Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Carbon market;
Why in the News?
In preparation for the 29th edition of the COP in Baku, Azerbaijan, next month, there is renewed momentum within government circles to expedite the transition of Indian industry to carbon markets.
What is meant by the Carbon Trade Policy?
- It is a market-based approach to control pollution by providing economic incentives for achieving reductions in the emissions of pollutants.
- It sets a quantitative limit on emissions, by allowing member countries with lower emissions to sell rights to emit carbon to higher-emitting entities, promoting cost-effective carbon reduction.
Why India must develop a transparent Carbon Trade Policy?
- A clear and transparent policy will boost investor confidence, attracting both domestic and foreign investments in green technologies and carbon-reduction projects.
- Establishing robust verification and reporting mechanisms will enhance the integrity of carbon credits, preventing issues like double counting and greenwashing, and fostering trust among stakeholders.
- A transparent policy will help align India’s efforts with global climate commitments, enabling effective tracking of emissions reductions and promoting sustainable economic growth.
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How effective is ‘Fair Trade’ in achieving its Goals?
- Promotion of Sustainable Practices: Just as Fair Trade supports environmentally sustainable agriculture practices, carbon markets incentivize companies to adopt greener technologies and reduce emissions. Both aim to create a more sustainable future.
- Empowerment of Stakeholders: Fair Trade empowers marginalized producers by providing fair prices and market access, similar to how carbon markets can benefit developing countries like India by enabling them to sell carbon credits generated from emissions reductions.
- Economic Benefits: Fair Trade aims to create economic stability for producers, while carbon markets can generate revenue for countries that invest in carbon-reduction projects, creating a financial incentive for participating in emissions trading.
- Global Impact Awareness: Both Fair Trade and carbon markets raise awareness about global issues—Fair Trade regarding trade equity and carbon markets regarding climate change, fostering a sense of responsibility among consumers and companies.
What are the limitations and challenges facing Fair Trade certification?
- Certification Costs: The financial burden of obtaining Fair Trade certification can be a significant barrier for small producers. Similarly, transitioning to carbon markets may involve high initial costs for companies to implement the necessary technologies and processes.
- Market Accessibility: Fair Trade products may not have guaranteed market access, mirroring potential challenges in carbon markets where the demand for carbon credits may fluctuate based on regulations and market conditions.
- Complex Standards: Just as Fair Trade certification has varying standards, the guidelines under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement can also lead to confusion about which carbon-reduction activities are eligible for trading.
How can consumers effectively support Fair Trade initiatives?
- Support Certified Products: Consumers can choose Fair Trade products, which, like carbon credits, require a conscious decision to support ethical and sustainable practices.
- Educate and Advocate: Just as consumers can promote Fair Trade awareness, they can also advocate for transparent carbon markets and support policies that foster sustainable practices.
- Engagement with Companies: Consumers can encourage businesses to participate in Fair Trade and carbon markets by demanding accountability and sustainability in their supply chains.
- Community Participation: Involvement in local Fair Trade events can parallel participation in climate action initiatives, such as local carbon offset programs or sustainability projects, thereby supporting both movements.
- Utilizing Social Media: Consumers can leverage social media to share information about Fair Trade and carbon markets, helping to amplify their importance and drive consumer engagement.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Certification Accessibility: Lower the cost and simplify the certification process to make Fair Trade more accessible for small-scale producers, boosting their participation and benefits.
- Enhance Consumer Education: Increase awareness campaigns about the impact of Fair Trade, encouraging more people to support certified products and promoting ethical consumption habits.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mission Karmayogi
Why in the News?
Prime Minister recently launched the ‘Karmayogi Saptah’ – National Learning Week to strengthen individual and organizational capacity among civil servants.
About Mission Karmayogi
|
Details |
| What is it? |
National Programme for Civil Services Capacity Building (NPCSCB) |
| Objective |
• To prepare civil servants for the future by making them more creative, constructive, and innovative through transparency and technology. |
| Launch Date |
• Launched on 2nd September 2020. |
| Key Features |
• On-Site Learning: Complementing off-site learning with more focus on practical experience.
• Integrated Government Online Training (iGOT) platform. |
| Pillars of NPCSCB |
• Policy Framework
• Institutional Framework
• Competency Framework
• Digital Learning Framework (iGOT-Karmayogi)
• e-HRMS
• Monitoring and Evaluation Framework. |
| Target Audience |
• All civil servants (including contractual employees) across various ministries, departments, organizations, and agencies of the Union Government. |
| iGOT-Karmayogi Features |
• My iGOT: Personalized training courses based on individual capacity-building needs.
• Blended Programs: Combines offline classroom learning with online components for equitable access to training.
• Curated Programs: Tailored learning paths designed for different ministries and training institutions. |
| Vision for 2047 |
• Aims to transform India into a global manufacturing hub and a supplier of skilled human resources by improving governance and civil service efficiency. |
| Steering Bodies |
• Prime Minister’s Public Human Resources Council
• Capacity Building Commission
• Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for digital assets
• Coordination Unit led by the Cabinet Secretary. |
| Courses Offered |
• The iGOT platform offers over 1400 courses for personalized learning and skill development. |
| Significance |
• Promotes a whole-of-government approach to foster collaboration, break bureaucratic silos, and prepare civil servants for modern governance challenges through continuous capacity building. |
How Karmayogi Saptah Aligns with Mission Karmayogi’s Goals?
