Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Syama Prasad Mookerjee
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Following judgment of the Supreme Court upholding the abrogation of Article 370, many invoked Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee (1901-53), an ardent opponent of Kashmir’s ‘special status’ in the Indian Union.
Who was Syama Prasad Mookerjee?
- Syama Prasad Mookerjee, an eminent Indian politician, barrister, and academician, played a significant role in shaping India’s political landscape during the mid-20th century.
- Born on July 6, 1901, in Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), Mookerjee emerged as a prominent leader and a staunch advocate of Indian nationalism and Hindu politics.
Early Life and Education
- Bengali Brahmin heritage: Mookerjee hailed from a respected Brahmin family with roots in Jirat, Hooghly District, and West Bengal.
- Academic brilliance: He exhibited exceptional academic prowess, pursuing his education at prestigious institutions such as Presidency College and the University of Calcutta.
- Legal career: Mookerjee became a barrister, being called to the English Bar after studying at Lincoln’s Inn in London.
Political Career
- Initial association with Congress: Mookerjee began his political journey as a member of the Indian National Congress, representing Calcutta University in the Bengal Legislative Council.
- Hindu Mahasabha affiliation: He later joined the Hindu Mahasabha, a right-wing Hindu nationalist organization, and became its president.
- Championing Bengal partition: Mookerjee actively advocated for the partition of Bengal to safeguard Hindu interests, leading to the establishment of a separate West Bengal within the Indian Union.
- Resignation from Bengal cabinet: As Finance Minister of Bengal Province, Mookerjee resigned in 1942, condemning the British government’s oppressive policies and their attempts to hold on to India.
Contributions to Independent India
- Minister for Industry and Supply: Mookerjee served as India’s first Minister for Industry and Supply in Jawaharlal Nehru’s cabinet after independence.
- Nehru-Liaquat Pact and resignation: He resigned from Nehru’s cabinet in 1950, protesting against the Nehru-Liaquat Pact, which he believed compromised the interests of Hindus in East Bengal (now Bangladesh).
- Founding Bharatiya Jana Sangh: Mookerjee, with the support of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), established the Bharatiya Jana Sangh in 1951, laying the foundation for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Mookerjee’s Opposition to Article 370
- Balkanization of India: Mookerjee strongly believed that Article 370 created a sense of separatism and division within the country, leading to the fragmentation of India’s unity.
- Rejection of dual governance: Mookerjee famously stated, “Ek desh mein do Vidhan, do Pradhan aur Do Nishan nahi chalenge” (One country cannot have two constitutions, two prime ministers, and two flags), emphasizing his opposition to the separate status enjoyed by Jammu and Kashmir.
- Reservations about special status: Mookerjee expressed concerns that the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 would impede the state’s full integration into the Indian Union.
- Inequality and separatism: He believed that granting special privileges to one state based on religion or regional factors would lead to a sense of inequality and separatism.
Ideological Stance and Legacy
- Influence on BJP’s policy agenda: His ideology and vision continue to shape the policies and agenda of the Bharatiya Janata Party.
- Controversial demise: Mookerjee’s untimely death in 1953 while in custody remains a subject of controversy and speculation, with demands for an independent inquiry.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Debt Brake Rule
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- On November 15, Germany’s constitutional court declared the government’s reallocation of €60 billion to a “climate and transformation fund” (KTF) as unlawful.
Understanding the Debt Brake Rule
- Definition and Purpose: The debt brake rule caps government borrowing and restricts the federal government’s fiscal deficit to 0.35% of GDP, while prohibiting deficit spending by Germany’s 16 regions.
- Enactment: This rule was incorporated into German law in 2009 by a coalition, mirroring the EU’s Stability and Growth Pact and the 2012 Fiscal Compact Treaty.
Legal Challenge and Its Implications
- Opposition’s Argument: It argued that climate change and energy transition investments, being long-term, shouldn’t be funded by the debt brake’s emergency exemption, which was specific to COVID-19 relief.
- Government’s Defense: The government contended that the reallocated funds addressed economic consequences of the pandemic by linking investment shortfalls to COVID-19’s economic impact.
Germany’s Post-2009 Economic Performance
- Mixed Outcomes: Germany experienced growth and budget surpluses in the last decade, benefiting from low-interest policies of the ECB.
- Zero-Deficit Budget: The government achieved a zero-deficit budget, promoting it as an ideal approach for the EU during a sovereign debt crisis.
- Challenges and Criticisms: A cooling economy highlighted under-investment in infrastructure. Critics urged for expansionary fiscal measures, while others favored higher taxation. Chancellor Angela Merkel emphasized the need to avoid burdening the younger generation with debt.
- Pandemic Response: In 2020, the debt brake rule was suspended for pandemic-related borrowing, with plans for reinstatement.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Raja Ram Pal Case (2007), Article 105 , Article 20
Mains level: Parliamentary ethics and morals
Central Idea: Expulsion of Mahua Moitra
- A Member of Parliament from West Bengal was expelled from the Lok Sabha over allegations of a cash-for-query scandal.
- Her expulsion highlights the importance of maintaining strict ethical standards and parliamentary etiquette in legislative proceedings.
Parliamentary Etiquette and Rules
- Expected Conduct of MPs: MPs must adhere to rules of parliamentary etiquette, such as not interrupting speeches, maintaining silence, and avoiding obstruction during debates.
