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Type: Prelims Only

  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Japan

    [pib] 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue

    Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue

    Why in the News?

    Japanese foreign and defence ministers have arrived in India to participate in the India-Japan 2+2 ministerial meeting.

    About 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue

    • The 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue is a diplomatic summit held annually since 2018, initially between India and the US.
    • It later expanded to include Japan, Australia, Russia, and the United Kingdom.
    • This dialogue involves the Foreign and Defense Ministers of participating countries and focuses on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing common concerns.
    • The dialogue replaced the Strategic and Commercial Dialogue during a 2017 agreement between PM Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump.
    • First Summit was held on September 6, 2018, between India and the US in New Delhi, involving discussions on defense partnerships and strategic cooperation.

    Key Milestones:

    What are the key priorities of the Indo-Japan 2+2 Dialogue?

    • Update Security Cooperation: Revising the 2008 security agreement to reflect current strategic needs.
    • Promote a Free Indo-Pacific: Collaborating to ensure a free, open, and stable Indo-Pacific region.
    • Engage in Strategic Talks: Holding strategic discussions between foreign and defense ministers to boost bilateral ties.
    • Address Regional Security: Discussing key issues like Chinese assertiveness, the Russia-Ukraine war, and the Gaza crisis.
    • Coordinate Quad Efforts: Exploring cooperation within the Quad framework, including a potential summit.

    PYQ:

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

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Waggle Dance of Bees

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Waggle Dance of Bees

    Why in the News?

    Two scientists have raised concerns about “problematic behaviour” in papers on honeybee communication co-authored by Dr. Mandyam Srinivasan, a highly honoured neuroscientist.

    About Waggle Dance of Bees

    Details
    Purpose Communicates location of food sources to other bees.
    Dance Pattern Figure-eight (8) movement with a waggle run in the middle.
    Direction Indication Angle of waggle run shows direction relative to the sun.
    Distance Indication Duration of waggle run indicates distance to the food source.
    Efficiency Enhances foraging efficiency by guiding bees directly to food sources.
    Environmental Impact Accuracy affected by Sun position, wind, and landscape.
    Scientific Importance Decoded by Nobel laureate Karl von Frisch; an example of advanced insect communication.

     

    PYQ:

    [2023] Which of the following organisms perform waggle dance for others of their kin to indicate the direction and the distance to a source of their food?

    (a) Butterflies

    (b) Dragonflies

    (c) Honey Bees

    (d) Wasps

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  • Zoopharmacognosy: the study of how animals self-medicate

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Zoopharmacognosy

    Why in the News?

    Researchers highlighted the zoopharmacognosy (practice of self-medication) by a Sumatran orangutan using the plant Fibraurea tinctoria to treat a facial wound.

    What is Zoopharmacognosy?

    • Zoopharmacognosy is the study of how animals use natural substances like plants, soils, and insects to treat their own illnesses. 
    • The term was coined by ecologist D.H. Janzen from the University of Pennsylvania.
    • It shows that animals have an instinctive ability to find and use natural remedies. 

    Key Studies and Observations

    • Neanderthals: In 2012, a Nature publication found that Neanderthals in Northern Spain used plants like yarrow and chamomile to treat infections.

    Other Animal Species:

    • Primates: Chimpanzees eat bitter leaves, like Vernonia amygdalina, to get rid of intestinal worms.
      • Pregnant lemurs nibbling on tamarind leaves to aid milk production.
    • Reindeer: Reindeer eat mushrooms like Amanita muscaria, possibly to fight off parasites.
    • Birds: Starlings line their nests with antimicrobial plants to protect their young from diseases.
    • Elephants: Pregnant elephants in Kenya eat specific plants to help induce labor.
    • Dogs: Dogs chew grass and then vomit to clear their stomachs of infections.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Recently, there was a growing awareness in our country about the importance of Himalayan nettle (Girardinia diversifolia) because it is found to be a sustainable source of:

    (a) Anti-malarial drug

    (b) Biodiesel

    (c) Pulp for paper industry

    (d) Textile fibre

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  • Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

    In news: Namdhari Sect

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Namdhari Sect

    Why in the News?

    Recently, followers of the two rival groups within the Namdhari religious sect clashed violently in Haryana.