- Karmayogi Saptah promotes a culture of lifelong learning and continuous improvement, key pillars of Mission Karmayogi.
- It emphasizes innovation and a citizen-first mindset, encouraging civil servants to engage with new ideas and feedback mechanisms.
- By focusing on adapting to new technologies like AI, it aligns with Mission Karmayogi’s goal of a digitally proficient workforce.
- It fosters collaboration across departments, supporting the mission’s aim to break silos and promote a “One Government” ethos.
- Through individual and organizational development activities, the week contributes to creating a skilled, motivated workforce for a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
PYQ:
[2015] Consider the following statements:
1. The Executive Power of the union of India is vested in the Prime Minister.
2. The Prime Minister is the ex officio Chairman of the Civil Services Board.
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 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Exercise SIMBEX 2024
Why in the News?
The 31st edition of the Singapore India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) is being held at the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam.
About Exercise SIMBEX:
|
Details |
| History |
- Initially known as Exercise Lion King.
- The exercise has been held annually since 1994.
|
| Evolution |
Progressed from anti-submarine warfare to include maritime security, anti-air, and anti-surface warfare. |
| Objectives |
• Strengthen strategic partnership between India and Singapore
• Enhance interoperability and maritime domain awareness
• Foster cooperation to tackle shared maritime challenges. |
| Phases |
Harbour Phase:
• Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs) for knowledge sharing
• Cross-deck visits and sports fixtures
• Pre-sail briefings between both navies
Sea Phase:
• Advanced naval drills including live weapon firings
• Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) training
• Anti-surface and anti-air operations
• Seamanship evolutions and tactical manoeuvres. |
| Significance |
- SIMBEX-2019 was conducted in the South China Sea and involved various maritime combat exercises.
- Recognized as the longest uninterrupted naval exercise that India conducts with any other country (Indian High Commission statement, 2019).
|
PYQ:
[2024] Which of the following statements about the Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023 is/ are correct?
- This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.
- It commenced in Aundh (Pune).
- Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.
- Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise.
Select the answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 1 and 4
(c) 1 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: National Manuscript Mission
Why in the News?
The Union Ministry of Culture is planning to revive and relaunch the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM) and is considering the formation of an autonomous body to help preserve India’s ancient texts.
Why Center is again re-evolving this scheme?
- Currently, the NMM operates as part of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts.
- The new entity, expected to be named the National Manuscripts Authority, will likely function as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture.
|
About the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM):
- Formed in 2003 by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture.
- It is managed by the National Archives of India.
- Objective:
- To document, conserve, digitize, and disseminate India’s manuscript heritage.
- The mission has set up over 100 Manuscripts Resource Centres and Manuscripts Conservation Centres across India.
- India has an estimated 10 million manuscripts, covering a range of themes, languages, scripts, and illustrations.
- What is a Manuscript?
- A manuscript is a handwritten document on materials like paper, bark, cloth, metal, or palm leaf.
- These documents are at least 75 years old and hold scientific, historical, or aesthetic value.
- Manuscripts primarily contain knowledge content, unlike historical records that provide direct historical information.
Achievements and Challenges:
- The NMM has documented metadata for 5.2 million manuscripts and digitized 300,000 titles, though only a third have been uploaded.
- Concerns were raised over mismatches between digitized data and original manuscripts, requiring correction.
- Of the 130,000 manuscripts uploaded, only 70,000 are accessible for viewing due to the absence of an access policy, which limits public availability, especially since 80% of manuscripts are privately owned.
- NMM has conducted preventive and curative conservation of 9 crore folios over the past 21 years.
PYQ:
[2008] Recently, the manuscripts of which one of the following have been included in the UNESCO’s Memory of World Register?
(a) Abhidhamma Pitaka
(b) Mahabharata
(c) Ramayana
(d) Rig-Veda |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Livestock Census
Why in the News?
The Centre has launched the 21st National Livestock Census (LC), the five-yearly exercise of counting the country’s livestock.
Innovations in the 21st Livestock Census:
- For the first time, data collection is being done via a mobile app, enhancing accuracy and timeliness.
- The census will cover 15 species of animals (excluding poultry) such as cattle, buffalo, mithun, yak, sheep, goat, pig, camel, horse, donkey, and elephant.
- Information on 219 Indigenous breeds and livestock holdings by pastoralists will also be recorded, along with data on the gender of individuals involved in livestock rearing.
About Livestock Census (LC)
- The Livestock Census (LC) is a nationwide survey conducted every 5 years to count all domesticated animals across households, enterprises, and institutions in rural and urban areas.
- The National Livestock Census provides detailed data on the population, breeds, and distribution of livestock like cattle, buffalo, goats, sheep, pigs, and others.
- Conducted by the Ministry of Animal Husbandry and Dairying in collaboration with State/UT governments since 1919.
- The 21st Livestock Census (2024) is the latest in the series and includes data collected using a dedicated mobile app for improved accuracy and real-time monitoring.
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Significance of the Livestock Census:
- Policy Formulation: Helps the government develop policies for livestock sector growth, covering aspects like breed improvement, disease control, and feed management.
- Rural Economy Support: Provides insights into the role of livestock in enhancing rural incomes, nutrition, and employment.
- Livestock Development Programs: Data supports initiatives like the National Livestock Mission (NLM), which focuses on breed development, feed and fodder improvement, and innovation in livestock practices.
