💥UPSC 2026, 2027, 2028 UAP Mentorship (March Batch) + Access XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

Type: Prelims Only

  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary: India’s New Cheetah Habitat

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Cheetah Reintroduction in India, Gandhi Sagar WLS

    Why in the News?

    • Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary will become the second home for cheetahs in India, after Kuno National Park. The final decision on importing cheetahs from Namibia and South Africa will be made after the monsoon season to avoid infection risks.

    Cheetah Reintroduction in India:

    • In India, cheetahs disappeared in the early 1950s due to hunting and the loss of their habitat.
    • The ‘Action Plan for Reintroduction of Cheetah in India /Project Cheetah (2022)’ aims to bring cheetahs from African countries to various national parks.
    • It is spearheaded by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
    • Recently, cheetahs from Namibia were reintroduced in Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh.

    About Cheetah:

    • The cheetah is a fast-running big cat native to Africa and central Iran, capable of speeds up to 80 to 128 km/h.
    • They live in various habitats like savannahs, arid mountains, and hilly deserts.
    • Cheetahs live in three main groups: females with cubs, male coalitions, and solitary males.
    • They hunt during the day, preferring dawn and dusk.
    • The global cheetah population was 6,500 mature individuals, according to the most recent IUCN assessment in 2021.
    • They are listed as VULNERABLE by the IUCN.
    • The Asiatic Cheetah is one of the five subspecies of cheetah, critically endangered and found only in Iran.

     

    About Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary

    • Located in western Madhya Pradesh, Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 368.62 sq km.
    • It spans the Mandsaur (187.12 sq km) and Neemuch (181.5 sq km) districts, bordering Rajasthan.
    • Situated on a flat rocky plateau characterized by shallow topsoil and exposed sheetrock.
    • It is divided by the Chambal River, with the Gandhi Sagar dam and reservoir within its boundaries.
    • Flora and Fauna:
      • Flora: The sanctuary features a savannah ecosystem with open grasslands interspersed with dry deciduous trees. Riverine valleys within the sanctuary support evergreen vegetation.
      • Fauna: The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including species like leopards, sloth bears, striped hyenas, grey wolves, golden jackals, jungle cats, Indian foxes, and marsh crocodiles.

    Habitat Suitability for Cheetahs

    • Officials cite Gandhi Sagar as having an ideal habitat parallel to Maasai Mara (a National Park) in Kenya, suitable for cheetahs.
    • Plans include expanding the cheetah habitat to around 2,000 sq km, contingent upon cooperation with Rajasthan’s Bhainsrodgarh sanctuary.

    PYQ:

    [2024]  Consider the following statements:

    1. Lions do not have a particular breeding season.

    2. Unlike most other big cats, cheetahs do not roar.

    3. Unlike male lions, male leopards do not proclaim their territory by scent marking.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

    [2012]  Consider the following: (2012)

    1. Black-necked crane
    2. Cheetah
    3. Flying squirrel
    4. Snow leopard

    Which of the above are naturally found in India?

    (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
    (b) 1, 3 and 4 only
    (c) 2 and 4 only
    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    Formula for Flapping Frequency across Flying and Swimming Animals

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Flapping Frequency

     

    Why in the news?

    • Researchers at Roskilde University in Denmark discovered a formula that correlates the flapping frequency of winged and swimming animals to their mass and wing/fins size.
      • The formula applies universally across a diverse range of species, from insects to birds, bats, penguins, whales, and even robotic ornithopters.

    Formula for Flapping Frequency

    • The formula was derived from Newton’s second law (F= mass x acceleration) applied to animals flapping wings to stay airborne.
    • Factors considered in the derivation included air density, wing size, and the forces generated by wing movements.

    Research Methodology

    • The researchers derived the formula theoretically from Newton’s second law, relating the force needed to stay airborne or submerged to the wing/fins’ motion, air/water dynamics, and animal mass.
    • They incorporated empirical observations into a constant C to account for specific shape and flight kinematics variations.

