💥Join UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (July Batch) + XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

Type: Prelims Only

  • [pib]  SWATI (Science for Women-A Technology & Innovation) Portal

    Introduction

    • The “Science for Women-A Technology & Innovation (SWATI)” Portal was recently launched by the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India.

    About SWATI Portal

    • Objective: Designed to be a comprehensive online platform, SWATI aims to showcase the contributions of Indian women and girls in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM).
    • Single portal: SWATI serves as a single online portal representing Indian women and girls in STEMM fields.
    • Database: It hosts a database that will aid in policy-making to address gender-gap challenges in STEMM.
    • Interactive Platform: SWATI offers an interactive database, a pioneering initiative in India, developed, hosted, and maintained by the National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR), New Delhi.
    • Faculty: Featuring faculty members from Indian universities, autonomous organizations, and key ministries such as the Ministry of Science and Technology, CSIR, DBT, DST, MHRD, UGC, GATI, and KIRAN.

    Objectives

    • Scaling Efforts: The portal seeks to exponentially scale up efforts to include every Indian woman in science (WiS), covering all career stages and subjects in both academia and industry.
    • Research Facilitation: By enabling reliable and statistically significant long-term research on equality, diversity, and inclusivity issues in India, SWATI aims to develop an active search engine and searchable database.

  • Nazool Land: Behind the Violence in Haldwani

    nazool

    Introduction

    • Violence erupted in Uttarakhand’s Haldwani district after the administration conducted a demolition drive at the site allegedly on Nazool Land.

    What is Nazool Land?

    • Definition: Nazool land refers to government-owned land that is often leased out to entities for specific purposes, rather than being directly administered as state property.
    • Lease Terms: Entities leasing Nazool land typically hold it for a fixed period, ranging from 15 to 99 years, with the option to renew the lease upon expiration.

    Historical Context  

    • Origins: Nazool land emerged during British rule in India when lands confiscated from opposing kings and kingdoms were designated as state property.
    • Post-Independence: After Independence, these lands were transferred to the respective state governments due to a lack of proper documentation to prove prior ownership by the former royal families.

    Governance of Nazool Land

    • Legal Framework: While various states have implemented government orders to regulate Nazool land, the Nazool Lands (Transfer) Rules, 1956, are frequently utilized for adjudication.
    • Lease Renewal Process: The renewal or cancellation of leases for Nazool land is typically managed by the Revenue Department of the local development authority.

    Utilization of Nazool Land

    • Public Purposes: Nazool land is commonly used by the government for public infrastructure projects such as schools, hospitals, and Gram Panchayat buildings.
    • Housing Societies: In urban areas, Nazool land is often leased out for housing societies and other residential developments.

  • Understanding Brumation in Reptiles

    brumation

    Introduction

    • Imagine seeing an alligator resting quietly underwater, with only its snout visible. Is it alive or dead? There’s another possibility: brumation.

    What is Brumation?

    • Definition: Brumation is a period of dormancy or slowed activity in reptiles, similar to hibernation in mammals. It occurs during colder months when temperatures drop and food becomes scarce.
    • Purpose: Reptiles enter brumation to conserve energy and survive adverse environmental conditions.
    • Habitat: They may retreat to underground burrows, rock crevices, or other sheltered areas where temperatures are stable.
    • Metabolic Slowdown: During brumation, their metabolism significantly slows, allowing them to go weeks or months without eating.
    • Reduced Activity: Reptiles minimize their resource requirements and conserve energy during this period of reduced activity.

    Observations

    • Species Affected: Researchers have observed brumation in various reptilian species across habitats.
    • Examples: Box turtles and painted turtles burrow into the mud at the bottom of ponds or lakes. Snakes seek refuge in underground dens or caves, while lizards hide under rocks or within vegetation.

    Significance of Brumation

    • Survival Strategy: Brumation is crucial for reptiles to survive cold climates and endure challenging environmental conditions.
    • Re-emergence: It allows reptiles to conserve energy until they can re-emerge to feed and reproduce in more favorable conditions.