- Indigenous Breed Conservation: Tracks indigenous livestock breeds to support breed-specific conservation and sustainable practices.
Previous Census Observations in India:
[1] 20th Livestock Census (2019):
- Total Livestock Population: Recorded at 535.78 million, marking a 4.6% increase from the previous census in 2012.
- Bovine Population: Counted at 302.79 million (includes cattle, buffalo, mithun, and yak).
- Indigenous vs. Exotic Breeds:
- Indigenous cattle population declined by 6%, indicating a shift toward crossbred and exotic breeds.
- Exotic and crossbred cattle increased by 29.3%, driven by rising demand for high milk-yielding breeds.
- Buffalo Population: Increased by 1% to 109.85 million, contributing significantly to India’s milk production.
- Sheep and Goat Populations:
- Sheep population rose by 14.1%, reaching 74.26 million.
- Goat population grew by 10.1%, totaling 148.88 million.
- Poultry Population: Experienced a substantial growth of 16.8%, with a total of 851.81 million birds, reflecting the expansion of commercial poultry farming.
- Female Livestock Population: Increase in female cattle (18%) and female buffaloes (8%), underscoring the focus on dairy production.
[2] 19th Livestock Census (2012):
- Highlighted an increase in buffalo populations and decline in indigenous cattle.
- Marked significant growth in poultry numbers, reflecting changing agricultural and economic patterns.
PYQ:
[2015] Livestock rearing has a big potential for providing non-farm employment and income in rural areas. Discuss suggesting suitable measures to promote this sector in India.
[2012] Which of the following is the chief characteristic of ‘mixed farming’?
(a) Cultivation of both cash crops and food crops
(b) Cultivation of two or more crops in the same field
(c) Rearing of animals and cultivation of crops together
(d) None of the above |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Tropical Cyclone, Landfall
Why in the News?
West Bengal and Odisha experienced heavy rainfall as Tropical Cyclone Dana is anticipated to make landfall later tonight.
What are Cyclones?
- Cyclones are wind systems rotating inwardly towards an area of low atmospheric pressure. They are categorised into Tropical (Temperature-induced) and Temperate (extra-tropical) cyclones (airmass-induced).
- Formation Conditions: Tropical cyclones originate in warm regions, requiring conditions such as
- Warm sea surface (> 27°C),
- Coriolis Force,
- Pre-existing low-pressure systems,
- Small vertical wind speed differences, and
- Upper air divergence.
Characteristics of Tropical Cyclones:
- They form over warm water bodies due to energy derived from the condensation of warm water within cumulonimbus clouds.
- Wind rotation is influenced by the Coriolis force, resulting in anti-clockwise rotation in the northern hemisphere and clockwise in the southern hemisphere.
- By 30° latitude, the diminished warmth halts cyclone activity.
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What is the “Landfall” of a Cyclone?
- Landfall occurs when a tropical cyclone moves from the sea onto the land.
- As per the IMD, a cyclone makes landfall when the centre of the storm, or its eye, crosses the coast.
- Landfall should not be confused with a “direct hit”, where the eyewall (area of high winds) hits land but the eye of the cyclone remains offshore.
- According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a cyclone’s strongest winds may still impact land even if the centre of the storm does not reach the coast.
How long does a Cyclone Landfall last?
- The duration of landfall typically lasts a few hours, depending on the wind speed and size of the storm.
- For cyclone Dana, the landfall process is expected to last five to six hours with wind speeds around 125 km/h, impacting a wide region.
- Cyclones usually weaken after landfall as they lose their moisture supply and experience increased surface friction.
- While landfall is often the most destructive phase of a cyclone, it also signals the beginning of the cyclone’s dissipation.
PYQ:
[2015] In the South Atlantic and South Eastern Pacific regions in tropical latitudes, cyclone does not originate. What is the main reason behind this?
(a) Sea Surface temperature are low
(b) Inter Tropical Convergence Zone seldom occurs
(c) Coriolis force is too weak
(d) Absence of land in those regions |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Betelgeuse
Why in the News?
Recent research has revealed a surprising finding about Betelgeuse (which was believed to explode): the star’s unusual brightening and dimming patterns may be influenced by an unseen companion star.
About Betelgeuse
- Betelgeuse is a red supergiant star in the Orion constellation, marking Orion’s left shoulder.
- It is among the brightest and largest stars visible in the night sky, located about 650 light-years from Earth.
- The star is nearing the end of its life, and when it dies, its explosion is expected to be visible during the day for several weeks.
- Betelgeuse is vast, measuring more than 700 million miles (1.2 billion kilometers) in diameter.
- Known for its periodic dimming and brightening, Betelgeuse has two distinct pulsation cycles:
- A short-term cycle of about one year.
- A longer six-year cycle called a long secondary period.
- Researchers believe this longer cycle may be caused by Betelbuddy (an unseen companion star) moving through the dust surrounding Betelgeuse.
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Indicators and Scientific Evidence
- Betelgeuse’s cyclic dimming and brightening patterns indicate it is nearing the end of its life.
- Its massive size and expansion as a red supergiant suggest it is in a late stellar stage.
- Cooling surface temperature and mass loss through stellar winds signal increasing instability.
- Spectral analysis shows heavy elements in Betelgeuse’s layers, typical of late-stage fusion.
- An unseen companion star, or “Betelbuddy,” may be influencing its brightness and internal structure.
