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Type: Prelims Only

  • International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

    Japan, India startups collaborate to tackle space debris

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Mains level: Issues related to space debris;

    Why in the News?

    space startups from Japan and India announced a joint agreement to explore the use of laser-equipped satellites for removing debris from orbit, addressing the growing issue of orbital congestion.

    What is Space Debris?

    • Space debris, often referred to as space junk, consists of non-functional spacecraft, spent rocket stages, and fragments from collisions or disintegration of satellites.
    • These objects orbit the Earth at high speeds, posing significant risks to operational satellites and manned missions.

    What are laser-equipped satellites for removing debris from orbit?

    • Laser-equipped satellites utilize focused laser beams to target and vaporize small parts of space debris, effectively stopping its rotation and making it easier for servicing spacecraft to rendezvous with and de-orbit defunct satellites. T
    • Companies like Japan’s Orbital Lasers and India’s InspeCity are collaborating to explore business opportunities for these laser systems.
    • They plan to demonstrate this technology in space, with potential deployment on satellites after meeting regulatory requirements in their respective countries, indicating a growing interest in international partnerships to tackle the issue of space debris.

    What are the concerns related to space debris?

    • Collision Risks: The increasing amount of space debris raises the likelihood of collisions with active satellites and spacecraft, which can lead to further debris generation in a cascading effect known as the Kessler Syndrome.
    • Operational Challenges: Space debris complicates satellite operations and can disrupt services such as telecommunications, weather forecasting, and global positioning systems.
    • Environmental Impact: The accumulation of debris in low Earth orbit (LEO) threatens the sustainability of space activities and could hinder future space exploration efforts.

    What are the initiatives to tackle space debris globally?

    • International Collaboration: Organizations like the United Nations have called for urgent action to track and manage space debris, emphasizing the need for global cooperation.
    • Technological Innovations: Companies like Orbital Lasers are exploring innovative solutions such as using laser-equipped satellites to de-orbit defunct satellites and mitigate debris by vaporizing parts of their surfaces.
    • Regulatory Frameworks: Various countries are developing regulations to ensure responsible satellite launches and operations, including guidelines for end-of-life satellite disposal to minimize future debris creation.

    What are the measures should be taken by Satellite? (Way forward)

    • Tracking and Monitoring: Satellites use onboard systems and ground-based tracking data to monitor the position of space debris and predict potential collision risks.
    • Avoidance Maneuvers: Satellites perform preemptive orbital adjustments or “collision avoidance manoeuvres” to shift their trajectory away from debris.
    • Shielding and Resilience: Some satellites are equipped with protective shielding to withstand minor debris impacts, minimizing potential damage in low-risk scenarios.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What is India’s plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme? (UPSC IAS/2019)

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  • International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

    IRIS² Program

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: IRIS²

    Why in the News?

    The European Union has signed a contract for IRIS², a network of 290 satellites aimed at improving resilience, connectivity, and security.

    About IRIS²:

    Details
    • IRIS² stands for Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity, and Security by Satellite.
    • It consists of a 290-satellite constellation, including 264 satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and 18 in Medium Earth Orbit (MEO).
    • Collaboration between European Union and SpaceRISE.
    • First satellite launch planned for 2029.

    Key Features of IRIS²:

    • Deployment of 264 satellites in LEO and 18 in MEO.
    • Provide secure, high-speed broadband connectivity, particularly in underserved regions.
    • Focus on Europe for secure satellite internet services.
    Project Funding and Implementation
    • 12-year concession for IRIS² is funded by the EU, ESA, and private firms like SES, Eutelsat, and Airbus.
    • Total cost: €10.6 billion (~$11 billion).
    Applications of IRIS²
    • Governmental Use: Border surveillance, crisis management, infrastructure security, and defense.
    • Civilian Use: Broadband access, smart energy, transportation, and remote healthcare.

