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Type: Prelims Only

  • Hydrogen Line: A Unique Signal

    Why in the News?

    The hydrogen line stands as a pivotal tool in contemporary astronomy, serving various purposes from studying distant stars to questing for extraterrestrial intelligence, should it exist.

    What is a Hydrogen Line?

    • The hydrogen line is a special type of light that hydrogen atoms emit.
    • It happens when an electron, a tiny particle that orbits the nucleus of the hydrogen atom, jumps from a higher energy level to a lower one.
    • This jump releases energy in the form of light, specifically with a wavelength of about 21 centimetres. This wavelength is what scientists call the hydrogen line.

    Why is it Important?

    • Hydrogen is everywhere in the universe. It’s the simplest and most abundant element, making up about 75% of the universe’s elemental mass.
      • So, studying the hydrogen line allows us to understand a lot about the composition and distribution of matter in the universe.
    • By observing the hydrogen line’s emission from different regions of space, astronomers can create maps showing where hydrogen gas is located.
    • Secrets about the early Universe: The hydrogen line also holds secrets about the early universe. Shortly after the Big Bang, the universe was filled with hydrogen gas.
      • By studying the hydrogen line from distant parts of the universe, astronomers can learn about its conditions and evolution billions of years ago.

    How Do We Interpret Hydrogen Line?

    • Radio telescope data enables mapping of hydrogen distribution, revealing locations of hydrogen clouds crucial for understanding galaxy and galaxy cluster formation and evolution.
    • Observing hydrogen line emission from different galaxy parts enables studying internal structures and dynamics, like rotation curves, offering insights into mass distribution within galaxies.
    • Observing hydrogen lines from distant galaxies unveils early universe conditions, aiding in understanding cosmic evolution’s initial stages.

    What’s Next?

    • New Discoveries: Scientists are continually developing new technologies and techniques to improve the sensitivity and resolution of radio telescopes.
      • This enables them to detect fainter signals and uncover new insights into the universe’s hydrogen content.
    • Exploring Dark Matter: The hydrogen line observations could also contribute to understanding dark matter, an invisible substance that makes up about 27% of the universe’s total mass-energy content.
      • By studying the hydrogen distribution in relation to the gravitational effects observed in galaxies, scientists hope to shed light on the nature of dark matter.

    PYQ:

    [2012] A team of scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory including those from India created the heaviest anti-matter (anti-helium nucleus). What is/are the implication/implications of the creation of anti-matter?

    1. It will make mineral prospecting and oil exploration easier and cheaper.
    2. It will help prove the possibility of the existence of stars and galaxies made of anti-matter.
    3. It will help us understand the evolution of the universe.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [pib] Green Ammonia Production under SIGHT Program

    Why in the News?

    • Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has initiated the bidding process for a total capacity of 5.39 lakh Metric Tonnes (MT) per annum of Green Ammonia production.
      • The initiative falls under Mode 2A of the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) Programme, part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission led by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE).

    What is Green Ammonia?

    • Green ammonia, also known as renewable ammonia, is a form of ammonia produced using renewable energy sources, which is proposed as a sustainable, emission-free alternative with a multitude of applications in industry and other sectors.
    • It is produced by combining nitrogen with hydrogen, which is generated through water electrolysis using renewable energy, and then reacting the hydrogen and nitrogen at high temperatures and pressures to form ammonia.

    About the National Green Hydrogen Mission

    • The National Green Hydrogen Mission was launched in January 2023.
      • Objective: To make India a ‘global hub’ for using, producing and exporting green hydrogen.
    • Earlier, the National Hydrogen Mission was launched on August 15, 2021, with a view to cutting down carbon emissions and increasing the use of renewable sources of energy.
    • The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) formulates the scheme guidelines for the implementation of these missions.

    Key features of the NGHM

    • Power capacity: The mission seeks to promote the development of a green hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 MMT per annum with an associated renewable energy capacity addition of about 125 GW in the country by 2030.
    • Job creation: It envisages an investment of over ₹8 lakh crore and creation of over 6 lakh jobs by 2030.
    • Reducing energy import bill: It will also result in a cumulative reduction in fossil fuel imports of over ₹1 lakh crore and abatement of nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
    • Export promotion: The mission will facilitate demand creation, production, utilisation and export of green hydrogen.
    • Incentivization: Under the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition Programme (SIGHT), distinct financial incentive mechanisms are provided.
    • Green Hydrogen Hubs: Regions capable of supporting large-scale production and/or utilisation of hydrogen will be identified and developed as Green Hydrogen Hubs.