Potential Effects of Betelgeuse’s Supernova on Earth and Our Solar System
- Betelgeuse’s supernova will likely be visible in daylight for weeks and brighter than the Moon at night.
- At 650 light-years away, dangerous radiation would dissipate before reaching Earth, posing no harm.
- Space missions and satellites may experience minor interference from increased cosmic rays.
- The explosion will enrich the interstellar medium with heavy elements, contributing to new star formation.
- The supernova will provide valuable scientific insights into stellar life cycles and cosmic element formation.
PYQ:
[2017] The terms ‘Event Horizon’, ‘Singularity’, ‘String Theory’ and ‘Standard Model’ are sometimes seen in the news in the context of:
(a) Observation and understanding of the Universe
(b) Study of the solar and the lunar eclipses
(c) Placing satellites in the orbit of the Earth
(d) Origin and evolution of living organisms on the Earth |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kittur Rani Chennamma
Why in the News?
A commemorative postage stamp was released at the historic Kittur Rani Channamma Stage within the Kittur Fort premises to mark the 200th anniversary of Kittur Vijayotsava.
About Kittur Rani Chennamma
- Rani Chennamma was born in 1778 in Kakati, Belgaum (now Karnataka).
- She was trained in horse riding, sword fighting, and archery from an early age.
- She married Mallasarja Desai, the ruler of Kittur, a small principality in Karnataka.
- The Kittur Uprising (1824):
- The British East India Company refused to recognize her adopted son, Shivalingappa, as the rightful successor under the Doctrine of Lapse.
- She declared war on the British in response to their annexation attempt.
- In October 1824, she led the Kittur army against 20,000 British soldiers stationed near the Kittur Fort.
- During the battle, British official John Thackery was killed, and the Company forces faced significant losses.
- After initial resistance, British forces returned in December 1824 with a larger army.
- Despite her courageous efforts, Rani Chennamma was captured along with her forces and imprisoned.
- She was held captive in Bailhongal Fort, where she spent her remaining years. She died in captivity in 1829.
Legacy and Significance
- Rani Chennamma is celebrated as one of the first women in Indian history to lead an anti-colonial uprising.
- She is revered as a symbol of courage, patriotism, and resistance against colonial oppression.
- She is honored in Kannada folklore, particularly through lavani (folk songs) that celebrate her bravery and sacrifice.
- Statues have been erected across Karnataka, including a prominent one in Bengaluru’s Parliament House.
Doctrine of Lapse
- Introduced by Lord Dalhousie in 1848, the Doctrine aimed at expanding British territories in India.
- The policy was based on the principle that a princely state without a suitable heir should become part of the British Empire.
- Applied to princely states where the ruler died without a natural or legally adopted male heir, enabling the British to annex those states.
- The policy was seen as illegitimate by many Indian rulers and played a role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
- Several states annexed due to this Doctrine, include Satara (1848), Jaitpur (1849), Sambalpur (1849), Udaipur (1850), Jhansi (1853), and Nagpur (1854).
- Prior to the Doctrine of Lapse, princely states had a traditional practice of selecting an heir from a group of candidates known as bhajans.
- The policy was abandoned in 1859, two years after the end of the Company Rule in India.
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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.
[2014] What was/were the object/objects of Queen Victoria’s Proclamation (1858)?
- To disclaim any intention to annex Indian States
- To place the Indian administration under the British Crown
- To regulate East India Company’s trade with India
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 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NCLAT, NCLT
Why in the News?
The Supreme Court has overturned the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal’s (NCLAT) order that approved a deal between an edtech firm and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to settle an overdue payment.
Three-Judge Bench Observations in Byju’s Case
-
- The Supreme Court’s bench, led by CJI, noted that there were procedural lapses in the settlement process between Byju’s and the BCCI.
- The settlement occurred without the approval of the Insolvency Resolution Professional (IRP), who was responsible for overseeing Byju’s affairs following his appointment by the NCLT.
- The bench ruled that the NCLAT’s approval of the settlement, issued in August 2024, was invalid due to the lack of necessary approvals from the IRP.
|
About National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT):
|
Details |
| Establishment |
Established on 1 June 2016 under the Companies Act, 2013. |
| Purpose |
Serves as an appellate authority to hear appeals against orders of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). |
| Jurisdiction |
Hears appeals related to:
– Decisions made by NCLT
– Orders of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI)
– Orders from the Competition Commission of India (CCI). |
| Appeals to Supreme Court |
Decisions of NCLAT can be appealed to the Supreme Court of India. |
| Composition |
Comprises a Chairperson and other members appointed by the central government, with the Chairperson typically being a retired judge of the Supreme Court or High Court. |
| Functions |
Reviews and adjudicates matters related to company law and insolvency, ensuring justice against NCLT orders. |
| Location |
Headquartered in New Delhi. |
| Significance |
Plays a critical role in corporate governance, maintaining transparency and accountability in the corporate sector. |
| Relationship with NCLT |
NCLT acts as the adjudicating authority, while NCLAT provides a platform for appeals, ensuring a checks-and-balances system. |
| Integration with IBC |
Supports the objectives of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016, streamlining insolvency resolution processes. |
PYQ:
[2018] How far do you agree with the view that tribunals curtail the jurisdiction of ordinary courts? In view of the above, discuss the constitutional validity and competency of the tribunals in India. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM2.5, IQAir Report
Why in the News?
- Lahore was declared the world’s most polluted city by air quality monitor IQAir, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 394, considered hazardous by global standards.
