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Type: Prelims Only

  • Electric and Hybrid Cars – FAME, National Electric Mobility Mission, etc.

    In an electric vehicle, what is Regenerative Braking?

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: S&T – Applications In Everyday Life

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Regenerative Braking and its Working

    Why in the News?

    The Regenerative Braking device market is set to witness immense growth during the period 2024-2031 due to rise in prominence of e-vehicles.

    What is Regenerative Braking? 

    Regenerative braking is a technology used in electric and hybrid vehicles to capture and reuse energy that would otherwise be lost during braking.

    How Does It Work?

    1. Normal Braking: In a traditional vehicle, when you brake, the car’s kinetic energy (the energy it has while moving) is turned into heat and wasted.
    2. Regenerative Braking: 
    • In cars with regenerative braking, when you press the brake pedal, the electric motor runs in reverse.
    • This reverse action slows down the car, just like traditional brakes.
    • Instead of converting kinetic energy into heat, the motor converts it back into electrical energy.
    • This electrical energy is then stored in the vehicle’s battery for later use.
    1. Energy Conversion: This reversed motor converts the kinetic energy of the moving car into electrical energy.
    2. Energy Storage: The electrical energy produced is sent back to the car’s battery and stored for future use, such as powering the vehicle or running electrical systems.

    Significance:

    • Energy Efficiency: Saves energy by reusing it, reducing the need for frequent battery recharges.
    • Extended Range: Helps electric and hybrid vehicles travel further on a single charge.
    • Less Wear and Tear: Reduces wear on traditional brake components, leading to lower maintenance costs.

    Example: Imagine riding a bicycle down a hill. Normally, if you press the brakes, you slow down and the energy goes away as heat. But if you could somehow capture that energy and use it to help you pedal back up the hill, that would be similar to what regenerative braking does in a car.

     

    How does a Motor become a Generator?

    • A motor consists of a rotor (which rotates) and a stator (which is stationary). 
      • The stator contains magnets or electromagnets, while the rotor has current-carrying coils.
    • The Lorentz Force acts on the charged particles in the magnetic field, causing the rotor to spin.
    • In a generator, mechanical energy induces a current in the stator EVs can implement regenerative braking by switching the traction motor between these configurations.

    Downsides of Regenerative Braking

    • Regenerative braking alone often cannot bring a vehicle to a complete stop and must be supplemented by conventional braking systems.
    • Regenerative brakes may not prevent vehicles from backsliding downhill.
    • The efficiency of energy recovery drops as the vehicle’s speed decreases, though regenerative brakes are beneficial in stop-start traffic.

    Other Ways to Recover Energy

    • The design of a regenerative brake depends on the form of energy conversion. EVs convert mechanical energy into electrical energy stored in batteries or supercapacitors.
    • Flywheels can store mechanical energy by increasing angular momentum, useful in applications like Formula One racing and satellite navigation.
    • Kinetic energy can also be used to compress air, which can be useful for starting internal combustion engines.
    PYQ:

    [2021] Magnetite particles, suspected to cause neurodegenerative problems, are generated as environmental pollutants from which of the following?​

    1. Brakes of motor vehicles​

    2. Engines of motor vehicles​

    3. Microwave stoves within homes​

    4. Power plants​

    5. Telephone line​

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.​

    a)1, 2, 3 and 5 only​

    b)1, 2 and 4 only​

    c)3, 4 and 5 only​

    d)1, 2, 3, 4 and 5​

     

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  • International Monetary Fund,World Bank,AIIB, ADB and India

    State of Economic Emergency in Argentina

    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: IMF and its bailout packages.

    Why in the News?

    Argentina faces one of the world’s highest inflation rates and a decade-long economic stagnation.

    • The International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) earlier decision to release $4.7 billion from a $57 billion bailout package to Argentina, despite missed targets, raised eyebrows.

    IMF’s Controversial Decision:

    • The IMF dispersed $4.7 billion, including overdue and advanced payments, to bolster President Milei’s nascent government.
    • This move contradicted IMF guidelines requiring adherence to economic conditions, signaling geopolitical influence and strategic support.