- Updated Rules for Modern Protests: In 1989, rules were updated to include prohibitions against shouting slogans, displaying placards, tearing documents, and using electronic devices for protest in the House.
- Rajya Sabha’s Similar Rules: The Rajya Sabha, like the Lok Sabha, has similar rules to ensure smooth conduct of proceedings.
Power of Suspension in Parliament
- Presiding Officer’s Authority: The presiding officer of each House can direct an MP to withdraw from the chamber for disorderly conduct, resulting in absence for the day.
- Naming and Suspension Process: MPs obstructing House business can be “named” by the presiding officer, leading to a possible suspension motion by the Parliamentary Affairs Minister.
- Duration of Suspension: Suspensions can last until the end of the session.
Legal Recourse: Approaching the Supreme Court
- Option for Judicial Review: The expelled MP has the option to challenge the expulsion in the Supreme Court, as explained by former Lok Sabha Secretary General P D T Achary.
- Constitutional Provisions: Article 122 of the Constitution provides immunity to parliamentary proceedings from judicial scrutiny based on procedural irregularity.
- Scope for Judicial Review: Despite this immunity, the Supreme Court in the 2007 Raja Ram Pal case clarified that judicial review is possible in cases of substantive or gross illegality.
The Raja Ram Pal Case (2007)
- Case Background: Raja Ram Pal, a BSP leader, was among 12 MPs expelled in the 2005 cash-for-query scam.
- Supreme Court’s Stance: The Court upheld the expulsion but noted that proceedings tainted by substantial illegality are open to judicial scrutiny.
- Judicial Review of Parliamentary Actions: The Court affirmed its role in scrutinizing legislative actions that infringe on fundamental rights.
Article 105 of the Constitution
- Powers and Privileges of Parliament: Article 105 deals with the powers, privileges, and immunities of Parliament and its Members.
- Judicial Scrutiny of Privilege Enforcement: The Court recognized that the enforcement of privilege by the legislature can be subject to judicial review, within certain constitutional limits.
Grounds for Challenging Expulsion
- Examining Privilege and Procedure: The court can scrutinize whether the privilege cited for expulsion existed and if proper procedures were followed.
- Functioning of Committees: The roles of the Privileges Committee and Ethics Committee are distinct, focusing on investigating misconduct and ensuring dignity in the House.
- Investigative Procedures: Proper investigative procedures, including the right to depose and cross-examine, are essential for fairness and truth-finding.
Determining Offense and Punishment
- Article 20 of the Constitution: This article stipulates that punishment requires an existing law defining the act as an offense.
- Case-Specific Issues: In the case of the expelled MP, issues like sharing Parliament login-passwords and accepting money for questions are examined for rule violations.
- Breach of Privilege and Inquiry: Accepting money for asking questions in Parliament is a breach of privilege warranting inquiry by the Privileges Committee.
Conclusion
- Ongoing Debate and Implications: The case continues to spark debate on the limits of parliamentary privilege, the role of the judiciary, and the ethical standards expected of elected representatives.
- Balancing Authority and Rights: The expulsion case underscores the delicate balance between parliamentary authority and the rights of its members.
- Importance of Judicial Oversight: The potential for judicial review emphasizes the importance of legal oversight in maintaining democratic principles and fairness in legislative processes.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Meftal drug
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Pharma standard body Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has issued a drug safety alert for commonly used painkiller mefenamic acid, popularly sold under the brand name Meftal.
What is Meftal used for?
- Meftal 500, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is usually prescribed in treatment for conditions like menstrual pain, headache, muscle, joint, or dental pain.
- It has been advised to take the table with food.
- The most common side effects of the medicine include mild vomiting, stomach pain, nausea, headache, and dizziness.
What does the alert against Meftal say?
- IPC stated that a preliminary analysis of adverse drug reactions from the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) database revealed drug reactions with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome.
- DRESS, also known as drug induced hypersensitivity syndrome, is an adverse drug reaction that can even be life threatening.
- It may cause damage to several organs, especially to the kidneys, heart, lungs, and pancreas.
- The mortality rate is high and is about 10 per cent.
Back2Basics: Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC)
|
Details |
| Establishment |
1956,
An autonomous body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare |
| Primary Objective |
To promote public health by setting and updating standards for drug quality in India. |
| Key Publication |
Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP), a legally recognized book of drug standards. |
| Role in Drug Regulation |
Standards set in the IP are enforceable by law, crucial for India’s drug regulatory framework. |
| International Recognition |
Collaborates with WHO and aligns with global drug standards. |
| Pharmacovigilance Program |
Involved in monitoring and analyzing adverse drug reactions through the PvPI. |
| Quality Control & Training |
Engages in drug quality control and provides training to regulatory bodies and the pharmaceutical industry. |
| Publication Updates |
Periodically updates the IP to include new drugs and revise existing standards. |
| Collaboration |
Works with the pharmaceutical industry, academia, and regulatory bodies. |
| Global Harmonization |
Aims to harmonize the IP with international pharmacopoeias like the USP and BP. |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Odisha Government invoked its Essential Services (Maintenance) Act (ESMA) prohibiting strikes by paramedical staff, including nurses, pharmacists and technicians to ensure that medical services are not disrupted.
About Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA)
- Description: The Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) is a significant piece of legislation enacted by the Parliament in 1968.
- Constitutional Placement: It falls under list no. 33 in the 7th schedule under the concurrent list of the Indian Constitution.
- Purpose: ESMA is primarily used by states to manage strikes by employees, especially in essential services.
