
      3. Any person, who stores or possesses such material for commercial purpose.
    • The court refers to these as “inchoate” offences – offences in anticipation or preparation for committing a further criminal act.

    About the Case and SC’s Verdict

    • Case Background: The Supreme Court was dealing with a case where the Madras High Court had quashed criminal proceedings against a man who had downloaded child pornography but did not share it.
      • The High Court had limited its ruling to Section 14 of POCSO (using children for pornography) and excluded Section 15 (punishing possession) since no evidence of sharing existed.
    • Supreme Court’s Verdict:
      • The SC overturned the Madras High Court’s ruling, expanding the definition of “possession” of child pornography to include “constructive possession”, even without physical storage of the material.
      • Viewing, controlling, or exercising knowledge over such material (e.g., watching without downloading) was deemed sufficient for possession.
      • The SC stressed that even failing to delete or report such content implies intent to share and is punishable under Section 15(1).
      • Even if the accused does not have the material at the time of filing the FIR, they can still be held accountable if they had possessed it “at any point”.

    How will such cases be registered?

    • Determination of Intention: The court held that the intention (mens rea) of the accused will be determined based on the circumstances, such as how the material was stored or possessed and why it was not reported or destroyed.
      • Actions like storing, not deleting, or failing to report child pornography can be used as evidence of intent to share or distribute.
    • Role of Police: The police must not limit their investigation to only one sub-section of Section 15. Even if a specific offence isn’t made out, the police should explore the possibility of other violations under different sub-sections.
    • Reporting Obligation: The court emphasized the mandatory reporting of child pornography, with penalties for failing to report starting from a fine of Rs. 5,000 and increasing for repeat offences.Failure to report, even after merely viewing child pornographic material, can result in legal consequences.

    Conclusion: The Supreme Court’s ruling on the POCSO Act broadened the definition of possession, emphasizing that failure to delete or report child pornography constitutes intent to share, with strict penalties for non-compliance, underscoring the obligation to report such content.

  • How Starlink satellites are ‘blinding’ astronomers?

    Why in the News?

    Starlink satellites, operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, are causing issues for astronomers by disrupting both optical and radio astronomy due to unintended electromagnetic radiation (UEMR).

    What is a Starlink Satellite?

    • Starlink satellites are part of a network created by Elon Musk’s SpaceX to provide high-speed internet to remote areas around the world.
    • The network, known as a satellite constellation, currently includes more than 6,300 satellites orbiting Earth at around 550 km altitude.
    • These satellites aim to offer internet connectivity to places that would otherwise lack access, especially in rural or underserved regions.

    Why Radio Astronomy matters?

    • Radio astronomy is a branch of astronomy that studies celestial objects using radio frequencies instead of visible light.
    • Radio telescopes detect radio waves, which are longer than light waves, emitted by objects in space such as stars, galaxies, and even black holes.
    • Radio astronomy is important because it helps scientists study the universe beyond what can be seen with optical telescopes.
    • Radio noise from sources like satellites can interfere with these observations, making it difficult for astronomers to collect data, similar to how bright lights can obscure faint stars.

    What Starlink does to Space Communications?

    • Starlink satellites are designed to improve global internet access, especially in hard-to-reach places, by transmitting signals from space.
    • However, these satellites also emit unintended electromagnetic radiation (UEMR), which causes radio noise that disrupts radio astronomy observations.
    • The situation may worsen as more satellites are launched — some estimates suggest 100,000 satellites could be orbiting Earth by 2030.
    • There are currently no regulations controlling how much radio pollution these satellites can emit, making it harder for astronomers to mitigate the impact on their work.

    PYQ:

    [2011] A layer in the Earth s atmosphere called Ionosphere facilitates radio communication. Why?

    1. The presence of ozone causes the reflection of radio waves to Earth.

    2. Radio waves have a very long wavelength.

    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

  • Who was Mary Poonen Lukose?

    Why in the News?

    100 years ago, on September 23, 1924, Mary Poonen Lukose became the first woman to join a legislative council in an Indian princely state, entering the Travancore Legislative Council.

    Who Was Mary Poonen Lukose?

