From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: IAEA
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
Japan has begun discharging treated radioactive wastewater from the disabled Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station into the Pacific Ocean in a plan endorsed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
IAEA is an international organization that plays a pivotal role in promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy while preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons.
It was established in 1957 as an autonomous agency under the UN is headquartered in Vienna, Austria.
It plays a crucial role in safeguarding the principles outlined in the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) of 1970.
Despite its independent treaty, the IAEA remains accountable to both the UN General Assembly and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
What does it do?
Promotion of Peaceful Nuclear Energy: Established amidst the Cold War’s geopolitical tension, the IAEA’s core mission centers on promoting the constructive application of nuclear energy.
Prevention of Military Use: The agency’s fundamental role is to prevent the diversion of nuclear programs for military intentions, ensuring compliance with international agreements.
IAEA’s Tri-fold Missions
Peaceful Utilization: Fostering member states’ constructive adoption of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes constitutes a pivotal aspect of IAEA’s mission.
Safeguarding Measures: A cornerstone role of the IAEA involves implementing measures to verify the non-military use of nuclear energy, particularly through assessing declared nuclear activities and materials.
Nuclear Safety: The IAEA takes an active stance in advocating stringent standards of nuclear safety to prevent accidents and ensure public and environmental protection.
Significant feature: IAEA’s Safeguards
Purpose of Safeguards: IAEA’s safeguards are mechanisms designed to affirm that a nation adheres to its international commitment against exploiting nuclear programs for weaponry purposes.
Verification Approach: Safeguards are founded on the meticulous examination of a state’s reported nuclear materials and activities, evaluating their accuracy and completeness.
Varied Verification Measures: The agency employs a range of verification tools, including on-site inspections, visits, and ongoing monitoring, ensuring rigorous oversight.
Dual Dimensions of Safeguards
Declared Nuclear Material Verification: Through the inspection of reported nuclear materials and activities, IAEA ensures that a state remains transparent in its nuclear endeavors.
Non-Diversion Assurance: A significant facet is the assurance of the absence of undeclared nuclear materials or activities, thereby averting any unauthorized deviation from peaceful usage.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Near, Far, and Dark Sides, KREEP
Mains level: Lunar study by Chandrayaan 3
Central Idea
The Chandrayaan-3 mission’s recent lunar landing has sparked curiosity about the moon’s various sides – near, far, and even the intriguing ‘dark’ side.
Delving into these distinctions sheds light on the moon’s enigmatic nature and how space exploration helps us unravel its mysteries.
Facts for Prelims
Impact/Landing point names on Moon:
1. Chandrayaan 1: Jawahar Point
2. Chandrayaan 2: Tiranga Point
3. Chandrayaan 3: Shivshakti Point
Moon’s Visible and Hidden Faces
Near and Far Sides: The moon’s ‘near side,’ visible from Earth, covers around 60% of its surface. In contrast, the ‘far side’ remained hidden from us until modern spacecraft brought it into view.
Clarifying the ‘Dark’ Side: Often misconstrued as constantly dark, the ‘dark side’ simply refers to the unseen side. It gets illuminated during the ‘new moon’ phase, challenging the misconception of its perpetual darkness.
Why is their composition different?
The composition of the Moon’s near and far sides is different, and scientists believe they have identified the reasons behind this discrepancy.
A study published in the journal Nature Geoscience reveals that the presence of KREEP, a rock enriched in potassium (K), rare-earth elements (REE), and phosphorus (P), plays a crucial role.
Key Points from the Study:
Moons Near and Far Sides: The Moon’s near side, always facing Earth, has visible dark and light patches known as “maria.” Telescopic observations showed that these were not seas as early astronomers thought, but rather craters or volcanic features. The far side of the Moon has fewer maria than the near side.
Moon’s Formation: The uneven distribution of volcanism and the KREEP signature between the near and far sides of the Moon puzzled scientists.
Radioactive Unstable Elements: Potassium (K), thorium (Th), and uranium (U) are unstable, radioactive elements that have various isotopes with different numbers of neutrons. The radioactive decay of these elements generates heat that can melt rocks and contribute to volcanic activity.
Heat and Melting: The study found that the inclusion of KREEP in rocks not only enhances heating but also lowers their melting temperature. This combination increases volcanic activity beyond what is predicted by radiogenic decay models.
Geological Record: The Moon’s surface preserves geological events from the early history of the Solar System due to the absence of erosion processes. Concentrations of radioactive elements like uranium (U) and thorium (Th) on the near side provide insights into the Moon’s formation and early Earth conditions.
Phases and Illumination
New Moon Phase: The ‘new moon’ phase unveils the moon’s ‘far side,’ exposing it to sunlight for about two weeks.
Historic Revelation: In 1968, astronauts aboard Apollo 8 became the first humans to observe the ‘far side,’ demystifying its hidden features.
Chandrayaan-3’s Approach
Closest South Pole Landing: Chandrayaan-3’s landing at coordinates 69.36 S and 32.34 E marks the closest approach to the lunar South Pole.
Exploring Permanently Shadowed Regions: The strategic landing aimed to study regions that never receive sunlight, potentially containing frozen water ice and other lunar resources.
Sunlight Necessity: Vikram’s nearness to the South Pole ensures sunlight for solar battery recharging, crucial for its operation.
Choice of Landing Site: The decision to land on the ‘near side’ was driven by mission objectives, including real-time communication with Earth. Landing on the ‘far side’ would have required relay satellites and introduced delays.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Sodium-Ion Battery (NIB)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
Coimbatore-based start-up AR4 Tech has joined hands with Singapore’s Sodion Energy to revolutionize the energy storage landscape by producing sodium-ion battery packs for both local and global markets.