- Essential Services: The Act empowers the government to designate any economic activity or service as ‘essential’, where disruption would impact the normal life of people.
Provisions and Powers under ESMA
- Police Authority: The Act grants police the authority to arrest protestors without a warrant if they violate the provisions of ESMA.
- State-Specific Provisions: Each Indian state has its unique version and provisions of the ESMA.
Right to Strike in Context
- Worker’s Basic Right: Striking is a fundamental means for workers to legitimately promote and defend their economic and social interests.
- Legal Status: While the right to protest is a fundamental right under Article 19 of the Indian Constitution, the right to strike is a legal right with certain restrictions.
- Industrial Dispute Act 1947: This act outlines the legal framework and restrictions for strikes, especially in public sectors and essential services.
- Restrictions in Specific Sectors: Strikes are particularly restricted for public sector employees, banking, oil, metropolitan transport, and education sectors under state jurisdiction.
International Labor Organization (ILO) and the Right to Strike
- ILO’s Stance: The ILO’s Committee on Freedom of Association has established principles regarding the right to strike.
- Essential Services Definition: Essential services are those whose interruption could endanger the life, safety, or health of part or all of the population.
- Examples of Essential Services: The committee identifies sectors like hospitals, electricity, water supply, telephone services, and air traffic control as essential services.
- Restriction on Strikes: Employees in these essential services are generally not permitted to strike.
Problems and Criticisms of ESMA
- Irresponsible Use: The Act has been criticized for its sometimes irresponsible and unwise implementation.
- Suppression of Democratic Rights: ESMA is seen as monopolizing power and suppressing the democratic rights of stakeholders, particularly the right to protest or strike.
- Government’s Overpowering Role: Critics argue that ESMA dangerously skews the balance in industrial relations towards the government in the public sector.
Conclusion
- Debate on ESMA’s Role: The Essential Services Maintenance Act remains a contentious topic, balancing the need for uninterrupted essential services with the rights of workers to strike.
- Need for Responsible Implementation: Responsible and democratic application of ESMA is crucial to maintain this balance.
- Ongoing Discussions: The Act continues to spark debate about the extent of government power and the protection of workers’ rights in essential sectors.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ethanol
Mains level: Ethanol production from sugarcane
Central Idea
- The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution issued a directive to sugar mills and distilleries, not to use sugarcane juice or syrup for ethanol production in the ethanol year 2023-2024.
No Sugarcane Juice for Ethanol Production
- Continuation of Existing Supplies: The directive allows the continued supply of ethanol from B-Heavy molasses based on existing offers received by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).
- Regulatory Oversight: The Department of Food and Public Distribution, responsible for monitoring sugar production and availability, implements this directive under the Sugar (Control) Order.
Rationale behind the Directive
- Ensuring Sugar Availability: The government’s decision aims to ensure sufficient sugar availability in India, considering the lower sugar production in the country.
- Food vs. Fuel Consideration: Businesses highlighted this move as a balance between food security and fuel production.
- Impact on Ethanol Blending Targets: The directive is significant in the context of India’s goal of achieving 20% ethanol blending by the 2025-2026 ethanol year.
Implications for Industry
- ISMA’s Response: The Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA) is assessing the implications of the order.
- Effect on Domestic Sugar Supply: Industry sources indicate that this decision will ensure adequate sugar supply domestically, especially with reduced sugarcane production in states like Maharashtra and Karnataka.
- Impact on Ethanol Blending Program: The restriction is likely to affect the ethanol blending program, which is a key component of India’s renewable energy strategy.
- Consequences for Ethanol-Only Units: Facilities dedicated solely to ethanol production may face challenges due to this new policy.
Conclusion
- The directive represents a strategic decision by the Indian government to prioritize domestic sugar availability over ethanol production from sugarcane.
- Monitoring the impact of this directive on both the sugar industry and the ethanol blending program will be crucial in the coming years.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Group of Companies Doctrine
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The Supreme Court has issued a landmark ruling, expanding the scope of arbitration agreements to include non-signatories under specific conditions.
- This ruling centers on the “group of companies” doctrine within the framework of arbitration agreements.
‘Group of Companies’ Doctrine
|
Details |
| Essence |
Non-signatory entities in a corporate group can be bound by an arbitration agreement if part of the same group as a signatory. |
| Basis on Mutual Intent |
Relies on the mutual intention to bind both signatories and non-signatory group members. |
| Arbitration as a Tool |
Offers an alternative to court litigation, with enforceable decisions by neutral arbitrators. |
| Root in International Jurisprudence |
Based more on international arbitration practices than domestic law. |
| Indian Legal Precedent |
Established by Chloro Controls India Pvt. Ltd. v. Severn Trent Water Purification Inc. case (2013). |
| Criteria for Application |
Set by the Indian Supreme Court, includes mutual intent, relationship between entities, common subject matter, transaction nature, and contract performance. |
| Objective |
Aims to prevent dispute fragmentation in complex, multi-party transactions. |
| Recent Supreme Court Ruling |
Clarified conditions under which non-signatories can be bound by arbitration agreements, focusing on legal relationships and demonstrated intentions. |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Google Gemini
Mains level: Recent breakthrough in AI
Central Idea
- Google has introduced Gemini, a new multimodal general AI model, available globally through Bard.
- It is seen as Google’s response to ChatGPT, offering advanced capabilities in the realm of GenAI.
What is Google Gemini?