    Argentina’s Economic Struggles

    • Persistent fiscal deficits and chronic inflation have plagued Argentina, with historical inflation averaging 190% from 1944 to 2023.
    • The government defaulted on sovereign debt nine times, exacerbating economic instability.
      • Since 2009, fiscal deficits persisted, reaching 4.4% of GDP in 2023, fueled by overspending and reliance on the inflation tax.
    • Milei’s administration targets fiscal reform to eliminate large deficits, contrasting with past failed attempts like the Austral Plan.
      • Alfonsín launched the Austral Plan, an austerity program that implemented a new currency (the austral), wage and price controls, and currency devaluations.

    IMF and its Bailout

    • The IMF is an international organization (190 member countries) that provides loans, technical assistance, and policy advice to member countries.
    • Established in 1944 to promote international monetary cooperation, exchange rate stability, balanced economic growth, and poverty reduction.
    • Hq: Washington, D.C.
    • An IMF bailout, or an IMF program, is a loan package provided to financially troubled countries.
      • Bailout programs have specific terms and conditions that borrowing countries must meet to access the funds.

    Types of IMF Bailout Packages:

    Description Duration Conditionality
    Stand-by Arrangements Short-term lending programs for countries with temporary balance of payments problems. 1-2 years Specific macroeconomic policies for stabilization
    Extended Fund Facility Medium-term lending programs to address balance of payments difficulties from structural weaknesses. Longer-term Extensive conditionality and significant reforms
    Rapid Financing Instrument Loan program providing quick financing for countries with urgent balance of payments needs. Flexible Fewer conditions and shorter application process

     

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] With reference to the International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC), consider the following statements:

    1. IMFC discusses matters of concern affecting the global economy and advises the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the direction of its work.

    2. The World Bank participates as an observer in IMFC’s meetings.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2 

     

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  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    Scientists find proof that Pain-Sensing Cells are either Male or Female

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Nociceptors, Sexual dimorphism in pain perception

    Why in the News?

    Recent research has uncovered significant differences in how male and female nociceptors (pain receptors) are activated, paving the way for more precise, sex-specific pain management therapies. 

    About Pain and Differences in Perception:

    • The International Association for the Study of Pain defines it as “an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage, or described in terms of such damage.”
    • Subjectivity: Pain perception is highly personal and varies among individuals.
    • Scientific Findings: Recent research by the University of Arizona Health Sciences demonstrated functional sexual dimorphism in nociceptors, the nerve cells responsible for perceiving pain

    Why do we perceive Pain?

    • Role of Nociceptors: Nociceptors are nerve cells with bare endings found throughout the body. They detect extreme pressure, temperature, and chemical signals, converting them into electrical signals sent to the brain via the spinal cord.
    • Activation Mechanism: Nociceptors in both men and women produce similar pain perceptions but are activated differently. 
      • Normally, they respond to high-intensity stimuli, but their activation threshold can decrease under certain conditions, causing low-intensity stimuli to trigger pain.

    Nociceptor Response Threshold

    • Gender Differences: Females generally have a lower nociceptor response threshold than males.
    • Peripheral Nociceptor Sensitisation: External factors can lower the pain threshold, causing nociceptors to react to stimuli they would normally ignore.

    The Old Vs New Study

    • Previous research showed that the hormone prolactin increases pain responses in female rodents, while the neurotransmitter orexin B sensitized male rodents to pain.
    • According to the New study, the Prolactin hormone increased nociceptor activation in female mice, while orexin-B had a similar effect in male mice. These findings were consistent across monkeys and humans.
    • Nociceptors in males and females can be differentially sensitized, leading to varying pain thresholds.

    Significance of this Pain Research

    • Sex-Specific Pain Treatment: Current pain management often overlooks the patient’s sex, despite differences in pain conditions between men and women.
      • Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, migraines, and painful bladder syndrome are more common in women, while cluster headaches and gout are more frequent in men.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of the society?

     

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  • Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.

    Delhi Preservation of Trees Act (DPTA), 1994

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: DPTA, 1994; Definition of tree and tree felling.

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court and the Delhi government are at loggerheads due to alleged felling of trees in the Asola-Bhati Wildlife Sanctuary under the Delhi Preservation of Trees Act (DPTA), 1994.

