Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

Nana Jagannath Shankarseth: The ‘Architect of Mumbai’

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Nana Jagannath Shankarseth and his contributions

Mains level: NA

Why in the news-

  • The Maharashtra cabinet has resolved to request the Ministry of Railways to rename Mumbai Central station after Nana Jagannath Shankarseth, a revered social reformer, educationist, and philanthropist often hailed as the “architect” of Mumbai.

About Nana Jagannath Shankarseth (1803-1865)

  • Born on February 10, 1803, in Murbad, Thane, into the affluent Murkute family.
  • His father, Shankar Murkute, earned the nickname “Shankar Sheth” due to his success in the jewellery and diamond trade.
  • He contributed in terms of both ideas and money to multiple sectors, to lay a strong foundation for the Bombay City.
  • He was greatly inspired by the legendary merchant and philanthropist Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy.

Contribution of Nana Jagannath Shankarseth

  • Founded the Bombay Association in 1852, the first political organization in Mumbai, fostering a platform for civic engagement and political discourse.
  • Played a pivotal role as one of the founding members of the Great Indian Peninsula Railway in 1853, contributing to India’s infrastructural development.
  • Recognized the importance of education in societal progress and opened the first school for girls in Mumbai in 1849, pioneering educational reform.
  • Co-founded the School Society and the Native School of Bombay, laying the foundation for educational institutions that nurtured future leaders such as Dadabhai Naoroji and Gopal Krishna Gokhale.
  • Established the Bombay Native Education Society in 1822, the first of its kind in Western India, to promote education among the masses.
  • Collaborated with Sir George Birdwood and Dr Bhau Daji in major reconstruction efforts in Mumbai starting in 1857, transforming the city’s urban landscape.
  • Became the first Indian to be nominated to the Bombay Legislative Council in 1861, advocating for policies that improved public welfare and urban amenities.
  • Honored with a marble statue at the Asiatic Society of Mumbai a year after his death in 1865, commemorating his contributions to society.

 


 

Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2012:

Q.The most effective contribution made by Dadabhai Naoroji to the cause of Indian National Movement was that he-

  1. exposed the economic exploitation of India by the British
  2. interpreted the ancient Indian texts and restored the self-confidence of Indians
  3. stressed the need for eradication of all the social evils before anything else

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

 

Practice MCQ:

Q. Consider the following events:

He founded the Bombay Association in 1852, the first political organization in Mumbai, fostering a platform for civic engagement and political discourse. Recognizing the importance of education in societal progress, he opened the first school for girls in Mumbai in 1849, pioneering educational reform. He became the first Indian to be nominated to the Bombay Legislative Council in 1861, advocating for policies that improved public welfare and urban amenities.

The above description is mentioned about which of the following personality?

a) Gopal Krishna Gokhale

b) Maharshi Vitthal Ramji Shinde

c) Nana Jagannath Shankarseth

d) Dhondo Keshav Karve

 

 

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Defence Sector – DPP, Missions, Schemes, Security Forces, etc.

AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters Fleet inducted to the Army

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters

Mains level: Read the attached story

Why in the news-

  • The Indian Army Aviation Corps inaugurated its first unit of AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters into its fleet at Jodhpur Air Base.

AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters

  • The AH-64E Apache also known as ‘Apache Guardian’ is widely recognized as the world’s most advanced multi-role combat helicopter.
  • It originates from the United States and is manufactured by Boeing.
  • In February 2020, India sealed a deal with Boeing for the acquisition of six AH-64E for the Army, with an additional six helicopters contracted subsequently.
  • Several countries have acquired the AH-64E, including India, Egypt, Greece, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, Netherlands, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, UAE, and the UK.
Indigenous Push

  • Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL), a joint venture between Boeing and Tata Advanced Systems Ltd. (TASL), was established in 2016 to manufacture fuselages for the AH-64 Apache.
  • TBAL’s Hyderabad facility has been delivering AH-64 Apache fuselages since 2018.
  • The advanced manufacturing facility will eventually become the sole producer of AH-64 fuselages in the world, with 90% of parts sourced from Indian suppliers.