- Delhi ranks 2nd, recording an AQI of 204, also classified as “very unhealthy.”
- Lahore’s AQI value exceeds the World Health Organisation (WHO) guideline by over 55.6 times.
Primary Causes of Lahore’s Severe Air Pollution:
- Stubble Burning: Farmers in Punjab (India and Pakistan) burn crop residue, especially after rice harvesting, during winter to prepare fields for wheat cultivation.
- Vehicular Emissions: The rise in the number of vehicles in Lahore, along with the use of low-quality fuel, results in high levels of PM2.5 emissions, a major contributor to air pollution.
- Industrial Pollution: Factories and brick kilns in and around Lahore emit harmful pollutants, including particulate matter, adding to the city’s poor air quality.
- Geography and Weather Conditions: Lahore’s location in a low-lying region and its geography, surrounded by hills, leads to temperature inversion during the winter, trapping pollutants near the surface and preventing their natural dispersal.
- Coal-Fired Power Plants: Large power plants, such as the 1320MW Sahiwal coal-fired power plant in Punjab, part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), emit sulphur and other pollutants, significantly contributing to smog and air pollution.
|
Who Ranks the Most Polluted Cities of the World and How?
- IQAir, a Swiss air quality monitoring company, ranks the most polluted cities based on real-time air quality data.
- The rankings focus on the concentration of PM2.5 particles, which are small enough to penetrate the lungs and pose serious health risks.
- Cities are ranked using the AQI scale (0-500), with AQI above 300 indicating hazardous pollution levels.
- IQAir uses data from government agencies, monitoring stations, and low-cost sensors across various regions.
- Real-time monitoring allows IQAir to provide up-to-date information about air pollution levels in cities around the world.
- The data is compared with WHO standards, which recommend PM2.5 levels below 5 micrograms per cubic meter for healthy air quality.
PYQ:
[2021] Describe the key points of the revised Global Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs) recently released by the World Health Organisation (WHO). How are these different from its last update in 2005? What changes in India’s National Clean Air Programme are required to achieve revised standards?
[2015] Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata are the three Mega cities of the country but the air pollution is much more serious probelm in Delhi as compared to the other two. Why is this so? |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Rudder Rollout Guidance Actuator
Why in the News?
- Certain variants of the Boeing 737, equipped with a rollout guidance actuator, are being investigated due to concerns about a potential jammed or restricted rudder control system.
What is a Rudder?
- The rudder is like the steering tool for an airplane.
- It’s part of the tail and helps the plane move left or right, similar to how a boat’s rudder steers on water.
- It’s important for making turns, landing in windy conditions, and keeping the plane going straight, especially if one of the engines fails.
|
What does a Rudder Rollout Guidance Actuator do?
- It is a special device that helps the plane control its direction during landings when the plane is flying automatically with the autopilot.
- It’s especially useful during landings in bad weather with poor visibility, making sure the plane stays on the correct path on its own.
Why are certain Boeing 737 Planes being checked?
- Some Boeing 737 planes are being inspected because of a possible problem with their rudder system, which helps steer the plane during landing.
- An issue came up after a United Airlines flight in February 2024 had a situation where the rudder got stuck during landing, and the pilots had to work harder to control the plane.
- Investigators found that a part called the rudder rollout guidance actuator might have moisture and corrosion problems, which can cause the rudder to jam.
- This problem might affect a small number of Boeing 737 planes that use this system for automatic landings in bad weather.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bihta Inland Container Depot (ICD)
Why in the News?
- Bihar has inaugurated the state’s first dry port in Bihta, a town near Patna to boost the export of goods produced in Bihar.
- The first export consignment from the Bihta ICD was leather shoes sent to Russia.
What is it?
- A dry port, also known as an inland container depot (ICD), is a logistics facility located away from a seaport or airport.
- It provides facilities for cargo handling, storage, and transportation of goods, making it easier to manage exports and imports.
- The first dry port in India was opened in Varanasi in 2018.
- The dry port also acts as a bridge between the inland regions and international shipping routes through major gateway ports.
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About Bihta ICD
- The Bihta Inland Container Depot (ICD), also known as Bihta dry port, is located in Bihta, a town near Patna, the capital of Bihar.
- It operates under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP).
- It is fully commissioned and approved by the Department of Revenue, under the Union Ministry of Finance.
- It is managed by Pristine Magadh Infrastructure Private Limited in collaboration with the Bihar state industry department.
- The Bihta ICD is well connected by railways to gateway ports across India, including:
- Kolkata and Haldia in West Bengal.
- Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh.
- Nhava Sheva in Maharashtra.
- Mundra in Gujarat.
- It supports transportation of goods to and from eastern India, benefitting not just Bihar but also neighboring states like Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha.
PYQ:
[2023] Consider the following pairs:
| Port |
Well known as |
| 1. Kamarajar Port: |
First major port in India registered as a company |
| 2. Mundra Port: |
Largest privately owned port in India |
| 3. Visakhapatnam Port: |
Largest container port in India |
How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
(a) Only one pair
(b) Only two pairs
(c) All three pairs
(d) None of the pairs |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Moonlight Programme
Why in the News?
The European Space Agency (ESA) launched its Moonlight Lunar Communications and Navigation Services (LCNS) Programme.