    Forest Cover in Delhi: ISFR Report Findings

    • Largest Cover: According to the ‘India State of Forest Report 2021’ (ISFR) published by the Forest Survey of India (FSI), Delhi has the largest forest cover among seven major megacities, with 195 sq. km, followed by Mumbai (110.77 sq. km) and Bengaluru (89.02 sq. km).
      • Delhi’s forest cover constitutes 13.15% of its geographical area, while its tree cover spans 147 sq. km (9.91%).
    • Growth over Time: Despite extensive urban development, the city’s overall green cover (forest and tree cover) has increased from 151 sq. km (10.2%) in 2001 to 342 sq. km (23.6%) in 2021.

    What is the case against the DDA?

    • The Supreme Court is hearing a contempt petition against DDA’s Vice Chairman for the felling of about 1,100 trees, in violation of the SC’s orders, for road expansion in the ridge area, which falls under the eco-sensitive zone around Asola-Bhati Wildlife Sanctuary.
    • On March 4, the DDA submitted an application to the SC seeking permission to cut trees for the construction of the Gaushala Road. The court directed the DDA to re-examine the proposal with the help of field experts.
    • An affidavit from the DDA’s Vice Chairman revealed that tree felling had already begun in February and continued for ten days. By February 26, all intended trees were cut down even before the application reached the SC. This material fact was not disclosed when the court heard the application on March 4.
    • The Bench reprimanded DDA for not providing records of the Delhi LG’s (Chairman of the DDA) February 3 visit to the site, which allegedly led to the tree felling order. The Delhi government was also reprimanded for usurping the Tree Officer’s authority in granting permission.
    • The apex court has halted the DDA’s work and directed a team from the FSI to assess the number of trees cut and the environmental damage.

    Law governing Tree Protection in Delhi:

    Delhi Preservation of Trees Act (DPTA), 1994 provides legal protection to trees in the national capital against actions that could harm their growth or regeneration.

    • The Act defines a tree as “a woody plant that has branches supported by a trunk or a body of at least 5cm diameter and is at least 1 metre high from the ground”.
    • Section 2 (h) of the Act defines “to fell a tree” to include severing the trunk from the roots, uprooting, bulldozing, cutting, girdling, lopping, pollarding, applying arboricides, burning, or any other damaging method.
    • Under Section 8, no tree or forest produce can be removed on any land without prior permission from the ‘Tree Officer’, even on privately owned property. The ‘Tree Officer’ must respond within 60 days after inspection.
      • Violations of this Act may result in imprisonment for up to one year, a fine up to ₹1,000, or both.
    • The Act outlines a ‘Tree Authority’ responsible for conducting tree censuses, managing nurseries, and reviewing government and private construction proposals.
    • Delhi’s Tree Transplantation Policy, 2020 mandates that 80% of identified trees slated for felling must be transplanted. However, an affidavit submitted by the government to the Delhi High Court in 2022 disclosed that only 33.33% of transplanted trees had survived.

    About Asola Bhatti WLS

    Situated in the southern part of Delhi and extends into Faridabad and Gurugram districts of Haryana.

    • Occupies 32.71 sq. km on the Aravalli hill range’s Southern Delhi Ridge, bordering Delhi and Haryana.
    • Forms a part of Rajasthan’s Sariska Tiger Reserve to the Delhi Ridge.
    • Classified under Northern Tropical Thorn Forests.
    • Plant Features plants with xerophytic characteristics like thorns, wax-coated and succulent leaves.
    • Characterized by the presence of the exotic Prosopis juliflora and the native Diospyros montana.
    • Home to species such as Golden Jackals, Striped-Hyenas, Indian Crested-Porcupines, Civets, Jungle Cats, various snakes, Monitor Lizards, and Mongoose.

     

    Conclusion: The Supreme Court’s directive to enhance Delhi’s green cover is a crucial step towards mitigating the impacts of extreme heat waves and improving the city’s air quality.

    PYQ:

    [2022] “The most significant achievement of modern law in India is the constitutionalization of environmental problems by the Supreme Court.” Discuss this statement with the help of relevant case laws. 

     

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  • Food Safety Standards – FSSAI, food fortification, etc.

    Food Colorants and Chemical Additives Under Crackdown in Karnataka

    Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Permitted artificial colors; Rhodamine B.

    Why in the News?