    Application and Validity

    • The formula’s validity was tested across various animals:
      • 176 insect data points (e.g., bees, moths, dragonflies)
      • 212 bird data points (from hummingbirds to swans)
      • 25 bat data points

    Formula Extension to Swimming Animals

    • The formula also predicts the frequency of fin/fluke movements in swimming animals.
    • Adjustments are made for water density and buoyancy effects, excluding fish with swim bladders.

    Limitations and Modifications

    • The formula applies well in conditions with high Reynolds numbers (Re), where fluid flow is streamlined.
    • At low Re values, where viscosity dominates, modifications are needed.
    • The equation holds as long as animal density variations do not exceed a factor of ten.

    Insights and Future Research

    • Insights from the formula include understanding flight efficiency and potential evolutionary pathways for winged animals.
    • Future research aims to explore further insights hidden within the C constant, potentially revealing deeper principles governing animal flight and swimming dynamics.

    PYQ:

    [2024] The organisms “Cicada, Froghopper and Pond skater are:

    (a) Birds

    (b) Fish

    (c) Insects

    (d) Reptiles

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Indian Air Force Updates

    Tarang Shakti-2024: Indian Air Force’s First Multinational Air Exercise

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Exercise Tarang Shakti-2024, Red Flag Exercise

    Why in the News?

    • The Indian Air Force’s first multinational air exercise, Tarang Shakti-2024, will be held in August.
      • It is inspired by the Red Flag exercise hosted by the US.

    Tarang Shakti-2024

    • Originally planned for late 2023, the exercise was postponed.
    • The exercise will be conducted in two distinct phases:
    1. Phase One: Scheduled in southern India during the first two weeks of August.
    2. Phase Two: To be held in the western sector from late August to mid-September.
    • Some countries will partake in both phases, facilitating comprehensive training scenarios, while others will engage in specific phases based on operational objectives.
    • Confirmed Participants:
      • Australia, France, Germany, Japan, Spain, UAE, UK, USA, among others.

    Red Flag Exercise 

    • Hosted by USAF: The recently concluded Red Flag exercise at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, involved diverse international participation.
      • IAF Deployment: Deployed eight Rafale fighters, supported by IL-78 mid-air refuellers and C-17 Globemaster aircraft.
      • Combat Simulations: Included scenarios for air combat, with Red and Blue Forces simulating defensive and offensive roles respectively.

    Significance of the Exercise

    • The exercise provides a platform to showcase advanced military technologies and capabilities, including fighter jets, transport aircraft, and aerial refuelling systems.
    • This enables participants to demonstrate their equipment’s effectiveness and interoperability in multinational settings.
    • It would enhance regional stability and promote collective security in the Indo-Pacific region.
    • It reinforces India’s role as a key partner in global security initiatives and strengthens diplomatic relations with participating countries.

    PYQ:

    [2024] Which of the following statements about the Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023 is/ are correct?

    1. This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.
    2. It commenced in Aundh (Pune).
    3. Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.
    4. Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise.

    Select the answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3

    (b) 1 and 4

    (c) 1 and 4

    (d) 2, 3 and 4

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

    What is an Electromagnet?

    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: Electromagnetism, Faraday and his contributions

    PC: The Hindu

    Why in the News?

    Recently Scientists have designed a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner that costs a fraction of existing machines, setting the stage for improving access to this widely used diagnostic tool. So we need to know about the Electromagnet.

    What is an Electromagnet?

    • Invented in 1824 by William Sturgeon, electromagnets revolutionised technology.
    • Sturgeon was an English physicist and inventor who discovered that wrapping a coil of wire around a piece of iron and passing an electric current through the wire produced a magnetic field.
    • Electromagnets are used in Loudspeakers for sound reproduction, Motors for mechanical movement., and MRI machines for medical imaging, etc

    How Electromagnets Work?

    • Electric current flowing through a wire generates a magnetic field around the wire.
    • Coiling the wire enhances this magnetic field by concentrating it within the coil’s core.
    • This configuration creates an electromagnet, where the strength of the magnetic field is directly proportional to the current flowing through the coil.
    • The magnetic flux density so generated is measured in ‘Tesla’.