     

    World’s Largest Earth Observation Programs: Take a look

    • Copernicus Program (EU): Launched in 2014, the Copernicus Program is a European Union initiative with satellites like Sentinel to monitor land, ocean, and atmosphere, enhancing environmental management and disaster response.
    • NASA Earth Observing System (EOS): Initiated in 1997, NASA’s EOS provides comprehensive Earth observation data from satellites like Terra and Aqua, focused on understanding Earth’s environment, climate change, and atmospheric composition.
    • Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS): Founded in 2005, GEOSS connects Earth observation systems globally to provide data on climate, water resources, biodiversity, and natural disasters, involving over 100 organizations.
    • Landsat Program (USA): Launched in 1972 by NASA and USGS, Landsat is the longest-running satellite program offering continuous Earth surface monitoring, focusing on land cover, land use, and environmental changes.

    Note: 

    In September, 2024, ISRO launched the Earth Observation Satellite EOS-08 under the SSLV-D3/EOS-08 mission from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, with the satellite operating in a circular Low Earth Orbit at an altitude of 475 km and a mission life of 1 year.

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  • Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

    Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC)

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Parliament & State Legislatures

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC)

    Why in the News?

    • Law Minister is proposing that the Bills on “One Nation, One Election” be referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for further examination.
      • The committee will have 21 members from the Lok Sabha and 10 members from the Rajya Sabha.

    About Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC):

    What is a JPC?
    • JPC is a committee formed by both Houses of Parliament for scrutinizing a subject or Bill in detail.
    • It includes members from both Lok Sabha (Lower House) and Rajya Sabha (Upper House).
      • Members represent both ruling parties and opposition.
      • Number of members in a JPC can vary based on the task at hand and the members are decided by the Parliament.
    • The JPC is dissolved once its task is completed or its term ends.
    • A motion is passed in one House of Parliament, and the other House agrees to it.
    Structural Mandate
    • Mandate of a JPC is determined by the motion that forms it.
    • Scrutinizing documents related to the subject.
    • Summoning people for questioning.
    • Submitting a report and making recommendations to the government.
    • The proceedings and findings are confidential except in matters of public interest.
    • Speaker of the House resolves any disputes regarding evidence.
    Nature of JPC Recommendations
    • Recommendations are advisory and persuasive but not binding on the government.
    • The government can choose whether or not to follow the recommendations.
    • The government must submit an Action Taken Report to Parliament on the actions taken based on the JPC’s recommendations.
    Notable JPCs in the Past
      • Telecom Licenses and Spectrum Allocation (2011).
      • Stock Market Scam (1992) and related matters.
      • Irregularities in Securities and Banking Transactions.
      • Bofors Contract Inquiry (1987).
      • Constitutional and Legal Position Regarding the Office of Profit.
    • Waqf (Amendment) Bill (2024).

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] With reference to the Parliament of India, which of the following Parliamentary Committees scrutinizes and reports to the house whether the powers to make regulations, rules, sub-rules, by-laws, etc., conferred by the Constitution or delegated by the Parliament are being properly exercised by the Executive within the scope of such delegation?

    (a) Committee on Government Assurances

    (b) Committee on Subordinate Legislation

    (c) Rules Committee

    (d) Business Advisory Committee

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  • Police Reforms – SC directives, NPC, other committees reports

    Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS)

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: External State & Non-State Actors: Challenges To Internal Security.

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS)

    Why in the News?

    All 17,130 police stations in India are now connected through the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS), a centralized online platform for filing FIRs, chargesheets, and investigation reports, accessible to law enforcement across the country.