Combat Features

  • Engineered with an open systems architecture to integrate cutting-edge communications, navigation, sensor, and weapon systems.
  • Boasts enhanced thrust and lift capabilities, joint digital interoperability, improved survivability, and cognitive decision aiding.
  • Incorporates a new integrated infrared laser for simplified target designation and upgraded infrared imagery blending infrared with night vision capabilities.

Strategic Significance of the Induction

  • Enhancing Combat Capability: The induction of Apache helicopters marks a significant advancement for the Army Aviation Corps, providing formidable firepower and maneuverability in combat scenarios.
  • Complementing Indigenous Capabilities: The Apaches will complement the indigenous Light Combat helicopter (LCH), strengthening the Army’s aerial combat capabilities.
  • Replacing the ageing arsenal: The Apache fleet is set to will replace the Russian Mi-35 attack helicopters in service.

Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2018:

Q.What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news?

(a) An Israeli radar system

(b) India’s indigenous anti-missile programme

(c) An American anti-missile system

(d) A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea

Practice MCQ:

What is “AH-64E Apache Guardian “, sometimes seen in the news?

(a) Multi-role Helicopter

(b) Radar

(c) Anti-Tank Missile

(d) Air-Defence System

 

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

RBI Notifications

RBI may move some NBFCs to Top Layer this year

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: NBFCs and their operations, Scale-Based Regulation of NBFCs

Mains level: NA

In the news

  • Nearly two years after introducing a revised regulatory framework for non-banking finance companies (NBFCs), the Reserve Bank of India is set to review the categorisation of NBFCs in 2024.
  • Currently, 16 NBFCs are placed in the upper layer.

What are Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs)?

  • A NBFC is a company registered under the Companies Act, 1956.
  • It engaged in the business of loans and advances, acquisition of shares/stocks/bonds/debentures/securities issued by Government or local authority or other marketable securities of a like nature, leasing, hire-purchase, insurance business, and chit business.
  • It does NOT include any institution whose principal business is that of agriculture activity, industrial activity, purchase or sale of any goods (other than securities) or providing any services and sale/purchase/construction of immovable property.

How are NBFCs different from Bank?

  • NBFCs lends and make investments and hence their activities are akin to that of banks.
  • However, there are a few differences as given below:
  1. Commercial Banks are regulated under Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
  2. NBFC CANNOT accept demand deposits.
  3. NBFCs DO NOT form part of the payment and settlement system and cannot issue cheques drawn on itself.
  4. Deposit insurance facility of Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation is NOT available to depositors of NBFCs, unlike in case of banks.

Different types/categories of NBFCs registered with RBI

NBFCs are categorized:

  1. in terms of the type of liabilities into Deposit and Non-Deposit accepting NBFCs,
  2. non deposit taking NBFCs by their size into systemically important and other non-deposit holding companies (NBFC-NDSI and NBFC-ND) and
  3. by the kind of activity they conduct.

Within this broad categorization the different types of NBFCs are as follows:

Definition
Asset Finance Company (AFC) A financial institution primarily engaged in financing physical assets used in productive/economic activities, such as automobiles, tractors, machinery, and industrial equipment.
Investment Company (IC) A company whose principal business involves acquiring securities.
Loan Company (LC) A financial institution primarily engaged in providing finance through loans, advances, or other means for activities other than its own.

Does not include Asset Finance Companies.

Infrastructure Finance Company (IFC) A non-banking finance company that deploys at least 75% of its total assets in infrastructure loans, with a minimum Net Owned Funds of ₹300 crore, a minimum credit rating of ‘A’ or equivalent, and a CRAR of 15%.
Systemically Important NBFCs NBFCs with an asset size of ₹500 crore or more, as per the last audited balance sheet.

