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Type: Prelims Only

  • AYUSH – Indian Medicine System

    [pib] Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) launches PRAGATI-2024

    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: CCRAS and its functioning

    Why in the news?

    • The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) is hosting “PRAGATI-2024” at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, to promote collaboration and research opportunities between CCRAS and the Ayurveda drug industry.

    About Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS)  

      • The CCRAS is an autonomous body of the Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy), Government of India.
      • It was established in 1978 to formulate, coordinate, develop, and promote research on scientific lines in the Ayurveda and Sowa-Rigpa system of medicine.
    • Primary Objectives:
      • Research: To undertake research to scientifically establish the efficacy of Ayurvedic practices.
      • Development: To develop and promote Ayurveda science through research and education.
      • Integration: To integrate traditional Ayurvedic methods with modern medicine for more comprehensive healthcare.

    Functions of CCRAS

    • Research Studies: Conducting various types of research studies like drug research, fundamental research, clinical research, literary research, and medicinal plant research.
    • Publication: Publishing scientific journals, research papers, and other documentation to disseminate knowledge.
    • Medicinal Plant Development: Focusing on the cultivation and conservation of medicinal plants used in Ayurveda.
    • Public Health Initiatives: Implementing public health programs and providing training to practitioners.

    Achievements of CCRAS:

    • Development of Ayurvedic Formulations: CCRAS has developed several notable Ayurvedic formulations and technologies, which have been patented and commercialised.
    • National Ayurveda Morbidity Codes: CCRAS has developed morbidity codes and standard terminologies to standardise the practice of Ayurveda.
    • AYUSH Research Portal: A comprehensive database of research on Ayurveda, which includes information on drugs, case studies, and clinical trials.

    Notable Projects:

    • Golden Triangle Partnership: A collaborative project with CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research) and ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) for enhancing the scientific validation of Ayurveda.
    • Tribal Health Care Research Program: Aimed at documenting ethno-medical knowledge and validating it for scientific purposes.

    PYQ:

    [2019] How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?

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  • Capital Markets: Challenges and Developments

    Cost Inflation Index (CII) for FY25 to compute Capital Gains

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Cost Inflation Index (CII); Long Term Capital Gains

    Why in the News?

    • The Income Tax Department has notified the cost inflation index (CII) for the current fiscal to calculate long-term capital gains arising from the sale of immovable property, securities and jewellery.
      • The CII is used by a taxpayer to compute gains arising out of the sale of capital assets after adjusting for inflation.

    CII Values:

    • For FY 2024-25, the CII is set at 363.
    • Previous years’ CII values were 348 for FY 2023-24 and 331 for FY 2022-23.

    What is Cost Inflation Index (CII)?

    • CII is a measure used by the Income Tax Department of India to account for inflation when calculating the capital gains on the sale of long-term capital assets.
    • It helps to adjust the purchase price of assets to reflect the effect of inflation.
      • CII adjusts the cost of acquisition of assets to the price level inflation at the time of sale.
      • This ensures that taxpayers pay taxes on the real gains rather than on the inflationary component of the price rise.
    • It is defined under Section 48 of the Income-tax Act, 1961.
    • The index is revised annually to keep up with inflation, with the base year being periodically reset (currently the base year is 2001-02 in India).

    Application of CII

    • CII is used to compute the indexed cost of acquisition of a capital asset that has been held for more than 36 months (considered as long-term capital assets).
    • Different holding periods apply for certain types of assets like immovable property and listed securities.

    Tax Calculation:

    • The formula used is:

    • This formula helps determine the adjusted cost basis from which any sale proceeds are subtracted to calculate capital gains.

    Back2Basics: Long Term Capital Gains

    • In India, long-term capital gains (LTCG) refer to the profit earned from the sale of a capital asset held for a specific period, qualifying it as “long-term” based on the duration of holding.
    • The tax implications and treatment of these gains are distinct from those of short-term capital gains.

    Definition of Long-Term Capital Assets

    • Equity or Preference Shares, Listed Securities, Units of UTI, etc.: These are considered long-term if held for more than 12 months before sale.
    • Immovable Property (e.g., Land, Building): Considered long-term if held for more than 24 months.
    • Other Assets (e.g., Jewellery, Debt-oriented Mutual Funds, etc.): These need to be held for more than 36 months to be considered long-term.