    About Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS):

    What is CCTNS?
    • A centralized online platform to file FIRs, charge-sheets, and investigation reports across 17,130 police stations.
    • Launched in 2009 with a ₹2,000 crore budget under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
    • Aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, and nationwide access to crime data.
    Key Features
    • Nationwide integration, with 100% connectivity across 28 states and 8 Union Territories.
    • Stores data on criminals, habitual offenders, missing persons, stolen vehicles, etc.
    • Generates analytical crime reports and detailed case statistics.
    • Integrated with the ICJS (Integrated Criminal Justice System) for coordination with courts, forensics, and other criminal justice pillars.
    Recent Modifications for New Criminal Laws
    • Incorporates the 2024 Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (erstwhile IPC), Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (Indian Evidence Act), and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (CrPC).
    • Introduces mandatory videography for crime scenes in serious cases, forensic investigations, and arrest transparency (including officer approval and informing relatives).
    • Updates include timely progress reports and digital reporting of daily diaries.
    Impact and Implementation
    • Facilitates efficient investigations by providing access to comprehensive crime data and analytical tools.
    • Improves police coordination across states and law enforcement agencies.
    • Enhanced citizen services with online tracking of complaints and case updates.
    • Supported by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) and integrated with other public safety platforms for better coordination and resource management.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] We are witnessing increasing instances of sexual violence against women in the country. Despite existing legal provisions against it, the number of such incidences is on the rise. Suggest some innovative measures to tackle this menace.

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-China

    Places in News: Kailash Mansarovar

    Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Kailash Mansarovar

    Places in News: Kailash Mansarovar

    Why in the News?

    • India and China have agreed to resume the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra.
      • The pilgrimage has been suspended since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and non-renewal of arrangements by China.

    India-China Talks on Border Management:

    • Disengagement and De-escalation: Agreed to continue implementing the October 2024 disengagement agreements for safe patrolling and grazing in certain areas.
    • Peace and Tranquility: Both sides agreed to maintain peace along the border and implement effective border management mechanisms.
    • Resolution of Boundary Dispute: Continued efforts toward a mutually acceptable solution to the boundary dispute.
    • Cross-Border Cooperation: Discussions included river cooperation, Nathula border trade, and other exchanges to strengthen bilateral relations.

    About Kailash Mansarovar:

    • Kailash Mansarovar is a sacred religious site located in the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China, near the borders of India, Nepal, and Tibet.
    • It consists of Mount Kailash, a peak considered to be the abode of Lord Shiva in Hinduism, and Mansarovar Lake, a high-altitude freshwater lake revered in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon traditions.
    • Geographical Location:
      • Mount Kailash stands at an elevation of 6,638 meters (21,778 feet), making it one of the most difficult and revered peaks to approach.
      • The Mansarovar Lake is located at an altitude of 4,556 meters (14,950 feet) and spans approximately 88 square kilometers.
      • The region lies in the Tibetan Plateau.

    Religious Significance:

    1. Hinduism:
      • Mount Kailash is considered the abode of Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati. Pilgrims believe that a pilgrimage to Kailash is essential for liberation and salvation (Moksha).
      • Mansarovar Lake is believed to have been created by Lord Brahma. Bathing in its holy waters is believed to cleanse sins and grant spiritual merit.
    2. Buddhism:
      • The region is sacred as it is believed to be the home of Buddha Demchok, who represents supreme bliss.
      • The lake is also linked to the Jambhala, the god of wealth in Tibetan Buddhism.
    3. Jainism:
      • Jain tradition holds that Lord Rishabhanatha, the first Tirthankara, attained Nirvana at the peak of Mount Kailash.
    4. Bon Religion:
      • For practitioners of Bon, an ancient religion indigenous to Tibet, Kailash is regarded as the sacred center of the universe.

    Route and Access:

    • India to Kailash Mansarovar: The pilgrimage is generally undertaken through the Lipulekh Pass, a high-altitude pass that connects Uttarakhand (India) with Tibet.
    • Pilgrims usually travel through Nepal, and the journey is conducted via Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (KMY) under the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
    • Travel to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake is restricted, and permits are required from the Chinese government.
    • Pilgrims from India are primarily facilitated through the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra organized by the Government of India and other authorized agencies.

