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Type: Prelims Only

  • Upper Siang Hydropower Project in Arunachal Pradesh

    Why in the News?

    Activists are protesting against the Upper Siang Hydropower Project in Arunachal.

    About Upper Siang Multipurpose Storage Project

    • The Upper Siang project is a proposed 11,000 MW hydropower project on the Siang River in Arunachal Pradesh.
      • The Siang, originating near Mount Kailash in Tibet (Tsangpo), flows over 1,000 km eastward, enters Arunachal Pradesh as the Siang, and later becomes the Brahmaputra in Assam.
    • Initially proposed as two separate projects, it was consolidated into one larger project in 2017, to be built by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC), featuring a 300-metre high dam.

    Strategic Importance:

    • The Upper Siang project is seen as a strategic move to counter China’s hydel projects on the Tsangpo, particularly a 60,000 MW ‘super dam’ in Tibet’s Medog county.
    • This super dam’s capacity is nearly 3x that of the Three Gorges Dam in China and is intended to divert water to northern China.

    Environmental and Social Concerns

    • Anti-dam organizations express concerns about the project’s environmental and social impact in their memorandum.
    • The memorandum highlights the threat to delicate ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and biodiversity in Arunachal Pradesh, which already hosts numerous dams.
    • The activists are particularly worried about the displacement of communities, as the project could submerge over 300 villages of the Adi tribe, including the district headquarters of Yingkiong.
    • Activists are also wary of the project’s portrayal as a national interest endeavor and are troubled by a provision in the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, which exempts strategic projects within 100 km from India’s borders from clearance requirements.

    Back2Basics: Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, 2023

    Details
    Land Under the Purview of the Act Defines two categories of land under its purview:

    1. Land declared as forest under the Indian Forest Act or any other law, or notified as a forest after 25th October 1980.
    2. Land converted from forest to non-forest use before 12th December 1996.
    Exemptions from the Act Allows exemptions for:

    • Up to 0.10 hectares of forest land for connectivity purposes along roads and railways. 
    • Up to 10 hectares for security-related infrastructure.
    • Up to 5 hectares in Left Wing Extremism Affected Districts for public utility projects.
    • Additionally, strategic projects within 100 km of international borders, LAC, and LoC are also exempted.
    Permitted Activities in Forest Land
    • Includes conservation, management, and development efforts.
    • Activities like zoos, ecotourism facilities, silvi-cultural operations, and specified surveys are exempted from non-forest purposes.
    Assignment/Leasing of Forest Land
    • Extends the prerequisite for obtaining prior approval from the central government for the assignment of forest land to any entity, broadening the scope beyond private entities.
    • It also grants the central government the authority to stipulate the terms and conditions governing such assignments.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] The Brahmaputra, Irrawady and Mekong rivers originate in Tibet and flow it through narrow and parallel mountain ranges in their upper reaches. Of these rivers, Brahmaputra makes a “U” turn in its course to flow into India. This “U” turn is due to:

    (a) Uplift of folded Himalayan series

    (b) Syntaxial bending of geologically young Himalayas

    (c) Geo-tectonic disturbance in the tertiary folded mountain chains

    (d) Both (A) and (B) above

  • [pib] National Gopal Ratna Award, 2024

    Why in the News?

    • The National Gopal Ratna Award (NGRA) 2024 has been awarded by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
      • The awards are conferred annually on National Milk Day, which is celebrated on 26th November.

    What is the National Gopal Ratna Award (NGRA)?

    • NGRA is an initiative under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, launched by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
    • Objective: The award aims to promote the conservation and development of indigenous bovine breeds, which are crucial for the sustainability of the dairy sector in India.
    • Categories: NGRA is awarded in several categories:
      • Best Dairy farmer rearing indigenous cattle/buffalo breeds.
      • Best Dairy Cooperative Society (DCS)/ Milk Producer Company (MPC)/ Dairy Farmer Producer Organization (FPO).
      • Best Artificial Insemination Technician (AIT).

    Other aspects of the Award

      • Special Recognition: In recent years, a special award category has been included for the North Eastern Region (NER) states to encourage dairy development activities in these regions.
    • Nomination and Recognition: Nominations for the NGRA are submitted online through the National Award portal.
    • Award Details:
    • NGRA 2024 will confer awards in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd ranks, and one Special Award for the NER States in each category.
    • Cash prizes for Best Dairy Farmer and Best DCS/FPO/MPC categories:
      • Rs. 5,00,000/- (1st rank)
      • Rs. 3,00,000/- (2nd rank)
      • Rs. 2,00,000/- (3rd rank)
      • Rs. 2,00,000/- (Special Award for NER).
    • Best AIT category: Certificate of merit and a memento, without any cash prize.