    Taxation of Long-Term Capital Gains

    • Equity Investments:
      • LTCG from the sale of listed shares or equity-oriented mutual funds over ₹1 lakh is taxed at 10% without the benefit of indexation, provided the securities transaction tax (STT) was paid at the time of sale.
    • Non-Equity Investments:
      • LTCG from assets like debt mutual funds, real estate, gold, etc., is taxed at 20% with the benefit of indexation.
    • Indexation Benefit:
      • For non-equity assets, the Cost Inflation Index (CII) is used to adjust the purchase price of the asset to reflect inflation. This reduces the taxable gain by increasing the acquisition cost.

    Calculation of Long-Term Capital Gains

    The general formula for calculating LTCG is:


    Where:

    Full Value of Consideration is the sale price of the asset.

    Indexed Cost of Acquisition is the purchase price adjusted by the CII.

    Indexed Cost of Improvement refers to the cost of any improvements made to the asset, adjusted by the CII.

    Cost of Transfer includes expenses directly related to the sale or transfer of the asset.

    Exemptions and Deductions

    • Section 54: Exemption on LTCG from the sale of a residential property if the proceeds are reinvested in another residential property in India.
    • Section 54EC: Exemption by investing LTCG in bonds issued by NHAI or REC within 6 months of the asset sale, subject to a cap of ₹50 lakhs.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015]  Which reference to inflation in India, which of the following statements is correct?

    (a) Controlling the inflation in India is the responsibility of the Government of India only

    (b) The Reserve Bank of India has no role in controlling the inflation

    (c) Decreased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation

    (d) Increased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Omega-3 Fatty Acids and its Health Impacts

    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: Fatty Acids and their health implications

    Why in the News?

    • Fish oil supplements, highly regarded for their high omega-3 fatty acid content, have long been associated with heart health benefits.
      • A recent study has caused controversy by raising the possibility that these supplements may be as harmful as previously thought.

    What are Fatty Acids?


    Fatty acids are crucial lipids (fats and oils) essential for various biological functions (Fatty Acid + Glycerol = Fats). They are carboxylic acids with a long aliphatic chain, either saturated or unsaturated.

    • Basic Structure: Consists of a hydrocarbon chain with a terminal carboxyl group (-COOH). The length and degree of saturation of the hydrocarbon chain can vary.
    • Roles in the Body: Serve as energy sources, components of cell membranes, and precursors for bioactive lipids.

    Types of Fatty Acids

    Fatty acids are classified based on the presence and number of double bonds in their hydrocarbon chain:

    1. Saturated Fatty Acids (SFA)
      • Structure: Contain no double bonds between carbon atoms; the hydrocarbon chain is saturated with hydrogen atoms.
      • Properties: Typically solid at room temperature.
      • Sources: Animal fats, coconut oil, palm oil, dairy products.
      • Examples: Palmitic acid, stearic acid.
    2. Monounsaturated Fatty Acids (MUFA)
      • Structure: Contain one double bond in the hydrocarbon chain.
      • Properties: Generally liquid at room temperature but solidify when chilled.
      • Sources: Olive oil, canola oil, peanut oil, avocados, nuts.
      • Examples: Oleic acid.
    3. Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA)
      • Structure: Contain two or more double bonds in the hydrocarbon chain.
      • Properties: Liquid at room temperature and in the refrigerator.
      • Sources: Fish, flax seeds, walnuts, sunflower oil, corn oil.
      • Examples:
    1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
    2. Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Linoleic acid, arachidonic acid.
    1. Trans Fatty Acids
      • Formation: Produced by the industrial process of hydrogenation of unsaturated fats, or naturally in the guts of some animals.
      • Properties: Similar to saturated fats, solid at room temperature.
      • Health Impact: Associated with negative cardiovascular effects.
      • Sources: Margarine, partially hydrogenated oils, and some baked goods.

    What are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?

    • Omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3s) are polyunsaturated fats that perform important functions in the human body.
    • There are three main types of omega-3 fatty acids:
      • EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). EPA is a “marine omega-3” because it’s found in fish.
      • DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). DHA is also a marine omega-3 found in fish.
      • ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). ALA is the form of omega-3 found in plants.
      • When we get ALA from food, the human body can turn some of the ALA into EPA and subsequently to DHA. However, this process provides just a small amount of EPA and DHA. So, dietary sources of EPA and DHA (like fish) are essential.