    About Namdhari Sect

    Details
    Founder Satguru Ram Singh in 1857 (on Baisakhi)

    Also known as Kuka Movement
    Primary Beliefs – Belief in a living human Guru; Also known as Kuka/Kukaism
    – Guru Granth Sahib is considered the Supreme Gurbani
    – Strict vegetarianism and teetotalism (alcohol is forbidden)
    Key Practices – Wearing white attire as a sign of mourning
    – Rejection of caste distinctions
    – Promotion of widow remarriage
    – Non-violent resistance– Cow is the sacred animal
    Headquarters Bhaini Sahib, Ludhiana, Punjab
    Global Presence – Deras across Punjab and Haryana
    – Presence in countries such as the UK, Canada, and Kenya
    Role in Independence – Early opposition to British rule
    – Adoption of non-cooperation and boycott of British goods
    – Victims of severe British reprisals
    Notable Historical Event Malerkotla Massacre (1872) – 66 Namdharis executed by the British
    Leadership Succession – After Ram Singh: His brother Satguru Hari Singh
    – Later Successors: Satguru Partap Singh, Satguru Jagjit Singh
    – Current leaders: Uday Singh and Dalip Singh (factional dispute)

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Consider the following Bhakti Saints :

    1. Dadu Dayal

    2. Guru Nanak

    3. Tyagaraja

    Who among the above was/were preaching when the Lodi dynasty fell and Babur took over?

    (a) 1 and 3

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3

    (d) 1 and 2

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  • Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

    Lok Sabha Speaker constitutes 6 new Parliamentary Committees 

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Parliamentary Committees

    Why in the News?

    Lok Sabha Speaker has constituted six new Parliamentary Committees, for a tenure of 1year:

    Origin Composition Functions
    Public Accounts Committee (PAC) Established in 1921 under the Government of India Act, 1919
    • 22 members: 15 Lok Sabha + 7 Rajya Sabha;
    • Chairman from the Opposition,
    • Appointed by the LS Speaker.
    		 Examines public expenditure, scrutinizes CAG reports, and ensures efficient use of public funds.
    Committee on Estimates Traces back to 1921; reconstituted in 1950 (recommended by John Mathai)
    • 30 members,
    • All from Lok Sabha;
    • Elected annually through proportional representation.
    • Minister CANNOT be a member.
    		 Examines budget estimates, suggests economic efficiencies, and recommends alternative policies.
    Committee on Public Undertakings Established in 1964 based on the Krishna Menon Committee
    • 22 members: 15 Lok Sabha + 7 Rajya Sabha;
    • Chairman appointed by the Speaker,
    • Chosen from Lok Sabha members
    		 Examines accounts and reports of PSUs, and provides recommendations without interfering in operations.
    Committee on Welfare of OBCs The committee was constituted in June 2012 It comprises 30 members, with 20 from the Lok Sabha and 10 from the Rajya Sabha Focuses on the implementation of policies for OBC welfare, evaluates reservations, and suggests improvements.
    Committee on Welfare of SC/ST N/A The committee consists of 30 members, with 20 elected from the Lok Sabha and 10 from the Rajya Sabha. Ensures implementation of safeguards for SCs and STs, reviews welfare programs, and suggests enhancements.
    Joint Committee on Office of Profit Joint Committee on Office of Profit was established by the Lok Sabha on July 23, 2019 15 members; 10 Lok + 5 from Rajya Sabha. Examines cases of MPs/MLAs holding offices of profit, determine qualification, and maintains legislative integrity.

     

    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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  • e-Commerce: The New Boom

    What are Deceptive Dark Patterns?

    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: Deceptive Dark Patterns

    Why in the News?

    The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has released a report highlighting the use of deceptive dark patterns in Indian apps.

    Key highlights of the ASCI Study:

    • The ASCI report aims to raise awareness among marketers and designers about the ethical implications of these deceptive patterns.
    • The study analyzed 12,000 screens across 53 leading Indian apps in 9 different industries.
    • The report identified the use of one or more of 12 deceptive patterns in most of these apps.

    What are Deceptive Dark Patterns?

    • These practices use elements of digital choice architecture, particularly in user interfaces.
    • The goal is to manipulate or impair consumer autonomy, decision-making, or choice.
    • These patterns are often subtle, directing users toward decisions that may not align with their true preferences.
    • As a result, they compromise the ability of users to make informed choices.

    Examples of Deceptive Patterns:

    Description Example
    Interface Interference Directs users to specific choices using visual tricks. Highlighting preferred options with bright colors.
    Confirm Shaming Uses guilt to push users toward certain actions. Options like “Upgrade now” vs. “I don’t want a smarter software.”
    Basket Sneaking Adds unwanted items to cart without consent. Automatically adding a donation to the shopping cart.
    Privacy Deception Tricks users into sharing more personal data. Requiring unnecessary personal info during signup.
    Drip Pricing Reveals extra fees late in the purchase process. Adding hidden charges at checkout.
    Subscription Trap Leads to unintended subscriptions without clear notice. “Free trial” that auto-renews to a paid plan.