Considered significant due to their potential impact on the overall financial stability of the economy.

 

Scale-Based Regulation of NBFCs

  • Scale-based regulations came into effect in October 2021 and were implemented a year later by RBI.
  • There are four layers namely the base layer, middle layer, upper layer and top layer.
  • As on September 30, 2023, NBFCs in the base, middle and upper layers constituted 6 per cent, 71 per cent and 23 per cent of the total assets of NBFCs respectively.
  • Presently, no NBFC is listed in the top layer.

Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects of the SBR:

  1. Base Layer (NBFC-BL)
  • The Base Layer primarily comprises non-deposit-taking NBFCs with assets below Rs 1,000 crore.
  • It encompasses NBFC Peer to Peer (P2P), NBFC-Account Aggregator (AA), Non-Operative Financial Holding Company (NOFHC), and NBFCs without public funds and customer interface.
  1. Middle Layer (NBFC-ML)
  • The Middle Layer includes deposit-taking NBFCs and non-deposit-taking NBFCs with assets exceeding Rs 1,000 crore.
  • It encompasses NBFCs involved in specific activities such as Standalone Primary Dealers (SPDs), Infrastructure Debt Fund – NBFCs (IDF-NBFCs), Core Investment Companies (CICs), Housing Finance Companies (HFCs), and Infrastructure Finance Companies (NBFC-IFCs).

III. Upper Layer (NBFC-UL)

  • The Upper Layer comprises NBFCs identified by RBI as requiring enhanced regulatory requirements based on specific parameters and scoring methodology.
  • The top 10 eligible NBFCs in terms of asset size will always be placed in the Upper Layer, irrespective of other factors.
  1. Top Layer (NBFC-TL)
  • NBFCs in the Upper Layer may be transferred to the Top Layer if RBI perceives a significant increase in potential systemic risk.
  • Currently, the Top Layer remains vacant but serves as a precautionary measure for heightened risk situations.

 

With inputs from: https://rbi.org.in/scripts/PublicationsView.aspx?Id=21580


Practice MCQ:

Q. With reference to the Scale-Based Regulation of Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), consider the following statements:

  1. Higher the layer, least is the regulatory intervention required by the RBI.
  2. Currently, no NBFC is listed in the top layer.

Which of the given statements is/are correct?

a) Only 1

b) Only 2

c) Both 1 and 2

d) Neither 1 nor 2


Try this PYQ from CSE 2020:

  1. If you withdraw ` 1,00,000 in cash from your Demand Deposit Account at your bank, the immediate effect on aggregate money supply in the economy will be:

(a) to reduce it by ` 1,00,000

(b) to increase it by ` 1,00,000

(c) to increase it by more than ` 1,00,000

(d) to leave it unchanged

 

Post your answers here.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Social Media: Prospect and Challenges

Centre bans 18 OTT Platforms for Inappropriate Content

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Laws governing OTT Ban

Mains level: Read the attached story

In the news

  • The Information & Broadcasting Ministry has blocked 18 OTT platforms on the charge of publishing obscene and vulgar content.

How were these platforms banned?

  • The contents listed on the OTT platforms was found to be prima facie violation of:
  1. Section 67 and 67A of the Information Technology Act, 2000;
  2. Section 292 of the Indian Penal Code; and
  3. Section 4 of the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986.
  • These platforms were violative of the responsibility to not propagate obscenity, vulgarity and abuse under the guise of ‘creative expression’.

How are OTT Platforms regulated in India?

  • Regulatory Framework: The Information Technology (Guidelines for Intermediaries and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 introduce a Code of Ethics applicable to digital media entities and OTT platforms.
  • Key Provisions: These guidelines encompass content categorization, parental controls, adherence to journalistic norms, and the establishment of a grievance redressal mechanism to address concerns.

