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Type: Prelims Only

  • In news: G-7 Outreach Summit Apulia, Italy 

    Why in the News?

    • PM Modi was placed at centre stage for a group photograph at the G-7 Outreach Summit held in Italy.
      • This marks India’s 11th participation in the G7 Summit and PM Modi’s fifth consecutive attendance.

    About G-7 (Group of Seven)

    • The G7 is an informal bloc of industrialized democracies comprising the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom (UK).
    • It convenes annually to address global economic governance, international security, and more recently, issues related to artificial intelligence (AI).
    • Formation and Expansion:
      • Originally formed as the Group of Six in 1975 by the United States, France, Italy, Japan, the UK, and West Germany, with Canada joining in 1976.
      • It was formed as a result of the oil crisis to stabilize global economic policies and international relations.
      • The group’s formation coincided with the challenges of the Cold War era, aiming to address economic concerns such as inflation and recession exacerbated by the OPEC oil embargo.
    • Key statistics about G7 countries:
      • Wealth: They control 60% of the global net wealth.
      • Growth: They drive 46% of the global GDP.
      • Population: They represent 10% of the world’s population.

    Russia’s Joining and Suspension

    • Russia joined in 1998, transforming it into the G8, aimed at enhancing its international prestige and fostering closer ties with Western nations.
    • Russia was suspended in 2014 following its annexation of Crimea, leading to ongoing tensions and challenges with both Russia and increasingly, China.

    Functioning of the G7

    • Unlike formal institutions like the United Nations or NATO, the G7 lacks a charter and secretariat.
    • Its presidency rotates annually (Canada in 2025), responsible for setting the agenda and logistical arrangements for the summit.
    • Policy initiatives are crafted by ministers and envoys known as Sherpas, who prepare discussions and agreements before the annual gathering.
    • Non-member countries are occasionally invited to participate in G7 meetings.

    Why G7 needs India?

    • Economic Significance and Democratic Stability: India’s regular participation in G7 meetings highlights its economic importance and stable democratic framework.
    • Rising Economic Power: With India poised to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, its involvement in global issues is increasingly crucial.
    • Leadership in the Global South: Modi’s initiatives, such as the Voice of the Global South Summit, have bolstered India’s global standing.
    • G20 Presidency: India’s recent presidency of the G20 demonstrated its ability to build consensus on contentious global issues.
    • Neutrality and Strategic Partnerships: India’s neutral stance on Western concerns over China’s actions in the South China Sea and its economic policies enhances its partnership with G7 nations.
    • Balancing with Russia and the West: As the West confronts Russia over Ukraine, India’s neutral stance positions it as a key ally while maintaining diplomatic balance.

    Divergence within G7

    • Geopolitical Tensions: The G7 nations often face disagreements and tensions over geopolitical matters, such as responses to Russian aggression, conflicts in regions like Ukraine, and strategic alliances with emerging economies.
    • Economic Policies: Economic policies and trade relations are frequent topics of debate within the G7. Issues include trade tariffs, market regulations, financial stability, and economic cooperation in the face of global economic challenges.
    • Climate Change: Addressing climate change and achieving environmental sustainability are critical concerns for the G7. Discussions typically focus on climate action commitments, renewable energy investments, and international cooperation on climate policies.
    • Security and Defense: Security and defence cooperation, including responses to global terrorism, cybersecurity threats, and military alliances, are important agenda items for the G7.
    • Technology and Innovation: Managing technological advancements, including AI regulation, digital governance, cybersecurity standards, and technological innovation policies, is another area of focus.
    • Social Issues: Social issues such as gender equality, human rights, immigration policies, and global development aid are also part of the G7 agenda, reflecting broader societal concerns and international commitments.

    PYQ:

    [2020] In which one of the following groups are all four countries members of G20?

    (a) Argentina, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey

    (b) Australia, Canada, Malaysia and New Zealand

    (c) Brazil, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam

    (d) Indonesia, Japan, Singapore and South Korea

  • Elephants have names for each other: New study

    Why in the News?

    • Recent studies utilizing Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools have revealed that elephants possess unique names used to address each other, placing them among the select animals with this ability.
      • Unlike animals such as parrots and dolphins, elephants do not imitate the calls of those they address, resembling humans in this communicative trait.

    Naming Behavior in Elephants

    • Unlike humans, elephants do not mimic the calls of the addressee, setting their communication apart from other animals.
    • Published in Nature, the study titled ‘African elephants address one another with individually specific name-like calls’ involved researchers from institutions like Colorado State University and Save The Elephants.

    Study Methodology

    • Communication Methods: Contrary to popular belief, elephants predominantly communicate through low-pitched rumbles rather than trumpets, which are primarily emotional expressions.
    • Data Analysis: Researchers analyzed recordings of wild female African savannah elephants and their offspring’s rumbles across various Kenyan national parks spanning from 1986 to 2022.
    • AI Application: Using AI technology, they scrutinized 469 recorded rumbles to detect patterns indicating specific recipients of the communication.
      • Success Rate: The AI model successfully identified the intended elephant recipient in 27.5% of cases, surpassing chance levels.