  • CSIR-NAL unveils High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS)

    haps

    Introduction

    • The National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) in Bengaluru, India, recently conducted the inaugural test flight of a solar-powered High-Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) vehicle, marking a significant stride in indigenous HAPS technology.
    • India now joins a select group of nations, including China, South Korea, and the UK, pioneering the development of HAPS for diverse applications.

    Test Flight Details of India’s HAPS

    • Prototype Description: NAL’s test featured a small-scale HAPS weighing 23 kilograms, boasting a wingspan of 12 meters.
    • Location: Engineers conducted the successful trial at the Challakere testing facilities in Karnataka state, soaring to an altitude of approximately 3 kilometers and sustaining flight for 8.5 hours.
    • Progress: Despite its scaled-down size, the prototype’s performance exceeded expectations, paving the way for future full-scale models.

    HAPS Technology Overview

    • Definition: HAPS represents a class of solar-powered unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that operate autonomously in the stratosphere.
    • Features: These aircraft incorporate solar cells and batteries, enabling extended flights resembling satellite persistence without the need for costly rocket launches.

    Capabilities and Applications

    • Altitude and Endurance: HAPS can autonomously operate at altitudes of 18-20 kilometers for months or even years, offering persistent aerial monitoring and surveillance capabilities.
    • Strategic Uses: These platforms hold potential for applications such as border surveillance, disaster response, and communication network restoration.

    Future Development Goals

    • Milestone Objectives: NAL aims to achieve continuous flight for 24 hours in upcoming trials, further validating the aircraft’s energy storage and solar recharging capabilities.
    • Operational Deployment: India anticipates deploying refined HAPS technology for practical defense by 2027 purposes, particularly in border monitoring.

    Benefits and Challenges

    • Cost benefits: HAPS operate closer to Earth than satellites and do not require expensive rocket launches for deployment.
    • Flight Duration: Advanced HAPS can remain airborne for months or years with solar cell-powered battery recharging.
    • Advantages: HAPS offer advantages over traditional satellites, including lower deployment costs, modular payloads, and increased flexibility in targeting and redirection.
    • Obstacles: Challenges include navigating minimal stratospheric flight regulations and addressing unpredictable weather conditions at high altitudes.

  • Celebrating Darwin Day: Understanding Evolution

    Darwin

    Introduction  

    • February 12 is celebrated globally as Darwin Day to honor the birth of naturalist Charles Darwin and his contributions to evolutionary theory.
    • Darwin’s seminal work, ‘On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection,’ published in 1859, revolutionized our understanding of evolution.

    Who was Charles Darwin (1809–1882)?

    Description
    Early Life Shrewsbury, Shropshire, England
    Education Studied medicine at the University of Edinburgh but later shifted focus to natural history at the University of Cambridge
    Famous Work “On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection,” published in 1859, outlining his theory of evolution by natural selection
    Scientific Contributions
    • Theory of evolution by natural selection
    • Extensive studies on the Galápagos Islands
    • Contributions to the fields of geology, botany, and zoology, research on barnacles
    Research Expeditions Voyage of the HMS Beagle (1831-1836), a significant expedition during which Darwin collected specimens and made observations that influenced his theories
    Death April 19, 1882, at Down House, Downe, Kent, England
    Legacy Considered one of the most influential figures in scientific history, his work laid the foundation for modern evolutionary biology

    Evolutionary Insights

    • Contributions of Darwin and Wallace: Darwin and Alfred Russell Wallace independently proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection, sparking a paradigm shift in biology.
    • Scientific Advancements: Darwin Day serves as an occasion to highlight recent scientific advancements in evolutionary biology and promote public engagement with science.
    • Impact on Modern Biology: Darwin’s ideas continue to shape modern biology, providing a framework for understanding the diversity of life on Earth.

    Key Propositions by Darwin

    [A] Understanding Genetic Variations

    • Role in Adaptation: Genetic diversity within populations facilitates adaptation to changing environments, as observed in the process of natural selection.
    • Example: Genetic variants conferring heat tolerance in a population become advantageous in warmer climates, leading to their increased prevalence through natural selection.
    • Mechanisms of Variation: Mutation, recombination, and gene flow contribute to the generation and maintenance of genetic diversity within populations.