    Enhancing Magnetic Strength with a Core

    • Coiling the wire around a magnetic material (core), such as iron or steel:
      • Amplifies the magnetic field produced by the electric current.
      • Ferromagnetic materials like iron align their internal magnetic domains with the external magnetic field generated by the coil.
      • This alignment significantly increases the overall magnetic strength of the electromagnet compared to a non-magnetic core.

    Persistence of Magnetization

    • It refers to the property of a material to retain a certain amount of magnetization even after the removal of an external magnetic field.
    • Certain core materials exhibit retained magnetization even after the current ceases.
    • This residual magnetism is useful in applications requiring sustained magnetic fields, such as:
      • Superconducting electromagnets used in MRI machines, are capable of producing magnetic fields up to 30 Tesla.
      • Research electromagnets like those used in particle physics, which require stable and powerful magnetic fields.

    Who was Michael Faraday (1791-1867)?

    • Michael Faraday was a pioneering English scientist and physicist who made substantial contributions to the fields of electromagnetism and electrochemistry.
    • Faraday is best known for his experiments and discoveries in electromagnetism, which laid the groundwork for the principles of electromagnetic induction and the laws of electrolysis.

    Key achievements of Michael Faraday include:

    1. Electromagnetic Induction: He discovered electromagnetic induction in 1831, showing that a changing magnetic field induces an electric current in a nearby conductor.
    2. Electrochemistry: Faraday formulated the laws of electrolysis, which describe the quantitative relationship between the amount of material produced or consumed during electrolysis and the amount of electricity passed through the electrolyte.
    3. Faraday’s Laws of Electromagnetic Induction: These laws describe the fundamental principles of generating electricity using magnetic fields, forming the basis for the development of electric generators and transformers.
    4. Faraday Cage: He invented the Faraday cage, a device used to block electromagnetic fields.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] Microbial fuel cells are considered a source of sustainable energy. Why?

    1. They use living organisms as catalysts to generate electricity from certain substrates.
    2. They use a variety of inorganic materials as substrates.
    3. They can be installed in wastewater treatment plants to cleanse water and produce electricity.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Women Safety Issues – Marital Rape, Domestic Violence, Swadhar, Nirbhaya Fund, etc.

    Madras High Court’s Interpretation of POSH Act, 2013

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Laws, Institutions & Bodies Constituted For The Vulnerable Sections

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Right to Report, POSH Act ,2013

    Why in the News?

    Madras HC upheld the ‘Right to Report’ serious incidents of sexual harassment a time, rejecting the 3-month deadline under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act (POSH), 2013.

    • Long-term emotional and psychological damage on victims underscored the need for a broader application of the law.

    Right to Report under POSH Act, 2013

    • Case Background: The decision came while addressing a police officer’s petition to quash an enquiry report for alleged sexual assault against a female colleague.
    • Madras HC Reasoning: Serious allegations leading to “grave mental trauma” and “stress” constitute a “continuing offence” under POSH, allowing victims to report and investigate at any time.
    • Notable Observations: the Madras HC distinguished between isolated incidents and serious allegations like assault or molestation.
    1. Isolated Incidents: Must adhere to strict deadlines under POSH.
    2. Serious Allegations: Treated as continuous misconduct until addressed, allowing flexibility in reporting timelines due to fear of victimisation.

    What is the POSH Act?

    • The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act was passed in 2013.
    • It defined sexual harassment, laid down the procedures for a complaint and inquiry, and the action to be taken.
    • It broadened the Vishakha Guidelines, which were already in place.

    The POSH Act broadened these guidelines:

    • It mandated that every employer must constitute an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) at each office or branch with 10 or more employees.
    • It lays down procedures and defines various aspects of sexual harassment, including the aggrieved victim, who could be a woman “of any age whether employed or not”, who “alleges to have been subjected to any act of sexual harassment”.
    • This meant that the rights of all women working or visiting any workplace, in any capacity, were protected under the Act.