    Karnataka’s Food Safety Department ordered action after 40 kebab samples showed unsafe artificial colours, extending the crackdown to Panipuri, Cotton candy, and Gobi Manchurian.

    Artificial Colours in the Controversy 

    • Some artificial colours under scrutiny include:
    1. Sunset Yellow (Yellow 6, E110): Approved in the US but requires a warning label in the EU.
    2. Carmoisine (Red No. 10, E122): A deep red dye often used in food.
    3. Rhodamine B: A banned textile dye sometimes illegally used in food.
    • Different countries have varying regulations for these dyes. For example, tartrazine (E102 in the EU, Yellow 5 in the US) is permitted but only in limited quantities. 

     

    Legal Action against FBOs

    • To take legal action, the department collects a survey sample from an FBO and, if found unsafe, collects four more legal samples for further testing at the Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI).
    • If CFTRI deems the samples unfit for consumption, the FBO is booked under the Food Safety Act and tried at a court of Judicial Magistrate of First Class (JMFC). Penalties can include a fine of up to Rs 10 lakh and imprisonment for 7 years.

    Role of FSSAI in Food Safety and Colorants Regulation

    • The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) plays a crucial role in regulating and ensuring food safety across the country under the Food Safety & Standards Act, 2006. 

    Ingredients legally banned in India by the FSSAI and various states initiatives:

    Parameters Details
    Ingredients Banned in India
    • Rhodamine B: A textile dye sometimes illegally used as a food colorant.
    • Potassium Bromate: A flour treatment agent linked to cancer.
    • Oxytocin: A hormone used unethically in the dairy industry to increase milk production.
    • Calcium Carbide: Used for ripening fruits, which is hazardous to health.
    • Formalin: Used in fish preservation, which is carcinogenic.
    • Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO): Used in soft drinks, which is linked to various health issues.
    State Initiatives for Food Safety
    • Karnataka: Crackdown on use of unsafe food colorants in kebabs, pani puri, cotton candy, and gobi manchurian.
    • Maharashtra: Rigorous checks on milk adulteration and stringent actions against offenders.
    • Kerala: Implementation of ‘Safe Food’ campaign focusing on reducing pesticide use in vegetables.
    • Tamil Nadu: Regular inspections of street food vendors and training programs on food safety.
    • Delhi: Special drives to monitor and control the use of banned substances in sweets during festive seasons.

    State Food Safety Index (SFSI) by FSSAI sheds light on the performance of Indian states in ensuring food safety.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Elaborate the policy taken by the Government of India to meet the challenges of the food processing sector.

    [2018] Consider the following statements: 

    1. The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 replaced the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954.
    2. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is under the charge of Director General of Health Services in the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) Both 1 and 2
    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) Cases in Kerala

    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: Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM); Naegleria fowleri.

    Why in the News?

    There have been four cases, including three deaths, of the rare, but fatal brain-eating primary amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) in Kerala in the last two months.

    What is Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM)?

    • PAM is a rare brain infection caused by Naegleria fowleri, a free-living amoeba found in warm freshwater and soil worldwide.
      • An amoeba is a type of cell or unicellular organism with the ability to alter its shape, primarily by extending and retracting pseudopods.
      • Higher temperatures of up to 115°F (46°C) are conducive to its growth and it can survive for short periods in warm environments.
    • The amoeba enters the body through the nose, typically during activities like swimming, and travels to the brain, causing severe damage.
    • PAM is also non-communicable.
    • Symptoms: Headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, hallucinations, and coma.
      • According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most people with PAM die within 1 to 18 days after symptoms begin. It usually leads to coma and death after 5 days.

    Diagnosis and Treatment:

    • Currently, there are no established effective treatments for PAM.
    • Diagnosis involves PCR tests of cerebrospinal fluid, though detection can be challenging due to the rarity of PAM.
    • Treatment follows CDC guidelines, including miltefosine, Azithromycin, and Amphotericin B, with miltefosine recently procured by the State Health Department from Germany.
      • Medical interventions typically involve a combination of drugs, including amphotericin B, azithromycin, fluconazole, rifampin, miltefosine, and dexamethasone.

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  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    News in Frames: Chandravalli Caves

    Prelims Only | | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Chandravalli Caves

    Why in the News?