    PYQ:

    [2016] Border management is a complex task due to difficult terrain and hostile relations with some countries. Elucidate the challenges and strategies for effective border management.

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  • Telecom and Postal Sector – Spectrum Allocation, Call Drops, Predatory Pricing, etc

    [pib] Comprehensive Telecom Development Plan

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: CTDP, Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN);

    Why in the News?

    The Comprehensive Telecom Development Plan for North Eastern Region (NER) funded from Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) aims to provide mobile coverage to uncovered villages and National Highways.

    About the Comprehensive Telecom Development Plan (CTDP):

    Overview
    • CTDP aims to enhance telecommunications infrastructure in India’s North Eastern Region (NER) by improving mobile and broadband access.
    • The plan is funded by the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) programme.
    Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN):

    • Established under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
    • Replaces the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF).
    • USOF was created to provide telecom services in remote and rural areas at affordable prices.
    • Funded by a 5% Universal Service Levy on the Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) of telecom operators.
    • Aimed to expand telecom networks in low-profit remote and rural areas.
    • Statutory Status: Granted in December 2003 through amendments to the Indian Telegraph Act (now superseded by the Telecom Act, 2023).
    Salient Features
    • Mobile Coverage Expansion: Extend mobile coverage to previously uncovered villages and National Highways in NER.
    • Enhanced Connectivity: Installation of 2,619 mobile towers, covering 3,223 villages and 286 highway locations.
    • 4G Saturation: Providing 4G connectivity to remote villages.
    • Support for Socio-Economic Development: Empower citizens through ICTs for development.
    • Digital Inclusion: Help bridge the digital divide in NER.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation
    • Funding: Primarily funded by the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) programme.
    • Implementation: Coordinated through DBN-funded schemes focusing on mobile towers, 4G coverage, and broadband development.
    • Agencies Involved:
      • Ministry of Communication: Oversees implementation, ensures spectrum and policy approvals.
      • DBN: Provides funding and operational support.
      • Telecom Service Providers: Deploy infrastructure like towers and 4G networks.
      • State Governments of NER: Facilitate local implementation.
      • Project Management Agencies: Involved in setting up towers and maintenance.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Which of the following is/are the aims/aims of the “Digital India” Plan of the Government of India?

    1. Formation of India’s own Internet companies like China did.
    2. Establish a policy framework to encourage overseas multinational corporations that collect Big Data to build their large data centres within our national geographical boundaries.
    3. Connect many of our villages to the Internet and bring Wi-Fi to many of our schools, public places and major tourist centres.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Oil and Gas Sector – HELP, Open Acreage Policy, etc.

    What is OPEC+?

    IOCRPrelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Important International Institutions

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: OPEC+

    Why in the News?

    • With Donald Trump potentially returning to the White House, OPEC+ delegates express concern over higher US oil production.
      • His administration’s focus on deregulating the energy sector could lead to increased oil output, contributing to a further erosion of OPEC+’s market share.

    About ‘Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries’ Plus (OPEC+)

    What is OPEC+? Formation and Purpose:

    • OPEC+ is a coalition of OPEC members and non-OPEC oil-producing nations that work together to manage oil production and stabilize global oil prices.
    • The alliance was formed in 2016 in response to increasing oil production in the United States, particularly from shale oil, which led to falling oil prices.

    OPEC Members:

    • OPEC was founded in 1960 and includes 12 member countries:
      Algeria, Angola, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Venezuela.

    Non-OPEC Members in OPEC+:

    • OPEC+ includes 10 non-OPEC members:
      Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Oman, Russia, South Sudan, Sudan.

    Global Influence:

    OPEC+ countries together produce approximately 40% of the world’s crude oil and control about 80% of the world’s proven oil reserves.
    Factors are influencing OPEC+’s oil production cuts
    • Rising US oil production: The shale boom in the US has increased its market share, impacting OPEC+’s influence.
    • Global price stability: OPEC+ implements production cuts to prevent oil prices from falling too low.
    • Weak global demand: Extended cuts due to low demand, especially in major economies.
    Implications of OPEC+’s policies
    • Reduced market share: OPEC+’s global oil share dropped from 55% in 2016 to 48% in 2024.
    • Price volatility: OPEC+’s production cuts aim to stabilize prices, but increasing US production affects this goal.
    • Economic stability: Production cuts help sustain favorable prices for oil-producing economies.