    Definition of Sexual Harassment

    Under the 2013 law, sexual harassment includes “any one or more” of the following “unwelcome acts or behaviour” committed directly or by implication:

    • Physical contact and advances
    • A demand or request for sexual favours
    • Sexually coloured remarks
    • Showing pornography
    • Any other unwelcome physical, verbal or non-verbal conduct of a sexual nature.

    The Ministry of Women & Child Development has published a Handbook on Sexual Harassment of Women at the Workplace with more detailed instances of behaviour that constitutes sexual harassment at the workplace. These include, broadly:

    • Sexually suggestive remarks or innuendos; serious or repeated offensive remarks; inappropriate questions or remarks about a person’s sex life
    • Display of sexist or offensive pictures, posters, MMS, SMS, WhatsApp, or emails
    • Intimidation, threats, blackmail around sexual favours; also, threats, intimidation or retaliation against an employee who speaks up about these
    • Unwelcome social invitations with sexual overtones, commonly seen as flirting
    • Unwelcome sexual advances.

    Unwelcome behaviour

    • The Handbook says “unwelcome behaviour” is experienced when the victim feels bad or powerless; it causes anger/sadness or negative self-esteem. 
    • It adds unwelcome behaviour is one which is “illegal, demeaning, invading, one-sided and power based”.

    Circumstances amounting to SHW

    The Act mentions five circumstances that amount to sexual harassment implied or explicit:

    1. The promise of preferential treatment in her employment
    2. The threat of detrimental treatment
    3. Threat about her present or future employment status
    4. Interference with her work or creating an offensive or hostile work environment
    5. Humiliating treatment likely to affect her health or safety

    Procedure for complaint

    Description
    Filing a complaint The aggrieved victim has the option to file a complaint with the ICC, but it is not compulsory for the ICC to act.
    Assistance in filing a complaint Any member of the ICC must provide reasonable assistance to the victim in filing a written complaint.
    Filing a complaint on behalf of the victim If the victim is unable to file a complaint due to incapacity, death, or other reasons, her legal heir may file it on her behalf.
    The time limit for filing a complaint The complaint must be made within 3 months from the date of the incident
    Extension of time limit ICC has the authority
    Monetary settlement and conciliation Yes. It is possible.
    Forwarding complaint or initiating an inquiry Must be completed within 90 days.
    Confidentiality of information The act ensures the confidentiality of the woman’s identity, respondent’s identity, inquiry details, recommendations, and actions taken

    Requirements imposed on employers

    Description
    Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) Employers with more than 10 employees must establish an ICC to address sexual harassment complaints.
    Composition of ICC The ICC must include women employees, another employee, and a third-party member familiar with sexual harassment issues.
    Local Committee (LC) for smaller organizations Organizations with fewer than 10 employees must create an LC to receive complaints from the informal sector.
    Complaint filing process Women can file written complaints to either the ICC or LC within three to six months of the incident.
    Resolution methods The Act provides two resolution methods: conciliation between the parties involved or conducting an inquiry by the committee.
    Annual audit report Employers must file an annual audit report on sexual harassment complaints and take responsibility for conducting workshops, awareness programs, and orientation for ICC members.
    Non-compliance penalties Non-compliance with the Act can result in penalties, including fines.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] What are the continued challenges for Women in India against time and space?

    [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.

    [2010] Two of the schemes launched by the Government of India for Women’s development are Swadhar and Swayam Siddha. As regards the difference between them, consider the following statements:

    1. Swayam Siddha is meant for those in difficult circumstances such as women survivors of natural disasters or terrorism, women prisoners released from jails, mentally challenged women etc.,whereas Swadhar is meant for holistic empowerment of women through Self Help Groups.
    2. Swayam Siddha is implemented through Local Self Government bodies or reputed Voluntary Organizations whereas Swadhar is implemented through the ICDS units set up in the states.

    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

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    Unsolved issue of the Buddha Relics from Bavikonda

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Bavikonda Buddhist Complex

    Why in the News?