These sodium-ion batteries will find applications in converting conventional petroleum-based vehicles, primarily two-wheelers, into electric vehicles.
What is Sodium Ion Battery (NIB)?
A NIB is a type of rechargeable battery that uses sodium ions as the charge carriers to store and release electrical energy.
Similar in principle to lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries offer an alternative energy storage solution with potential benefits such as cost-effectiveness and abundance of sodium resources.
Key characteristics
Working Principle: Sodium-ion batteries operate on the same basic principle as lithium-ion batteries. During charging, sodium ions are moved from the positive electrode (cathode) to the negative electrode (anode), and during discharge, they move back to the cathode, generating electrical energy in the process.
Sodium Anode: In a sodium-ion battery, the anode typically consists of materials that can intercalate (absorb) sodium ions during charging. Graphite and other carbon-based materials are commonly used for the anode in sodium-ion batteries.
Cathode Materials: Various materials can be used as cathodes in sodium-ion batteries, such as transition metal oxides or polyanionic compounds. These cathode materials allow sodium ions to be stored and released, enabling the battery’s energy storage function.
Electrolyte: The electrolyte in a sodium-ion battery is responsible for facilitating the movement of sodium ions between the anode and cathode during charge and discharge cycles. Sodium-ion batteries typically use a solid electrolyte or a liquid electrolyte containing sodium salts.
Advantages offered
Abundance of Resources: Sodium is more abundant and widely available than lithium, which can potentially make sodium-ion batteries more cost-effective.
Environmental Impact: They may have a lower environmental impact compared to lithium-ion batteries due to the more widespread availability of sodium resources.
Challenges
Energy Density: Sodium-ion batteries generally have lower energy density compared to lithium-ion batteries, which can limit their use in applications requiring high energy storage capacity.
Cycle Life: Ensuring a long cycle life (the number of charge and discharge cycles a battery can go through before losing capacity) remains a challenge for sodium-ion batteries.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Fukushima Disaster
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
Japan’s decision to release cooling water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean has sparked a complex debate.
Amidst concerns about radiation, environmental impact, and transparency, understanding the facts is vital.
About Fukushima Disaster
The Fukushima disaster refers to a series of nuclear incidents that occurred at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant in Okuma, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan.
It followed the powerful earthquake and tsunami that struck on March 11, 2011.
The disaster resulted in the release of radioactive materials and had significant implications for both human health and the environment.
It is considered one of the most severe nuclear accidents in history, alongside the Chernobyl disaster.
Why Fukushima Water is Being Released?
Storage Constraints: The Fukushima facility’s storage tanks are at full capacity due to the need for constant cooling of damaged reactors since the 2011 tsunami disaster.
Vast Water Volume: The plant requires 170 tons of cooling water daily, with rain and groundwater further exacerbating the issue. The site holds 1,343 million cubic meters of water across 1,046 storage tanks.
Release Process: Filtered water undergoes a one-kilometre tunnel before entering the Pacific Ocean. This process is expected to span 30 years while the radioactive waste remains on land.
Regulatory Approval and Skepticism
Regulatory Endorsement: Both Japan’s atomic agency and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have approved the release, stating negligible radiological impact.
Skepticism and Concerns: Environmentalists, fishing experts, neighbouring states, and public sentiments accuse Japan of underplaying radiation levels. Concerns encompass ocean contamination, ecological harm, economic loss, and damage to reputation.
Water Preparation and Tritium
Filter System: Contaminated water passes through the Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS), capable of filtering 62 radioactive elements but not tritium.
Tritium Dilution: The plant agency intends to dilute tritium concentration to 1,500 Becquerel per liter, a fraction of the safety standard, before releasing it.
Tritium Safety: Experts assert that tritium, a weak radioactive form of hydrogen, poses minimal risk as it emits weak beta particles, easily blocked by materials like plastic or skin.
Pacific Ocean’s Role and Controversy
Dilution Principle: Experts stress that “the solution to pollution is dilution.” When water is sufficiently diluted, it becomes safe for both humans and the environment.
Tritium Focus and Critique: Greenpeace accuses the government and plant agency of focusing on tritium to divert attention from other radioactive elements that won’t be filtered out.
Alternatives and Considerations: Alternatives like additional tanks or evaporation exist. However, concerns over tank leaks and airborne radioactive releases complicate these options.
Conclusion
The Fukushima water release debate presents a complex array of scientific, environmental, and geopolitical considerations.
Striking a balance between environmental preservation, public safety, and responsible nuclear waste management remains a challenging task.
As experts, activists, and governments deliberate, it’s essential to foster transparency, prioritize informed discussions, and seek solutions that minimize risks and promote global well-being.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Chandrayaan-3 Mission
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
As Chandrayaan-3 succeeded on its lunar soft landing, its six-wheeled rover begins a journey to unravel the mysteries of the Moon.
With its payloads and instruments, the mission aims to build on the knowledge gained from its predecessors, investigating lunar quakes, mineral compositions, and water-ice presence.
Chandrayaan-3 Mission: Journey post soft landing
Rover’s Arrival: The 26-kg rover, launched from the Chandrayaan-3 lander, is poised to cover up to 500 meters, commencing its lunar exploration.
Duration: The lander and rover, equipped with six payloads, are primed to collect valuable data during the single lunar day (equivalent to 14 Earth days) of operation.
Studying Lunar Quakes: The Chandrayaan-3 mission seeks to deepen insights into lunar quakes, expanding on the knowledge gained from its predecessors.