    [B] Mechanisms of Evolution

    • Natural Selection: Darwin and Wallace’s theory of natural selection explains how advantageous traits become more common in populations over successive generations.
    • Genetic Drift: Random fluctuations in allele frequencies, known as genetic drift, can lead to significant changes in small populations.
    • Gene Flow: Migration and gene flow between populations can introduce new genetic variations and prevent genetic divergence.

    Universal Principles of Evolution

    • Biodiversity and Evolution: Evolutionary processes have shaped the rich biodiversity observed on Earth, spanning billions of years.
    • Conservation Implications: Understanding evolution informs conservation efforts aimed at preserving species and ecosystems.
    • Ecological Interactions: Evolutionary dynamics influence ecological interactions, including predator-prey relationships, competition, and mutualism.

    Human Evolution and Genetic Diversity

    • Human Origins: Humans share a common ancestry with other great apes and have undergone genetic divergence over millennia.
    • Genetic Variation: Every individual carries unique genetic variations, contributing to the diversity within human populations.
    • Cultural Evolution: Human societies have evolved culturally and genetically, contributing to the global pool of knowledge and skills.

    Promoting Equality and Diversity

    • Inclusive Society: Recognizing genetic diversity underscores the importance of equality and inclusion across all aspects of society.
    • Cultural Diversity: Embracing cultural diversity enriches human experience and promotes mutual understanding and cooperation.
    • Addressing Biases: Understanding the genetic basis of traits can help address biases and stereotypes related to race, ethnicity, and identity.

    Challenges and Conservation

    • Habitat Degradation: Human activities pose threats to biodiversity, necessitating conservation efforts to preserve genetic diversity.
    • Climate Change: Rapid environmental changes, such as climate change, can impact the adaptive potential of species, highlighting the importance of evolutionary resilience.
    • Community Engagement: Collaborative conservation efforts involving local communities and stakeholders are essential for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

    Conclusion

    • Continued Learning: Advancements in evolutionary biology deepen our understanding of life’s complexities and guide efforts towards a sustainable future.
    • Celebrating Diversity: Embracing genetic, cultural, and ecological diversity enriches human experience and promotes harmony in a rapidly changing world.

  • M.S. Swaminathan, P.V. Narasimha Rao, Charan Singh to get Bharat Ratna

    Bharat Ratna

    Introduction

    • The Bharat Ratna will be conferred on former Prime Ministers P. V. Narasimha Rao and Choudhary Charan Singh, as well as Green Revolution pioneer S. Swaminathan.
    • This will add to the two awardees already announced earlier this year — socialist leader Karpoori Thakur and former Deputy Prime Minister L. K. Advani.

    About the Bharat Ratna Laureates

    [1] Dr. M.S. Swaminathan

    Aspect Details
    Early Life
    • Born on August 7, 1925, in Kumbakonam, Madras Presidency.
    • Pursued higher education in zoology and agricultural science.
    • Passed away on 23rd September, 2023 at the age of 98.
    Career Highlights
    • Conducted research on combating potato crop parasites during a UNESCO fellowship (1949-1954).
    • Earned a PhD from the University of Cambridge in 1954.
    • Served as Director-General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (1979-1982).
    • Appointed as Director General of the International Rice Research Institute in 1982.
    Green Revolution Contributions
    • Pioneered high-yielding variety seeds and improved irrigation methods.
    • Collaborated with Dr. Norman Borlaug to develop high-yielding wheat varieties (1965-1970).
    Challenges and Advocacy Advocated for fair Minimum Support Prices for farmers and highlighted ecological concerns.
    Legacy and Recognition
    • Received numerous international accolades and civilian awards from India and other nations.
    • Honored with Padma Shri (1967), Padma Bhushan (1972), and Padma Vibhushan (1989) awards in India.
    • Awarded over 80 honorary doctorates from universities worldwide.