    Back2Basics: Rashtriya Gokul Mission

    Details
    About
    • Implemented for development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds since December 2014.
    • Continued under the umbrella scheme Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojana from 2021 to 2026 with a budget of Rs.2400 crore.
    Nodal Ministry Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying
    Objectives
    • Enhance productivity of bovines and increase milk production sustainably using advanced technologies.
    • Propagate the use of high genetic merit bulls for breeding purposes.
    • Enhance artificial insemination coverage by strengthening the breeding network and providing services at farmers’ doorsteps.
    • Promote indigenous cattle & buffalo rearing and conservation in a scientific and holistic manner.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Livestock rearing has a big potential for providing non-farm employment and income in rural areas. Discuss suggesting suitable measures to promote this sector in India.

  • Impose ‘Robot Tax’ for AI-induced Job Loss: RSS

    Why in the News?

    The Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM), affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), wants a ‘robot tax’ to help employees who lose their jobs because companies are using Artificial Intelligence (AI).

    SJM’s Proposals and Suggestions

    • Robot Tax Proposal: SJM proposes a ‘robot tax’ to create a fund supporting workers displaced by AI adoption to upskill and adapt to new technologies.
    • Tax Incentives for Job Creation: Suggestions include tax incentives for industries based on their employment-output ratio to encourage job creation.
    • Fund for Worker Upskilling: Emphasizes the need for economic measures to cope with the human cost of AI. SJM suggests using a ‘robot tax’ to fund worker upskilling programs.

    Additional Budgetary Recommendations

    • Incentivise job creation: SJM suggests tax incentives for industries generating more employment, based on an employment-output ratio.
    • Subsidies for Small Farmers: SJM proposes subsidies for micro irrigation projects to boost productivity among small farmers.
      • SJM recommends that micro-irrigation projects be made eligible for funding via CSR by adding them to Schedule VII of the Companies Act, 2013.
    • Wealth tax on Vacant Lands: SJM suggests a wealth tax on “vacant land” to discourage unnecessary landholding for future requirements.

    What is a Robot Tax?

    • A robot tax is a proposed tax on companies that use automation and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to replace human workers.
    • The idea behind this tax is to generate revenue that can be used to support workers who lose their jobs due to automation.
      • This can include retraining programs, unemployment benefits, and other forms of social support.

    Need for a Robot Tax

    • Job Displacement:
      • Automation Impact: AI and automation can lead to significant job losses in various industries as machines and software perform tasks previously done by humans.
      • Worker Support: A robot tax can provide financial resources to support displaced workers, helping them transition to new roles or acquire new skills.
    • Economic Inequality:
      • Wealth Distribution: Automation tends to concentrate wealth among those who own the technology, leading to increased economic inequality.
      • Redistribution: Taxing companies that benefit from automation can help redistribute wealth more fairly across society.
    • Funding for Public Programs:
      • Social Safety Nets: Revenue from a robot tax can fund social safety nets such as unemployment benefits, retraining programs, and other social services.
      • Infrastructure: It can also support public infrastructure projects and other initiatives that benefit society as a whole.
    • Incentivising Human Employment:
      • Employment Decisions: By imposing a tax on automation, companies might be more inclined to consider human workers over robots for certain tasks.
      • Balanced Approach: This can help maintain a balance between technological advancement and human employment.

    Examples and Proposals

    • Bill Gates’ Proposal: Bill Gates in 2022 advocated for a robot tax, suggesting that the revenue could fund job retraining and other social benefits.
    • European Parliament: In 2017, the European Parliament considered a robot tax as part of broader regulations on AI and robotics, though it was ultimately not implemented.

    Criticisms and Challenges

    • Implementation: Determining how to effectively implement and enforce a robot tax can be challenging.
    • Innovation Stifling: Critics argue that a robot tax could hinder innovation and technological progress.
    • Global Competition: There are concerns that companies might relocate to countries without such a tax, affecting global competitiveness.

    Conclusion

    • A robot tax is a controversial yet potentially beneficial approach to addressing the economic and social impacts of AI and automation.
    • It aims to provide support for displaced workers, reduce economic inequality, and ensure that the benefits of technological advancements are shared more broadly across society.

    PYQ:

    [2013] Disguised unemployment generally means:

    (a) large number of people remain unemployed

    (b) alternative employment is not available

    (c) marginal productivity of labour is zero

    (d) productivity of workers is low

  • Integrated Tribal Development Programme by NABARD

    Why in the News?