    • Ten years after the division of Telangana from united Andhra Pradesh, the distribution of antiquities, manuscripts, and cultural objects remains contentious.
      • The custody of objects like Buddha Relics from Bavikonda are part of this dispute.

    About Bavikonda Buddhist Complex

    • Bavikonda, a significant ancient Buddhist site dating from the 3rd century BC to the 3rd century AD, is located along the Eastern Coastline of Andhra Pradesh near Visakhapatnam on the way to Bheemunipatnam.
    • It is located an ancient trade route linking Andhradesa with North India via Kalinga, along with its proximity to ancient ports.
    • The discovery of Roman silver coins further supports this historical context.
    • The site also features Buddhapada slabs intricately carved with Ashtamangala symbols, found on the platforms surrounding the Mahachaitya.

    About Buddha Relics from Bavikonda

    • The relics were discovered in 1993 during archaeological excavations conducted by the Andhra Pradesh Department of Archaeology and Museums (DAM).
    • These discoveries have significantly contributed to our understanding of the spread of Buddhism in the region during the post-Ashoka period along the Krishna River basin.
    • Nature of Relics:
    • The site at Bavikonda yielded several earthen vessels containing gold objects and precious beads.
    • These relics are believed to include corporeal remains (related to skull) of the Buddha, along with silver and gold caskets.
    • These were found alongside an earthen urn or receptacle (Samudgaka) containing ashy deposits and burnt charcoal.

    Noted Buddhavanam Sites in Andhra Region

    • Thotlakonda: Located near Visakhapatnam, Thotlakonda is another prominent Buddhist site dating back to the 3rd century BC to the 3rd century AD. It consists of monastic complexes, stupas, chaityas, viharas, and a university. Excavations have revealed relics and artifacts indicating it was a major center for Buddhist learning and trade.
    • Salihundam: Situated near Srikakulam, Salihundam dates from the 2nd century BC to the 12th century AD. It features remnants of stupas, votive stupas, monastic complexes, and sculptures. The site is noted for its architectural and sculptural heritage, reflecting a blend of Buddhist and Hindu influences over centuries.
    • Pavurallakonda: Close to Bheemunipatnam, Pavurallakonda is a Buddhist hilltop monastery dating back to the 3rd century BC to the 2nd century AD. It includes viharas, chaityas, and relic caskets. The site offers panoramic views of the coastline, adding to its spiritual ambiance.
    • Ghantasala: Located near Krishna district, Ghantasala served as an ancient Buddhist site from the 2nd century BC to the 2nd century AD. It contains stupas, viharas, and relics that indicate its significance as a trading hub and center for Buddhist teachings.
    • Nagarjunakonda: Situated in the Guntur district, Nagarjunakonda is an island on the Krishna River that flourished from the 3rd century BC to the 3rd century AD. It boasts numerous Buddhist monasteries, stupas, chaityas, and sculptures. The site is renowned for its architectural grandeur and extensive archaeological findings.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Which of the following kingdoms were associated with the life of Buddha?

    1. Avanti
    2. Gandhara
    3. Kosala
    4. Magadha

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1, 3 and 4

    (d) 3 and 4 only

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • RTI – CIC, RTI Backlog, etc.

    CIC upholds decision of Rashtrapati Bhavan on RTI query

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Statutory, Regulatory & Various Quasi-Judicial Bodies

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Central Information Commission (CIC), Powers and Functions

    Why in the News? 

    • The Central Information Commission (CIC) upheld Rashtrapati Bhavan’s response to an RTI query regarding the number of times former President Kovind returned decisions by the Prime Minister/Union Council of Ministers for reconsideration.
      • The President’s Secretariat stated that no information was available on record regarding such returns.

    Back2Basics: Right to Information (RTI)

    • The RTI Act of 2005 grants Indian citizens the right to access government-held information, with exceptions.
    • Its goal is to enhance transparency and accountability in public authorities.
    • This Act replaced the earlier Freedom of Information Act of 2002.
    • RTI aligns with Freedom of Speech and Expression (Article 19) in India’s Constitution.