    What is the SIGHT Program?

    • In the initial stage, two distinct financial incentive mechanisms proposed with an outlay of ₹ 17,490 crore up to 2029-30:
    1. Incentive for manufacturing of electrolysers
    2. Incentive for production of green hydrogen.
    • Depending upon the markets and technology development, specific incentive schemes and programmes will continue to evolve as the Mission progresses.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. Agricultural soils release nitrogen oxides into the environment.
    2. Cattle release ammonia into the environment.
    3. Poultry industry releases reactive nitrogen compounds into environment.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 2 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • 131 years of Gandhiji’s Natal Satyagraha

    Why in the News?

    • On June 7, 1893, Mahatma Gandhi faced racial discrimination when he was forced off a first-class train compartment at “Pietermaritzburg railway station” in South Africa.
      • This event ignited the spirit of civil disobedience in him through his first non-violent protest in the “Natal Satyagraha”.

    History of ‘Satyagraha’

    • The terms originated in a competition in the news-sheet Indian Opinion in South Africa in 1906.
    • Mr. Maganlal Gandhi, grandson of an uncle of Mahatma Gandhi, came up with the word “Sadagraha” and won the prize.
    • Subsequently, to make it clearer, Gandhi changed it to Satyagraha.

    About the Pietermaritzburg Incident 

    • Gandhi’s forced removal from a first-class train compartment in 1893 served as a catalyst for his commitment to resisting racial discrimination.
    • This event inspired him to pursue nonviolent resistance, planting the seeds for his philosophy of Satyagraha.

    Its’ Aftermath

    • Formation of Natal Indian Congress and Advocacy
      • Establishment: Gandhi organized the Indian community and founded the Natal Indian Congress (NIC) in 1894 at Durban to advocate for their rights.
      • Campaigns: He initiated various campaigns, including petitions and boycotts, challenging discriminatory laws and policies in South Africa.
    • Natal Satyagraha
      • The passage of the Asiatic Registration Act in 1906 sparked the Natal Satyagraha, protesting against this discriminatory law.
      • Gandhi emerged as the leader of the movement, advocating for nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience.
      • Satyagraha emphasized confronting oppression with moral courage and integrity, without resorting to violence.

    Gandhiji’s South Africa Settlements:

    • Phoenix Settlement in Natal: Founded in 1904, the Phoenix Settlement was established by Gandhi as a communal living space and centre for social and political activism. It served as a hub for his Satyagraha campaigns against racial discrimination and injustice in South Africa.
    • Tolstoy Farm outside Johannesburg: Gandhi established Tolstoy Farm in 1910 as a self-sustaining community inspired by the teachings of Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. It served as a refuge for Indian immigrants and a base for organizing resistance against discriminatory laws.

    Characteristics and Impact of Natal Satyagraha

    • Mass Participation: The movement garnered widespread support from the Indian community, involving thousands in nonviolent protests.
      • He mobilized support for the welfare of Indians and established the Transvaal British Indian Association in Johannesburg in 1903.
    • Arrests and Imprisonment: Gandhi and many others faced arrests and imprisonment for their acts of civil disobedience. He faced imprisonment multiple times for his nonviolent protests, including the Volkrust Satyagraha in 1913.
    • Attracted International attention: The Satyagraha attracted international attention and led to negotiations, culminating in the Indian Relief Act in 1914.

    PYQ:

    [2019] With reference to the British colonial rule in India, consider the following statements: 

    1. Mahatma Gandhi was instrumental in the abolition of the system of ‘indentured labour’.
    2. In Lord Chelmsford’s ‘War Conference’, Mahatma Gandhi did not support the resolution on recruiting Indians for World War.
    3. Consequent upon the breaking of Salt Law by Indian people, the Indian National Congress was declared illegal by the colonial rulers.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 1 and 3 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Andaman’s Onge Tribe

    Why in the news?

    The king and queen of the “Onge tribe” welcomed a baby boy in the Andaman Islands, marking a significant moment for the tribe. With the arrival of the newborn, the tribe’s total population now stands at 136, as confirmed by an official source.