    Observations made by previous historians who had found painted pottery and coins from the Shatavahana empire and the pre-historic period were once again in the news.

    About Chandravalli Caves (also known as Ankali Math)

      • Chandravalli, a cave temple near Chitradurga, is also a pre-historic site.
      • Observations at the Site:
        • Previous excavations were carried out by Mortimer Wheeler under the guidance of the Archaeological Survey of India in 1947.
        • The cave features multiple chambers including a puja place with a shivlinga, a drawing room, a bedroom, and a water outlet connected to an internal tank.
        • The caves are accessible only through a narrow entrance, with interiors visible only with the help of a powerful torch hence they are also called as “Dark Caves”.
          • Presently, Excavations have revealed artifacts such as coins, painted bowls, and earthen pots from various dynasties such as the Hoysala, the Satavahana, and the Vijayanagara.
          • Excavation reports show that human habitation existed here even during the Iron Age.
    • Historical Aspect: 
      • They were named after a saint from Ankalagi in Belagavi district who is believed to have settled here.
      • The cave also contains a rock inscription of Mayurasharma, the founder of the Kadamba dynasty, dating back to AD 450.

    About Kadamba dynasty

    • The Kadambas of Goa were vassals of the Chalukya dynasty of Kalyana. In recognition of his assistance in defeating the Rashtrakutas, Chalukyan emperor Tailapa II appointed Kadamba Shasthadeva as the provincial governor (Mahamandaleshwara) of Goa.
    • In 960 AD, Shasthadeva captured the city of Chandavara from the Shilaharas and later seized control of the port of Gopakapattana, which is present-day Goa.
    • Talara Nevayya’s son Gundayya may have fought alongside Shasthadeva in the conquest of the port but died in the battle after successfully capturing it.
    • Coins from Indian kings like Krishnaraja Wodeyar III, Krishnadevaraya, various Satavahana kings, and Viraraya of the Hoysala kingdom have been discovered.
    • Among the foreign coins found are denarii of Roman ruler Augustus Caesar and a coin of Chinese Han dynasty Emperor Wu Ti.
    • Geographical Aspects:
      • The area is semi-arid with scrub vegetation and a stream running through it.
      • These caves are surrounded by three hills: Chitradurga, Kirabanakallu, and Jolagudda.

    PYQ:

    [2021] Which one of the following statements is correct?

    (a) Ajanta Caves lie in the gorge of Waghora river.

    (b) Sanchi Stupa lies in the gorge of Chambal river.

    (c) Pandu-lena Cave Shrines lie in the gorge of Narmada river.

    (d) Amaravati Stupa lies in the gorge of Godavari river.

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  • Capital Markets: Challenges and Developments

    Surge in Silver Imports from UAE through Gift City

    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: Silver Imports in India, GIFT City

    Why in the News?

    • India’s majority of silver imports are now handled by few private players from Dubai through the India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX), Gift City.
      • This trend, aimed at reducing import duties by the traders, poses potential long-term revenue losses for India.

    India’s Silver Imports

    • India imported a record 4,172 metric tons of silver in the first four months of 2024, far exceeding the total of 3,625 tons imported in all of 2023.
      • In February 2024 alone, India imported a record 2,295 metric tons of silver, up from 637 tons in January. This represents a 260% increase.
    • The surge in imports has been driven by increasing demand from the Solar panel industry as well as a rise in Speculative Investment, with investors betting on silver outperforming gold.
    • Nearly half of India’s silver imports in 2024 so far have come from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to a lower import duty under the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
      • India generally imposes a 15% import duty on silver.
      • However, because of the CEPA signed between India and the UAE in 2022, allows private traders to import silver through the India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX) paying 9% duty, and an extra 3% in value-added tax.
    • The government is now concerned about the 647-fold spike in silver imports from the UAE and plans to discuss the issue with Abu Dhabi.
      • The Gift City exchange, while clearing imports from Dubai since December 2023, is under scrutiny for potential violations of these rules compared to imports from other ports.

    About India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX)

    • Bullion refers to physical gold and silver of high purity that is often kept in the form of bars, ingots, or coins.
    • The IIBX was announced during the 2020 budget speech by the Finance Minister.
    • It is set up at the International Financial Services Center (IFSC) located in GIFT City, Gandhinagar.
    • It is India’s first bullion exchange, launched on 29 July 2022 in Gujarat.
    • It is the 3rd exchange of its kind in the globe.