     

    PYQ:

    [2009] Other than Venezuela, which one among the following from South America is a member of OPEC?

    (a) Argentina
    (b) Bolivia
    (c) Ecuador
    (d) Brazil

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    [pib] National Wildlife Health Policy

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: National Wildlife Health Policy

    Why in the News?

    The Central Zoo Authority has initiated the development of the National Wildlife Health Policy (NWHP) through a consultative workshop held in New Delhi.

    About the National Wildlife Health Policy (NWHP):

    Details
    • An initiative launched by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) to improve wildlife health and control zoonotic diseases.
      • CZA, established in 1992 under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, is a statutory autonomous body under the MoEFCCC.
    • Part of the National Wildlife Action Plan (2017-31) and follows the One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health.
    Aims and Objectives
    • Prevent and Control Zoonotic Diseases: Strengthen monitoring and control of diseases.
    • Improve Disease Surveillance: Develop systems for early epidemic detection.
    • Promote One Health Principles: Integrate human, animal, and environmental health.
    • Community Advocacy: Increase awareness on wildlife health and conservation.
    Programs/Initiatives Under the Policy
    • Wildlife Health Management Unit (WHMU): A dedicated unit to implement wildlife health programs.
    • Disease Surveillance and Early Detection: Early detection of diseases, especially in protected areas.
    • Biosecurity Protocols: Strengthen measures to minimize disease risks.
    • Epidemic Preparedness and Response: Response strategies for wildlife disease outbreaks.
    • One Health Approach Integration: Coordination between health sectors for better management.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation
    • Wildlife Health Management Unit (WHMU) (proposed) to oversee wildlife health programs.
    • Collaboration Across Agencies: Coordination with MoEF&CC, Wildlife Institutes, and state wildlife authorities.
    • Surveillance and Monitoring: Monitor and track wildlife diseases, with research support from Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI).
    • Capacity Building: Training programs for wildlife health professionals.
    • Funding and Resources: Significant resources for surveillance, research, and capacity building.

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    IPBES Report, 2024

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: IPBES Report, 2024

    Why in the News?

    The 11th plenary of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) took place in Namibia to discuss key scientific findings and evidence addressing the global biodiversity crisis.

    About IPBES

    • IPBES aims to improve the interface between science and policy on biodiversity and ecosystem services.
    • Membership: Comprises over 130 member governments.
    • Purpose: Provides scientific assessments to guide governments, the private sector, and civil society in decision-making on biodiversity and ecosystems.
    • Establishment:
      • Formally established in April 2012 when 90 countries signed its founding statement.
      • Originated from a 2010 UN General Assembly resolution urging the UN Environment Programme to convene a meeting for its formation.
    • Structural Mandate:
      • Led by a Plenary (main decision-making body) with representatives from member states.
      • Operates on a consensus principle, meeting annually to decide on work programs, budgets, and reports.
    • Key Functions:
      • Assessments: Develop global and regional assessments on biodiversity themes.
      • Policy Support: Provide tools and methodologies for policymakers.
      • Capacity Building: Enhance knowledge and capabilities among members.
      • Outreach: Ensure effective communication and impact.
    • Notable Achievements:
      • 2019: Released the Global Assessment Report on biodiversity and ecosystem services.
      • 2020: Preliminary report on international cooperation to reduce pandemic risks.
      • 2021: Co-sponsored a biodiversity and climate change workshop report with IPCC.
      • 2022: Awarded the Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity, shared with IPCC.
    • Unique Contributions:
      • Introduced the term “Nature’s Contributions to People” (NCPs) as an alternative to ecosystem services.
      • Compiles knowledge from diverse sources, including scientific literature, indigenous knowledge, and local expertise.