    Functions of Omega-s fatty acids:

      • They help to provide structure and supporting interactions between cells.
      • Omega-3s are concentrated in high levels in cells in human eyes and brain.
      • They provide the human body with energy (calories) and support the health of many body systems.  These include the human cardiovascular system and endocrine system.

    Significance of Omega-3 fatty acids:

    • Omega-3 fatty acids have many potential benefits for human cardiovascular health.
    • One key benefit is that they help lower human triglyceride levels.
      • Too many triglycerides in human blood (hypertriglyceridemia) raise human risk of atherosclerosis, and through this, can increase human risk of heart disease and stroke. So, it’s important to keep triglyceride levels under control.
    • Omega-3s may help us by raising human HDL (good) cholesterol and lowering human blood pressure.
      • Some studies show omega-3s may lower human risk for Cardiovascular disease (CVD), and hence lowering the sudden death caused by an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia), and blood clots.
    • Beyond heart health, omega-3s may help lower the human risk of developing some forms of cancer, including breast cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), research continues to investigate these and other possible benefits.

    PYQ:

    [2011] A company marketing food products advertises that its items do not contain trans-fats. What does this campaign signify to the customers?

    1. The food products are not made out of hydrogenated oils.
    2. The food products are not made out of animal fats/ oils.
    3. The oils used are not likely to damage the cardiovascular health of the consumers.

    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

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  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    Hampi’s Virupaksha Temple

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Virupaksha Temple, Vijayanagara Empire

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the News?

    The temple’s pavilion or the Saalu Mantap of the historic Virupaksha Temple in Hampi, Karnataka collapsed following Torrential rains.

    About Virupaksha Temple

    • Traced back to the 7th century AD.
    •  Built by early rulers of the Chalukya dynasty.
    • The temple was significantly expanded by Lakkan Dandesha, a chieftain under the rule of Deva Raya II (Prauda Deva Raya) of the Vijayanagara Empire.
    • However, the most significant expansions and contributions were made during the reign of King Krishnadevaraya in the early 16th century.
    • The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known locally as Virupaksha or Pampa Pathi, and is associated with the local deity Pampadevi.
    • Hampi, including the Virupaksha Temple, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 due to its rich architectural heritage and historical significance.

    Architectural Features of Virupaksha Temple

    Here are the major Dravidian architectural features of the Virupaksha Temple:

    Gopurams (Temple Towers):

    • Main Gopuram: The eastern entrance of the temple features a monumental nine-story gopuram (tower) that is approximately 50 meters high. This tower is intricately decorated with sculptures depicting Hindu myths and deities.
    • Smaller Gopurams: Other entrances of the temple are also marked by smaller but similarly elaborate gopurams.

    Mandapas (Pavilions):

    • Ranga Mandapa: Added in 1510 by King Krishnadevaraya, this is one of the most elaborately carved areas. The Ranga Mandapa is used for temple ceremonies and performances, featuring pillars with intricate carvings of mythical creatures and deities.
    • Open Pillar Hall: A large hall with rows of intricately carved pillars that depict various mythological scenes and form an important part of the temple structure.
    • Kalyana Mandapa: This area is used for celebrating the annual marriage festival of the deities, reflecting both architectural grandeur and cultural significance.

    Sanctum Sanctorum (Garbhagriha):

    • Main Shrine: The innermost sanctum houses the sacred Linga of Lord Virupaksha (Shiva). This area is considered the most sacred and is elaborately decorated.
    • Lesser Sanctums: Surrounding the main sanctum, there are smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, which are typical in South Indian temple complexes.

    Pillars and Sculptures:

    • Carved Pillars: The temple’s pillars are renowned for their detailed carvings, which depict scenes from Hindu mythology, including episodes from the epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.
    • Artistic Themes: The sculptures include a mix of divine figures, mythological animals, and scenes from daily life, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistic sensibilities of the era.

    Water Structures:

    • Sacred Tank: A sacred water tank within the complex is used for religious rituals and ceremonies.