- Unlike ChatGPT, Gemini can process and operate across various formats including text, code, audio, image, and video.
- Google claims Gemini Ultra surpasses current models in academic benchmarks and is the first to outperform human experts in massive multitask language understanding (MMLU).
Different versions available
- Three Variants: Gemini comes in three sizes – Ultra, Pro, and Nano – each designed for specific levels of complexity and tasks.
- Gemini Ultra: Intended for highly complex tasks, currently in a trial phase with select users.
- Gemini Pro: Available in Bard for general users, offering advanced reasoning and understanding, and accessible to developers via Google AI Studio or Google Cloud Vertex AI.
- Gemini Nano: Focused on on-device tasks, already integrated into Pixel 8 Pro, and soon available to Android developers via AICore in Android 14.
Addressing Challenges of Hallucinations and Safety
- Factuality and Hallucinations: While improvements have been made, Gemini, like other LLMs, is still prone to hallucinations. Google uses additional techniques in Bard to enhance response accuracy.
- Safety Measures: Google emphasizes new protections for Gemini’s multimodal capabilities, conducting comprehensive safety evaluations, including bias and toxicity assessments.
- Ongoing Safety Research: Google collaborates with external experts to stress-test models and identify potential risks in areas like cyber-offence and persuasion.
| Hallucination: Asking a generative AI application for five examples of bicycle models that will fit in the back of your specific make of sport utility vehicle. If only three models exist, the GenAI application may still provide five — two of which are entirely fabricated. |
Comparing Gemini and ChatGPT 4
- Flexibility and Capabilities: Gemini appears more versatile than GPT4, especially with its video processing and offline functionality.
- Accessibility and Cost: Unlike the paid-access ChatGPT4, Gemini is currently free to use, potentially giving it a broader user base.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The Centre has taken significant steps to increase domestic sugar availability, including banning sugar exports and restricting the diversion of sugar for ethanol production.
- On December 7, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution directed mills and distilleries not to use sugarcane juice/syrup for ethanol production.
Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme
- Programme’s Success: The EBP programme, a key achievement of the government, has seen ethanol blending with petrol increase from 1.6% in 2013-14 to 11.8% in 2022-23.
- Feedstock Diversification: The success is attributed to diversifying feedstocks, including C-heavy molasses, B-heavy molasses, sugarcane juice/syrup, and grains.
Ethanol Production from Different Feedstocks
- C-heavy Molasses: Traditionally used for ethanol production, yielding 220-225 litres of ethanol per tonne.
- B-heavy Molasses: Provides higher ethanol yield (290-320 litres per tonne) compared to C-heavy molasses.
- Direct Fermentation of Sugarcane: Fermenting the entire sugarcane without sugar extraction yields 80-81 litres of ethanol per tonne.
Centre’s Ethanol Blending Scheme: Food vs. Fuel Debate
- Increased Ethanol Production Post-2017: The use of B-heavy molasses and sugarcane juice/syrup, along with new substrates like surplus rice, broken grains, and maize, boosted ethanol production.
- Differential Pricing Policy: The government incentivized ethanol production from non-C-heavy molasses feedstocks with higher prices.
- Impact on Industry: Companies like Triveni Engineering & Industries Ltd (TEIL) adapted to multiple feedstocks, including grain during the off-season.
Challenges and Setbacks for the Industry
- Directive’s Impact: The December 7 directive is a setback, especially for companies with capacities to produce ethanol from cane juice/syrup.
- Tender for Ethanol Supply: The OMCs’ tender for 825 crore litres of ethanol for 2023-24 might be affected, particularly the 135 crore litres from sugarcane juice/syrup.
- Uncertainty in Pricing: The Centre has not announced prices for various ethanol feedstocks for 2023-24, despite the ethanol supply year aligning closer to the sugar year.
Sugar Supply Concerns and Policy Implications
- Low Sugar Stocks: The 2022-23 sugar year ended with low stocks, prompting the government to prioritize domestic sugar supply.
- Uncertain Production Forecasts: The National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories predicts a decrease in sugar production for 2023-24.
- Government’s Prioritization: The latest decisions reflect the government’s focus on domestic supply and consumer needs over exports and fuel production.
Conclusion
- Shift in Government Policy: The Centre’s recent actions indicate a shift towards prioritizing domestic sugar availability over ethanol production.
- Broader Implications: These decisions impact both the sugar and ethanol industries, reflecting the complex balance between food security and renewable energy initiatives.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Garba, UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Garba, a traditional dance form from Gujarat, was included in the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
- This recognition makes Garba the 15th cultural item from India to be featured on the UNESCO list, following Kolkata’s Durga Puja, which was added two years ago.
About Garba
- What is it? Garba is a traditional dance form from Gujarat, India, primarily performed during the Navratri festival to worship the Hindu goddess Durga.
- Origins and Meaning: The term “Garba” comes from “Garbha” (womb) and “Deep” (lamp). The dance is performed around a central lamp or a representation of the Goddess, symbolizing life, death, and rebirth.
- Dance Style: Garba is characterized by energetic, circular movements, clapping hands, and intricate footwork, reflecting the cyclical nature of life.
- Music and Instruments: The dance is accompanied by rhythmic music, traditionally using instruments like the dhol (drum), harmonium, and flute, with modern adaptations including electronic instruments.
- Traditional Attire: Women wear a chaniya choli (a colorful, embroidered skirt set) and men don a kediyu and dhoti or pajama, often embellished with mirrors and embroidery.