    About Onge Tribe 

    • The Onge are PVTGs (Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups) native to the Andaman Islands.
    • They have traditionally been hunter-gatherers and fishers, while also practising cultivation.
    • Their population significantly decreased after colonization, from 672 in 1901 to around 100.
    • They practice a form of animism, with ancestor worship being significant.
    • They traditionally make decisions through group consensus.
    • Today, the surviving members are confined to two reserve camps on Little Andaman: Dugong Creek in the northeast, and South Bay.
    • Genetically, the Onge are distantly related to East Asian populations and show affinities with Southeast Asian Negrito ethnic groups.

    Other Indigenous People of Andaman and Nicobar

    1. Great Andamanese Tribe

    • One of the largest tribes, the Great Andamanese tribe is currently settled on the Strait Island under the Andaman & Nicobar Administration. Despite their historic bravery, diseases and other challenges have reduced their population to 43 individuals as of the 2001 census.
    • Government initiatives: The administration provides housing, coconut plantations, and rationing to support their livelihoods and well-being.

    2. Jarwas Tribe

    • Jarwas inhabit the Western coast of the Middle and South Andaman Islands. They are known to be hostile but have shown receptivity to friendly contact expeditions since 1974. Their present numbers are estimated at between 250–400 individuals.
    • Jarwas are nomadic hunters and gatherers, using traditional methods like bows and arrows for hunting and fishing.

    3. Sentinelese Tribe

    • Sentinelese reside on the small North Sentinel Island, maintaining a wary stance towards outsiders.
    • Despite initial scepticism, contact expeditions have made progress since 1991, albeit with caution.

    Note: Shompen Tribe are native to the Nicobar Islands.

    Who are the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)?

    • These groups are among the most vulnerable sections of our society as they are few in number, and have not attained any significant level of social and economic development.
    • They generally inhabit remote localities having poor infrastructure and administrative support.
    • 75 such groups have been identified and categorized as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).

    Origin of the concept

    • The Dhebar Commission (1960-1961) stated that within Scheduled Tribes there existed an inequality in the rate of development.
    • During the fourth Five Year Plan (1969-74) a sub-category was created within Scheduled Tribes to identify groups that were considered to be at a lower level of development.
    • This sub-category was named “Primitive tribal group”.
    • In 2006 the government of India proposed to rename PVTGs.

    Features of PVTGs

    • The features of such a group include a:
    1. Pre-agricultural system of existence
    2. The practice of hunting and gathering
    3. Zero or negative population growth
    4. Extremely low level of literacy in comparison with other tribal groups
    • Groups that satisfied any one of the criteria were considered PTG.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following statements about Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India:

    1. PVTGs reside in 18 States and one Union Territory.
    2. A stagnant or declining population is one of the criteria for determining PVTG status.
    3. There are 95 PVTGs officially notified in the country so far.
    4. Irular and Konda Reddi tribes are included in the list of PVTGs.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1, 2 and 3

    (b) 2, 3 and 4

    (c) 1, 2 and 4

    (d) 1, 3 and 4

  • President appoints Narendra Modi as PM-Designate

    Why in the News?

    Narendra Modi will take the oath as the Prime Minister for a third consecutive term, following an invitation from President Droupadi Murmu to form the government.

    Constitutional Provisions for PM Post

    • Article 75: It states that the President shall appoint the Prime Minister, who is usually the leader of the majority party in the Lok Sabha (House of the People).
    • Article 74: The Prime Minister is the head of the Council of Ministers and provides advice to the President on matters of governance.

    Appointment of the Prime Minister

    The appointment of the Prime Minister of India involves specific constitutional provisions supervised by the President. Key features related to the appointment of the Prime Minister as mentioned in the Constitution of India include:

    • The Prime Minister is appointed permanently by the President of India.
    • The President invites the leader of the majority party in the Lok Sabha to form the government.
    • If no political party holds a majority, the President can use discretionary powers to appoint the Prime Minister.
    • The President may invite the leader of the largest party or coalition to seek a vote of confidence from the Lok Sabha, with a tenure of about a month to secure this vote.