    Key Highlights on the Global Environment:

    • Biodiversity Loss: 1 million species face extinction due to habitat destruction, climate change, and pollution.
    • Climate Change Impact: Global warming is significantly threatening ecosystems and species.
    • Deforestation: Large-scale deforestation disrupts ecosystems and contributes to carbon emissions.
    • Water Scarcity: Freshwater ecosystems are under threat from pollution and over-extraction.
    • Ecosystem Services: Decline in vital services like clean air, water, and food.
    • Global Cooperation: Urgent need for global action to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development.
    • Biodiversity and Health: Emphasis on the One Health approach to link human, animal, and environmental health.

    Key Highlights on the Asian Region:

    • Biodiversity: Asia hosts half the world’s biodiversity but faces major threats from habitat loss and climate change.
    • Pollution and Urbanization: Rapid urbanization is increasing pollution, affecting health and the environment.
    • Climate Change: Vulnerable to floods, droughts, and rising sea levels impacting agriculture and settlements.
    • Forest Loss: Deforestation, especially in Indonesia, India, and Malaysia, threatens ecosystems.
    • Marine Biodiversity: Marine life is under pressure from overfishing and pollution.
    • Sustainable Agriculture: Promoting sustainable farming to reduce environmental impact.
    • Protected Areas: Despite progress, conservation management remains a challenge.

    PYQ:

    [2012] The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment describes the following major categories of ecosystem services-provisioning, supporting, regulating, preserving and cultural. Which one of the following is supporting service?

    (a) Production of food and water

    (b) Control of climate and disease

    (c) Nutrient cycling and crop pollination

    (d) Maintenance of diversity

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  • Blockchain Technology: Prospects and Challenges

    US Bitcoin Strategic Reserve

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: US Bitcoin Strategic Reserve

    Why in the News?

    Bitcoin surged to a record high of over $107,000 after President-elect Donald Trump reaffirmed plans to create a US bitcoin reserve, boosting investor excitement.

    Do you know?

    • The legal status of cryptocurrency in India is uncertain.
      • RBI has warned against cryptocurrencies, citing risks to investors and confirming they are not legal tender. 
    • In 2018, the Supreme Court overturned an RBI ban on financial institutions dealing with cryptocurrencies.
    • In the 2022-23 Union Budget, the Government of India announced a 30% tax on cryptocurrency transfers.
    • Additionally, a panel has been formed to explore blockchain technology and the potential for a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).

    What is a Strategic Reserve?

    Details
    • A strategic reserve is a stockpile of critical resources, used in times of crisis or disruptions in supply.
    • Examples:
      • US Strategic Petroleum Reserve: Largest global emergency oil stockpile, created in 1975 after the 1973-74 oil embargo.
      • Canada’s Maple Syrup Reserve: The only global strategic reserve for maple syrup.
      • China’s Reserves: Includes resources like metals, grains, and pork.
    How Would a U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Work?
    • Establishing the Reserve: Unclear if it would require executive powers or Congress approval. Some suggest an executive order to manage bitcoin through the U.S. Treasury’s Exchange Stabilization Fund.
    • Content of the Reserve: Includes seized bitcoin (200,000 tokens, worth approx. $21 billion).
    • Additional Purchases: Possible purchase of more bitcoin from the open market.
    Benefits and Risks of a Bitcoin Reserve Benefits:

    • Global Market Dominance: Could enhance U.S. control over the global bitcoin market, especially against competitors like China.
    • Economic Advantages: Could reduce U.S. fiscal deficit and strengthen the U.S. dollar.

    Risks:

    • Volatility: Bitcoin’s value is uncertain due to volatility and lack of intrinsic use.
    • Security: Vulnerability to cyber-attacks and market fluctuations.

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