- Dandiya Raas Association: Garba is often followed by Dandiya Raas, another dance form using sticks (dandiyas), especially after the Aarti (worship ritual).
- Inclusivity and Community Aspect: The dance is inclusive, attracting people of all ages and backgrounds, and emphasizing community participation.
About UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)
- ICH means the practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, skills – as well as the instruments, objects, artefacts and cultural spaces associated with them that communities, groups and, in some cases, individuals recognize as a part of their cultural heritage.
- Furthermore, its importance is not in the cultural manifestation itself, but in the wealth of knowledge, know-how and skills that are transmitted from one generation to the next.
- The adoption of the Convention for the Safeguarding of the ICH by the General Conference of UNESCO in 2003 was a crucial step towards preserving intangible heritage.
- UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity was established in the year 2008.
Criteria for the selection
- There are three criteria for an intangible cultural heritage to be inscribed in the United Nations list.
- The entity must-
- be recognized by communities, groups and, in some cases, individuals as part of their cultural heritage,
- be transmitted from generation to generation and be constantly recreated by communities and groups in response to their environment, their interaction with nature and their history and
- provide them with a sense of identity and continuity, thus promoting respect for cultural diversity and human creativity
India’s ICH on the UNESCO list
- Sangeet Natak Akademi is the nodal organisation which looks after this function, and files nominations of intangible cultural entities from India, for evaluation by the international body.
- ICG from India include Kolkata’s Durga Puja (2021), Kumbh Mela (2017), Navroz (2016), Yoga (2016), traditional brass and copper craft of utensil-making among coppersmiths of Punjab (2014), Sankirtana, a ritual musical performance of Manipur (2013), and the Buddhist chanting of Ladakh (2012).
- Before 2011, the list included Chhau dance, Kalbelia folk songs and dance of Rajasthan, and Mudiyettu, a dance drama from Kerala (2010), Ramman, a religious festival and theatre performance of Garhwal in the Himalayas (2009), and Kutiyattam or Sanskrit theatre, and Vedic chanting (2008).
- Ramlila, a traditional performance of Ramayana, was also included in 2008.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Cyclone Michaung
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Cyclone Michaung (name suggested by Myanmar) makes landfall in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.
- Michaung is the fourth tropical cyclone over the Bay of Bengal this year.
About Cyclone Michaung
- Uncommon Intensity: December cyclones in the North Indian Ocean typically do not reach high intensities. Michaung, with its severe storm classification, is an exception.
- Upgraded Intensity: Initially predicted as a tropical cyclone, IMD upgraded Michaung to a ‘severe’ storm due to its unexpected intensification.
- Heat Index Contribution: The intensification is attributed to the above-normal heat index values off the southern Andhra Pradesh coast.
Indian Tropical Storms: An Overview
- Annual Cyclones: The North Indian Ocean basin averages about five cyclones per year, predominantly in the Bay of Bengal.
- Arabian Sea Cyclones: Though less frequent, Arabian Sea cyclones often reach higher intensities and can cause extensive damage.
- Peak Cyclone Seasons: Cyclones are most common during pre-monsoon (April-June) and post-monsoon (October-December) months, with May and November seeing more intense storms.
Factors Influencing Storm Intensification
- Ocean Heat: Cyclones draw energy from warm ocean temperatures, typically around 26 degrees Celsius or higher.
- Tropical Cyclone Heat Potential (TCHP): This oceanographic parameter is crucial in cyclone genesis and intensification.
- Complex Atmospheric Conditions: Various atmospheric factors like wind shear, convection, and air-sea interactions also play a role in cyclone development.
- Coriolis Effect: This effect influences cyclone formation in the northern hemisphere, causing air to move anticlockwise in low-pressure areas.
Back2Basics: Extratropical and Tropical Cyclones
- General Definition: Cyclones are large-scale air systems rotating around a low-pressure center, often accompanied by violent storms.
- Extratropical Cyclones: Found outside the tropics, these cyclones have a cold core and gain energy from interactions between cold and warm air masses. They can form over both land and sea.
- Tropical Cyclones: These form in tropical regions and are powered by the condensation of water vapor. They lack associated warm or cold fronts and are known as hurricanes or typhoons in different regions.
Cyclone Naming Process
- Rotational Basis for Naming: The naming of cyclones is done by countries on a rotational basis, following certain existing guidelines.
- Responsibilities of RSMCs and TCWCs: Worldwide, there are six regional specialized meteorological centers (RSMCs) and five regional Tropical Cyclone Warning Centers (TCWCs) mandated for issuing advisories and naming of tropical cyclones.
- IMD’s Role: IMD is one of the six RSMCs providing tropical cyclone and storm surge advisories to 13 member countries under the WMO/Economic and Social Commission for Asia-Pacific (ESCAP) Panel.
- Naming Authority of IMD: RSMC, New Delhi, is also mandated to name the tropical cyclones developing over the north Indian Ocean, including the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea.
- Guidelines for Naming: Some rules are to be followed while naming cyclones, such as being neutral to politics, religious beliefs, cultures, and gender, avoiding offensive or cruel names, and keeping the name short and easy to pronounce.
- Future Naming: After ‘Michaung’, the next cyclone as per India’s suggestion will be named ‘Tej’.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Maratha Navy
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- On Navy Day, December 4, PM Modi highlighted Chhatrapati Shivaji’s understanding of naval power and announced the incorporation of his emblem on naval officers’ epaulettes.