    Position of Prime Minister in India’s Democratic set-up         

    • Head of Government: The Prime Minister is the chief executive authority in the country, responsible for leading the government and overseeing the functioning of various ministries and departments.
    • Leader of the Council of Ministers: The Prime Minister is the leader of the Council of Ministers, which comprises cabinet ministers, ministers of state, and deputy ministers. They coordinate the activities of the government and guide policy decisions.
    • Advisor to the President: While the President of India is the head of state, the Prime Minister acts as the president’s chief advisor and assists in exercising executive powers.
    • Principal Link between President and Parliament: The Prime Minister communicates the decisions of the Council of Ministers to the President and represents the government in Parliament.
    • Symbol of Unity and Stability: The Prime Minister symbolizes the unity and stability of the country’s governance. They provide leadership and direction to the nation, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among the citizens.
    • International Representation: The Prime Minister represents India on the international stage and plays a significant role in foreign policy formulation. They engage in diplomatic relations, attend international summits, and represent India’s interests globally.
    • Crisis Management: During times of crisis, such as natural disasters, security threats, or economic challenges, the Prime Minister takes charge of crisis management efforts and leads the government’s response to address the situation.

    Powers and Functions of the Prime Minister

    The Indian Constitution outlines the powers and functions of the Prime Minister, who is appointed by the President and holds significant authority over the President, Council of Ministers, and parliamentary houses. These powers include:

    • Function Relative to the President: The Prime Minister serves as the main channel of communication between the President and the Council of Ministers, overseeing the administration of Union affairs and appointing key administrative officials.
    • Functions Relative to the Council of Ministers: The Prime Minister advises on the nomination and selection of Council Ministers, can allocate and shuffle ministerial departments, and has the authority to demand resignations from ministers. The resignation of the Prime Minister leads to the dissolution of the Council of Ministers.
    • Parliamentary Functions: The Prime Minister leads the lower parliamentary house (Lok Sabha), can suggest the dissolution of the Lok Sabha, and is responsible for announcing and introducing government policies in parliamentary sessions.
    • Miscellaneous Functions: The Prime Minister holds additional roles such as chairman of the National Water Resource Council, NITI Aayog, National Integration Council, Inter-State Council, and NDA, among others.

    Appointment, Tenure, and Removal

    Eligibility: According to Articles 84 and 75 of the Constitution of India, the Prime Minister must:

    • Be a citizen of India.
    • Be a member of the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha, or become a member within six months of selection.
    • Be above 25 years of age if a Lok Sabha member, or above 30 years if a Rajya Sabha member.
    • Not hold any office of profit under the government of India or any state government.

    Oaths of Office and Secrecy:

    Before entering office, the Prime Minister must take an oath of office and secrecy in the presence of the President of India, as per the Third Schedule of the Constitution.

    Tenure and Removal from Office:

    • The Prime Minister serves at the “pleasure of the President,” but must maintain the confidence of the Lok Sabha.
    • The term can end if a simple majority of Lok Sabha members no longer have confidence in the Prime Minister, known as a vote of no-confidence.
    • A Prime Minister can also resign from office. Morarji Desai was the first to do so while in office.
    • Additionally, ceasing to meet the qualifications under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, can lead to removal from office.

    PYQ:

    [2015] Consider the following statements:

    1. The Executive Power of the union of India is vested in the Prime Minister.
    2. The Prime Minister is the ex officio Chairman of the Civil Services Board.

    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

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. The 44th Amendment to the Constitution of India introduced an Article placing the election of the Prime Minister beyond judicial review.
    2. The Supreme Court of India struck down the 99th Amendment to the Constitution of India as being violative of the independence of judiciary.

    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

  • In news: Volkhov River

    Why in the News?

    Four medical students from India studying in a university in Russia drowned in Volkhov River near St. Petersburg.

    About Volkhov River

    • The Volkhov River is a significant waterway in northwestern Russia.
    • It is located in the Leningrad Oblast and Novgorod Oblast of Russia, in the northwestern part of the country.
    • It stretches approximately 224 kilometers (139 miles) from Lake Ilmen to Lake Ladoga.
    • Origin: It flows out of Lake Ilmen north into Lake Ladoga, the largest lake in Europe.
    • Tributaries: The Msta River is the largest tributary of the Volkhov.
    • Major Cities: Several cities and settlements are situated along the banks of the Volkhov River, including Novgorod, Veliky Novgorod, and Volkhov.

    PYQ:

    [2020] Consider the following pairs:

    River – Flows into

    1. Mekong – Andaman sea
    2. Thames – Irish Sea
    3. Volga – Caspian Sea
    4. Zambezi – Indian Ocean

    Which of the pairs above is/are correctly matched?

    (a) Only 1

    (b) Only 2

    (c) 3 Only

    (d) None of the above/More than one of the above.

  • Second Phase of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)

    Why in the News?