    About Vijayanagara Empire

    • It was established in 1336 by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I, who were brothers and possibly former officers in the Hoysala Empire.
    • Dynastic Rule: Governed by four main dynasties: Sangama, Saluva, Tuluva, and Aravidu.
    • Capital: The capital was Hampi, in the modern state of Karnataka, India, recognized today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • Geographical Span: At its peak, the empire covered not only Karnataka but also extended into parts of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
    • Krishnadevaraya: Considered the greatest ruler of the empire, known for his administrative genius and patronage of arts and literature.
    • Decline: The Empire suffered a major military defeat against a coalition of Deccan Sultanates in the Battle of Talikota (1565), which led to a significant decline in power.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Building ‘Kalyana Mandapas’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of-

    1. Chalukya
    2. Chandela
    3. Rashtrakuta
    4. Vijayanagara

    [2016] Krishnadeva Raya, the king of Vijayanagar, was not only an accomplished scholar himself but was a also a great patron of learning and literature. Discuss.

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  • Water Management – Institutional Reforms, Conservation Efforts, etc.

    Periyar River and Industrial Pollution

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Periyar River and important places in its catchment

    Why in the News?

    • A mass fish kill struck the Periyar River, the ‘Lifeline of Kerala’.
      • The incident, believed to be caused by industrial pollution from the Edayar Industrial Area, has caused immense loss to fish farmers and disrupted the local ecosystem.

    About Periyar River

    Details
    Length Approximately 244 kilometers (151 miles)
    Source of the river Originates in the Sivagiri hills of Sundaramala, Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu
    Mouth of the River Empties into the Arabian Sea at Aluva, near Kochi, Kerala
    Flow Through Flows through Idukki, Ernakulam, and Thrissur districts in Kerala
    Major Tributaries Muthirapuzha, Cheruthoni, Edamalayar
    Key Hydroelectric Projects Idukki Dam (one of Asia’s highest arch dams), other significant dams include Mullaperiyar Dam
    Ecological Conservation Supports diverse ecosystems, passes through Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (notable for elephants and tigers)
    Cultural Significance The ancient port of Muziris, is believed to have been located near the mouth of the Periyar.
    Environmental Challenges Faces pollution from industrial discharge and urban waste; water management disputes, especially related to the Mullaperiyar Dam’s safety and water sharing between Kerala and Tamil Nadu

    Threats to Periyar River

    • The lower reaches of the Periyar are heavily polluted. Industries in the Eloor industrial zone discharge waste into the river.
    • Greenpeace India describes the lower Periyar as “a cesspool of toxins, which have alarming levels of deadly poisons like DDT, endosulfan, hexa and trivalent chromium, lead, cyanide, BHC”.
    • Illegal sand mining from the Periyar is another major environmental issue.

    PYQ:

    [2011] With reference to the Indus river system, of the following four rivers, three of them pour into one of them which joins the Indus direct. Among the following, which one is such river that joins the Indus direct?​

    (a) Chenab

    (b) Jhelum

    (c) Ravi

    (d) Sutlej

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  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    Oldest Known Human Viruses Discovered In 50,000-Year-Old Neanderthal Bones

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Adenovirus, herpesvirus, and papillomavirus

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the News?

    • Researchers found traces of many present-day viruses in the bones of two Neanderthals who lived 50,000 years ago, providing a new perspective on their extinction.

    Breakthrough Study on Neanderthals 

    • Ancient viruses in Neanderthal DNA samples from skeletons found in Russia’s Chagyrskaya cave.
    • The study detected fragments resembling three modern viruses: adenovirus (common colds), herpesvirus (cold sores), and papillomavirus (genital warts).

    Health Impacts Inherited in Modern Human Beings:

    Modern humans inherit various health impacts from Neanderthals, including skin conditions, allergies, metabolism, nicotine addiction, mood disorders, sleep patterns, blood clotting, sense of smell, and UV radiation response.

    Who were the Neanderthals?

      • Neanderthals were a distinct species of hominins that lived in Europe and parts of Asia around 400,000 to 40,000 years ago during the Middle to Late Pleistocene Epochs.
      • Their evidence was first found in 1856 in the Neander Valley in present-day Germany.
    • Physical Features:
        • Neanderthals were robustly built, with a stocky and muscular frame adapted to cold climates.
        • They had large brains, comparable in size to modern humans, indicating advanced cognitive abilities.
        • Distinctive features included a prominent brow ridge, large nose, and a receding chin.
    • Social Life:
        • Neanderthals were skilled hunters and gatherers, using tools such as stone flakes, scrapers, and spears for hunting and butchering animals.
        • They utilized fire for cooking, warmth, and protection, as evidenced by the presence of hearths in their archaeological sites.
        • Evidence suggests they had complex social structures and engaged in rituals and symbolic behaviours, including burying their dead with grave goods.
    • Habitat and Distribution:
    • Neanderthals inhabited a wide range of environments, including open grasslands, forests, and even cold tundra regions.
        • Their range extended from Western Europe to Central Asia, with evidence of populations in regions such as Spain, France, Germany, Croatia, and the Middle East.
    • Interactions with Modern Humans:
      • Neanderthals coexisted with early modern humans (Homo sapiens) for thousands of years in Europe and Asia.
      • There is evidence of interbreeding between Neanderthals and modern humans, with genetic studies indicating that non-African humans carry about 1-2% Neanderthal DNA.

    PYQ:

    [2019] The word ‘Denisovan’ is sometimes mentioned in media in reference to

    (a) Fossils of a kind of dinosaurs

    (b) An early human species

    (c) A cave system found in North-East India

    (d) A geological period in the history of Indian subcontinent

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  • Zoonotic Diseases: Medical Sciences Involved & Preventive Measures

    Ferroptosis Cases in Severe Covid Patients

    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: Ferroptosis

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the News?

    Columbia University study on COVID-19 fatalities found ferroptosis as the main cause of lung cell death, advancing understanding of lung disease development.

    What is Ferroptosis?

    • Ferroptosis is a type of regulated cell death characterized by the iron-dependent accumulation of lipid peroxides to lethal levels.

    Other forms of cell death: 

    1. Apoptosis (highly regulated process that occurs in multicellular organisms to eliminate unwanted or damaged cells without causing inflammation),
    2. Necrosis (cell death characterized by rapid and uncontrolled cell lysis, often accompanied by inflammation and tissue damage).
    3. Autophagy (involves the degradation and recycling of cellular components through lysosomal machinery).

    Mechanism of Ferroptosis:

    The precise molecular mechanism underlying ferroptosis is still being elucidated, but it involves the deregulation of iron metabolism and lipid peroxidation. Here’s a simplified overview of how ferroptosis occurs:

    1. Iron Accumulation: Ferroptosis is characterized by the accumulation of iron within cells, particularly in the form of labile iron pools. Excess iron can lead to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through Fenton chemistry.
    2. Lipid Peroxidation: ROS generated from excess iron promotes lipid peroxidation, particularly of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) within cell membranes. Lipid peroxides accumulate and propagate, leading to membrane damage and loss of membrane integrity.
    3. Glutathione Depletion: Glutathione (GSH) is an antioxidant that helps to neutralize ROS and prevent lipid peroxidation. In ferroptosis, there is a depletion of cellular GSH levels, which impairs the cell’s ability to counteract oxidative stress.
    4. GPX4 Inhibition: Glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) is an enzyme that catalyzes the reduction of lipid hydroperoxides to their corresponding alcohols, thereby protecting cells from lipid peroxidation. In ferroptosis, GPX4 activity is inhibited, leading to the accumulation of lipid peroxides and cell death.
    5. Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Ferroptosis is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, including alterations in mitochondrial membrane potential and morphology, as well as disruption of mitochondrial metabolism and bioenergetics.
    6. Cellular Consequences: The accumulation of lipid peroxides and mitochondrial dysfunction ultimately leads to cellular damage, loss of cell membrane integrity, and cell death by ferroptosis.

    Significance of the Study

    • Targeting and preventing ferroptosis could offer novel treatment avenues for COVID-19 lung disease and its possible future mutations.
    • Inhibiting this form of cell death may help improve the treatment outcomes for severe cases of COVID-19.

    PYQ:

    [2020] COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented devastation worldwide. However, technological advancements are being availed readily to win over the crisis. Give an account of how technology was sought to aid management of the pandemic.

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  • Global Geological And Climatic Events

    Cyclone Remal to make landfall

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Disaster Management

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Tropical Cyclone

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the News?

    • Cyclone Remal is forecasted to make landfall between Sagar Island in West Bengal and Bangladesh’s Khepupara on Sunday midnight.
    • The name ‘Remal’ originates from Oman and means ‘sand’ in Arabic.

    What are Cyclones?

    • Cyclones are wind systems rotating inwardly towards an area of low atmospheric pressure. They are categorised into Tropical (Temperature-induced) and Temperate (extra-tropical) cyclones(airmass-induced).
    • Formation Conditions: Tropical cyclones originate in warm regions, requiring conditions such as
    1. Warm sea surface (> 27°C),
    2. Coriolis Force,
    3. Pre-existing low-pressure systems,
    4. Small vertical wind speed differences, and
    5. Upper air divergence.

    Characteristics of Tropical Cyclones:

    • They form over warm water bodies due to energy derived from the condensation of warm water within cumulonimbus clouds.
    • Wind rotation is influenced by the Coriolis force, resulting in anti-clockwise rotation in the northern hemisphere and clockwise in the southern hemisphere.

    Regional Movement of Cyclones:

    • In the northern hemisphere, cyclones initially move westward under earth rotation and the Easterlies.
    • As they progress towards higher latitudes, the Coriolis force deflects them rightward, towards north and later east.
    • By 30° latitude, the diminished warmth halts cyclone activity.

    Naming of Cyclones: 

    • Responsibility of RSMCs and TCWCs: The naming of cyclones that form in every ocean basin across the world is carried out by the Regional Specialised Meteorological Centres (RSMCs) and Tropical Cyclone Warning Centres (TCWCs).
    • Procedure in the North Indian Ocean: For north Indian Ocean including Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea, the RSMC, New Delhi assigns the name to tropical cyclones following a standard procedure.
    • Agreement by WMO/ESCAP Panel: The WMO/ESCAP Panel on Tropical Cyclones in 2000 agreed in principle to assign names to the tropical cyclones in the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea.
    • Selection Process: Each country would sent their suggestions, based on which the Panel would finalise a list.
    • Retirement of Names: Generally, names of some storms that cause widespread damage and deaths are usually retired and are not brought back or reused later, at least for 10 years. These names are then replaced with new names.
    • Unique Policy for North Indian Ocean: Unlike in other regions, the names of tropical cyclones over the north Indian Ocean once used, will cease to be used again.

    Destruction Caused by Cyclones:

    • Strong Winds/Squall: Cyclones cause infrastructure damage through high-speed winds.
    • Torrential Rains and Inland Flooding: Heavy rainfall leads to floods, soil erosion, and embankment weakening.
    • Storm Surge: Abnormal sea level rise inundates coastal regions, causing floods, erosion, and destruction.

    PYQ:

    [2015] In the South Atlantic and South Eastern Pacific regions in tropical latitudes, cyclone does not originate. What is the main reason behind this?

    (a) Sea Surface temperature are low

    (b) Inter Tropical Convergence Zone seldom occurs

    (c) Coriolis force is too weak

    (d) Absence of land in those regions

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  • The Crisis In The Middle East

    Arab League demands UN Peacekeepers in Palestine

    IOCRPrelims 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: Arab League; its members

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the News?

    The Arab League called for UN peacekeeping forces in the Palestinian territories during a summit in Bahrain’s Manama. The “Manama Declaration” issued by the league sought UNPKF in the occupied Palestinian territories” until a two-state solution is implemented.

    Back2Basics: United Nations Peacekeeping

    • UN Peacekeeping is a collective effort by the international community, led by the United Nations, to maintain peace and security in regions affected by conflict.
    • UN peacekeepers are often referred to as Blue Berets or Blue Helmets because of their light blue berets or helmets) can include soldiers, police officers, and civilian personnel.

    History:

    • The concept of UN peacekeeping emerged in the aftermath of World War II, with the establishment of the United Nations in 1945.
    • The first UN peacekeeping mission was established in 1948, following the Arab-Israeli War, to monitor the ceasefire between Israel and its Arab neighbours.
      • This mission, known as the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), set the precedent for future peacekeeping operations.
    • Since then, the scope and complexity of UN peacekeeping have evolved significantly, with operations conducted across the globe in regions affected by conflict, civil war, and humanitarian crises.

    Operations:

    • UN Peacekeeping is guided by three basic principles:
    1. Consent of the parties
    2. Impartiality
    3. Non-use of force except in self-defence and defence of the mandate
    • UN peacekeeping operations are deployed with the consent of the main parties to the conflict. It can be deployed at the request of the parties involved in a conflict or with the authorisation of the UN Security Council.
    • The objectives may vary depending on the specific context but often include monitoring ceasefires, disarming combatants, facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid, promoting human rights, and supporting the establishment of democratic governance structures.
    • UN peacekeeping operations operate under the principles of impartiality, consent of the parties, and non-use of force except in self-defence and defence of the mandate.

    India’s Role:

    • India has been one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping operations since their inception.
    • India has contributed nearly 195,000 troops, the largest number from any country, and participated in more than 49 missions and 168 supreme sacrifices while serving in UN missions.

    About Arab League

    Details
    Establishment Founded on March 22, 1945, in Cairo, Egypt.
    Founding Members Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Syria.
    Objective Promote economic, cultural, political, and military cooperation among member states. Safeguard independence and sovereignty.
    Functions 
    1. Operates on consensus among member states. Decisions are made through consultations and discussions.
    2. Regular meetings among Arab leaders to address regional issues, formulate policies, and coordinate actions.
    3. Specialised committees and councils address specific areas of cooperation, such as economic affairs, social affairs, and defence.
    Member States Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Bahrain, Comoros, Djibouti, Kuwait, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Somalia, Sudan, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.
    Observer Nations
    • Non-Arab countries with observer status include Brazil, Eritrea, India, Venezuela, and others.
    • No voting rights are accorded to Observer nations.
    Important Achievements
    • Proposal of the Arab Peace Initiative in 2002.
    • Coordination of military efforts in various conflicts.
    • Promotion of economic cooperation through initiatives such as the Arab Free Trade Area.
    • Facilitation of cultural and educational exchange programs among member states.
    Challenges Internal divisions, Differences of opinion over the Palestinian-Israeli conflict etc.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] Recently, a series of uprisings of people referred to as ‘Arab Spring’ originally started from

    (a) Egypt

    (b) Lebanon

    (c) Syria

    (d) Tunisia

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-SAARC Nations

    BIMSTEC acquires ‘legal personality’ after charter comes into force

    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: BIMSTEC;

    Mains level: Significance of BIMSTEC for all member countries;

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of External Affairs has announced that with the establishment of its inaugural charter on May 20th, the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) will now accept new members and observers.

    About BIMSTEC: 

    • The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) formed in 1997 is a multilateral regional organization comprising seven member states: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Thailand, Myanmar, and India.
    • Aim: To promote technical and economic cooperation among its member countries, particularly in sectors such as security, connectivity, trade, agriculture, environment, science and technology, and people-to-people contact.

    Adoption of the Charter:

    • After years of deliberation, the BIMSTEC leaders adopted the organization’s first charter during their 5th summit.
    • This charter provides a legal framework for the group, granting it a “legal personality” and enabling the structured diplomatic dialogue with other countries and regional groupings.
    • In the context of international organizations like BIMSTEC, obtaining legal personality means that the organization is recognized as a legal entity in its own right, separate from its member states.

    Significance of BIMSTEC for all member countries:

    The charter’s implementation enhances cooperation and deeper integration within the Bay of Bengal region, benefiting all member states economically and strategically.

    • Enhanced Cooperation: With the charter in place, member countries can engage in more structured and organized cooperation across various sectors such as security, connectivity, trade, agriculture, environment, science and technology, and people-to-people contact.
    • Strengthened Regional Integration: The charter facilitates deeper integration within the Bay of Bengal region. By establishing common goals and mechanisms for cooperation, it promotes economic growth, social development, and cultural exchange among member countries.
    • Diplomatic Dialogue: The charter enables BIMSTEC to enter into structured diplomatic dialogue with other countries and regional groupings. This opens up avenues for broader engagement and partnership, enhancing the geopolitical significance of the BIMSTEC platform.

    Challenges in the present world context: 

    • Historical Discord: Long-standing historical discord between member states, such as Bangladesh and Myanmar, presents a challenge to cohesive cooperation within BIMSTEC. These tensions can hinder progress on joint initiatives and impede the organization’s effectiveness.
    • Geopolitical Complexities: Geopolitical complexities, exacerbated by events like the Rohingya refugee crisis and the coup in Myanmar, add layers of complexity to regional dynamics.
      • These complexities can strain relationships between member states and complicate efforts to foster collaboration and integration within BIMSTEC.
    • Stagnation of SAARC: While BIMSTEC offers an alternative platform for regional cooperation, the near stagnation of SAARC underscores the challenges faced by regional organizations in fostering meaningful collaboration.

    Way forward:

    • Need a Conflict Resolution Mechanisms: Implement effective conflict resolution mechanisms to address historical discord and tensions between member states.
    • High Diplomatic Engagement: Encourage regular diplomatic engagement and dialogue between member states to address geopolitical complexities and build trust.

    Mains PYQ

    Q Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organization like the SAARC? What are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realized by forming this new organization? (UPSC IAS/2022)

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