    Importance of Ethical Design

    • Raising Awareness: Marketers are encouraged to study the guidelines issued by ASCI and the Department of Consumer Affairs to avoid unethical practices.
    • Conscious Patterns Website: Marketers can use resources like the Conscious Patterns website to test their apps and obtain a “conscious score” to ensure that their apps balance business needs with user interests.
    • Digital Responsibility: As the digital world evolves, ethical design practices are crucial for building and maintaining trust with customers.
    • Marketer and Designer Roles: Both marketers and app designers need to be vigilant about pursuing ethical design to create safe and trustworthy online environments.

    PYQ

    [2015] What are the impediments in marketing and supply chain management in developing the food processing industry in India? Can e-commerce help in overcoming this bottleneck?

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  • FDI in Indian economy

    [pib] Amendments to the Foreign Exchange Management (Non-debt Instruments) Rules, 2019 

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Foreign Exchange Management (Non-debt Instruments) Rules, 2019, FEMA

    Why in the News?

    The Finance Ministry has issued a notification amending the Foreign Exchange Management (Non-debt Instruments) Rules, 2019, to simplify Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) rules.

    Key amendments made by the Finance Ministry:

    Details
    Cross-Border Share Swaps Simplifies the process for Indian companies to engage in cross-border share swaps with foreign companies.
    Clarity on Downstream Investments Provides clearer guidelines on the treatment of downstream investments by OCI-owned entities on a non-repatriation basis, aligning them with NRI-owned entities.
    FDI in White Label ATMs (WLAs) Allows FDI in White Label ATMs to increase the geographical spread of ATMs, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas.
    Standardization of ‘Control’ Definition Standardizes the definition of ‘control’ to ensure consistency with other Acts and laws.
    Harmonization of ‘Startup Company’ Definition Aligns the definition of ‘startup company’ with the Government of India’s notification G.S.R. 127 (E) dated February 19, 2019.

    About The Foreign Exchange Management (Non-debt Instruments) Rules, 2019 

    • These rules govern foreign investment in India in non-debt instruments like equity shares, mutual funds, and real estate (excluding agricultural land).
    • These rules, effective from October 17, 2019, were issued under FEMA, 1999 (Foreign Exchange Management Act).

    It covers the following key aspects:

    • FDI Regulation: Specifies guidelines for foreign direct investment (FDI) in various sectors, including sectoral caps and conditions.
    • Investment Vehicles: Allows investment through entities like Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), and mutual funds.
    • Repatriation: Provides a framework for repatriation of profits, dividends, and capital by foreign investors.
    • Reporting: Mandates detailed reporting for companies receiving foreign investments.
    • Sectoral Caps and Conditions: Sets sectoral limits and approval requirements for foreign investment, with some sectors requiring government approval.
    • Prohibited Sectors: Prohibits foreign investment in sectors like lottery, gambling, chit funds, and agricultural land.
    • Transfer of Shares: Outlines guidelines for share transfer between residents and non-residents, ensuring compliance with regulatory conditions.

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to Foreign Direct Investment in India, which one of the following is considered its major characteristic?

    (a) It is the investment through capital instruments essentially in a listed company.

    (b) It is a largely non-debt creating capital flow.

    (c) It is the investment which involves debt-servicing.

    (d) It is the investment made by foreign institutional investors in the Government securities.

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  • Russian Invasion of Ukraine: Global Implications

    Nord Stream Gas Pipeline

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Nord Stream Gas Pipeline

    Why in the News?

    The Wall Street Journal has reported that a group of Ukrainian patriots carried out the sabotage of the undersea pipelines(Nord Stream pipelines) in sep,2022 that supplied gas from Russia to Europe. 

    About Nord Stream Pipeline:

    Details
    Overview
    • Natural gas pipeline under the Baltic Sea.
    • Connects Russia and Germany.
    Purpose Built to transport natural gas from Russia to Europe, bypassing traditional transit countries like Ukraine.
    Completion
    1. Nord Stream 1: Completed in 2011, 1,224 km long, running from Vyborg, Russia to Lubmin, Germany. 
    2. Nord Stream 2: Completed in 2012, running from Ust-Luga, Russia to Lubmin, Germany, with a capacity of 55 billion cubic meters per year.

    Significance of the Pipelines

    (A) For Europe:

    • Provides a steady and cost-effective supply of natural gas, essential for heating, power, and industry which ensures stable gas prices. If reduced supply from Russia could lead to price hikes and domestic unrest in europe.

    (B) For Russia:

    • Revenue: Critical for Russia, with around 40% of its budget coming from gas and oil sales.
    • Geopolitical Influence: Strengthens Russia’s influence over Europe’s energy markets by securing its position as a major gas supplier.

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  • Textile Sector – Cotton, Jute, Wool, Silk, Handloom, etc.

    [pib] Oeko-Tex Certification for Eri Silk

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Oeko-Tex Certification, Eri Silk

    Why in the News?