Indian Navy’s Acknowledgment of Maratha Heritage
- Training Establishment: The Indian Navy’s training facility in Lonavla is named INS Shivaji.
- Administrative Hub: The Western Naval Command’s logistics and administrative center in Mumbai is named INS Angre, after Kanhoji Angre, a prominent Maratha naval commander.
- New Naval Ensign: The Indian Navy’s new Ensign, unveiled in 2022, features the octagonal design of Shivaji’s seal, symbolizing his maritime vision.
About Maratha Navy
|
Details |
| Foundation and Expansion |
– Founder: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
– First Vessel: Built around 1654 near Kalyan
– Strategic Naval Bases: Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, Khanderi, Colaba
– Philosophy: Principle of ‘Jalameva yasya, balameva tasya’ (‘He who rules the seas is all powerful’). |
| Composition and Command |
– Personnel: Native Konkani sailors and mercenaries
– Notable Commanders: Shivaji Maharaj, Admiral Kanhoji Angre |
| Naval Fleet and Technology |
– Ship Types: ‘Gurab’ (large, three-masted) and ‘Galbat’ (smaller, faster), Tarande , Shibad, Pal, Taru, Tirkiti and Machchava.
– Artillery and Arms: Equipped with various cannons, known for innovative naval tactics |
| Tactics and Strategies |
– Coastal Dominance: Excelling in coastal defense
– Guerrilla Tactics: Using hit-and-run tactics, exploiting shallow creeks and bays |
| Major Conflicts and Battles |
– Against European Powers: Engagements with the British and Portuguese
– Conflict with the Siddis: Ongoing conflicts with the Siddis of Janjira |
| Decline and Legacy |
– Reasons for Decline: Internal strife, technological advancements by Europeans, rise of British naval power
– Legacy: Remembered for resisting colonial powers, protecting the western coast of India |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Grandmaster Title
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Grandmaster Title: Indian chess player Vaishali Rameshbabu ( Pragnananda’s sister) has achieved the Grandmaster title by crossing 2,500 FIDE ranking points at the IV El Llobregat Open in Spain.
- Significance: She becomes only the third Indian woman player to earn this title, joining the ranks of Koneru Humpy and Harika Dronavalli.
Understanding the Grandmaster Title
- Highest Chess Honor: The Grandmaster title is the pinnacle of achievement in chess, awarded by the International Chess Federation (FIDE).
- Prestige: It signifies recognition as one of the world’s most talented chess players, proven in highly competitive environments.
Other Recognized Chess Titles
- FIDE Titles: Besides Grandmaster, FIDE awards seven other titles, including International Master (IM), FIDE Master (FM), Candidate Master (CM), Woman Grandmaster (WGM), Woman International Master (WIM), Woman FIDE Master (WFM), and Woman Candidate Master (WCM).
- Lifetime Validity: All FIDE titles, including the Grandmaster title, are valid for life, barring revocation due to offenses like cheating.
History and Criteria of Grandmaster Title
- Origins: The term ‘grandmaster’ dates back about a century and was formalized by FIDE in 1950.
- Initial Awardees: The first batch of Grandmaster titles in 1950 included 27 players, such as then-world champion Mikhail Botvinnik.
- Current Criteria: To achieve the Grandmaster title, a player must reach a FIDE Classical or Standard rating of 2,500 and earn three Grandmaster norms.
- Grandmaster Norms: These norms are based on stringent rules regarding tournament performance, including a performance rating of 2,600 or higher in a FIDE tournament with specific conditions.
Vaishali Rameshbabu’s Path to Grandmaster
- Performance: Vaishali’s achievement of the Grandmaster title is a testament to her exceptional performance in international chess tournaments.
- Representation: Her success adds to India’s growing reputation as a powerhouse in the global chess community.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: VoLTE VO5G
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- India witnessed a significant improvement in call quality with the introduction of VoLTE (Voice over Long-Term Evolution) in 2016, offering clearer voice calls compared to 3G/2G networks.
- With the advent of 5G in India, there’s growing anticipation for a new calling standard, Vo5G (Voice over 5G), already deployed in several countries.
What is Vo5G?
- Definition: Vo5G, also known as Voice over New Radio (VoNR), is the next generation of voice calling, utilizing 5G networks for voice transmission.
- Advantages: It leverages 5G’s speed, capacity, and responsiveness to enhance voice call quality.
- Global Trend: While Vo5G is gaining traction globally, its adoption in countries like India is still in the nascent stages.
VoNR vs. VoLTE: The Advancements
- Call Quality: VoNR offers superior call quality with advanced audio codecs, thanks to 5G’s higher bandwidth.
- Connection Time: Reduced network latency in 5G ensures faster call connections with VoNR.
- Reliability: VoNR promises better call continuity with lower packet loss, potentially reducing voice cut-outs.
- Network Transition: VoNR aims to eliminate call drops experienced during the transition from 5G to 4G for VoLTE calls.
Requirements for Vo5G
- Compatible Device: Users need a Vo5G-supported phone, typically available in models released after 2022 with 5G capabilities.
- Carrier Support: A network provider that offers Vo5G services is essential, along with a plan that includes Vo5G calling.
- 5G Coverage: Effective use of Vo5G requires being in an area with 5G network coverage.
VoNR in India
- Availability: As of now, VoNR is not available in India, despite the ongoing 5G rollout in major cities.