Mineral Composition: The rover’s endeavors include examining the mineral compositions of the Moon’s surface, shedding light on its geological history.
Electrons and Ions Study: The Radio Anatomy of Moon Bound Hypersensitive ionosphere and Atmosphere (RAMBHA) payload aims to study the behavior of electrons and ions near the lunar surface over time.
Thermal Properties: Chandra’s Surface Thermo physical Experiment (ChaSTE) will explore the thermal characteristics of the Moon’s Polar Regions.
Lunar Seismic Activity: The Instrument for Lunar Seismic Activity (ILSA) endeavors to measure lunar quakes and study the Moon’s crust and mantle composition.
Laser Retroreflector Array: A passive experiment by NASA, the LASER Retroreflector Array (LRA), will serve as a target for precise laser measurements in future missions.
Chemical Insights: The LASER Induced Breakdown Spectroscope (LIBS) aboard the rover is designed to identify the chemical and mineral composition of the lunar surface.
Elemental Analysis: The Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) aims to analyze elements such as magnesium, aluminium, silicon, potassium, calcium, titanium, and iron in lunar soil and rocks.
Mineral Mapping: The CLASS X-ray Fluorescence experiment, covering nearly 95% of the lunar surface, offers detailed mineral mapping. Oxygen-rich minerals hold potential for future missions as fuel resources.
Earlier Chandrayaan: Pioneering discoveries
Water Unveiled: Chandrayaan-1 played a pivotal role in uncovering the presence of water and hydroxyl molecules in the Moon’s atmosphere and surface, particularly in its southern polar regions.
Subsurface Water-Ice: Payloads like mini-SAR and Moon Mineralogy Mapper (M3) detected subsurface water-ice deposits within craters near the lunar South Pole.
Lava Tubes for Habitability: Terrain mapping on Chandrayaan-1 unveiled buried lava tubes that could provide protective habitats for humans, shielding against radiation and extreme lunar conditions.
Magma Ocean Hypothesis: M3 payload data suggested the possibility of a past magma ocean on the Moon, pointing to its formation and evolution.
Active Moon: Contrary to previous notions of lunar inactivity, Chandrayaan-1 revealed dynamic lunar processes, including volcanic activity evidenced by lava channels and vents less than 100 million years old.
Surface-Exosphere Interaction: Measurements indicated that the lunar surface interacts with the exosphere, evident in the emission of carbon dioxide and other gases.
Solar Mysteries: The Solar X-Ray Monitor on Chandrayaan-2’s orbiter observed solar microflares outside active regions, providing insights into coronal heating mysteries.
Conclusion
Chandrayaan-3’s scientific journey exemplifies India’s dedication to unraveling the Moon’s mysterious nature.
As data pours in from its payloads and instruments, the mission builds upon its predecessors, propelling our understanding of lunar geology, composition, and mysteries.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Fujiwhara Effect
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
In the ever-changing tapestry of Earth’s climate, the Fujiwhara effect has emerged as a captivating and consequential phenomenon.
With cyclones intensifying due to global warming, this intricate ‘dance’ between cyclones is garnering attention.
Why in news?
Surprising Weather: Recently, a storm named Hurricane Hilary brought a tropical twist to the US west coast. It’s part of a series of odd weather happenings there.
Wet Weather: Earlier this year, California had an unexpected rainy season with lots of wet storms, called ‘atmospheric rivers.’
Fujiwhara Show: During one of these storms, something special occurred—an effect named after a scientist. Let’s dive into the details.
Decoding the Fujiwhara Effect
Cyclone Waltz: Imagine two cyclones (or big storms) spinning in the same direction. When they get close, they begin a kind of dance around a common center.
Outcome of the Dance: Depending on the strength of the cyclones, they might merge, spin together, or one might absorb the other.
Super Cyclone: Rarely, if both cyclones are super strong, they can become one mega cyclone that causes big trouble.
Historical Context and Impact
Origins and Discovery: The Fujiwhara effect got its name from a Japanese scientist who first talked about it in 1921. It was seen happening for real in 1964.
Effects Unleashed: This unusual dance can be fierce. It has caused strong winds, broken windows, and power problems in some areas.
Guessing Game: The Fujiwhara effect is tricky for weather experts. It’s hard to predict what will happen when two cyclones dance together.
Climate Change Connection
More Frequent Moves: The Fujiwhara effect is showing up more often now. Experts believe it’s because our world is getting hotter and ocean waters are warming up.
Hotter Waters: Because of global warming, storms are getting stronger. For instance, in Taiwan, typhoons have become 35% stronger since 1977 due to warmer oceans.
Implications
Nature’s Symphony: The Fujiwhara effect is like a nature’s concert, showing us how everything is connected in our climate.
Future Twist: As storms get more powerful, the Fujiwhara effect could become even more important and harder to understand.
Planet’s Dance: The Fujiwhara effect teaches us about our planet’s rhythm and how important it is to take care of our home.
Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution - historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Article 371
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
The Supreme Court recently assured that special constitutional provisions protecting the interests of northeastern states under Article 371 will remain untouched.
As the Constitution Bench deliberates the challenge to Article 370’s abrogation in Jammu and Kashmir, we delve into the significance of these assurances and their implications.
What is Article 371?
Article 371 of the Indian Constitution grants special provisions to various states to protect their unique cultural and tribal identities.
These provisions are aimed at preserving local customs, social practices, and land ownership.
Preserving Tribal Culture
Context: Article 371 provides special provisions for several states, particularly in the northeast, to safeguard their tribal cultures and unique identities.