    Pakistani PM is on a formal visit to China to attend the formal announcement of the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC-II).

    About CPEC-II

    • CPEC’s next phase shifts focus from infrastructure and energy to sectors like agriculture, Pakistan Railways’ Main Line-I (ML-1) upgrade, and realignment of the Karakorum Highway.
    • CPEC was initiated in 2015 as part of President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

    Why CPEC-II?

    • It will provide Pakistan with a strategic advantage in terms of trade and commerce
    • CPEC-II includes significant investments in the energy sector, which will help overcome Pakistan’s chronic power shortages and ensure a stable supply of electricity
    • Provides a shortcut for China’s access to the Persian Gulf to secure oil imports, and
    • Stimulate industrial and economic activity in Pakistan.

    Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)

    • The Belt and Road Initiative, formerly known as One Belt One Road, is a global infrastructure development strategy adopted by the Chinese government in 2013.
    • It will invest in nearly 70 countries and international organizations.
    • Infrastructure projects include ports, railways, highways, power stations, aviation and telecommunications.
    • “Belt” refers to the overland routes for road and rail transportation, called “the Silk Road Economic Belt”; whereas “road” refers to the sea routes or the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road.
    • The project has a target completion date of 2049 which coincides with the 100th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.

    India’s Concerns

    • Sovereignty Concerns: India expresses reservations as CPEC traverses through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), challenging territorial sovereignty and potentially bolstering Pakistan’s claim over the region.
    • Geostrategic Implications: The expansion of Gwadar port under CPEC extends China’s “String of Pearls” around India, prompting concerns over regional power dynamics.

    CPEC’s Progress so Far

    • Mixed Outcomes: The initial phase of CPEC primarily addressed infrastructure, energy, and port development projects, with progress showing variations.
    • Project Status: While several power projects have been completed, significant delays and challenges persist in transport-related projects and Special Economic Zones (SEZs).

    Challenges and Roadblocks

    • Slow pace: Gwadar, despite being the epicentre of multibillion-dollar projects, lacks basic necessities like reliable access to water and electricity, let alone other facilities.
    • Baloch freedom movement: This is another impediment to the stalled project where Chinese officials are targeted and killed.
    • Consistent security threat: China is also seeking to deploy its Army in the CPEC projects, to which Pakistan has contested.

    PYQ:

    [2018] The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is viewed as a cardinal subset of China’s larger ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative. Give a brief description of CPEC and enumerate the reasons why India has distanced itself from the same. (150 Words, 10 Marks)

    [2016] ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ is sometimes mentioned in the news in the context of the affairs of

    (a) African Union

    (b) Brazil

    (c) European Union

    (d) China

  • In news: Mohiniyattam Dance

    Why in the News?

    A popular Mohiniyattam dancer in Kerala was refused bail against her alleged casteist remarks against the SC community.

    About Mohiniyattam

    Description
    Name Meaning Mohini – female enchantress avatar of Vishnu;

    Aattam – rhythmic motion or dance (Malayalam)
    Roots Natya Shastra, ancient Hindu Sanskrit text on performance arts
    Style Lasya Style – delicate, eros-filled, and feminine
    Performers Traditionally women, but men also perform in contemporary times
    Music Includes Carnatic music, singing, and enactment of plays through dance
    Language Manipravalam: a Malayalam-Sanskrit hybrid
    Posture Parted feet, gentle swaying of body, soft footwork synchronized with music beats
    Gestures Follow the classical text of Hastha Lakshanadeepika with elaborate mudras (hand gestures)
    Costumes Plain white or off-white sarees with golden brocade, pleated sheets for freedom of movement, adorned with jewellery
    Accessories Jewellery on fingers, wrists, neck, and ears, ankle bells (for female performers), dhotis and similar accessories (for male performers)
    Makeup Natural with brilliant red lips, tikka (Gobi) on the forehead, lined eyes
    Music Various rhythms and compositions in Manipravalam, accompanied by instruments like Mridangam, Idakka, flute, Veena, and Kuzhitalam
    Ragas Rendered in the Sopana Style, a slow melodic style rooted in the Natya Shastra