     

    [2] PV Narasimha Rao

    Details
    Early Life
    • Born on June 28, 1921, in Karimnagar district, Hyderabad State (now Telangana, India).
    • Passed away on December 23, 2004, in New Delhi.
    Education
    • Bachelor of Arts degree from Osmania University.
    • Higher studies at the University of Bombay and Nagpur University.
    Political Career
    • Started in the Indian National Congress.
    • Served as MLA in undivided Andhra Pradesh.
    • Held ministerial positions, including Minister of External Affairs and Minister of Defence.
    Economic Reforms (1991)
    • Initiated significant economic reforms in response to the 1991 crisis.
    • Reforms included dismantling the License Raj, opening up the economy, and initiating privatization.
    Foreign Policy
    • Strengthened ties with the United States and other major powers.
    • Initiated the “Look East Policy” to enhance engagement with Southeast and East Asia.
    South Asian Diplomacy
    • Handled the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and initiated dialogue with Pakistan.
    • Deployed peacekeeping forces to Sri Lanka as part of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF).
    Political Legacy
    • Credited with laying the foundation for India’s economic liberalization and globalization.
    • Recognized for pragmatic leadership during a critical period in India’s history.
    • Remembered as a statesman who shaped India’s economic and foreign policies.

     

    [3] Choudhary Charan Singh

    Aspect Details
    Early Life
    • Born on December 23, 1903, in Noorpur village near Hapur, India.
    • Entered politics during the national movement and was elected to the United Provinces Assembly from Chhaprauli in 1937.
    Political Career
    • Advocated for village economy issues and fought against the exploitation of peasants by big landlords.
    • Served as Revenue Minister in UP’s first Chief Minister Govind Ballabh Pant’s cabinet, instrumental in implementing zamindari abolition and land ceiling laws.
    • Emerged as a popular leader among North Indian farmer communities and Muslims.
    • Became UP’s first non-Congress Chief Minister in 1967, forming a coalition government.
    • Won the 1977 Lok Sabha elections on the Janata Party ticket, became Deputy PM under Morarji Desai’s government.
    • Formed the Janata Party (Secular) in 1979, briefly served as PM with support from Indira Gandhi.
    Legacy
    • Championed the cause of peasants and created a new political class representing farming communities in North India.
    • Influenced the shift of farmer communities from Congress and Jan Sangh to parties specifically representing them.
    • His son, Ajit Singh, formed the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD), continuing the family’s political legacy.
    • Charan Singh remains hailed as one of India’s tallest Jat leaders.

     

    Back2Basics: Bharat Ratna

    Details
    Nature
    • Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award of the Republic of India.
    History and Evolution
    • Instituted in 1954.
    • Originally limited to achievements in arts, literature, science, and public services.
    • Criteria expanded in December 2011.
    First Recipients C. Rajagopalachari, Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, and C. V. Raman were the first recipients in 1954.
    Key Aspects
    • Not mandatory to be awarded every year.
    • Can be awarded to non-Indian citizens.
    • Recommendations made by the Prime Minister to the President.
    • Restricted to a maximum of three awards per year.
    • Recipient receives a Sanad (certificate) and a medallion.
    • No monetary grant accompanies the award.
    Article Reference
    • Cannot be used as a prefix or suffix to the recipient’s name, but can be indicated in biodata/letterhead/visiting card as “Awarded Bharat Ratna by the President” or “Recipient of Bharat Ratna Award”.
    • Article 18(1) of the Constitution states that the award cannot be used as a prefix or suffix to the recipient’s name.

  • [pib] DigiReady Certification for MSMEs and Small Retailers 

    Introduction

    • The Quality Council of India (QCI) and Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) announced the launch of the DigiReady Certification (DRC) portal.

    What is DigiReady Certification?