- Carrier Testing: Leading carriers like Reliance are reportedly testing VoNR for seamless integration with existing 4G and 5G networks.
- Timeline: The exact timeline for VoNR’s widespread availability in India remains uncertain.
Try this question from CSP 2019:
Q.With reference to communication technologies, what is/are the difference/differences between LTE (Long-Term Evolution) and VoLTE (Voice over Long-Term Evolution)?
- LTE ‘is commonly marketed as 3G and VoLTE is commonly marketed as advanced 3G.
- LTE is data-only technology and VoLTE is voice-only technology.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Post your answers here.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: deCODE Initiative
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The UK recently completed sequencing half a million whole genomes, nearly 0.7% of its population, under ‘deCODE’ Initiative.
- Various countries have launched large-scale genome projects, with some focusing on specific populations like African ancestry.
About ‘deCODE’ Initiative
- Inception: Launched in Iceland in 1996, deCODE genomics enrolled most of the Icelandic population for genetic studies.
- Contributions: The initiative enhanced disease genetics understanding and set standards for handling genomic data, integrating medical records with genealogies.
Merit of Large-Scale Sequencing
- Disease Research and Understanding: Large-scale genome sequencing allows researchers to identify genetic variations associated with various diseases. This information is crucial for understanding the genetic basis of diseases, including rare genetic disorders and complex conditions like cancer.
- Personalized Therapies: With a better understanding of an individual’s genetic makeup, it becomes possible to develop personalized and targeted therapies.
- Genetic Counseling: Large-scale genome sequencing provides valuable information for genetic counseling, helping individuals and families understand their risk for certain genetic conditions.
- Identification of Rare Variants: Large-scale sequencing efforts contribute to the identification of rare genetic variants that might be responsible for certain diseases. These discoveries are essential for expanding our knowledge of the genetic landscape and improving diagnostic capabilities.
- Population Genetics and Evolution: Genome sequencing on a large scale allows researchers to study the genetic diversity within populations. This information is valuable for understanding human evolution, migration patterns, and population-specific genetic traits.
Ethical and Regulatory Challenges
- Privacy Concerns: Genome sequencing generates highly sensitive and personal information. There is a risk that genetic data could be misused or lead to privacy breaches.
- Informed Consent: Obtaining informed consent for genome sequencing is complex due to the vast amount of information generated and the potential for incidental findings.
- Data Ownership and Control: Balancing individual rights with the need for research and medical advancements requires careful consideration of data sharing, ownership, and access policies.
- Genetic Discrimination: Concerns about genetic discrimination in areas such as employment, insurance, and education may discourage individuals from undergoing genome sequencing. L
- Access to Genetic Services: Disparities in access to genetic services and genomic technologies may exacerbate existing healthcare inequalities.
- Ethical Use of Genetic Data in Research: Researchers must adhere to ethical standards when using genetic data in research. This includes obtaining proper consent, ensuring data security, and transparently communicating the purpose and potential risks of the research.
Long-Term Impact and Future Prospects
- Beyond Individual Health: Population-scale genomics will enhance our understanding of human evolution, migration, and adaptation.
- Personalized Medicine: It paves the way for personalized healthcare based on individual genetic profiles.
- Billion Genome Project: The possibility of sequencing a billion genomes in a single project is on the horizon, alongside individuals’ rights to access and understand their own genomic data.
Conclusion
- Population-scale genomics is at the forefront of a genomic revolution, with the potential to transform healthcare, deepen our understanding of human biology, and shape our approach to medicine and biology.
- This evolving field promises to bring personalized, precise treatments and a richer comprehension of our genetic heritage.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Exoplanets
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Six exoplanets have been discovered orbiting HD 110067, a bright star in the Coma Berenices constellation, approximately 100 light-years away.
- The planets’ radii range between that of Earth and Neptune, classifying them as ‘sub-Neptunes’.
About Sub-Neptune Exoplanets
- Prevalence: Sub-Neptunes are commonly found in close-in orbits around more than half of all Sun-like stars.
- Mystery: Despite their prevalence, the composition, formation, and evolution of these planets remain largely unknown.
Observational Details
- TESS Observations: NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) observed dips in HD 110067’s brightness in 2020 and 2022.
- CHEOPS Contribution: Additional observations from the CHaracterising ExOPlanets Satellite (CHEOPS) helped confirm the presence of six planets transiting the star.
- Orbital Calculations: The study calculated the orbits of all six planets, ranging from about nine days for the innermost planet to approximately 54 days for the outermost planet.
Characteristics of the Planets
- Mass and Density Estimates: The planets have relatively low densities, suggesting the presence of large, hydrogen-rich atmospheres.
- Resonant Orbits: All six planets are in resonant orbits, indicating regular gravitational interactions among them.
- System’s Age: The resonant orbits suggest that the system has remained largely unchanged since its formation, estimated to be at least four billion years ago.
HD 110067’s Uniqueness
- Brightness and Host Status: HD 110067 is the brightest star known to host more than four transiting exoplanets.
- Potential for More Discoveries: There is a possibility of additional planets within or beyond the star’s temperate zone, though such observations have not yet been made.
- Learning Opportunity: The HD 110067 system presents a unique opportunity to study sub-Neptunes and understand how such planetary systems form and evolve.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: ALTÉRRA Fund
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The United Arab Emirates, as the host of COP-28, has committed US$30 billion to establish ALTÉRRA, a climate investment fund.