Article 371(A) – Nagaland: Article 371(A) ensures that acts of Parliament do not apply to Nagaland concerning Nagas’ religious and social practices, customary law, civil and criminal justice based on Naga customary law, and land and resource ownership.
State Assembly’s Role: These provisions only apply to Nagaland after the State Assembly passes a resolution to that effect.
Development Impediment: Some stakeholders, like Neikiesalie Nicky Kire of the NDPP, argue that Article 371(A) hampers development by preventing the government from carrying out development activities due to landowner preferences.
Similar Provisions in Other States
Article 371-G – Mizoram: Similar to Nagaland, Article 371-G provides special provisions for Mizoram to protect Mizo religious and social practices, customary law, civil and criminal justice, and land ownership.
Article 371B – Assam: Article 371B facilitates the creation of the sub-state ‘Meghalaya,’ aiming to provide special provisions with respect to Assam.
State-Specific Provisions
Article 371C – Manipur: This article addresses special provisions for Manipur, a state that was formed in 1972.
Article 371F and 371H – Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh: These articles discuss special provisions for Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, respectively, to address their unique needs.
Article 371 – Separate Development Boards: Article 371 empowers the President to establish separate development boards for specific regions within Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh, promoting balanced growth.
Further State-Specific Provisions except NE
Articles 371D and 371E – Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Goa: These articles provide special provisions for these states to ensure their cultural and economic development.
Articles 371J and 371I – Karnataka and Goa: These articles grant special provisions to Karnataka and Goa, respectively, to address their specific requirements.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Astra Missile
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas has achieved another milestone with the successful test firing of the indigenous Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile called Astra.
Indigenous Marvel of Astra Missile
The Astra missile is an indigenous Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India.
The missile is intended for use by both the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Navy.
Purpose and Capability
Astra is designed to engage and eliminate high-speed, agile aerial targets in air combat scenarios.
It boasts advanced air combat capabilities and can engage multiple high-performance targets simultaneously.
Aircraft Integration
Astra is integrated with various aircraft platforms, including the Su-30MKI fighter jet, Mirage 2000 multi-role combat fighters, Tejas light combat aircraft (LCA), MiG-29 and MiG-21 Bison fighter jets, and the Indian Navy’s Sea Harrier jet fighter.
Features and Specifications
(A) Design:
The missile is designed for high agility, accuracy, and reliability, ensuring a high single-shot kill probability (SSKP).
Astra measures approximately 3.8 meters in length and has a diameter of 178mm.
It has a launch weight of around 160 kilograms.
(B) Advanced Variants:
DRDO is working on developing an advanced variant called Astra Mk-II.
Astra Mk-II is expected to have an extended range of 160 kilometers.
(C) Guidance and Warhead:
The missile utilizes dual-mode guidance for accurate target tracking.
It is equipped with a high-explosive pre-fragmented warhead for effective engagement against threats.
(D) Propulsion and Performance:
The Astra missile is powered by a smokeless, single-stage, solid fuel propulsion system.
It is capable of achieving launch speeds ranging from Mach 0.4 to Mach 2.
(E) Launch Range and Agility:
The missile’s launch range is approximately 80 kilometers.
It can execute maneuvers with up to 40 g turns near sea level while engaging moving targets.
Collaborative Development
Astra Mk-III, a variant of the missile, is being developed in collaboration with Russia.
Origin: The LCA Tejas is an indigenous light combat aircraft developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) in collaboration with the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India.
Purpose: LCA Tejas is designed as a multi-role supersonic fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Navy.
Variants: There are two main variants of LCA Tejas:
LCA Tejas Mark-I: Developed for the Indian Air Force, it is a single-seat, single-engine aircraft.
LCA Tejas Mark-I Navy: Designed for the Indian Navy, it is adapted for carrier operations with features like reinforced landing gear and arrestor hook.
Design and Features:
LCA Tejas features a delta wing design for enhanced maneuverability and stability.
The aircraft incorporates advanced avionics, glass cockpit, and digital fly-by-wire controls.
It is equipped with modern radar systems, electronic warfare systems, and weapons integration capabilities.
Powerplant: LCA Tejas is powered by a single engine, the General Electric F404-GE-IN20 turbofan engine.
Armament: The aircraft can carry a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, including missiles, bombs, and rockets.
Performance:
The aircraft has a maximum speed of around Mach 1.8 (1,390 mph or 2,240 km/h).
Its operational range is approximately 500 kilometers (310 miles).
LCA Tejas has a service ceiling of around 50,000 feet (15,240 meters).
Induction and Service:
The LCA Tejas Mark-I was officially inducted into the Indian Air Force in July 2016.
The aircraft has participated in various national and international airshows, showcasing its capabilities.
Development and Challenges:
The development of LCA Tejas faced several challenges, including technical and financial issues, leading to delays.
However, the successful development and induction of the aircraft marked a significant achievement for India’s aerospace industry.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Displaying Caste on Vehicles
PC: The Quint
Central Idea
Recent actions taken by the Noida and Ghaziabad Police to issue challans for displaying ‘caste and religious stickers’ on vehicles have stirred debate about the legality of such stickers.
This move, part of a special drive, raises questions about the intersection of vehicle regulations, social norms, and legal restrictions.
Displaying Caste on Vehicles: Exploring Legal Framework
Caste and Religious Stickers: The legality of these stickers is assessed based on the Motor Vehicle Act and Motor Vehicle Rules.
State Orders: Various state governments, including Uttar Pradesh, have issued orders against affixing stickers signifying caste and religion on vehicles, even on the body of the vehicle.
Registration Number Plate: The Motor Vehicle Rules strictly forbid placing stickers on the registration number plate.