    Regulations and Setup:

    • The International Financial Services Centres Authority (Bullion Exchange) Regulations, 2020, were notified in December 2020 specifically for the trading of precious metals, including gold and silver.
    • These regulations encompass the operations of the bullion exchange, Clearing Corporation, depository, and vaults associated with IIBX.

    Operational Framework

    • Previously, India had liberalized gold imports through nominated banks and agencies in the 1990s.
      • With IIBX, eligible qualified jewellers in India can directly import gold.
    • Jewellers need to become trading partners or clients of an existing trading member to participate in the exchange.

    Comparison with Previous Practices

    • Previously, bullion in India was imported under a consignment model by nominated banks and agencies approved by the RBI, which added handling fees and premiums.
    • The introduction of IIBX aims to streamline the supply chain by allowing direct imports through the exchange, potentially reducing costs for traders and consumers alike.

    Recommendations for Addressing Challenges

    • Renegotiation of CEPA Terms: The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) advocates for revising CEPA terms to curb duty arbitrage and enforce stricter checks on value addition claims by Gift City exchange.
    • Enhanced Regulatory Oversight: GTRI proposes limiting silver imports to RBI/DGFT-nominated agencies to mitigate risks associated with mis-declared imports and ensure compliance with CEPA conditions.
    • Investigation and Oversight: There is a call for a thorough investigation into relationships between export and import firms to identify and mitigate conflicts of interest or familial ties that could influence import practices.

    PYQ:

    [2016] What is/are the purpose/purposes of Government’s ‘Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme’ and ‘Gold Monetization Scheme’?

    1. To bring the idle gold lying with Indian households into the economy.
    2. To promote FDI in the gold and jewellery sector.
    3. To reduce India’s dependence on gold imports.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Indian Army Updates

    DRDO unveils Indigenous Light Tank Zorawar

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: General Zorawar; LT Zorawar

    Why in the News? 

    The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and private company Larsen & Toubro (L&T) unveiled the prototype of the Zorawar light tank.

    Note: 

    • India primarily has T-90S Bhishma and T-72 Ajeya produced under license from Russia.
    • The Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV) program aims to develop and induct next-generation Indigenous main battle tanks to replace the ageing T-72 fleet starting from 2030 onwards

    What is Zorawar Tank?

    • The Zorawar Tank was developed jointly by the DRDO and Larsen & Toubro (L&T).
    • It is an indigenous light tank designed specifically for operations in high-altitude regions like Ladakh and Sikkim.
    • It has been developed under ‘Project Zorawar’, named after General Zorawar Singh of Jammu.
    • Its prototype was unveiled in July 2023, with internal testing completed at L&T’s facility in Gujarat.
    • It has been scheduled for extensive trials in various conditions, including summer, winter, and high-altitude environments, with plans for induction by August 2025.

    Who was General Zorawar Singh (1784–1841)?

    • Zorawar Singh Chandel was a military general of the Dogra Rajput ruler, Gulab Singh of Jammu.
    • He served as the governor (wazir-e-wazarat) of Kishtwar and extended the territories of the kingdom by conquering Ladakh and Baltistan.
    • He also boldly attempted the conquest of Western Tibet (Ngari Khorsum) but was killed in battle of To-yo during the Dogra-Tibetan war.
    • About his legacy of conquests in the Himalayas including Ladakh, Tibet, Baltistan and Skardu as General and Wazir, Zorowar Singh has been referred to as the “Napoleon of India“, and “Conqueror of Ladakh“.

    Operational Capabilities:

    • Designed to operate effectively in extreme weather conditions and at high altitudes (above 15,000 feet) with minimal logistic support.
    • Intended for use in challenging terrains where heavier tanks like T-72 and T-90 face limitations.
    • Includes thermal sights, night-fighting capabilities, and features to reduce visual, sound, heat, and electromagnetic signatures.

    Technical Specifications:

    • Weight: Approximately 25 tons, allowing for air transportation.
    • Armament: Equipped with a 105mm turret from John Cockerill.
    • Firepower: Capable of firing advanced smart munitions and anti-tank guided missiles.
    • Mobility: Agile and manoeuvrable on steep slopes and riverine regions, designed to be amphibious.