    Observations

    • Behavioural Observation: To validate their findings, researchers played back recorded rumbles to 17 elephants and noted heightened reactions when elephants heard their ‘names’, indicating recognition of individual names.
    • Unique Communication: Unlike animals that imitate others’ calls, elephants display no evidence of imitation, suggesting a unique communication strategy.

    Significance of the Study

    • Sophisticated Communication: The study underscores elephants’ advanced communication abilities, challenging previous assumptions about their cognitive prowess.
    • Human-Elephant Parallels: It draws parallels between human and elephant communication, fostering greater admiration for elephants and potentially mitigating human-elephant conflicts crucial for conservation efforts.
    • Future Research: Further investigation is warranted to pinpoint the exact location of elephant names within rumbles and explore whether elephants assign names to objects besides individuals.

    Back2Basics: Elephants in India

    Details
    Population Estimate
    • India hosts the largest population of wild Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus), with around 29,964 individuals,
    • Approximately 60% of the global population (2017 census).
    Leading States Karnataka holds the highest number of elephants, followed by Assam and Kerala.
    Conservation Status
    • IUCN Red List:  Endangered.
    • CMS: Appendix I.
    • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Listed under Schedule I,
    • CITES: Appendix I.
    Conservation Initiatives
    • ‘Project Elephant’ was launched in 1992, covering 23 states across India.
      • This project contributed to the increase in the wild elephant population from around 25,000 in 1992 to about 30,000 in 2021.
    • Establishment of Elephant Reserves. Total 33 in numbers covering approximately 80,777 Sq.km.

     

    PYQ:

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

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

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 4 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 3 and 4 only

  • Valentina Tereshkova: The First Woman in Space

    Why in the News?

    On June 16, 1963, Valentina Tereshkova made history as the first woman to venture into space. Her achievement marked a significant milestone in the Space Race between the USA and the USSR during the Cold War.

    About Valentina Tereshkova’s Space Journey

    • In 1962, Tereshkova was selected among five women for the Soviet space program, aiming to achieve ‘gender equality’ in space exploration.
    • The USSR’s decision to send a woman into space was partly influenced by the success of Yuri Gagarin’s mission in 1961 and the desire to surpass the US in space achievements.
    • Tereshkova’s affiliation with the Communist Party and her skills as a parachutist were factors in her selection for the Vostok 6 mission.

    The Mission – Vostok 6

    • On June 16, 1963, Tereshkova piloted Vostok 6, becoming the first woman to orbit the Earth.
    • She spent 71 hours in space, completing 48 orbits around the Earth during her mission.

    Impact and Legacy

    • Tereshkova’s mission boosted Soviet prestige in the Space Race, following earlier successes like launching Sputnik-1 in 1957 and Yuri Gagarin’s historic flight in 1961.
    • Despite her pioneering role, the USA would later achieve milestones like the Apollo moon landings, surpassing Soviet achievements in manned space missions.
    • Tereshkova continued to advocate for women’s participation in space exploration and held prominent positions in Soviet politics and the Air Force.

    Indian Women in Space 

    Indian women have made significant contributions to space exploration, marking milestones and inspiring future generations. Here are notable Indian women who have ventured into space:

    • Kalpana Chawla: Born in Karnal, Haryana, Kalpana Chawla was the first woman of Indian origin in space. She flew on two Space Shuttle missions, including STS-87 in 1997. Tragically, she lost her life during the re-entry of the Space Shuttle Columbia in 2003.
    • Sunita Williams: An American astronaut of Indian-Slovenian descent, Sunita Williams has set records for spacewalks and served as a flight engineer on the International Space Station (ISS). She has logged over 322 days in space across multiple missions.
    • Sirisha Bandla: An aeronautical engineer and Vice President at Virgin Galactic, Sirisha Bandla became the second India-born woman to travel to space on the Virgin Galactic Unity 22 mission in 2021.

    Women Pioneers of ISRO:

    • Lalitha Ramachandran: Joined ISRO in 1969 as a technical assistant at Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), becoming one of the first female chemical engineers recruited by ISRO. She retired as associate project director of the Cryogenic Upper Stage Project.
    • J Geetha: Joined ISRO in 1972 after working at Bhabha Atomic Research Centre. She reminisces about the challenges of data gathering in the pre-internet era and the mentorship she received from stalwarts like Satish Dhawan and Vasant R Gowarikar.
    • Radhika Ramachandran: Joined ISRO in 1984 and served in various roles, including technical liaison officer at ISRO’s New Delhi office and director of the Space Physics Laboratory. She highlights the merit-based culture and the support for open discussions and suggestions.
    • T S Ramadevi: Joined ISRO in 1970 after completing her BTech from CET, Thiruvananthapuram. She was part of the communications unit and contributed to the growth of ISRO’s transmission technologies. She retired as deputy director of management systems.
    • Athula Devi: Joined ISRO in 1987 and retired in January, having been part of the team that developed base software systems for the Gaganyaan launch. She emphasizes ISRO’s growth through failures and the team’s dedication to projects above personal recognition.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space missions. What are the main obstacles to launching a manned space mission, both in terms of technology and logistics? Examine critically. (10)

  • Quantum Physics Behind Diapers: How they absorb so much Liquid?