About Moonlight Programme
|
Details |
| Agency |
European Space Agency (ESA) |
| Purpose |
To establish a communications and navigation infrastructure around the Moon to support future lunar missions by space agencies and private companies. |
| Planned Missions |
Supports over 400 moon missions planned over the next 20 years. |
| Satellite Constellation |
Deployment of 5 lunar satellites to provide communication and navigation services. |
| Data Transfer Range |
Enables data transfer between Earth and the Moon over a distance of 400,000 km. |
| First Satellite |
Lunar Pathfinder, a communications relay satellite built by Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd, is set to launch in 2026. |
| Operational Timeline |
Initial services expected to begin by 2028, with full operational capability by 2030. |
| Primary Focus Area |
Coverage around the Moon’s South Pole, an area of high interest due to favorable lighting conditions and potential water ice presence in permanently shadowed craters. |
| Global Collaboration |
Collaboration with NASA and JAXA (Japanese Space Agency) as part of LunaNet for standardizing lunar mission communications and navigation. |
| Significance |
– Enables over 400 lunar missions
– Supports NASA’s Artemis programme
– Provides continuous all-weather connectivity for lunar missions
– Focuses on the South Pole for ice deposits
– Reduces costs by sharing infrastructure
– Technological advancements for Mars missions (MARCONI) |
| Strategic Advantage |
Enhances ESA’s role in global lunar exploration and contributes to the future of commercial lunar activities. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Z-Morh Tunnel Project
Why in the News?
Some militants attacked workers building the Z-Morh tunnel on the Srinagar-Sonamarg highway, killing seven people.
What is the Z-Morh Tunnel?
- The Z-Morh tunnel is a 6.4-kilometer tunnel located near Gagangir village, connecting the Sonamarg health resort to Kangan town in the Ganderbal district of central Kashmir.
- It is part of the larger Zojila tunnel project, which aims to provide year-round road connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh.
- It is part of the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Leh highway.
- It is being constructed at an altitude of over 8,500 feet.
- It derives its name from the Z-shaped road stretch where it is being built.
- The project was originally conceived by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in 2012.
- A soft opening of the tunnel was held in February 2024, although the full inauguration has been delayed.
Significance of the Z-Morh Tunnel
- The tunnel provides all-weather road connectivity to the Sonamarg health resort, ensuring that the popular tourist destination remains accessible year-round.
- It is essential for maintaining all-weather connectivity to Ladakh, a region of strategic importance for India, particularly due to the military presence along the border with Pakistan and China.
- The tunnel is strategically important for the Indian Army, as it provides quick and safe access to forward areas in Ladakh, reducing the dependence on air transport for the movement of troops and supplies.
- It will also reduce expenditure on air maintenance of forward locations, thereby increasing the lifespan of Indian Air Force aircraft.
- The tunnel will boost economic growth by improving accessibility to Sonamarg, thereby supporting tourism in the region.
PYQ:
[2016] Border management is a complex task due to difficult terrain and hostile relations with some countries. Elucidate the challenges and strategies for effective border management. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: ‘Lady Justice’ Statue
Why in the News?
- The Chief Justice of India unveiled a new ‘lady justice’ statue at the Supreme Court.
- This new statue replaces the previous version and is clothed in a saree, holds scales in one hand, and the Indian Constitution in the other, with its eyes uncovered—symbolizing that justice sees all equally.
About the Lady Justice Statue:
|
Details |
| History |
- Introduced during colonial rule, becoming a common feature in Indian courthouses.
- Depicted in the Calcutta High Court (1872) and the Bombay High Court, with variations in blindfold status.
|
| Modern Depiction |
In 2024, a new 6-foot statue was unveiled by the Supreme Court of India, created by Vinod Goswami. |
| Symbolism |
Absence of the blindfold signifies that “law is not blind,” promoting the idea of equality in justice. |
| Origins |
Traces back to Greek mythology with Themis and Roman mythology with Justitia, traditionally depicted with a blindfold, scales, and a sword. |
| Notable Changes |
- Symbolizes that “the law is not blind,” emphasizing equality in justice.
- Adorned in a Saree, reflecting Indian heritage and tradition.
- Holds a copy of the Indian Constitution instead of a sword, representing rights and fairness.
- Continues to hold scales, emphasizing the need for balance in weighing evidence and arguments.
- Breaks free from colonial influences, aligning with contemporary Indian values.
- Signifies a justice system that is aware, inclusive, and rooted in constitutional principles.
- Positioned in the Judges’ Library of the Supreme Court, highlighting its significance in Indian jurisprudence.
|
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Minority Institutions, Article 30
Why in the News?
- The Supreme Court stated that laws regulating institutions run by religious or linguistic minorities do not inherently violate the principle of secularism.
- The CJI made this observation while hearing a challenge to the Allahabad High Court’s decision to strike down the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madrasa Education Act, 2004.
Why do we need to discuss this?
- The 2004 Act regulated madrasas in Uttar Pradesh, and the High Court concluded that it violated secular principles.
- It had ordered the transfer of madrasa students to regular schools, which affected nearly 17 lakh students across 16,000 madrasas in the state.
- Petitioners pointed out that the High Court believed that madrasas violated Article 28 of the Constitution, which prohibits religious instruction in institutions fully funded by the State.
Key Observations made by the SC:
- A law regulating a minority institution does not, by itself, violate secularism.
- The CJI referred to the Hindu Religious Endowments and Charitable Institutions Act, which regulates the administration of religious institutions in many states, from Maharashtra to Tamil Nadu.