    The North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC), under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), has achieved the prestigious Oeko-Tex certification for its Eri Silk.  

    What is Oeko-Tex Certification?

    Details
    Establishment Founded in 1992 by the Oeko-Tex Association.

    Comprises 18 independent textile research and testing institutes.
    Certification System Independent testing and certification for textile safety and environmental standards.
    Key Standards – STANDARD 100: Tests textiles for harmful substances.
    – MADE IN GREEN: Ensures environmentally friendly and socially responsible production.
    – LEATHER STANDARD: For leather products, free from harmful chemicals.
    – STeP: Certification for sustainable textile production facilities.
    – ECO PASSPORT: Certifies safe chemicals used in textiles.
    – DETOX TO ZERO: Supports elimination of hazardous chemicals in production.
    Testing Process Products tested for harmful substances like heavy metals, formaldehyde, azo dyes, etc.
    Global Recognition Trusted worldwide for ensuring product safety, environmental friendliness, and social responsibility.
    Benefits – Consumers: Assurance of safe, chemical-free products.
    – Manufacturers: Access to global markets, improved brand reputation.
    – Environment: Promotes sustainable and eco-friendly production.
    Usage Found on clothing, home textiles, bedding, footwear, and more.

    About Eri Silk 

    • Eri Silk is the world’s only vegan silk, where the moth naturally exits the cocoon, making it cruelty-free.
      • Unlike conventional silk production, where cocoons are boiled to extract the silk filament.
    • It is also known as Ahimsa Silk.
    • It is primarily produced in the North-Eastern states of India, especially Assam; also found in Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, and other states.
    • Its production is deeply rooted in the traditions of tribal communities in Assam and adjacent hill areas.

    Significant Features of Eri Silk:

    • Production Process: Known as Ericulture; involves rearing silkworms on castor plants; the silk is spun rather than reeled due to the naturally pierced cocoons.
    • Eco-Friendly: Requires minimal chemicals and water; only 20 litters of water needed to convert 1 kg of raw Eri fiber into yarn.
    • Unique Properties: Isothermal (temperature-regulating), anti-fungal, washable, durable, and less shiny than other silks.

    PYQ:

    [2013] What is an FRP composite material? How are they manufactured? Discuss their application in aviation and automobile industries. (100 words)

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  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    ISRO’s SSLV-D3 successfully launches EOS-08 Satellite

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: ISRO’s SSLV-D3, EOS-08 Satellite

    Why in the News?

    • Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the EOS-08 Earth Observation Satellite using the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)-D3.
      • This marks the third and final development flight of the SSLV.

    About EOS-08 Satellite:

    Details
    Type Earth Observation Satellite (EOS)
    Design Platform Built on ISRO’s Microsat/IMS-1 bus, known for its compact and efficient design.
    Orbit Operates in a Circular Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of 475 km with an inclination of 37.4°.
    Mission Life 1 year
    Payloads – Electro Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR): Captures images in MIR and LWIR bands for surveillance, disaster monitoring, and environmental assessments.
    – Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry (GNSS-R) Payload: Monitors ocean surface winds, soil moisture, and inland water bodies using GNSS-R-based remote sensing.
    – SiC UV Dosimeter: Monitors UV irradiance, particularly for ISRO’s Gaganyaan Mission, ensuring safety against UV radiation.
    Technological Innovations – Integrated Avionics System: Combines Communication, Baseband, Storage, and Positioning (CBSP) functions into one system.
    – Embedded Technologies: Includes a Structural Panel Embedded with PCB, Embedded Battery, enhancing structural efficiency and power reliability.
    – Advanced Antennas: Micro-DGA (Dual Gimbal Antenna) and M-PAA (Phased Array Antenna) for precise control and enhanced signal transmission.
    – Flexible Solar Panels & Nano Star Sensor: Improves energy efficiency and satellite orientation in space.

    Back2Basics: Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)-D3

    • SSLV is designed to launch Mini, Micro, or Nanosatellites (10 to 500 kg) into a 500 km planar orbit.
    • SSLV is a 3-stage launch vehicle with all solid propulsion stages and a liquid propulsion-based Velocity Trimming Module (VTM) as the terminal stage.
    • SSLV is designed for low cost and low turn-around time.
    • The vehicle offers flexibility in accommodating multiple satellites and is capable of launch-on-demand.
    • SSLV requires minimal launch infrastructure, making it a versatile option for satellite deployment.

    PYQ:

    [2018] With reference to India’s satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements:

    1. PSLVs launch the satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites.
    2. Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth.
    3. GSLV Mk III is a four-stage launch l vehicle with the first and third stages l using solid rocket motors; and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3

    (c) 1 and 2

    (d) 3 only

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