Challenging Stickers and Law Enforcement
Challan Penalties: The penalties for placing such stickers on vehicles are set at Rs 1,000, while it rises to Rs 5,000 if the sticker is placed on the registration number plate.
Future Initiatives: The authorities have indicated their intention to continue conducting similar drives in the future.
Number Plate Specifications and Violations
Number Plate Standards: The Motor Vehicle Rules specify the composition of the number plate, which should be a solid unit made of 1.0 mm aluminium with the letters “IND” in blue on the extreme left center.
Penalties for Violations: Section 192 of the MV Act outlines penalties for non-compliant number plates, including fines of up to Rs 5,000 for the first offense and potential imprisonment and fines for subsequent offenses.
2019 Amendment: Post the 2019 MV Act amendment, the fines for violations rose to a maximum of Rs 2,000.
Disobedience of Orders and Legal Consequences
Legal Basis: Police are issuing challans under Section 179 of the Motor Vehicles Act 1988 in the case of stickers on the body of vehicles.
Section 179 Details: Section 179 addresses “disobedience of orders, obstruction, and refusal of information.” Offenders can be fined up to Rs 500 as per the section.
Amendment Impact: Following the 2019 MV Act amendment, the fines for such offenses increased to a maximum of Rs 2,000.
Conclusion
The legal scrutiny of ‘caste and religious stickers’ on vehicles underscores the tension between personal expressions, cultural practices, and legal regulations.
As legal frameworks evolve and society navigates its complex dynamics, finding the balance between individual rights and societal harmony remains an ongoing challenge.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: History of Chennai
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
Madras Day celebrated on August 22, commemorates the foundation day of the city of Madras, now known as Chennai.
The Birth of Madras
1639: The East India Company (EIC) purchased the town of Madrasapatnam on August 22, 1639, laying the foundation for the modern-day city of Chennai.
British Presence: The EIC established trading posts and fortified settlements along the eastern and western coasts, leading to the emergence of Madras as a crucial hub.
Transition from Madras to Chennai
British Rule: The region remained under British rule until India gained independence in 1947, with both the state and city referred to as Madras.
1969: The state was officially renamed Tamil Nadu, and in 1996, Madras transformed into Chennai as a nod to its historical roots.
Origins and Significance of Madrasapatnam
Origins of the Name: The origin of the name “Madras” remains debated, with theories suggesting connections to local fishermen, churches, and the term “pattinam” (town on the coast).
Pre-British History: Madrasapatnam had a history shaped by various rulers, including the Pallavas and Cholas, before the British arrival.
Purchase and Founding of Madrasapatnam
Damarla Venkatapathy Nayak: Under his influence, the English were granted a piece of land between the Cooum River and the Egmore River in 1639, where Fort St. George was established.
Chennapatanam: The city around Fort St. George was named Chennapatanam, honoring Chennappa Nayak, which later inspired the name “Chennai.”
Urban Growth and Development
Growth of the City: Over the centuries, Chennai evolved from Fort St. George and the Black and White towns into a significant urban center.
Institutionalization: Under Governor Elihi Yale, a mayor and Corporation were established, and areas like Egmore and Tondiarpet were acquired.
Evolution to Tamil Nadu and Chennai
Post-Independence Era: After British rule ended, Madras province became Madras State.
Demand for Change: Various demands to rename the state as Tamil Nadu gained traction, with K P Sankaralinganar’s protest in 1956 being a pivotal moment.
Name Change: The renaming to Tamil Nadu was approved by Parliament in 1968 and came into effect in 1969.
Chennai’s Transition: Chennai’s renaming from Madras in 1996 was part of a broader trend to shed colonial influences, though British influence on these names’ evolution cannot be denied.
Continuing Identity
The transformation of Madras to Chennai is not just a change in nomenclature, but a reflection of the dynamic interplay between historical heritage, regional identity, and post-colonial aspirations.
The city’s evolution stands as a testament to the diverse threads that weave India’s urban tapestry.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mylara Cult
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
The recent discovery of two sculptures in the Basrur region near Kundapura, Udupi (Karnataka), has brought to light the existence of the ancient Mylara cult in the coastal area.
What is the news?
A remarkable sculpture, discovered in a well at Basrur, showcases a royal hero seated on a horse, wielding a sword and a bowl in his right and left hands, respectively.
Notably, this sculpture lacks the depiction of Mylaladevi on the horse’s back.
About Mylara Cult
Mylara, a revered folk deity, is believed to be a divine incarnation of Lord Shiva.
Known by various names such as Mailara, Khandoba, Khanderao, and Khandnatha, this deity holds a diverse range of titles that highlight its multifaceted nature.
Its origins can be traced back to the 12th century Shaivite tradition, associated with the revered Lingayat saint and philosopher Siddharama, aka. Siddharameshwara or Siddhalinga.
The influence of the Mylara cult spans across the southern regions of India, encompassing Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.
Historical Significance
Basrur was a thriving trading hub during the Medieval period, bustling with trading guilds like Uhayadesi and Nanadesi.
These guilds actively participated in trade, making Basrur a pivotal center for various cults and cultural exchange.
The Mylara cult, known for its prominence in the Deccan region, flourished in Basrur as well.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PFA, Forever Chemicals
Mains level: Residual chemicals and the pollution caused
A recent study published in Environment Science and Technology has found that rainwater from many places across the globe is contaminated with “per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances,” (PFAs) also called “forever chemicals”.
What are PFAs?
PFAs are man-made chemicals used to make non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, stain-resistant fabrics, cosmetics, fire-fighting forms and many other products that resist grease, water and oil.