    About Central Information Commission (CIC)

    Details
    Establishment Set up under the Section 12 of the Right to Information Act, 2005.
    Function
    • Oversees implementation of RTI Act in Central Government and Union Territories.
    • Resolves complaints and decides appeals related to the Act.
    Headquarters New Delhi
    Composition
    • Chief Information Commissioner (CIC)
    • Up to 10 Information Commissioners (IC), (appointed by President on recommendation of PM-led Committee consisting Leader of Opposition and Cabinet Ministers.)
    Qualifications CIC and IC must be persons of eminence in public life with wide knowledge and experience in: Law, Science and Technology, Social Service, Management, Journalism, Mass Media, Administration, and Governance.

    NON-ELIGIBLITY: Members of Parliament or Legislature of any State or Union Territory, hold any office of profit, be connected with any political party, or carry on any business or profession.
    Tenure
    • CIC and IC hold office for such term as prescribed by Central Government or until they attain age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
    • NO Reappointment.
    • IC can be appointed as Chief Information Commissioner, but total tenure including term as IC should not exceed 5 years.
    Removal
    • President can remove CIC or IC on grounds like insolvency, conviction for moral turpitude, engaging in another office of profit, etc.
    • Removal for misbehaviour requires Supreme Court enquiry and recommendation.
    Salary & Conditions Salary, allowances, and service conditions determined by Central Government, cannot be varied to their disadvantage during service (After RTI Amendment Act,2019)
    How RTI amendment, 2019 has changed CIC?
    • Before the 2019 amendment to the RTI Act, ICs at the CIC held a 5-year fixed term and were considered equal in status to the Chief Election Commissioner and Supreme Court judges.
    • The 2019 amendments granted the Centre the power to alter these terms at its discretion.
    Functions
    • Receives and inquires into complaints related to RTI Act violations, including non-appointment of Public Information Officer, refusal or delay in information, unreasonable fees, incomplete or false information.
    • Submits annual report on Act’s implementation to Central Government, presented to Parliament.
    Powers
    • Can suo-moto order inquiries, summon persons, enforce oaths, access and inspect documents, receive evidence on affidavit, requisition public records, summon witnesses, and enforce compliance of decisions.
    • Can direct public authorities on information access, officer appointments, record management, training, and impose penalties or compensation for non-compliance.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] The Right to Information Act is not all about citizens’ empowerment alone, it essentially redefines the concept of accountability. Discuss. (150 words)

    [2019] There is a view that the Officials Secrets Act is an obstacle to the implementation of RTI Act. Do you agree with the view? Discuss.

    [2020] “Recent amendments to the Right to Information Act will have a profound impact on the autonomy and independence of the Information Commission”. Discuss.

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Death Penalty Abolition Debate

    What are the standards for awarding death sentence, the President’s ‘Mercy’ power?

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Death Penalty, Pardoning Power

    Why in the News?

    • The President of India has rejected a Mercy Petition to pardon a Pakistani terrorist.
      • The accused was one among the Lashkar-e-Tayyeba terrorists who attacked the Red Fort in 2000, killing two soldiers and a civilian guard.

    What is the process of Mercy Petition?

    • Step 1: The convict facing a death sentence can file a mercy petition within 7 days of the Supreme Court dismissing their appeal.
    • Step 2: The convict or their relative submits a written petition to the President or governor, citing grounds such as sole breadwinner, physical/mental health, perceived harshness of the law, or judicial errors.
    • Step 3: The petition is forwarded to the Ministry of Home Affairs for assessment and recommendations, including consultation with the relevant State government.
    • Step 4: Based on Home Ministry recommendations and the Council of Ministers’ advice, the President can accept or reject the mercy plea without a specified time limit.
    • Step 5: While governors cannot pardon death sentences, they can commute, remit, or reprieve sentences under their state’s executive powers for offences against state laws.