    Back2Basics: Classification of Classical Dances in India

    Classical Dance Form Origin Key Features
    Bharatanatyam Tamil Nadu
    • Ekaharya style with one dancer portraying multiple roles.
    • Intricate footwork, hand gestures (mudras), and facial expressions.
    • Traditional repertoire includes Alarippu, Jatiswaran, Shabda, Varna, Pada, Thillana, and Sloka.
    • Accompanied by the orchestra and conducted by Nattuvanar
    Kathak North India
    • Derived from the word “Katha,” meaning story
    • The blend of storytelling, footwork, and rhythmic patterns
    • The strong influence of Mughal and Persian culture
    • Solo performances with an emphasis on footwork and straight-legged movements
    Kathakali Kerala
    • A blend of dance, music, and acting
    • Elaborate makeup, costumes, and headgear
    • Enacts stories from Indian epics with specific facial colors for characters
    • Importance of hand gestures, facial expressions, and eye movements
    Kuchipudi Andhra Pradesh
    • Originated in Kuchipudi village, Andhra Pradesh
    • Dance-drama form with solo and group performances
    • Emphasis on storytelling, costumes, and ornaments
    • Includes solo items like Manduka Shabdam and Balgopala Taranga
    Odissi Odisha
    • Based on stories of Lord Vishnu and verses of Jayadeva’s Gita Govinda
    • Soft dance style with mudras and expressions similar to Bharatanatyam incorporates postures like Tribhanga and Chowk
    • Eminent performers include Sonal Mansingh and Kelucharan Mohapatra
    Sattriya Assam
    • Introduced by Vaishnava saint Sankaradeva for propagation of Vaishnava faith
    • Strictly governed by principles in hasta mudras, footwork, and costumes
    • Repertoire includes Bhaona-related and independent dance numbers
    • Prominent forms include Chali and Jhumura
    Manipuri Manipur
    • Associated with rituals, festivals, and creation myths
    • Lai Haraoba is the earliest form, reenacts the creation of the world
    • Rasleela dances originated in 18th-century Manipur
    • Popular forms include Ras, Sankirtana, and Thang-Ta with Kirtan accompaniment

     

    PYQ:

    [2012] How do you distinguish between Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dances?

    1. Dancers occasionally speak dialogues is found in Kuchipudi dance but not in Bharatanatyam.
    2. Dancing on the brass plate by keeping the feet on its edges is a feature of Bharatanatyam but Kuchipudi dance does not have such a form of movement.

    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

  • First Human Case of Avian H5N2 Infection

    Why in the News?

    • The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed the death of a Mexican resident due to bird flu, marking the first confirmed case of human infection with the H5N2 variant.
      • This H5N2 strain is different from another bird flu variety-H5N1 which infected people in America recently.

    What is Avian Influenza A (H5N2)?

    • Avian Influenza A (H5N2) is a subtype of the influenza A virus that primarily circulates among birds but can infect humans under certain circumstances.
    • Human infections typically result from direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments, showcasing the zoonotic nature of the virus.

    Symptoms of H5N2

    • Infection of H5N2 may cause mild to severe upper respiratory tract infections and can be fatal.
    • Conjunctivitis, gastrointestinal symptoms, encephalitis and encephalopathy have also been reported.

    Diagnostic and Treatment Protocols

    • Laboratory Diagnosis: The identification of avian influenza in humans necessitates laboratory testing to confirm the presence of the virus.
    • WHO Guidance: The World Health Organization periodically updates technical protocols, such as RT-PCR methods, to enhance the detection of zoonotic influenza.
    • Treatment Strategies: Antiviral medications, notably neuraminidase inhibitors like oseltamivir and zanamivir, demonstrate efficacy in reducing viral replication duration and improving survival prospects for afflicted individuals.

    Influenza A Viruses

    • The alphanumeric codes of H and N are used to subdivide the viruses according to what kinds of proteins are on the surface of the virus based on 2 types:
    1. Hemagglutinin (HA) 
    2. Neuraminidase (NA)
    • There are 18 known HA subtypes and 11 known NA subtypes.
    • In birds, 16 HA and 9 NA subtypes have been identified. (Two additional subtypes, H17N10 and H18N11, have been identified in bats.)
    • Many different combinations of HA and NA proteins are possible.
    • For example, an “A(H7N2) virus” designates an influenza A virus subtype that has an HA 7 protein and an NA 2 protein.
    • Similarly, an “A(H5N1)” virus has an HA 5 protein and an NA 1 protein.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news concerning which one of the following diseases?

    (a) AIDS

    (b) Bird flu

    (c) Dengue

    (d) Swine flu

  • Two bird sanctuaries of Bihar added to Ramsar List

    Why in the News?