    • Born on August 2, 1886, in Kerala, she became the first woman from the state to earn a medical degree, specialising in gynaecology and obstetrics.
    • Her contributions:
      • She performed the first cesarean section in Kerala before 1920, often working under challenging conditions with minimal equipment.
      • She started a midwifery training program for local women, which led to safer home births, reducing risks for mothers and babies.
      • As a member of the Travancore Legislative Council, she influenced public health policy, using her expertise to benefit the community.

    Records set by Mary Poonen Lukose

    • First woman legislator in an Indian princely state: In 1924, she became the first woman member of the Travancore Legislative Council (a predecessor to Kerala’s Legislative Assembly).
    • First woman graduate from Madras University in 1909, despite facing barriers to studying science as a woman.
    • First woman Surgeon General of Travancore, and possibly the first woman Surgeon General in the world, in 1938.
      • First woman to head the health department in Travancore, in 1924.
    • Awarded the Padma Shri in 1975 for her contributions.

    PYQ:

    [2013] Defying the barriers of age, gender and religion, the Indian women became the torch bearer during the struggle for freedom in India. Discuss. (10 marks-200 words).

    [2011] With reference to Indian freedom struggle, Usha Mehta is well-known for

    (a) Running the secret Congress Radio in the wake of Quit India Movement
    (b) Participating in the Second Round Table Conference
    (c) Leading a contingent of Indian National Army
    (d) Assisting in the formation of Interim Government under Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru

  • Section 107 of the BNSS

    Why in the News?

    About Section 107 of the BNSS

    • Section 107 of the BNSS, 2023 pertains to the attachment and forfeiture of property categorized as “proceeds of crime.”
    • It grants the court the authority to attach property at the request of a police officer during an ongoing investigation.
      • The request must be approved by a Superintendent or Commissioner of Police.
    • This section gives the court unbridled powers to attach any property believed to be derived from criminal activities and, under specific conditions, to forfeit it to the government.
    • There is no requirement for the police officer to wait until the completion of the investigation (unlike earlier laws).
      • Property can be attached during the investigation.
    • It differs from the PMLA, 2002, in that there are no preconditions like documenting the reasons for believing the property is a result of criminal activity.
    • After attachment, if the court finds the property to be proceeds of crime, it can direct the District Magistrate to distribute the proceeds to the affected persons within 60 days.
      • If no claimants are identified, the proceeds are forfeited to the government.
    • There is a requirement for issuing a show-cause notice within 14 days for the property attachment, and the court can pass an ex parte order if no representation is made.

    Its significance

    • Empowers Law Enforcement: It allows attachment of property during investigations, preventing criminals from hiding or transferring assets.
    • Faster Relief for Victims: It enables quick distribution of proceeds of crime to affected persons even before the trial concludes.
    • Stronger Deterrence: It acts as a deterrent by allowing the forfeiture of criminally acquired assets, impacting offenders financially.
    • State-Level Enforcement: It empowers State governments to manage proceeds of crime, providing more localized control.

    PYQ:

    [2021] Discuss how emerging technologies and globalisation contribute to money laundering. Elaborate measures to tackle the problem of money laundering both at national and international levels.

  • Massive Greenland Landslide

    Why in the News?

    • In September 2023, seismic stations across the world detected an unusual signal which persisted for 9 days.
      • It was caused by a massive landslide in Greenland’s Dickson Fjord (i.e narrow sea inlet with steep sides or cliffs, created by a glacier).

    About the Massive Greenland Landslide

    • The landslide involved a colossal volume of 25 million cubic metres of rock and ice, equivalent to filling 10,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
    • The landslide involved 25 million cubic meters of rock and ice, which is enough to fill 10,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
    • This event caused a mega-tsunami with waves as high as 200 meters, which significantly impacted the area.
    • The seismic waves created by the landslide lasted for 9 consecutive days.
    • The loss of such a large amount of glacier ice highlights how global warming is speeding up damage to these fragile environments.