What is ALTÉRRA Fund?
- Fund Objective: ALTÉRRA aims to mobilize US$250 billion globally by 2030, aspiring to be the largest fund dedicated to climate investments.
- Focus: The fund is designed to transform emerging markets and developing economies through climate investments.
- Clean Energy in India: An initial portion of the fund is allocated for developing over 6.0 GW of new clean energy capacity in India, including 1,200 MW of wind and solar projects expected to be operational by 2025.
- Financial Requirements: Emerging markets and developing economies reportedly need US$2.4 trillion annually by 2030 to address climate change.
- Key Verticals: ALTÉRRA will focus on four main areas: Energy Transition, Industrial Decarbonisation, Sustainable Living, and Climate Technologies.
Leadership and Management
- Chair: COP-28 President, Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, will chair the ALTÉRRA fund.
- Management Entity: Lunate, an independent global investment manager, has established ALTÉRRA.
- Domicile: The fund is domiciled in the Abu Dhabi Global Market.
Mission and Impact
- Transformational Solution: ALTÉRRA is positioned as a transformative solution for attracting private capital into climate-focused investments.
- Multiplier Effect: The fund’s scale and structure are expected to create a significant impact in climate investment.
- Reflection of COP Presidency’s Action Agenda: The launch of ALTÉRRA aligns with the UAE’s COP Presidency Action Agenda and efforts to make climate finance more available, accessible, and affordable.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Green Credits Scheme
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- India introduced the Green Credits Scheme at COP28 in Dubai. PM Modi emphasized that this program goes beyond the commercial nature of carbon credits, offering a broader environmental impact.
What is Green Credits Programme?
- Objective: The initiative aims to generate Green Credits through plantation on degraded wasteland.
- Inception: Launched in October by the Environment Ministry, it is designed to incentivize various environment-positive actions.
- Action Areas: Includes tree plantation, water management, sustainable agriculture, waste management, air pollution reduction, mangrove conservation, ecomark label development, and sustainable building.
- Scope beyond Carbon: Unlike existing carbon credit systems, this program extends incentives to actions beyond carbon emission reductions, such as water conservation and soil improvement.
Distinctive Features
- Market-Based Approach: The program aims to create a market for trading green credits, similar to carbon credits, where companies can earn credits for environmental actions and trade them.
- Development Stage: Methodologies and standards for measuring and verifying such actions are under development, and the market for these credits is yet to be established.
- Initial Buyers: It is anticipated that private companies might purchase these green credits to fulfill their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) obligations.
- Wider Beneficiaries: Unlike carbon markets, which primarily target industries and corporations, the green credit program can benefit individuals and communities as well.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: X-Ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat)
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The Indian Space Research Organisation, following a landmark 2023, will ring in the new year with the launch of the PSLV-C58 X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) mission on January 1, 2024.
About XPoSat Mission
- Orbital Details: XPoSat will operate in a Low Earth Orbit at an altitude of about 650 km, with a low inclination of around 6 degrees.
- Dual Scientific Payloads: The satellite is equipped with two payloads, enabling comprehensive studies of X-ray sources, including their temporal, spectral, and polarization characteristics.
- Mission Goals: XPoSat’s primary objectives include measuring X-ray polarization in the 8-30 keV energy band and conducting long-term studies in the 0.8-15 keV band.
- Mission Lifespan: The satellite is expected to be operational for approximately 5 years.
- Observation Strategy: Observations by XPoSat will primarily occur during the Earth’s eclipse period to maximize efficiency.
Payloads aboard XPoSat
- POLIX – Primary Payload: The Polarimeter Instrument in X-rays (POLIX), developed by Bengaluru’s Raman Research Institute (RRI) with ISRO’s collaboration, is tailored to assess the degree and angle of polarization in medium X-ray energy ranges.
- XSPECT – Secondary Payload: The X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing (XSPECT) payload, created by ISRO’s U.R. Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), will gather spectroscopic data in the 0.8-15 keV range.
Significance of XPoSat
- Polarization refers to the orientation of light waves. X-rays, a form of electromagnetic radiation, can also be polarized.
- Studying it from cosmic sources provides valuable information about the physical conditions and processes occurring in extreme environments, such as around black holes, neutron stars, and supernova remnants.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Exercise MILAN
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Scheduled for February 2024, Exercise MILAN is set to be India’s largest multilateral naval exercise, with over 50 countries expected to participate.
Exercise MILAN
- Origin: Biennial exercise initiated by the Indian Navy in 1995 at the Andaman and Nicobar Command.
- Initial Participation: Began with four countries – Indonesia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Thailand in 1995.
- Growth over Years: The exercise has significantly grown in the number of participants and the complexity of exercises.
- Expansion with Policies: Expanded under India’s ‘Act East policy’ and the SAGAR initiative.
- Broader Inclusion: Now includes island nations in the Western Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and IOR littoral states.
Significance of Exercise MILAN
- Showcasing Naval Strength: This exercise reflects the Indian Navy’s growing engagement and capability to assist as a first responder and Preferred Security Partner in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
- Enhanced Operational Reach: The Indian Navy’s increasing presence and operational reach through Mission Based Deployments and other engagements underscore India’s commitment to strong defense ties.
- Importance of Naval Exercises: Conducting 17 multilateral and 20 bilateral exercises annually, these events are crucial for operational capability enhancement, interoperability, and strengthening diplomatic and maritime security ties.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