    National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) is set to launch an integrated tribal development programme in Kulathupuzha grama panchayat, Kollam.

    About Integrated Tribal Development Programme

    • Thanal, an environment organisation, will be the implementing agency of the project that aims to transform livelihoods of tribal families over the next five years.
    • The five-year initiative targets the sustainable livelihood and agricultural enhancement of 413 families residing in eight hamlets.
    • The programme focuses on promoting diverse agricultural crops such as pepper, arecanut, coconut, ginger, Thai ginger, turmeric, and plantain.
    • It encompasses initiatives in goat rearing, poultry, beekeeping, fish farming, and fodder production.
    • The establishment of a Tribal Farmer Producer Company (FPO) is also planned to further economically empower the community.

    Components of the Programme

    • Water Resource Development: Initiatives aimed at enhancing water resources for agricultural purposes.
    • Leadership Training: Training sessions to empower local leaders within the tribal communities.
    • Awareness Creation: Campaigns to raise awareness about sustainable practices and community development.
    • Sanitation and Hygiene Initiatives: Efforts to improve sanitation and hygiene standards among the tribal families.
    • Marketing and Branding Training: Training programmes to enhance marketing skills and brand awareness among participants.
    • Skill Development Workshops: Workshops focused on enhancing both agricultural and non-agricultural skills among the tribal community.

    About NABARD:

    • It was established on July 12, 1982, based on the recommendation of the Sivaraman Committee to promote sustainable rural development and agricultural growth in India.
    • Aim:  To facilitate credit flow for the promotion and development of agriculture, small-scale industries, cottage and village industries, handicrafts, and other rural crafts.
    • It operates as a statutory body under the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Act, 1934, with its headquarters located in Mumbai.
    • It is governed by a Board of Directors appointed by the GoI:
      • Representatives from the RBI;
      • Central and state governments;
      • Experts from various fields related to Rural Development and Finance.

     Functions of NABARD:

    • Refinance Support: NABARD provides refinance facilities to banks and financial institutions for agricultural and rural development activities, including crop loans and rural infrastructure projects.
    • Financial Inclusion: It promotes financial inclusion by expanding banking services in rural areas, supporting SHGs, FPOs, and MFIs, and facilitating access to credit for rural communities.
    • Priority Sector Lending: NABARD plays a crucial role in channelling credit to priority sectors such as agriculture, small-scale industries, and rural infrastructure, in alignment with the Reserve Bank of India’s priority sector lending guidelines.
    • Direct Lending: It extends direct loans to institutions for specific rural development projects, such as agricultural production, rural infrastructure development, and agri-processing units.
    • Scheme Implementation: The organization administers government schemes and funds like Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), Watershed Development Fund (WDF) to finance rural infrastructure projects and watershed development activities.
    • Credit Planning: NABARD collaborates with central and state governments, RBI, and other stakeholders to formulate credit policies and plans for agriculture and rural sectors.
    • Research and Training: NABARD promotes research and development in agriculture, supports capacity building and training programs for rural stakeholders, and facilitates technology transfer initiatives.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following grants/grants direct credit assistance to rural households?

    1. Regional Rural Banks
    2. National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development
    3. Land Development Banks

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [pib] National Commission for Minorities (NCM)

    Why in the News?

    The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) has advised State Governments/UTs to conduct “Sarv Dharma Meetings”.

    Advisory on “Sarv Dharma Meetings”

    • NCM advised State Governments/UTs to conduct “Sarv Dharma Meetings”:
    1. At Sub-divisional level of States monthly.
    2. At District level half-yearly.
    • It is aimed at curbing attacks and hate crimes against minority communities to prevent communal disharmony.
    • NCM emphasized that hate crimes stem from mental weakness and anger, highlighting citizens’ rights to practice and preach their religion freely.

    Responsibilities and Recommendations

    • Citizens and society urged to disown and condemn hate crimes.
    • Advocated for punitive actions by authorities against anti-social elements.
    • Proposed mechanisms involving civic society to deter anti-social and anti-national forces and prevent societal violence.

     

    About National Commission for Minorities (NCM)

    • It is a statutory body formed on the basis of National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992 and replaced an earlier body called Minorities Commission.
    • The Commission consists of a total of 7 persons to be nominated by the Central Government from amongst persons of eminence, ability and integrity.
    • It consists of a Chairperson, a Vice- Chairperson and 5 Members.
    • Each Member holds office for a period of 3 years from the date of assumption of office.