    Causes of the Greenland Landslide

    • The main reason for the landslide was global warming, which caused the glaciers in Greenland to melt and shrink over recent decades.
      • The Hvide Stovhorn peak glacier had been holding up the mountain slopes, but as it thinned, the rock above it became unstable and eventually collapsed.
    • The permafrost (frozen ground) on the mountain’s steep slopes started melting because of rising temperatures, making the slopes unstable.
    • When the rocks and ice fell into the fjord, it triggered a submarine landslide (a landslide under water), which made the event even bigger and caused a mega-tsunami.

    Back2Basics: Seismic Waves

    Type  Sub-Type Wave Characteristics Speed Medium of Travel Movement Impact
    Body Waves P-Waves (Primary Waves) • Longitudinal/compressional waves.
    • Fastest seismic waves.    		 Fastest (First to arrive) Solids and liquids Particles move back and forth in the direction of wave travel. First waves to be detected during an earthquake, cause less damage.
    S-Waves (Secondary Waves) • Transverse/shear waves.
    • Slower than P-waves.    		 Slower than P-Waves Solids only Particles move perpendicular to the wave’s direction. Follow P-waves, more ground shaking, cause more damage than P-waves.
    Surface Waves Love Waves • Transverse horizontal motion.
    • Faster than Rayleigh waves.    		 Slower than S-Waves Earth’s surface Particles move side to side, horizontally. Cause significant structural damage.
    Rayleigh Waves • Rolling motion.
    • Slowest seismic waves.    		 Slowest of all seismic waves Earth’s surface Particles move in an elliptical motion (both vertical and horizontal). Cause vertical and horizontal ground movement, highly destructive.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Describe the various causes and the effects of landslides. Mention the important components of the National Landslide Risk Management Strategy.

  • The perception of Justice

    Why in the News?

    The perception of justice is as vital as justice itself, with unelected constitutional institutions expected to uphold transparency and exercise restraint in engaging with elected authorities.

    Relationship between Public Perception and the Actual Functioning of the Justice System:

    • Role of Perception in Justice: Perception of justice is critical because it shapes public trust in institutions. Even if the justice system functions properly, if it is perceived as biased or ineffective, it erodes confidence. The system must not only deliver justice but also be seen as just.
    • Moral Authority: When unelected constitutional bodies, like the judiciary, demonstrate transparency and accountability, they build moral authority.
    • Perception vs Reality: Public perception can sometimes be more influential than the actual functioning of the system. Institutions like the judiciary must work to balance delivering justice and managing public perception to maintain credibility.

    How Do Systemic Biases Affect Perceptions of Justice Among Marginalized Communities:

    • Historical and Structural Biases: These perceptions arise when the system disproportionately impacts certain communities, whether through discriminatory practices or unequal access to legal representation.
    • Erosion of Trust: When systemic biases are evident, marginalized groups may become cynical or disengaged from legal processes, believing that the system is not designed to serve their interests. This creates a widening gap between these communities and the justice system.
    • Impact on Public Discourse: Systemic biases fuel narratives that the justice system is rigged or unfair. In the long term, this can lead to public apathy, where marginalized groups may stop engaging with the system, assuming that it will not provide them justice.

    Broader Reflections on Democracy and Institutions:

    • Information and Discourse: The explosion of media and social media has blurred the lines between personality-driven and issue-based politics. This shift has led to heightened cynicism, where the focus on individuals overshadows serious discourse on public issues.
    • Restoring Institutional Integrity: For democracies to thrive, institutions must maintain boundaries defined by constitutional mandates. When constitutional organs exhibit higher standards of probity and transparency, they inspire trust, which is vital for democracy.
    • Responsibility of Constitutional Institutions: Independent constitutional bodies, like the judiciary, are expected to rise above partisan politics and protect democratic values.
      • The example of T.N. Seshan, former Chief Election Commissioner of India, exemplifies how individuals can enhance institutional integrity by adhering to constitutional principles and maintaining public confidence.

    Conclusion:

    The functioning of the justice system, while critical, is deeply influenced by public perception, especially among marginalized communities. Systemic biases create barriers to justice for these communities, reinforcing negative perceptions. Constitutional organs must hold themselves to higher standards, as public trust in these institutions is vital for the health of democracy.

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