They refer to a group of over 3,000 widely used human-made chemicals linked to cancer and other health risks.
They have tendency to stick around in the atmosphere, rainwater and soil for long periods of time.
PFAs can migrate to the soil, water and air during their production and use.
Since most PFAs do not break down, they remain in the environment for long periods of time.
Some of these PFAs can build up in people and animals if they are repeatedly exposed to the chemicals.
What harm do PFAs cause?
A variety of health risks are attributed to PFA exposure, including decreased fertility, developmental effects in children, interference with body hormones, increased cholesterol levels and increased risk of some cancers.
Recent research has also revealed that long-term low-level exposure to certain PFAs can make it difficult for humans to build antibodies after being vaccinated against various diseases.
How can these chemicals be removed from rainwater?
There is no known method that can extract and remove PFAs from the atmosphere itself.
There are many effective, albeit expensive, methods to remove them from rainwater that has been collected through various rainwater harvesting methods.
One way to do this would be to use a filtration system with activated carbon.
The activated carbon will need to be removed and replaced regularly.
Also, the old contaminated material must be destroyed.
Remedial measures
A cheaper method is under trial.
The researchers first placed a PFA compound in a solvent called DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide).
They then mixed it with sodium hydroxide (lye) in water.
They found that when this mixture was heated up to boiling temperature, the PFA compound began to degrade.
However, this method doesn’t work for all PFAs and only works for certain PFA subsets.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ajnala Massacre
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
A recent collaborative effort of professional geneticists has resulted in a scientific confirmation of the Ajnala massacre – an event lost to history for 165 years.
This project, marked by emotional intensity and rigorous analysis, brought long-lost victims to light through molecular and isotope data.
Ajnala Massacre
Buried Tragedy: 282 soldiers of the 26th Native Bengal Infantry Regiment met a brutal fate during the 1857 uprising, drowned in a well by the British East India Company.
Discovery of Location: Cooper’s book provided clues that helped locate the 1857 Kallianwala Martyrs’ Well beneath the Gurdwara Singh Sabha in Ajnala.
Chance Encounter: In 2003, historian Surinder Kochhar found a reference to ‘Ajnala’ in a discarded book titled “Crisis in Punjab” by Frederick Henry Cooper.
Massacre Rediscovered: Kochhar’s research led to the revelation of the Ajnala Massacre, a grim incident hidden for over 157 years.
Excavation and Revelation
Unveiling the Remains: The well was excavated in 2014, exposing the skeletal remains of the soldiers.
Gruesome Discovery: During the 1857 Sepoy mutiny, many Indian soldiers revolted against the British. Around 500 revolted at Mian Mir Cantonment in Lahore.
Evading execution: They swam across the Ravi River to reach the town of Ajnala, now in Amritsar district. Of them, 218 were killed by British soldiers at Dadian Sofian village near Ajnala.
Dumped into a well: The remaining 282 were stuffed in a small room, where many died of asphyxiation. The rest were shot dead and their bodies were thrown into a well, which was later named “Kalianwala Khu” and “Shaheedan da Khu”.
Verification and Acknowledgment
Scientific Verification: DNA-based evidence confirmed that the remains belonged to soldiers of the 26th Native Bengal Infantry regiment.
Historical Importance: The Ajnala Massacre adds to the narrative of the 1857 Indian uprising against the British East India Company’s oppression.
Conclusion
The Ajnala Massacre underscores the often-overlooked brutalities of the 1857 Indian uprising.
The lack of acknowledgement and memorials can be attributed to the government’s hesitance to address uncomfortable aspects of history.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Thoppikkallu
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
Recent archaeological excavations in Tirunaya near Nagaparamba (Kerala) have brought to light a collection of hemispherical laterite stones known as hat stones or Thoppikkallu in Malayalam.
Nagaparamba Megalithic Treasure
Thoppikkallu: Hat stones, referred to as Thoppikkallu in Malayalam, served as lids for burial urns during the megalithic era, offering a unique glimpse into burial practices.
Cultural Insights: The discoveries may provide valuable insights into the life and culture of the ancient inhabitants of the area, dating back more than 2,000 years.
Unraveling the Mystery of Megaliths
Megalithic Structures: Megaliths were constructed as either burial sites or commemorative memorials, creating a distinctive landscape of archaeological significance.
Burial Remains: Examples of burial megaliths include dolmenoid cists, cairn circles, and capstones, each with its unique design and purpose.
Non-Sepulchral Megaliths: Non-burial megaliths, such as menhirs, hold a different purpose and significance.
Historical Context: The majority of Indian megaliths are attributed to the Iron Age, spanning from 1500 BC to 500 BC.
Regional Concentration: These intriguing structures are concentrated in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Huricances, Tropical Cyclones
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
Hurricane Hilary’s unexpected trajectory towards Southern California and Mexico has caught meteorologists and residents off guard.
The only recorded instance of a tropical storm with hurricane-force winds hitting Southern California dates back to 1858, impacting San Diego.
What is a Hurricane?
A hurricane, also known as a tropical cyclone or typhoon in different regions, is a powerful and intense tropical storm characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and low atmospheric pressure.
Here are the key features and characteristics of a hurricane:
Formation: Hurricanes typically form over warm ocean waters, where the sea surface temperature is at least 26.5 degrees Celsius (about 80 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher. Warm ocean water provides the energy needed to fuel the storm’s growth.
Energy Source: Hurricanes derive their energy from the heat released when moist air rises and condenses into clouds and rain. This process, known as latent heat release, powers the storm and leads to the development of strong winds.