    Functions of NCM:

    1. Evaluate minority development progress.
    2. Monitor constitutional and legal safeguards.
    3. Recommend effective safeguard implementation.
    4. Address complaints regarding deprivation of rights.
    5. Conduct studies on discrimination and recommend measures.
    6. Research socio-economic and educational development.
    7. Suggest measures to Central or State Governments.
    8. Make periodical or special reports to the Central Government.
    9. Address any matter referred by the Central Government.

    Powers of NCM:

    1. Summon and enforce attendance of any person from India.
    2. Require discovery and production of documents.
    3. Receive evidence on affidavit.
    4. Requisition public records from courts or offices.
    5. Issue commissions for examining witnesses and documents.

    Who are Minorities?

    • The Central has notified minority communities at the national level in consultation with various stakeholders under Section 2 (c) of the National Commission for Minorities (NCM), Act, 1992.
    • The six communities notified as minority communities under Section 2(c) of the NCM Act are Christians, Sikhs, Muslims, Buddhists, Parsis, and Jains.
      • Jains were notified as minority community in January 2014.
    • Notification of any community-specific to a State as a minority community within a State comes under the purview of the respective State.

    Total Minority Population in India as per 2011 Census: 

    19.3% of the total population (Muslims: 14.2%; Christians: 2.3%; Sikhs: 1.7%; Buddhists: 0.7%; Jains: 0.4%; Parsis: 0.006%)

    Rights & Safeguards for Minorities:

    Under Fundamental Rights (Part III of the Indian Constitution):

    1. Article 29(1): Right to conserve distinct language, script, or culture.
    2. Article 30(1): Right to establish and administer educational institutions.
    3. Article 30(2): Freedom from discrimination in receiving state aid.

    Under Official Language (Part XVII of the Indian Constitution):

    1. Article 347: Rights for language spoken by any section of the population.
    2. Article 350A: Instruction in mother tongue.
    3. Article 350B: Special officer for linguistic minorities.

    Sachar Committee Report (2006):

    Constitution Date: 9 March 2005

    Key Recommendations:

    • Create a National Data Bank (NDB) for socio-religious data.
    • Establish an Equal Opportunity Commission.
    • Provide incentives for a ‘diversity index.’
    • Ensure high-quality education for children aged 0-14.
    • Set up government schools in Muslim-concentrated areas.
    • Increase Muslim employment share in public-facing jobs.
    • Enact state laws for minority representation.
    • Support initiatives in Muslim-concentrated occupations.
    • Improve minority participation in commercial banks.
    • Focus on inclusive development while respecting diversity.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] In India, if a religious sect/community is given the status of a national minority, what special advantages it is entitled to?

    1. It can establish and administer exclusive educational institutions.
    2. The President of India automatically nominates a representative of the community to Lok Sabha.
    3. It can derive benefits from the Prime Minister’s 15-Point Programme.

    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

  • In an electric vehicle, what is Regenerative Braking?

    Why in the News?

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

    What is Regenerative Braking? 

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

    How Does It Work?

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

    Significance:

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

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

     

    How does a Motor become a Generator?

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

    Downsides of Regenerative Braking

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

    Other Ways to Recover Energy

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

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

    1. Brakes of motor vehicles​

    2. Engines of motor vehicles​

    3. Microwave stoves within homes​

    4. Power plants​

    5. Telephone line​

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.​

    a)1, 2, 3 and 5 only​

    b)1, 2 and 4 only​

    c)3, 4 and 5 only​

    d)1, 2, 3, 4 and 5​

     

  • State of Economic Emergency in Argentina

    Why in the News?

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

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

    IMF’s Controversial Decision:

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

    Argentina’s Economic Struggles

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

    IMF and its Bailout

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

    Types of IMF Bailout Packages:

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

     

     

    PYQ:

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

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

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

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2 

     

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

    Why in the News?

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

    About Pain and Differences in Perception:

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

    Why do we perceive Pain?

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

    Nociceptor Response Threshold

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

    The Old Vs New Study

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

    Significance of this Pain Research

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

     

    PYQ:

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

     

  • Delhi Preservation of Trees Act (DPTA), 1994

    Why in the News?

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

    Forest Cover in Delhi: ISFR Report Findings

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

    What is the case against the DDA?

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

    Law governing Tree Protection in Delhi:

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

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

    About Asola Bhatti WLS

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

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

     

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

    PYQ:

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

     

  • Food Colorants and Chemical Additives Under Crackdown in Karnataka

    Why in the News?

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

    Artificial Colours in the Controversy 

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

     

    Legal Action against FBOs

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

    Role of FSSAI in Food Safety and Colorants Regulation

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

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

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

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

     

    PYQ:

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

    [2018] Consider the following statements: 

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

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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