    Two wetlands in Bihar, Nagi and Nakti bird sanctuaries, have been added to the global list of wetlands of international importance under the “Ramsar Convention”, bringing India’s total Ramsar sites to 82.

    Do you know?

    • Currently, the highest number of such sites is in the UK (175) followed by Mexico (144).
    • The number of Indian sites on the list has increased from 26 to 82 in the last ten years, of which 40 have been added in the last three years.

    About Nagi-Nakti Wetland

    • These wetlands, situated in Bihar’s Jamui district within the Jhajha forest range, are man-made reservoirs nestled amid dry deciduous forests and hills.
    • Both sanctuaries were developed as man-made reservoirs, primarily for irrigation purposes, through the construction of dams.
    • These wetlands host a diverse range of flora and fauna, including over 150 species of birds, mammals, fish, aquatic plants, reptiles, and amphibians.

    Nakti Bird Sanctuary:

    • It was developed primarily for irrigation through the construction of the Nakti dam.
    • In 1984, the wetland was designated as a bird sanctuary, highlighting its importance as a wintering habitat for several migratory species, with over 20,000 birds congregating during winter months.
    • This includes one of the largest congregations of red-crested pochard in the Indo-Gangetic plain.

    Nagi Bird Sanctuary:

    • It was, on the other hand, created by the damming of the Nagi River, which enabled the gradual formation of water bodies with clear water and aquatic vegetation.
    • Overall, the wetland and its fringes provide habitat for over 75 bird species, 33 fish, and 12 aquatic plants.
    • Notably, the site hosts one of the largest congregations of bar-headed geese in the Indo-Gangetic plain.

    Ecological Significance

    • Migratory Bird Haven: The sanctuaries serve as critical wintering habitats for numerous migratory bird species, attracting over 20,000 birds during the winter months.
    • Species Diversity: Nagi and Nakti sanctuaries support a rich biodiversity, including over 75 bird species, 33 fish species, and 12 aquatic plant species.
    • Bar-headed Geese Congregation: Notably, the wetlands host one of the largest gatherings of bar-headed geese on the Indo-Gangetic plain, highlighting their importance as migratory bird habitats.

    Back2Basics: Ramsar Convention

    Explanation
    Purpose International treaty aimed at conserving and promoting the sustainable use of wetlands.
    Establishment Established on February 2, 1971, in Ramsar, Iran.
    Key Components
    • Identifying and designating wetlands of international importance.
    • Ensuring their effective management.
    • Promoting international cooperation for wetland conservation and sustainable use.
    9 Criteria for Sites Declaration
    1. A site should contain representative, rare, or unique wetland types.
    2. It should support vulnerable, endangered, or endemic species.
    3. It should be a habitat for waterfowl.
    4. It should have significant ecological, botanical, zoological, limnological, or hydrological features.
    5. It should support scientific research and biodiversity conservation.
    6. It should provide essential services such as flood control, water purification, and groundwater recharge.
    7. It should have cultural, recreational, or spiritual value for local communities.
    8. It should support sustainable livelihoods for human communities.
    9. It should be at risk or face human-induced threats that require international cooperation for conservation.
    Participating Countries 171 contracting parties (countries) as of September 2021.
    India and Ramsar Convention  The first Ramsar Site in India, the Chilika Lake in Odisha, was designated in 1981.
    Ramsar Secretariat The convention is administered by the Ramsar Secretariat, based in Gland, Switzerland.
    World Wetlands Day
    • February 2nd of each year.
    • To raise awareness about the importance of wetlands and commemorate the adoption of the Ramsar Convention.
    Montreux Record Register of wetland sites on the List of Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention that require special attention.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] If a wetland of international importance is brought under the ‘Montreux Record’, what does it imply?

    (a) Changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur in the wetland as a result of human interference.

    (b) The country in which the wetland is located should enact a law to prohibit any human activity within five kilometres of the edge of the wetland

    (c) The survival of the wetland depends on the cultural practices and traditions of certain communities living in its vicinity and therefore the cultural diversity therein should not be destroyed

    (d) It is given the status of ‘World Heritage Site’

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. Under Ramsar Convention, it is mandatory on the part of the Government of India to protect and conserve all the wetlands in the territory of India.
    2. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 were framed by the Government of India based on the recommendations of the Ramsar Convention.
    3. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 also encompass the drainage area or catchment regions of the wetlands as determined by the authority.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 3 and 3