- The CJI emphasized that the State has the right to legislate to improve the quality of education in government-aided minority-run institutions.
- He noted that children attending madrasas need a broad-based education to learn essential subjects required to lead a proper life and become worthy citizens.
|
About Minority Educational Institutions in India:
|
Details |
| Constitutional Provision |
Article 30(1) of the Constitution of India grants linguistic and religious minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice. |
| Legislative Framework |
National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions Act, 2004 safeguards the educational rights of minorities as per Article 30(1). |
| Definition |
A “Minority Educational Institution” is defined as a college or institution established or maintained by a person or group from amongst the minorities (Section 2(g) of the Act). |
| Judicial Precedent |
In T.M.A. Pai Foundation vs. State of Karnataka (2002), the Supreme Court ruled that minority status is determined by state demographics, not national population. |
| Rights of Minority Institutions |
Article 29 protects the interests of minorities by allowing them to conserve their distinct language, script, or culture.
- Minority institutions do not have an absolute right to appoint staff;
- This was upheld in the context of the West Bengal Madrasah Service Commission Act, 2008.
|
| Recognized Minority Communities |
Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, Buddhists, Jains, and Zoroastrians (Parsis) are recognized as minority communities under the National Commission for Minorities Act of 1992. |
| Significance |
Minority educational institutions play a crucial role in preserving the cultural and linguistic heritage of minority communities while providing access to education. |
| PYQ:
[2011] In India, if a religious sect/community is given the status of a national minority, what special advantages it is entitled to?
1. It can establish and administer exclusive educational institutions.
2. The President of India automatically nominates a representative of the community to Lok Sabha.
3. It can derive benefits from the Prime Minister’s 15-Point Programme.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: West Nile Virus, Its host, transmission and treatment
Why in news?
Ukraine is currently dealing with a serious outbreak of West Nile virus (WNV), with health officials raising alarms as the death toll rises.
About West Nile Virus
|
Details |
| Virus Type |
Member of the flavivirus genus, family Flaviviridae |
| First Isolated |
1937 in a woman in the West Nile district of Uganda |
| Geographical Distribution |
Commonly found in Africa, Europe, Middle East, North America, and West Asia |
| Transmission |
Primarily transmitted through infected mosquito bites; mosquitoes become infected by feeding on infected birds. Can also spread through infected animal tissues. |
| Symptoms |
– Asymptomatic: ~80% of infected individuals show no symptoms
– West Nile Fever: ~20% develop symptoms like fever, headache, fatigue, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and occasional skin rash. |
| Peak Infection Period |
Typically spikes between June and September (summer to autumn) |
| Reported Outbreaks |
19 countries have reported outbreaks, including Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Türkiye, and Kosovo. |
| Treatment |
No vaccine available; supportive treatments provided for neuroinvasive WNV patients |
PYQ:
[2017] Consider the following statements:
1. In tropical regions, Zika virus disease is transmitted by the same mosquito that transmits dengue.
2. Sexual transmission of Zika virus disease is possible.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) and its functions
Why in the News?
The Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB), the highest statutory body on technical drug-related matters in India, has recommended including all antibiotics under the definition of ‘New Drugs’ in the New Drugs and Clinical Trial (NDCT) Rules, 2019.
What are ‘New Drugs’?
- According to Rule 122 E of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, a new drug is one that:
- Has not been used in the country.
- Has not been recognized as effective and safe by the licensing authority.
- May also be an already approved drug with modified claims such as new indications, dosages, or routes of administration.
Implications of Including Antibiotics in the New Drug Category:
- If antibiotics are classified as new drugs:
- Their manufacturing, marketing, and sale will be documented.
- Clearance for manufacturing and marketing will need to be obtained from the Central government instead of State drug administrations.
- Antibiotics will only be sold to patients on prescription.
Additional Recommendations:
- The board is considering amending the labelling rules under the Drugs Rules, 1945, by adding a blue strip or box for antimicrobial products.
- It has recommended that antimicrobials should not be sold to non-pharmaceutical industries unless they have the necessary licences.
|
About the Drugs Technical Advisory Board:
|
Details |
| Authority |
Highest statutory decision-making body on technical matters related to drugs in India |
| Establishment |
Constituted under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 |
| Affiliation |
Part of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) |
| Nodal Ministry |
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare |
| Functions |
– Advises the Central and State Governments on technical matters related to the Drugs and Cosmetics Act
– Carries out functions assigned by the Act |
| Role of CDSCO |
– Approval of drugs
– Conduct of clinical trials
– Establishing standards for drugs
– Quality control of imported drugs
– Coordination with State Drug Control Organizations |
| Specialized Licenses |
Responsible for granting licenses for critical categories of drugs, including blood products, IV fluids, vaccines, and sera |
| Decision-Making |
Provides expert advice and technical recommendations to ensure drug safety, efficacy, and quality |
PYQ:
[2019] Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India?
- Genetic predisposition of some people
- Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases
- Using antibiotics in livestock farming
- Multiple chronic diseases in some people
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Doctrine of Coverture
Why in the News?
The Marital Rape Exception (MRE), rooted in the doctrine of coverture from English common law, has long sparked debates about the legal autonomy of women within marriage.
Marital Rape Exception (MRE): What is it?
- The MRE is found in Exception 2 to Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860, and its equivalent, Section 63 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.