    • Objective: QCI, in collaboration with ONDC, aims to assess and certify the digital readiness of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
    • Self-Assessment Tool: MSMEs can utilize this online self-assessment tool to evaluate their preparedness to onboard as sellers on the ONDC platform, enhancing their digital capabilities and business potential.
    • Streamlined Seller Journey: The portal is designed to facilitate a smooth seller journey, ensuring seamless integration into existing digitized workflows for MSMEs and small retailers.
    • Certification Process: Evaluates various aspects of digital readiness, including documentation for online operations, proficiency in technology usage, integration with existing workflows, and efficient order and catalogue management.
    • Significance: Provides additional business prospects for sellers, enabling them to become integral participants in the digital ecosystem.

    Back2Basics: Quality Council of India (QCI):

    • Establishment: Founded in 1997 jointly by the Department for Promotion of Industry & Internal Trade (DPIIT), the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, and the Indian industry.
    • Legal Status: Registered as a non-profit organization under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860.
    • Operational Structure: Managed through constituent Boards, primarily the National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies (NABCB) and the National Accreditation Board for Testing & Calibration Laboratories (NABL).
    • Composition:
      1. Governed by a Council comprising 38 members with equal representations from government, industry, and consumers.
      2. The Chairman of QCI is appointed by the Prime Minister based on industry recommendations to the government.

  • Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD): The Monkey Fever

    Kyasanur Forest Disease

    Introduction

    • Recent fatalities due to Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), known as monkey fever, in Karnataka have sparked concerns about the spread of this viral infection.

    What is Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD)?

    • Origins and Identification: KFD is caused by the Kyasanur Forest disease virus (KFDV), a member of the Flaviviridae virus family. It was first identified in 1957 in Karnataka’s Kyasanur Forest.
    • Incidence and Mortality: Between 400-500 human cases are reported annually, with an estimated case-fatality rate ranging from 3% to 5%.

    Transmission and Spread

    • Tick-Borne Transmission: Humans can contract KFD through tick bites or contact with infected animals, particularly sick or deceased monkeys.
    • Limited Animal Role: While large animals like goats, cows, and sheep can become infected, they play a minor role in disease transmission. There’s no evidence of transmission through unpasteurized milk.

    Signs and Symptoms

    • Early Symptoms: The disease typically manifests with chills, fever, and headache after an incubation period of 3-8 days.
    • Progression: Severe muscle pain, vomiting, gastrointestinal issues, and bleeding tendencies may develop within 3-4 days. Some patients experience neurological symptoms in the third week, including severe headaches and vision problems.

    Diagnosis and Treatment

    • Diagnostic Methods: Early diagnosis involves molecular detection through PCR or virus isolation from blood. Serologic testing using ELISA is conducted later.
    • Treatment Approach: While no specific treatment exists, early hospitalization and supportive therapy, such as hydration maintenance, are crucial.

    Prevention Strategies

    • Vaccination: A vaccine for KFD is available and administered in endemic regions of India to prevent the disease.
    • Preventive Measures: Insect repellents and protective clothing are recommended in tick-infested areas to minimize the risk of infection.

  • In news: Appointment of Election Commissioner

    Introduction

    • The impending retirement of Election Commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey on February 14 signals a significant shift in India’s electoral procedures.
    • For the first time, his successor will be selected through a consultative process, departing from past practices of government discretion as per the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023.

    EC Appointments: Judicial Imperative

    • Supreme Court Intervention: In March 2023, the Supreme Court intervened to address the longstanding legislative gap surrounding the appointment of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (ECs).
    • Emphasis on Independence: The Court emphasized the need for an independent Election Commission, paralleling other constitutional bodies with autonomous appointment mechanisms.

    CEC and EC Appointment Act, 2023: Key Provisions

    • Appointment Process: The Law establishes a Selection Committee comprising the Prime Minister, Union Cabinet Minister, and the Leader of the Opposition or the largest opposition party’s leader in the Lok Sabha.
    • Eligibility and Conditions: Eligible candidates must have held or hold positions equivalent to the Secretary to the central government, with salary parity to the Cabinet Secretary.
    • Removal Mechanism: The Law outlines the removal process, retaining the constitutional provision for the CEC’s removal akin to a Supreme Court Judge and ECs’ removal upon the CEC’s recommendation.