    Why in the News?

    Understanding the absorbency of diapers through the Quantum physics of water absorption and contrasting materials that do or do not absorb water.

    Absorption in Diapers: How it works?

    • Absorption depends on Microscopic forces and Material properties. Water molecules are attracted to materials like cotton due to their structure.
    • Cotton, a network of polymers with ions, absorbs water effectively by attracting water molecules.
    • For large fluid absorption like in diapers, Super-Absorbent Polymers (SAP) are crucial.

    What are Super-Absorbent Polymers (SAP)?

    • SAPs are synthetic materials with the ability to absorb and retain large amounts of liquid relative to their own mass.
    • They are commonly used in products like diapers, sanitary napkins, and other absorbent hygiene products.
    • SAPs are typically cross-linked polymers, meaning their molecules are bonded in a way that creates a network capable of absorbing water molecules.

    Examples:

    1. Sodium Polyacrylate: This is one of the most common types of SAP used in diapers. It forms a gel-like substance when it absorbs liquid.
    2. Polyacrylamide: Another type of SAP used in various applications, including agriculture and wastewater treatment, due to its high water-absorbing capacity.

    Quantum Physics Insight of SAP

    Quantum physics plays a fundamental role in understanding the behaviour of super-absorbent polymers (SAPs), particularly in how they interact with water molecules at the atomic level:

    1. Electron Sharing: SAPs contain ions like sodium, which have a strong affinity for water molecules. This attraction is based on the principles of quantum physics, where atoms like sodium and oxygen prefer to share electrons to achieve stability. This shared electron arrangement allows water molecules to bond with the ions in SAPs, facilitating the absorption process.
    2. Quantum Mechanical Properties: At the quantum level, electrons behave as waves and can exist in shared states between atoms. This phenomenon allows for the formation of stable bonds between water molecules and SAP ions, enhancing the SAP’s ability to absorb large amounts of liquid.
    3. Energy States: Quantum physics explains how SAPs manage energy states during absorption. As water enters the SAP, energy is released due to changes in the electron configurations and bonding energies of the ions involved. This process is crucial for maintaining the gel-like structure of the SAP and preventing leakage.

    PYQ:

    [2022] Which one of the following is the context in which the term “qubit” is mentioned?

    (a) Cloud Services

    (b) Quantum Computing

    (c) Visible Light Communication Technologies

    (d) Wireless Communication Technologies

  • Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary: India’s New Cheetah Habitat

    Why in the News?

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

    Cheetah Reintroduction in India:

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

    About Cheetah:

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

     

    About Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary

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

    Habitat Suitability for Cheetahs

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

    PYQ:

    [2024]  Consider the following statements:

    1. Lions do not have a particular breeding season.

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

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

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

    [2012]  Consider the following: (2012)

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

    Which of the above are naturally found in India?

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

  • Formula for Flapping Frequency across Flying and Swimming Animals

     

    Why in the news?

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

    Formula for Flapping Frequency

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

    Research Methodology

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

    Application and Validity

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

    Formula Extension to Swimming Animals

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

    Limitations and Modifications

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

    Insights and Future Research

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

    PYQ:

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

    (a) Birds

    (b) Fish

    (c) Insects

    (d) Reptiles

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

    Why in the News?

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

    Tarang Shakti-2024

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

    Red Flag Exercise 

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

    Significance of the Exercise

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

    PYQ:

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

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

    Select the answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3

    (b) 1 and 4

    (c) 1 and 4

    (d) 2, 3 and 4

  • What is an Electromagnet?

    PC: The Hindu

    Why in the News?

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

    What is an Electromagnet?

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

    How Electromagnets Work?

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

    Enhancing Magnetic Strength with a Core

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

    Persistence of Magnetization

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

    Who was Michael Faraday (1791-1867)?

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

    Key achievements of Michael Faraday include:

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

     

    PYQ:

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

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

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Madras High Court’s Interpretation of POSH Act, 2013

    Why in the News?

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

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

    Right to Report under POSH Act, 2013

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

    What is the POSH Act?

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

    The POSH Act broadened these guidelines:

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

    Definition of Sexual Harassment

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

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

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

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

    Unwelcome behaviour

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

    Circumstances amounting to SHW

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

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

    Procedure for complaint

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

    Requirements imposed on employers

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

     

    PYQ:

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

    [2014] We are witnessing increasing instances of sexual violence against women in the country. Despite existing legal provisions against it, the number of such incidences is on the rise. Suggest some innovative measures to tackle this menace.

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

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

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

  • Unsolved issue of the Buddha Relics from Bavikonda

    Why in the News?

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

    About Bavikonda Buddhist Complex

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

    About Buddha Relics from Bavikonda

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

    Noted Buddhavanam Sites in Andhra Region

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

     

    PYQ:

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

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

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1, 3 and 4

    (d) 3 and 4 only