- According to these provisions, sexual intercourse or sexual acts by a man with his wife do not constitute rape if the wife is above 18 years of age.
Why discuss this?
- This legal immunity for husbands has been challenged for violating fundamental rights, and now, a three-judge Bench led by CJI D.Y. Chandrachud is set to examine the constitutional validity of this exception.
- The outcome of this case could redefine the boundaries of consent and bodily autonomy within the institution of marriage in India.
|
Split Verdict by the Delhi High Court in 2022:
1. Justice Rajiv Shakdher’s Opinion:
- Declared the Marital Rape Exception (MRE) unconstitutional.
- Argued that the MRE violates a woman’s bodily autonomy and expression.
- Criticized the exception as being rooted in patriarchy and misogyny.
- Held that the classification of marital rape as different from rape outside marriage is unreasonable and arbitrary.
- Emphasized that forced sex outside marriage is treated as “real rape,” while the same act within marriage is not.
2. Justice C. Hari Shankar’s Opinion:
- Upheld the Marital Rape Exception, considering it legal within the framework of marriage.
- Argued that sexual relations within marriage are a legitimate expectation.
- Expressed concerns that allowing prosecution of husbands for non-consensual sex would be antithetical to the institution of marriage as understood in Indian society.
- Believed that introducing the possibility of husbands being seen as rapists within marriage would undermine the institution of marriage.
|
Doctrine of Coverture from English Common Law:
- The doctrine states that upon marriage, a woman’s legal existence was essentially merged with that of her husband.
- The married woman was legally dependent on her husband, losing autonomy over her legal rights and property.
- Impact on Women’s Rights:
- Under this doctrine, a wife had no independent legal identity during marriage.
- Women could not own property, enter contracts, or bring legal claims without their husband’s approval.
- The husband had control over the wife’s body and actions, including sexual relations.
- Influence on Marital Rape Exception:
- The doctrine formed the basis for the original Marital Rape Exception in British common law.
- It implied that a wife gave permanent consent to sexual relations upon marriage, which could not be withdrawn.
- This legal reasoning was adopted in many British colonies, including India, and continues to influence Indian law today.
- Modern Rejection:
- England abolished the Marital Rape Exception in 1991 in the case of R v. R, recognizing that the doctrine of coverture no longer reflected the status of women in modern society.
- Despite this, the doctrine’s influence persists in India’s legal system, particularly through the Marital Rape Exception in BNS.
PYQ:
[2024] The soul of new law, Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) is Justice, Equality and Impartiality based on Indian culture and ethos. Discuss this in the light of major shift from a doctrine of punishment to justice in the present judicial system. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: HAL, Maharatna Status
Why in the News?
The Centre has upgraded the status of PSU Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) as Maharatna Company (from earlier Navratna Status).
About Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL): Key Facts
- HAL was founded in 1940 in Bangalore as Hindustan Aircraft Limited, merging with Aeronautics India Limited in 1964 to become HAL.
- It is a state-owned company under the Ministry of Defence.
- Headquarters are in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
- Operates 20 production and R&D centers across India, including Bangalore, Nashik, Koraput, and Lucknow.
- Focuses on design, development, manufacture, and maintenance of aircraft, helicopters, engines, avionics, and aerospace equipment.
- Produces fighter aircraft like Tejas LCA, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Jaguar, and Hawk.
- Manufactures helicopters including Dhruv ALH, Rudra, Cheetah, Chetak, and LCH.
- Collaborates with Boeing, Airbus, Rosoboronexport, and Safran on aircraft production and tech transfer.
- Listed on BSE and NSE in 2018, allowing public investment.
- Expanded exports, supplying aircraft and helicopter parts to countries like Vietnam, Mauritius, and Ecuador.
- Recent projects include AMCA, IMRH, and Tejas Mk2, boosting India’s indigenous defense capabilities.
|
About Maharatna Companies
|
Details |
| What is it? |
• Recognition granted to select Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) in India.
• Provides greater financial and operational autonomy compared to Navratna and Miniratna PSUs. |
| Eligibility |
• Annual Turnover: Over ₹25,000 crore in the last three years.
• Net Worth: More than ₹15,000 crore over the last three years.
• Net Profit: Minimum of ₹5,000 crore for three consecutive years.
• Must have significant global operations or international presence. |
| Autonomy |
• Can invest up to ₹5,000 crore or 15% of their net worth in a single project without government approval.
• Authorized to make equity investments for strategic resources or collaborations in India and abroad. |
| Purpose |
• Aims to foster more flexibility in operations and encourage expansion, especially in international markets.
• Helps companies to become global players. |
| Examples |
• Indian Oil Corporation (IOC)
• Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL)
• Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL)
• Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) |
| Significance |
• Enhances the ability of PSUs to compete globally.
• Allows quicker decision-making and reduces bureaucratic hurdles.
• Promotes growth and competitiveness in the international arena. |
Benefits of Maharatna Status for HAL
- HAL can now invest up to ₹5,000 crore (from earlier ₹1000 cr) or 15% of its net worth (whichever is applicable) in a single project without needing government approval.
- As a Maharatna company, HAL has the freedom to engage in mergers, acquisitions, and strategic investments, both domestically and internationally.
PYQ:
[2011] Why is the Government of India disinvesting its equity in the Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs)?
1. The Government intends to use the revenue earned from the disinvestment mainly to pay back the external debt.
2. The Government no longer intends to retain the management control of the CPSEs.
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 |
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