    Engine and Power:

    • Initially planned with a German engine, but due to delays, currently powered by a Cummins engine assembled in India.
    • DRDO is concurrently working on developing a new power pack and a 1400 HP engine to enhance performance.

    Various Indigenous Tanks in the Indian Army

    Features
    Vijayanta (1965)
    • First indigenous main battle tank of the Indian Army
    • Based on a licensed design of the Vickers Mk.1 tank
    • Equipped with a 105mm rifled gun
    • Top speed of 52 km/h and range of 201 km
    • Crew of 4 (commander, gunner, loader, driver)
    • Upgrades included an improved fire control system, armour, and engine
    Arjun (2004)
    • India’s first fully Indigenous main battle tank developed by the Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment
    • Equipped with a 120mm rifled gun and has top speed of 67 km/h and range of 483 km
    • Crew of 4 (commander, gunner, loader, driver)
    • Features advanced fire control system, composite armor, and NBC protection
    • Arjun Mk-1A variant with improved capabilities entered service in 2022

     

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  • Higher Education – RUSA, NIRF, HEFA, etc.

    Four-year UG Program formally launched in Kerala

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Four-year undergraduate program

    Why in the News?

    Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the curriculum of Four-Year Undergraduate Programmes (FYUP) in the state, stressing that it is in line with changes in the Global Education System where the focus is equally on imparting knowledge as well as the transfer of skills and vocational training.

    About Four-Year Undergraduate Program (FYUP):

    Parameters Details
    Key features 
    • Students can choose their major and minor subjects freely, for example science students can pursue humanities courses.
    • Provision for students to complete the degree in 2.5 years if they secure the required credits.
    • Offers 16 FYUP honors programs with research across science, arts, commerce and business streams at the University of Kerala.
    FYUP curriculum
    • It is designed to provide students with knowledge, intellectual abilities, multidisciplinary perspectives, flexible skills, social commitment and research aptitude to make them responsible citizens and offer multiple opportunities in research and employment
    • Includes online courses, skill development, internships and research projects.
    Eligibility criteria
    • Students need a CGPA of 7.5 or above to advance to the 4th year and get an honors degree with research.
    •  Admission based on 12th marks for now, entrance exam planned from next year.

    Administrative and Technological Upgrades required:

    • Regulatory Revisions: Plans for a comprehensive revision of University Acts and Regulations to streamline academic processes and enhance efficiency.
    • K-REAP Initiative: Introduction of Kerala Resources for Education Administration and Planning (K-REAP), a governance software to centralize institutional activities.

    Issues with FYUP Program

    • Implementation Challenges: The introduction of the FYUP faced logistical and administrative hurdles, impacting its rollout across Kerala’s higher educational institutions.
    • Curriculum Adaptation: Critics argue that the FYUP’s curriculum overhaul lacks sufficient alignment with industry needs and fails to adequately prepare students for real-world challenges.
    • Student Adaptation: Some students and educators have expressed concerns about the abrupt shift in academic structure and its impact on learning outcomes and student performance.
    • Evaluation Methods: There is ongoing debate over the effectiveness of the FYUP’s assessment methods, with some stakeholders questioning its ability to accurately gauge student knowledge and skills.
    • Policy Revisions: Continuous revisions and adjustments to the FYUP’s policies and regulations are needed to address evolving educational needs and feedback from various stakeholders.

    New Education Policy (NEP), 2020:

    • The New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 introduced by the Government of India aims to transform the educational landscape of the country.
    • One of the key changes in the NEP is the restructuring of the duration and framework of undergraduate programs.
    • The NEP 2020 introduces a four-year undergraduate program as a standard duration for bachelor’s degrees, replacing the traditional three-year format.
    • Students can exit the program at different stages with a qualification. For example:
      • After 1 Year: Certificate
      • After 2 Years: Diploma
      • After 3 Years: Bachelor’s Degree
      • After 4 Years: Bachelor’s Degree with Research

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] The quality of higher education in India requires major improvement to make it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry of foreign educational institutions would help improve the quality of technical and higher education in the country. Discuss.

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