    Judiciary on Mercy Petitions:

      • Bachan Singh v. State of Punjab (1980): The Supreme Court, upheld the death penalty but set the stringent criteria. It emphasized that the death penalty should be awarded only in the “rarest of rare” cases when all mitigating circumstances are considered.
      • In Maru Ram v. Union of India (1981), the Supreme Court ruled that the power to grant pardons under Article 72 of the Constitution must be exercised based on the advice of the Council of Ministers.
      • In Kehar Singh vs Union of India (1989) case, the court asserted that presidential pardon is an act of grace, not a right that can be claimed. The exercise of this power is purely administrative and not subject to judicial review.
      • In the Dhananjoy Chatterjee vs State of West Bengal (1994) case, the Supreme Court clarified that the pardoning powers under Articles 72 and 161 of the Constitution can only be exercised by the Central and State Governments, respectively, and not autonomously by the President or Governor.
      • In Epuru Sudhakar & Anr. v. Government of Andhra Pradesh (2006), the Supreme Court ruled that the clemency powers of the President and Governor under Article 72 and Article 161 are subject to judicial review.
      • In Shatrugan Chauhan v. State of U.P. (2014), the appex court has also commuted the death sentence in cases of inordinate delay in deciding mercy petitions. The court commuted the sentence of one Gurmeet Singh after he spent 27 years in custody (and 21 years on death row). 
      • In Mohd. Afzal Guru vs State of Delhi (2014) case, the court-mandated a minimum 14-day gap between the rejection of a mercy petition and the execution of a death penalty, ensuring adequate time for legal recourse.
      • Report of the 262nd Law Commission (2015): Recommended abolishing the death penalty for all crimes except terrorism-related offenses and waging war.
      • In April 2023, the Supreme Court upheld the Mumbai High Court’s decision to commute the death sentence of a woman and her sister due to significant delays in deciding their mercy petitions.

    About Presidents’ Pardoning Powers under Article 72

    • According to Article 72, the President of India has the power to grant pardons, reprieves, respites, or remissions of punishment or to suspend, remit, or commute the sentence of any person convicted of any offense: In cases where the punishment or sentence is by a Court Martial;
      • According to Article 161, the Governor of a State has the power to grant pardons, reprieves, respites, or remissions of punishment or to suspend, remit, or commute the sentence of any person convicted of any offence against any law relating to matters under the executive power of the State.
    • In the recent Supreme Court Ruling of 2021, the apex court held that the Governor of a state can pardon prisoners, including those on death row, even before they have served a minimum of 14 years of their prison sentence.

    Did you know?

    1. Pardon means completely absolving the person of the crime and letting him go free. The pardoned criminal will be like a normal citizen.
    2. Commutation means changing the type of punishment given to the guilty into a less harsh one, for example, a death penalty commuted to a life sentence.
    3. Reprieve means a delay allowed in the execution of a sentence, usually a death sentence, for a guilty person to allow him some time to apply for a Presidential Pardon or some other legal remedy to prove his innocence or successful rehabilitation.
    4. Respite means reducing the quantum or degree of the punishment to a criminal in view of some special circumstances, like pregnancy, mental condition etc.
    5. Remission means changing the time period of the punishment without changing its nature, for example reducing twenty years of rigorous imprisonment to ten years.

    Cases as specified by Art. 72

    In all cases where the punishment or sentence:

    1. is by a court-martial.
    2. is for an offence against any law relating to a matter to which the executive power of the Union extends.
    3. is a sentence of death.

    Nature of the Pardoning Power

    • The pardoning power of the president is not absolute.
    • At a procedural level, the apex court in Epuru Sudhakar & Anr. v. Government of Andhra Pradesh (2006) has held that the President’s power must be exercised based on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers and can be challenged on multiple grounds including that relevant material was not considered, the power was exercised based on political considerations, or there was no application of mind.
    • This has not been discussed by the Constitution but is the practical truth. Further, the constitution does not provide for any mechanism to question the legality of decisions of presidents or governors exercising mercy jurisdiction.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] Instances of President’s delay in commuting death sentences have come under public debate as denial of justice. Should there be a time specified for the President to accept/reject such petitions? Analyse.

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    In news: Nagarhole Tiger Reserve

    National Parks/WSPrelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Nagarahole Tiger Reserve, Project Elephant

    Why in the News?