Eye: At the center of a hurricane is a relatively calm and clear area known as the “eye.” The eye is surrounded by a circular band of intense thunderstorms called the “eyewall,” where the strongest winds and heaviest rainfall occur.
Wind Speeds: Hurricanes are characterized by extremely strong winds that can reach speeds of over 74 miles per hour (119 kilometres per hour) for a storm to be classified as a hurricane. Major hurricanes can have wind speeds exceeding 111 miles per hour (179 kilometers per hour).
Categories: Hurricanes are categorized based on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which ranges from Category 1 (weakest) to Category 5 (strongest). Category 1 hurricanes have sustained winds of 74-95 mph, while Category 5 hurricanes have winds greater than 157 mph.
About Hurricane Hilary
Unlike hurricane-prone states on the Gulf of Mexico, California and Mexico’s west coast lack experience in dealing with such events.
Hurricane Hilary’s expected landfall in the Baja peninsula of Mexico poses risks of landslides, flooding, and extensive damage due to the region’s geographical features and population density.
Factors behind its intensification
Ocean Temperature Factor: Hurricanes require ocean waters above 26 degrees Celsius to form. The west coast’s colder waters are less conducive to hurricane formation.
Vertical Wind Shear: Strong upper-level winds can disrupt hurricanes’ structure and prevent their formation. West coast’s stronger wind shear reduces the likelihood of hurricanes.
Trade Wind Influence: Trade winds, which steer hurricanes, play a pivotal role in directing them toward the east coast while diverting them away from the west coast.
Westward Trajectory: Hurricanes originating in the eastern Pacific tend to move west-northwest, taking them away from the west coast and out to sea.
Climate Change induced factors
Climate Change Impact: Climate change leads to more frequent and intense hurricanes. Rising ocean temperatures due to greenhouse gas emissions contribute to increased hurricane intensity.
Ocean Heat Absorption: Oceans have absorbed 90% of excess heat from greenhouse gas emissions, leading to higher sea surface temperatures and stronger hurricanes.
Marine Heat Waves: Elevated sea surface temperatures result in marine heat waves, intensifying storm systems and amplifying their impact on land.
El Nino’s Role: El Niño, an abnormal warming of equatorial Pacific Ocean waters, can weaken wind shear in the eastern Pacific, creating conditions conducive to hurricane formation.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Udgam Portal
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
The RBI has launched Centralised Web Portal called UDGAM to search and retrieve unclaimed deposits from various banks, all in one centralized location.
What are Unclaimed Deposits?
The RBI defines “Unclaimed Deposits” as funds residing in dormant savings or current accounts for a duration of ten years.
Similarly, for fixed deposits (FDs), the funds remain unclaimed if they have not been withdrawn within ten years from the maturity date.
About UDGAM Portal
The UDGAM portal is a centralized web platform launched by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) called “Unclaimed Deposits – Gateway to Access inforMation.”
It is collaborated by Reserve Bank Information Technology Pvt Ltd (ReBIT), Indian Financial Technology & Allied Services (IFTAS), and participating banks.
It aims to provide individuals with an accessible and user-friendly platform to search and retrieve their unclaimed deposits from various banks in one centralized location.
The portal consolidates unclaimed deposit data from different banks.
It empowers users to identify their dormant accounts and take actions such as claiming the deposited amount or reactivating their dormant accounts directly through their respective banks.
Key Features
The UDGAM Portal brings forth a set of user-centric features that redefine the approach to reclaiming unclaimed deposits:
Reclaim or Activate: Through this platform, users have the autonomy to initiate either the process of reclaiming the deposited amount or reactivating their dormant accounts, all under the umbrella of their respective banks.
Effortless Registration: Customers can swiftly register on the UDGAM Portal using their mobile numbers, initiating their journey towards unlocking their unclaimed funds.
Search and Input: Once registered, users can seamlessly search for their unclaimed deposits by inputting essential details such as their name, PAN, voter ID, driving license, and passport number.
KYC Process: Upon locating their deposits, customers can facilitate their retrieval by completing a streamlined Know Your Customer (KYC) process through their respective bank branches.
Nominee Assistance: In instances where the deposit holder is no longer alive, the nominee can facilitate the retrieval process by providing the necessary documents.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: 3D Printed Post Office , 3D Printing
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
India’s pioneering 3D-printed post office located in Bengaluru’s Cambridge Layout was recently inaugurated.
3D Printed Post Office
Swift Build: The 3D-printed post office was constructed in just 43 days, surpassing the original deadline by two days.
Construction Team: Larsen & Toubro Limited undertook the project in collaboration with IIT Madras.
Technological Process
Spatial Dimension: The post office covers an area of 1,021 square feet and was created using advanced 3D concrete printing.
Automated Procedure: Robotic printers used an automated process to layer concrete according to the approved design.
Strong Bonding: A specially formulated quick-hardening concrete ensured strong bonding between layers.
Rapid Construction: With robotic precision and pre-embedded designs, the project was completed in just 43 days, far shorter than the conventional 6 to 8 months.
Advantages of 3D Printing
Cost-Effective: The project cost ₹23 lakhs, indicating a 30-40% cost reduction compared to traditional methods.
Showcasing Technology: The project highlighted concrete 3D printing technology using indigenous machinery and robots, showcasing its scalability.
Distinctive Features
Continuous Perimeter: The project boasted continuous perimeter construction without vertical joints.
Flexibility: The 3D printing accommodated curved surfaces and different site dimensions, overcoming flat wall limitations.
Structural Innovation: Continuous reinforced concrete footing and three-layer walls were created, enhancing structural integrity.