    Appointment of the CEC and ECs: Present Mechanism

    [A] Constitutional Provisions:

    • Part XV (Elections) of the Constitution outlines Articles 324-329, governing electoral processes.
    • The Constitution does not prescribe a specific legislative procedure for appointing the CEC and ECs.
    • Article 324 vests the responsibility of overseeing elections in an Election Commission comprising the CEC and other ECs, as determined by the President.
    • President appoints them based on the Union Council of Ministers’ advice, led by the Prime Minister.
    • Law Minister proposes suitable candidates to the Prime Minister, who advises the President on the appointments.

    [B] Removal:

    • Commissioners have the liberty to resign or be removed before completing their term.
    • The removal process for the CEC mirrors that of a Supreme Court judge, necessitating parliamentary action.
    • Removal of any other EC can only occur upon the CEC’s recommendation.

    Current Challenges and Concerns

    • Transparency and Independence: Concerns arise over the potential monopolization of the Selection Committee by ruling party members, undermining diversity and independence.
    • Executive Influence: Equating the salary of Election Commissioners with that of executive officials raises apprehensions regarding government influence.
    • Eligibility Criteria: Restricting eligibility to civil servants may limit diversity and expertise within the Election Commission.
    • Lack of Parity: Disparities in the removal process between the CEC and ECs raise questions about fairness and institutional autonomy.

    Way forward

    • Safeguarding Independence: Upholding the integrity and independence of the Election Commission remains paramount, necessitating robust oversight mechanisms.
    • Addressing Concerns: Mitigating concerns surrounding transparency, executive influence, and eligibility criteria is essential to foster public trust and confidence.
    • Continued Judicial Vigilance: Ongoing judicial oversight is crucial to ensure the effective implementation of electoral reforms and uphold democratic principles.

    Conclusion

    • The transition towards a consultative process for appointing Election Commissioners reflects a significant milestone in India’s electoral governance.
    • While the reform bill marks a commendable step towards enhancing transparency and inclusivity, addressing current challenges and safeguarding institutional independence will be pivotal in fostering public trust and strengthening democratic institutions.

  • Cameroon adopts Nagoya Protocol

    Introduction

    • Cameroon’s recent adoption of the Nagoya Protocol marks a significant step towards harnessing its rich biodiversity for sustainable development.

    Cameroon’s Biodiversity Wealth

    • Biodiversity Hotspot: Cameroon hosts approximately 11,000 species, offering immense genetic resources for research and development.
    • Traditional Knowledge: Indigenous communities possess invaluable traditional knowledge associated with biodiversity, contributing to bioprospecting (search for useful products derived from bioresources including plants, microorganisms, animals, etc.).
    • Bioprospecting Potential: Bioprospecting projects, such as those focusing on species like Irvingia wombulu, present opportunities for sustainable resource utilization.

    About Nagoya Protocol

    Details
    Purpose Implements access and benefit-sharing obligations of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
    Adoption October 2010
    Entry into Force October 12, 2014
    Legal Status Legally binding global agreement
    Objective Ensures fair and equitable sharing of benefits from the utilization of genetic resources
    Membership India is a member
    Benefits
    • Establishes a framework for accessing genetic resources for research
    • Provides certainty for investment in biodiversity-based research
    • Ensures fair sharing of benefits from resource use
    • Recognizes the value of traditional knowledge associated with genetic resources
    Scope
    • Genetic resources covered by the CBD
    • Benefits arising from their utilization
    • Traditional knowledge (TK) associated with genetic resources covered by the CBD and benefits from their utilization

     

    Key Facts about Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD):

    Description
    Adoption Date Opened for signing in 1992 at the UN Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro
    Objectives Conservation of biological diversity,

    Sustainable use of biological diversity,

    Fair and equitable benefit sharing
    Membership 196 contracting parties
    Scope Covers biodiversity conservation at all levels:

    Ecosystems, Species, and Genetic resources
    Decision-Making Body Conference of the Parties (COP)
    Secretariat Based in Montreal, Canada
    Supporting Agreements
    • Cartagena Protocol (2000) for regulating LMOs movement,
    • Nagoya Protocol (2010) for access and benefit sharing