    • Ashwatthama, a 38-year-old elephant, died of electrocution near Karnataka’s Nagarahole Tiger Reserve.
      • The High Court of Karnataka suo motu initiated a PIL petition to inquire about this incident attributed to a lack of care and diligence by concerned authorities.

    Nagarahole Tiger Reserve

    • Located in the Western Ghats in Karnataka; Spans over 643 square kilometers.
    • Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 and a tiger reserve in 1999.
    • Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is recognised as an Important Bird Area (IBA) and a Project Tiger, Project Elephant reserve.
    • Managed by the Karnataka Forest Department with efforts focused on conservation, ecotourism, and community engagement.
    • The reserve is crisscrossed by several rivers such as the Kabini River, Lakshmana Tirtha River, and Moyar River.
      • Flora and Fauna: Known for its diverse ecosystem, including tropical and moist deciduous forests, home to a variety of wildlife such as tigers, leopards, elephants, gaur, and several species of deer and birds.

    Protective Measures: Project Elephant

    • It was launched in the year 1992 as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme with the following objectives:
      • To protect elephants, their habitat & corridors
      • To address issues of man-animal conflict
      • The welfare of captive elephants
    • It covers 23 states across India.
    • The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change provides financial and technical support to major elephant range states in the country through the project.
    • It contributed to the increase in the wild elephant population from around 25,000 in 1992 to about 30,000 in 2021.

    Status of Elephant Conservation in India

    Details
    Population Estimate
    • India hosts the largest population of wild Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus), with around 29,964 individuals,
    • Approximately 60% of the global population (2017 census).
    Leading States Karnataka holds the highest number of elephants, followed by Assam and Kerala.
    Conservation Status
    • IUCN Red List:  Endangered.
    • CMS: Appendix I.
    • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Listed under Schedule I,
    • CITES: Appendix I.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to Indian elephants, consider the following statements:

    1. The leader of an elephant group is a female.
    2. The maximum gestation period can be 22 months.
    3. An elephant can normally go on calving till the age of 40 years only.
    4. Among the States in India, the highest elephant population is in Kerala.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 4 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 3 and 4 only

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Global Geological And Climatic Events

    ‘Cold Lava’ Rivers flow in Philippines after Mount Canlaon eruption

    Prelims OnlyWorld Mapping | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 1: Geographical Features & Their Location

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Mount Canlaon, Cold Lava Mudflows

    Why in the News?

    • After Mount Canlaon erupted in the Philippines, cold lava started flowing through streets and rivers.
      • It was followed by ashfall, and dangers like floods and mudflows downstream.

    What is Cold Lava?

    • Cold lava, also known as “lahar,” is a mixture of water and rock fragments that flows rapidly down the slopes of a volcano, often triggered by heavy rainfall or volcanic eruptions.
    • The mixture forms a concrete-like substance that destroys everything in its path.
    • This can also include smooth, glassy textures or rough and jagged textures.

    Another example of cold Lava in the world

    • Mount Merapi, Indonesia (2023): An eruption of Mount Merapi resulted in the deaths of at least 23 climbers and spewed ash up to 3,000 meters into the air, covering towns and villages

    How harmful is Cold Lava?

    • Rain can carry cold lava down the slopes of a volcano during an eruption and into the path of nearby towns or villages.
    • According to the United States Geological Survey, cold lava has the power to crush and bury things in its path.
    • It also moves quickly like wet concrete and is considered more destructive than hot lava.

    About Mount Canlaon

    • Mount Canlaon, located in the Philippines, is an active stratovolcano known for its frequent eruptions and volcanic activity.
    • It is situated on the island of Negros in the Visayas region of the Philippines.
    • It is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, known for its high volcanic activity.
    • It poses hazards such as ash fall, lava flows, pyroclastic flows, and lahars (mudflows) that can endanger nearby communities and agriculture.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Discuss about the vulnerability of India to earthquake-related hazards. Give examples including the salient features of major disasters caused by earthquakes in different parts of India during the last three decades.

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor