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

Civilsdaily

Login

Type: Prelims Only

  • Economic Indicators and Various Reports On It- GDP, FD, EODB, WIR etc

    India could face ‘Imported Inflation’: Asian Development Bank (ADB)

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: International Banking Institutions; Types of Inflation;

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the News?

    The Asian Development Bank recently issued a cautionary note for India’s susceptibility to imported inflation due to potential rupee depreciation amidst escalating interest rates in the West.

    What is Imported Inflation?

    • Imported inflation refers to the increase in the prices of goods and services within a country caused by a rise in the cost or price of imports.
    • This phenomenon occurs when factors such as a depreciating currency, higher import costs, or increased international prices lead to elevated expenses for imported goods and services.
    • Consequently, producers may adjust their prices upward to offset these higher costs, resulting in inflationary pressures within the domestic economy.
    • This idea connects with the theory of cost-push inflation, which means that when input costs go up, it can cause prices for final products to go up too.

    Reason behind the imported inflation:

    • Capital Flows: Increased interest rates in Western economies attract foreign investors seeking higher returns, leading to capital outflows from countries like India and potentially depreciating the Indian rupee.
      • When a currency depreciates, local consumers require more of their domestic currency to procure foreign goods, consequently elevating import prices.
    • Borrowing Costs: Indian businesses and the government may face higher borrowing costs for infrastructure projects and investments if they raise funds in foreign currency-denominated international markets.
    • Inflationary Pressures: Capital outflows can pressure the Indian rupee, causing imported inflation as the cost of imported goods rises due to currency depreciation.
    • Trade Competitiveness: Exchange rate fluctuations from Western interest rate changes affect India’s trade competitiveness, impacting exports, imports, and domestic consumption.

    Back2Basics: Asian Development Bank (ADB)

    Information
    Establishment Established in 1966 as a result of the Conference on Asian Economic Cooperation held by the United Nations Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East.
    Headquarters Manila, Philippines
    Official Status Official United Nations Observer
    Objectives
    • Reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific through inclusive economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth, and regional integration.
    • Providing Loans, technical assistance, and Grants.
    • Offering “hard” loans on commercial terms primarily to middle income countries and “soft” loans with lower interest rates to poorer countries.
    • Providing direct financial assistance to private sector companies for projects with clear social benefits.
    • Maximizing development impact through policy dialogues, advisory services, and co-financing operations.
    Membership
    • 67 members, with 48 from the Asia and Pacific region.
    • Admits members of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) and non-regional developed countries.
    Funding
    • Japan and United States hold the largest proportion of shares at 15.607%.
    • China holds 6.444%, India holds 6.331%, and Australia holds 5.786%.
    Sources
    • Bond issues on the world’s capital markets.
    • Members’ contributions and retained earnings from lending operations.
    • Repayment of loans.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] With reference to Indian economy, demand-pull inflation can be caused/increased by which of the following?​

    1. Expansionary policies​
    2. Fiscal stimulus​
    3. Inflation-indexing wages​
    4. Higher purchasing power​
    5. Rising interest rates​

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1, 2 and 4 only

    (b) 3, 4 and 5 only

    (c) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

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

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

    What is Exoatmospheric Interception?

    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: Exoatmospheric Interception, Iron Dome, Sling of David, Arrow

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    Israel successfully intercepted an Iranian missile outside Earth’s atmosphere using an Exoatmospheric kill vehicle.

    Israeli Air-Defence Systems


    Israel’s multi-layered air defence system, including Iron Dome, The Arrow, and David’s Sling, was activated in anticipation of the attack.

    1. IRON DOME: The short-range Iron Dome air defence system was built to intercept the kind of rockets fired by the Hamas in Gaza. Developed by state-owned Rafael Advanced Defense Systems with US backing, it became operational in 2011. Each truck-towed unit fires radar-guided missiles to blow up short-range threats like rockets, mortars and drones in mid-air.
    2. ARROW: The long-range Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 system, developed by Israel with an Iranian missile threat in mind, is designed to intercept ballistic missiles outside the earth’s atmosphere, using a detachable warhead that collides with the target. It operates at an altitude that allows for the safe dispersal of any non-conventional warheads.
    3. DAVID’S SLING: This mid-range system is designed to shoot down ballistic missiles fired from 100 km to 200 km away. Developed and manufactured jointly by Israel’s state-owned Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and the U.S. Raytheon Co, David’s Sling is also designed to intercept aircraft, drones and cruise missiles.

    What are Exoatmospheric Missiles?

    • Exoatmospheric missiles, or anti-ballistic missiles (ABMs), operate beyond Earth’s atmosphere to intercept incoming ballistic missiles.
    • They employ advanced sensors and guidance systems to detect, track, and destroy targets in space.
    • Kinetic kill vehicles, like the Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle (EKV), rely on high-speed collisions to neutralize threats.
    • It travels at hypersonic speed.

    Working Mechanism of Exoatmospheric Missiles:

    • The EKV uses a solid rocket booster to propel itself into space.
    • Advanced sensors and onboard computers identify and track incoming threats.
    • Precise maneuvering allows the missile to navigate towards the target.
    • Impact from a high-speed collision eliminates the threat without traditional warheads, enhancing speed and accuracy.

    PYQ:

    [2018] What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news?

    (a) An Israeli radar system

    (b) India’s indigenous anti-missile programme

    (c) An American anti-missile system

    (d) A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea

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

  • Food Processing Industry: Issues and Developments

    What is Shrinkflation?

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Food Processing & Related Industries In India

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Shrinkflation

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    • As input prices turn inflationary, the FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) segment faces the spectre of shrinking packs, impacting consumer choices and industry dynamics.

    What are FMCGs?

    • Fast-moving consumer goods, also known as consumer packaged goods, are products that are sold quickly and at a relatively low cost.
    • Examples include non-durable household goods such as packaged foods, beverages, toiletries, candies, cosmetics, over-the-counter drugs, dry goods, and other consumables.

    What is Shrinkflation?

    • Shrinkflation is a business practice where companies reduce the size or quantity of a product while keeping its price the same.

    Causes for Shrinkflation:

    1. Cost Management: It helps companies manage rising production costs, such as raw materials or labor, without sacrificing profitability.
    2. Market Competition: In competitive markets, companies may use shrinkflation to maintain their market share by keeping their prices competitive.

    Effects of Shrinkflation:

    • Consumer Perception: If consumers notice the change, it can lead to negative perceptions of the brand, loss of trust, and reduced customer loyalty.
    • Accuracy of Inflation Measurement: Shrinkflation complicates accurate measures of inflation since the price remains constant while the quantity decreases.
    • Limitations: Companies can only implement shrinkflation discreetly and for a limited number of times before consumers become aware and react negatively. Overuse can damage brand reputation.

    PYQ:

    [2015] With 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

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

  • Urban Floods

    Jiadhal River and Change of its Course

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Jiadhal River, Brahmaputra and its tributaries

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    • Climate Change is disrupting Jiadhal River’s (Dhemaji district, Assam) tranquil flow, leading to unprecedented shifts in its course and causing upheaval for residents.

    About Jiadhal River:

    • It flows through the districts of Darrang, Udalguri, and Baksa in the northeastern state of Assam.
      • It is also known Kumotiya River after flowing from Gogamukh.
    • Origin: From the Hills of Bhutan, flows through the Assam Himalayas before meandering through the plains of Assam. It is formed by the confluence of several smaller streams.
    • Major tributaries: Kolong River and the Daokao River.
    • It eventually joins the Brahmaputra River near the town of Nalbari.
    • It is known as the ‘Sorrow of Dhemaji’ for the heavy damage caused by annual floods and erosion.

    Factors leading to changes in the Jiadhal River’s Course  

    • Erosion: Flowing water gradually wears away the riverbanks and bed, causing the river to meander and change course.
    • Sediment deposition: Accumulation of sediment can create new channels or alter the flow pattern of the river.
    • Human activities: Dams, channelization, urbanization, deforestation, and mining can disrupt natural river processes, leading to changes in flow and morphology.
    • Climate change: Changes in precipitation, temperature, and glacier melt affect river flow patterns and behavior.
    • Tectonic activity: Uplift, subsidence, and faulting influence river topography and drainage patterns, leading to adjustments in course and behavior.

    PYQ:

    [2017] With reference to river Teesta, consider the following statements:

    1. The source of river Teesta is the same as that of Brahmaputra but it flows through Sikkim.

    2. River Rangeet originates in Sikkim and it is a tributary of river Teesta.

    3. River Teesta falls into Bay of Bengal at the border of India and Bangladesh.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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

  • Indian Army Updates

    [pib] Exercise DUSTLIK

    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 DUSTLIK

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    Indian Army contingent departed for the 5th edition of Exercise DUSTLIK in Uzbekistan.

    Exercise DUSTLIK

    • Exercise DUSTLIK is an annual event alternating between India and Uzbekistan.
    • It is named after Dustlik, a town in the Jizzakh region of Uzbekistan.
    • The first edition of the exercise was held in 2019 near Tashkent.
    • Previous edition held in Pithoragarh, India, in February 2023.

    Objectives and Focus Areas:

    • Focus on physical fitness, joint planning, and tactical drills.
    • Emphasis on special arms skills and multi-domain operations.
    • Tactical drills include establishing command posts, intelligence centers, heliborne operations, and room intervention.
    • Incorporation of combat support arms and services besides Infantry.
    • Opportunity to share Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) of joint operations.
    • Strengthening interoperability and camaraderie between soldiers of both nations.

    India’s bilateral exercises with Central Asian Countries

    Country Exercise
    Kazakhstan Ex PRABAL DOSTYK, Ex KAZIND
    Kyrgyzstan Ex KHANJAR
    Mongolia Ex NOMADIC ELEPHANT
    Tajikistan Ex  Farkhor

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

  • Easement Rights and Recent Supreme Court Ruling

    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: Easement Rights, Indian Easements Act, 1882

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    • The Supreme Court observed that a claimant of an Easementary Right cannot claim an Easement by necessity if there exists an alternative way to access the property owned by the claimant, known as the ‘Dominant Heritage‘.
      • The court referred to Section 13 of the Indian Easements Act, of 1882, which deals with easementary rights by necessity.

    What is Easement Right?

    • An Easement is a legal right to use someone else’s property for a specific purpose without possessing it.
    • Essentially, it’s a permission or privilege granted by the owner of one property (the servient land) to someone else (the dominant land) to use the servient land in a particular way.

    Legal backing for Easement Rights

    • Section 13 of the Indian Easements Act, 1882, serves as the cornerstone in adjudicating easementary rights disputes.
    • It mandates that such rights can only be claimed if no alternative access to the Dominant Heritage exists, providing clarity in legal proceedings.
    • Understanding terms like ‘Dominant Heritage’ (represents the property for enjoyment) and ‘Servient Heritage‘ (property over which rights are sought) is crucial in comprehending easementary rights disputes.

    Features of the Indian Easements Act, 1882:

    • Definition of Easements: The law defines what an easement is and the different types, like rights of way (to pass through someone’s land), rights to light and air, and rights to use water.
    • Acquisition of Easements: It explains how easements can be created. For example, by agreement between the parties or through long-time use.
    • Rights and Liabilities: It outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the person who has the easement (the beneficiary) and the person who owns the land over which the easement exists (the servient owner). For instance, the beneficiary must not do anything to increase the burden of the easement, and the servient owner must not obstruct the use of the easement.
    • Termination of Easements: It describes the circumstances under which an easement can come to an end. For example, if the purpose for which the easement was created ceases to exist, or if the beneficiary expressly gives up their right.
    • Customary Easements: It recognizes certain easements that arise due to local customs or traditions.

    Back2Basics: Fundamental Rights vs. Legal Rights

    Fundamental Rights Legal Rights
    Source Enshrined in the Indian Constitution, specifically Part III Derived from various sources such as Legislation, contracts, Judicial decisions, etc.
    Enforcement Directly enforceable against the state through constitutional remedies like writ petitions under Article 32 Enforceable through the legal system, but may vary in enforceability depending on the nature of the right and available legal mechanisms
    Scope Typically includes rights essential for the Protection of Individual Liberty, Equality, and dignity, such as the Right to Equality, Freedom of Speech, Right to Life and Personal Liberty, etc. Encompasses a wide range of rights recognized by law, including Property Rights, Contractual Rights, Tort Rights, Family Law Rights, Labor Rights, Consumer Rights, etc.
    Nature Paramount and inviolable, subject to limited exceptions as prescribed by the Constitution Subject to limitations or restrictions imposed by law, and may be subject to changes or modifications through Legislative action or Judicial Interpretation
    Examples Right to Equality, Right to Freedom of Speech, Right to Life and Personal Liberty, etc. Right to Property, Right to Contract, Right to sue for damages, Right to Vote, etc.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] What is the position of Right to Property in India?

    (a) Legal right available to citizens only.

    (b) Legal right available to Persons only.

    (c) Fundamental Right available to citizens only

    (d) Neither Fundamental Right nor Legal Right

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

  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Geroscience: the Science related to Ageing

    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: Geroscience, DNA Methylation

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    • Dr. Daniel Belsky from Columbia University introduced the concept of “Geroscience” and develops a blood test, termed “gerozyme,” to measure aging pace by studying DNA methylation.
    • Various research groups explore drugs like Metformin and Rapamycin to target aging and enhance immunity in the elderly.

    What is Geroscience?

    • Geroscience refers to the interdisciplinary field focused on understanding the biological mechanisms of ageing and age-related diseases.
    • It involves studying various factors, including DNA methylation, enzyme activity (such as the gerozyme), socio-economic influences, and lifestyle interventions like nutrition, exercise, and music therapy.
    • It aims to develop strategies, such as drug interventions targeting specific ageing-related processes, to promote healthy ageing and combat age-related conditions like dementia.

    What is DNA Methylation?

    • DNA Methylation is a process in which methyl groups (CH3) are added to the DNA molecule.
    • This modification typically occurs at cytosine bases within the DNA sequence, often in the context of CpG dinucleotides (where cytosine is followed by guanine).
    • DNA methylation plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression and maintaining genome stability.
    • It can affect various cellular processes, including embryonic development, X-chromosome inactivation, genomic imprinting, and silencing of repetitive DNA elements.
    • Aberrant DNA methylation patterns have been implicated in various diseases, including cancer and neurological disorders.

    Drug Interventions in Geroscience

    • Metformin and TORC1 inhibitors show promise in targeting aging and improving immune response in seniors.
    • Research proposes rapamycin’s potential in extending longevity and combating age-related diseases.

    Impact of Socio-Economic Factors in Ageing

    • Dr. Belsky’s research reveals the influence of socioeconomic status on DNA methylation levels, highlighting the role of disadvantage in ageing.
    • Columbia Aging Centre emphasizes the role of a balanced diet in supporting brain health and reducing inflammation.
    • Healthline.com advocates for proteins, healthy fats, and antioxidant-rich foods to promote healthy ageing, crucial for India’s ageing population.

    PYQ:

    [2011] At present, scientists can determine the arrangement or relative positions of genes or DNA sequences on a chromosome. How does this knowledge benefit us?

    1. It is possible to know the pedigree of livestock.
    2. It is possible to understand the causes of all human diseases.
    3. It is possible to develop disease-resistant animal breeds.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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

  • Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

    Lachit Borphukan and his Legend

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Lachit Borphukan, Ahom Kingdom, Treaty of Yandaboo

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    • The Statue of Valour, depicting Ahom general Lachit Borphukan, has become a significant landmark in Meleng-Hollongapar, Jorhat in Assam.
    • The 125-foot statue commemorates Lachit Borphukan’s leadership in the Battle of Saraighat in 1671.

    Ahom Kingdom (1228–1826)

    • Establishment: Founded in 1228 in the Brahmaputra valley of Assam by Chaolung Sukapha.
    • Duration: Retained sovereignty for 600 years until annexed by British India in 1826 (Treaty of Yandaboo).
    • Resistance: Despite facing the Mughal Empire’s power, the Ahom Kingdom remained unconquered.
    • Political Structure: Established a new state by supressing the older system of bhuiyans (landlords).
    • Labor System: Relied on forced labor known as paiks for state functions.
    • Social Organization: Society divided into clans or khels, embracing Hinduism and Assamese language alongside tribal beliefs.
    • Cultural Patronage: Supported poets, scholars, and theater; translated Sanskrit texts into local language; composed historical chronicles called buranjis.
    • Military Strategy: King served as supreme commander; core army comprised of paiks; mastered guerrilla warfare and surprise attacks.
    • Key Forts: Included Chamdhara, Saraighat, and Simlagarh, strategically crucial for defense.
    • River Expertise: Mastered construction of boat bridges on the Brahmaputra River.
    • Legacy: Ahom Kingdom’s military prowess, cultural patronage, and political organization left a lasting impact on Assam’s history.

    Who was Lachit Borphukan?

    • Lachit Borphukan was a legendary military commander from the northeastern region of India, specifically from the state of Assam. Here are some facts related to him:
    Description
    Timeline 1622-1672
    Dynasty Ahom Dynasty
    Mughal Threat Faced the Mughal Empire’s expansion into Assam
    Battle of Saraighat
    • Led Ahom forces to victory against the Mughals in 1671;
    • Defended Assam against the Aurangzeb’s forces led by Ram Singh.
    Leadership Known for strategic brilliance and guerrilla tactics
    Legacy Revered as a symbol of Assamese pride and resistance
    Recognition
    • INS Lachit:  Indian Navy’s guided-missile destroyer named in honor;
    • Lachit Divas:  Celebrated annually on November 24th in Assam;
    • Lachit Borphukan Medal: Awarded to the best cadet from the National Defence. Academy (NDA, Pune).

     

    PYQ:

    [2015]  Who among the following founded a new city on the south bank of a tributary to river Krishna and undertook to rule his new kingdom as the agent of a deity to whom all the land south of the river Krishna was supposed to belong?

    (a) Amoghavarsha I

    (b) Ballala II

    (c) Harihara I

    (d) Prataparudra II

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

  • Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

    Mahad Satyagraha: A Landmark Event in the Dalit Movement

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Modern Indian History

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Mahad (Chavdar Lake) Satyagraha, Annihilation of Caste etc.

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    The Mahad Satyagraha is hailed as the foundational event of the Dalit movement, marking the community’s collective rejection of the caste system and assertion of human rights.

    About Mahad Satyagraha

    • The Mahad Satyagraha, also known as Chavdar Tale (Lake) Satyagraha, was led by B. R. Ambedkar on 20 March 1927 in Mahad, Raigad District of Maharashtra.
    • Its aim was to assert the right of untouchables to use water from a public tank.
    1. Background:
    • Untouchables (Dalits) were segregated in Indian society and banned from using public water bodies and roads used by other Hindu castes.
    • In August 1923, the Bombay Legislative Council passed a resolution allowing depressed classes to use government-maintained places, but it faced opposition from savarna Hindus.
    • In January 1924, Mahad passed a resolution in its municipal council to enforce the act but failed to implement it due to protests.
    1. Satyagraha:
    • In 1927, Ambedkar launched a satyagraha to assert untouchables’ rights to use water in public places.
    • Mahad was chosen for the event due to its support from ‘caste Hindus’.
    • Surendranath Tipnis, president of the Mahad municipality, invited Ambedkar to hold a meeting there.
    • Ambedkar drank water from the tank, followed by thousands of untouchables.
    • He encouraged Dalit women to abandon customs of untouchability and wear saris like high-caste women, which they embraced.
    • A riot erupted over rumors of Ambedkar planning to enter a Hindu temple, and the tank was purified with cow-urine and cow-dung.
    • Ambedkar planned a second conference in Mahad in December 1927 but faced legal obstacles due to a case filed by caste Hindus.
    • On 25 December 1937, the Bombay High Court ruled that untouchables have the right to use water from the tank.
    1. Legacy:
    • On 19 March 1940, Ambedkar arranged a rally in Mahad to commemorate the Satyagraha as “Empowerment Day.”

    Back2Basics: Key Initiatives and Movements Led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

    Initiative Location Objective
    Temple Entry Movement (1920s-1930s) Various Locations Advocating for the right of Dalits to enter Hindu temples.
    Mahad Satyagraha (Chavdar Tale Satyagraha) Mahad, Maharashtra Asserting the rights of untouchables to use water from a public tank.
    Kalaram Mandir Movement (1930) Nashik, Maharashtra Demanding temple entry rights for Dalits at the Kalaram Mandir.
    Annihilation of Caste (1936) – Publication of “Annihilation of Caste,” advocating for the abolition of the caste system.
    Formation of Independent Dalit Political Party (Independent Labour Party) (1936) – Addressing the political concerns and aspirations of Dalits.
    Push for Separate Electorate by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (1932) India Advocating for separate electorates for Dalits to ensure their political representation and empowerment.
    Legal Advocacy (1940s-1950s) – Drafting of the Hindu Code Bills, contribution to the framing of the Indian Constitution.
    Conversion to Buddhism (1956) Nagpur, Maharashtra Symbolizing a rejection of the caste system through mass conversion ceremony to Buddhism.

     

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Which one of the following is a very significant aspect of the Champaran Satyagraha?

    (a) Active all-India participation of lawyers, students and women in the National Movement

    (b) Active involvement of Dalit and Tribal communities of India in the National Movement

    (c) Joining of peasant unrest to India’s National Movement

    (d) Drastic decrease in the cultivation of plantation crops and commercial crops

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

  • Climate Change Negotiations – UNFCCC, COP, Other Conventions and Protocols

    Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi)

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi)

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    • The recent gathering of major funders and promoters of the carbon offsets market in London raised concerns about the role of the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) in limiting the market’s growth.
    • SBTi’s stringent criteria for net-zero plans have made it a gold standard in emissions accountability, but some argue it hinders the potential of carbon offsets in combating climate change.

    What is Carbon Offset?

    • A carbon offset broadly refers to a reduction in GHG emissions – or an increase in carbon storage (e.g., through land restoration or the planting of trees) – that is used to compensate for emissions that occur elsewhere.
    • A carbon offset credit is a transferrable instrument certified by governments or independent certification bodies to represent an emission reduction of one metric tonne of CO2, or an equivalent amount of other GHGs.

    What is Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi)?

    • The SBTi is a collaborative effort spearheaded by four international organizations:
    1. Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP),
    2. United Nations Global Compact (UNGC),
    3. World Resources Institute (WRI), and
    4. World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).
    • The SBTi focuses on assisting companies in setting ambitious and scientifically sound greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets.
    Details
    Purpose To drive ambitious corporate action on climate change by providing a framework for setting science-based targets aligned with the Paris Agreement goals.
    Launch Year 2015
    Founding Organizations
    1. Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP),
    2. United Nations Global Compact (UNGC),
    3. World Resources Institute (WRI), and
    4. World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).
    Methodologies SBTi offers guidelines and methodologies for companies to set targets that are consistent with the latest climate science and contribute to limiting global warming.
    Global Reach Engages with companies worldwide, collaborating with partners across sectors, regions, and industries to promote adoption of science-based targets.
    Recognition
    • Recognized as a leading platform for corporate climate action;
    • Companies comply to set science-based targets and reduce greenhouse gas emissions;
    • Updates and refines its methodologies and verification processes to reflect advances in climate science and best practices in emissions reduction.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] The ‘Common Carbon Metric’, Supported by UNEP, had been developed for:

    (a) Assessing the carbon footprint of building operations around the world.

    (b) Enabling commercial farming entities around the world to enter carbon emission trading.

    (c) Enabling governments to assess the overall carbon footprint caused by their countries.

    (d) Assessing the overall carbon footprint caused by the use of fossil fuels by the world in a unit time.

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