Reduced Timeline: The innovative technique drastically reduced the construction timeline to 43 days, minimizing material wastage.
Back2Basics: 3D Printing
3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a transformative technology that involves creating three-dimensional objects by adding material layer by layer.
This technology has found applications in various industries, from manufacturing and aerospace to healthcare and fashion.
Here’s an overview of the technology and its key components:
(A) Printing Process: The basic process of 3D printing involves the following steps:
Design: Create a 3D model using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
Slicing: The 3D model is divided into thin horizontal layers using slicing software.
Printing: The 3D printer follows the instructions from the sliced file, depositing material layer by layer to build up the object.
(B) Types of 3D Printing Technologies: There are several 3D printing technologies, each with its own unique approach to material deposition and layering. Some common types include:
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM): This is one of the most popular methods. It involves extruding thermoplastic material through a heated nozzle to build up layers.
Stereolithography (SLA): SLA uses a UV laser to solidify liquid resin layer by layer, creating highly detailed and accurate objects.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS): In SLS, a laser fuses powdered material (often plastic or metal) layer by layer to create the object.
Powder Bed Fusion (PBF): Similar to SLS, PBF involves fusing powder particles using a laser or electron beam to create metal parts.
Digital Light Processing (DLP): Similar to SLA, DLP uses a projector to cure an entire layer of resin at once.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Agnibaan SOrTeD
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
Chennai-based Agnikul Cosmos takes a significant step as it moves its innovative rocket, Agni-1, to Sriharikota for integration assessments.
Successful integration checks could position Agnikul as the second Indian space-tech firm, following Skyroot Aerospace, to achieve suborbital space flight capability.
Agnikul’s Remarkable Space Vehicle: Agnibaan
Agnibaan SOrTeD is a single-stage launch vehicle powered by Agnikul’s patented Agnilet semi-cryogenic engine.
In contrast to traditional sounding rockets, Agnibaan SOrTeD’s vertical take-off and precise trajectory enable orchestrated maneuvers during flight.
(A) Distinct Features of Agnibaan
Customizability: The rocket offers custom launch configurations, either single or two-stage launches.
Impressive Dimensions: Standing at 18 meters and weighing 14,000 kg, Agnibaan SOrTeD is a powerful presence.
Payload Capacity: With a capacity for payloads of up to 100 kg, it can reach altitudes of 700 km in five different Lower Earth Orbits (LEOs).
Engine Configuration: The first stage can house up to seven Agnilet engines, powered by Liquid Oxygen and Kerosene, dependent on the mission’s requirements.
Versatile Launch: Designed for launch from over 10 different launch ports.
Launch Pedestal ‘Dhanush’: AgniKul’s built ‘Dhanush’ supports the rocket’s mobility across configurations, ensuring compatibility with multiple launch ports.
Cutting-Edge Agnilet Engine: The world’s sole single-piece 3D-printed engine powers the entire operation.
(B) Innovative Agnilet Engine
Heart of the Vehicle: Agnilet engine, a 3D-printed, single-piece, 6 kN semi-cryogenic marvel, drives Agnibaan’s propulsion.
Propellant Composition: The engine employs a novel blend of liquid kerosene and supercold liquid oxygen as propellants, successfully tested at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Madan Lal Dhingra
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
On the 114th anniversary of his execution, a memorial is being formally inaugurated in honour of Madan Lal Dhingra.
Who was Madan Lal Dhingra?
Early Life: Born on September 18, 1883, in an affluent family in Amritsar, Dhingra’s father was a staunch British loyalist, working as a chief medical officer.
Shift towards Nationalism: Dhingra’s exposure to the nationalist movement in Lahore during his studies ignited his patriotism.
Socio-Economic Concerns: Driven by a sense of justice and concern for India’s impoverished masses, Dhingra’s patriotism extended to socio-economic issues.
Expulsion and Resilience: Expelled from college for protesting against the use of British-imported cloth, Dhingra’s defiance marked his commitment to the cause.
Involvement in Revolutionary Circles
Contact with Leaders: Dhingra connected with prominent figures like Vinayak Damodar Savarkar and Shyamji Krishna Varma, active in London’s revolutionary circles.
India House: Dhingra frequented India House, a hub for revolutionary Indian nationalism founded by Shyamji Krishna Varma, further igniting his revolutionary spirit.
Abhinav Bharat Mandal: Dhingra joined Abhinav Bharat Mandal founded by Vinayak Savarkar, where he refined his plan to assassinate Curzon Wyllie.
Assassination of Curzon Wyllie
Curzon Wyllie’s Profile: Curzon Wyllie was a British Indian officer and intelligence officer known for collecting information on revolutionaries.
The Assassination: On July 1, 1909, Dhingra attended an event where Curzon Wyllie was present. Dhingra fired five shots, fatally hitting both Curzon Wyllie and a doctor who tried to intervene.
Dhingra’s Justification: During his trial, Dhingra argued that if fighting Germans was patriotic for an Englishman, fighting the British was even more justifiable for him.
Legacy and Memorial
Execution and Burial: Dhingra was found guilty, executed on August 17, 1909, and buried in London. His remains were brought to India in 1976.
Struggle for a Memorial: A memorial in Dhingra’s name has been a long-standing demand. The efforts culminated in the formal inauguration of the memorial on the 114th anniversary of his execution.
Memorial Inauguration: The memorial was inaugurated by Governor Banwari Lal Purohit on August 17, 2023, in Amritsar’s Golbagh area.
Memorial’s Significance: The memorial stands as a tribute to Dhingra’s sacrifice and his role in the fight for India’s freedom.