[A] Content Regulations

  • Age-Based Classification: OTT platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime are mandated to classify their content into five age-based categories: U (universal), 7+, 13+, 16+, and A (adult).
  • Parental Locks: Effective parental locks must be implemented for content classified as 13+, ensuring that parents can control access to age-inappropriate material.
  • Age Verification: Robust age verification systems are required for accessing adult content, enhancing parental oversight and safeguarding minors from exposure to inappropriate material.

[B] Grievance Redressal Mechanism

  • Three-Tier System: A comprehensive grievance redressal mechanism consisting of three tiers has been established:
    1. Level-I: Publishers are encouraged to engage in self-regulation to address grievances and concerns internally.
    2. Level-II: A self-regulating body, headed by a retired judge from the Supreme Court or High Court or an eminent independent figure, will oversee complaints and ensure impartial resolution.
    3. Level-III: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting will formulate an oversight mechanism and establish an inter-departmental committee tasked with addressing grievances. This body possesses the authority to censor and block content when necessary.

[C] Selective Banning of OTT Communication Services

  • Parliamentary Notice: Concerns about the influence and impact of OTT communication services prompted a notice from a Parliamentary Standing Committee to the Department of Telecom (DoT).
  • Scope of Discussion: This discussion focuses exclusively on OTT communication services such as WhatsApp, Signal, Meta (formerly Facebook), Google Meet, and Zoom, excluding content-based OTTs like Netflix or Amazon Prime.
  • Regulatory Authority: Content regulation within OTT communication services falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring responsible communication practices.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

Lyme Disease reported in Ernakulam

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Lyme Disease and its causative borrelia bacteria

Mains level: NA

In the news

  • A suspected case of Lyme disease caused by the bite of a tick carrying borrelia bacteria has been reported from Koovapady in Ernakulam district.

What is Lyme Disease?

  • According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Lyme is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks.
  • Typical symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrans.
  • If left untreated, infection can spread to joints, the heart, and the nervous system.

Symptoms of Lyme Disease

Symptoms of Lyme disease depend on the stage of the condition.

(1) Stage 1

  • The early symptoms of Lyme disease begin to appear within 3 to 30 days after a tick bite.
  • In this stage, the disease has a limited set of symptoms that includes rash, fever, headache, muscle aches etc. and hence is called early localised disease.

(2) Stage 2

  • Stage 2 is often more serious and widespread. It is called early disseminated disease.
  • Symptoms include more rashes on other parts of the body, neck pain or stiffness, muscle weakness on one or both sides of the face etc.

(3) Stage 3

  • In the United States, the most common condition of this stage is arthritis in large joints, particularly the knees.
  • Pain, swelling or stiffness may last for a long time. Or the symptoms may come and go.
  • Stage 3 symptoms usually begin 2 to 12 months after a tick bite.

 


Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2016:

Which of the following statements is/are correct? 

Viruses can infect

  1. bacteria
  2. fungi
  3. plants

Select the correct answer using the code given below. 

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

 

Post your answers here.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Monsoon Updates

Atmospheric Research Testbed in Central India (ART-CI)

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Monsoon Core Zone (MCZ) , Monsoon Trough, ART-CI

Mains level: NA

Why in the news-

  • The Ministry of Earth Sciences has commissioned Atmospheric Research Testbed-Central India (ART-CI) near Bhopal.

About Atmospheric Research Testbed

  • ART-CI stands as an innovative testbed facility, pioneering the exploration of monsoon convection and land-atmosphere interactions, marking a significant advancement in climate research.
  • The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune leads ART-CI, operating under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).

Mission Objectives

  • ART-CI primarily targets the monsoon trough area, encompassing the Monsoon Core Zone (MCZ), a critical component of the regional climate system.
  • Understanding this zone is paramount for precise weather forecasts and accurate climate modelling within India.

Monsoon Core Zone (MCZ)

 

  • MCZ is a region in India stretching from Gujarat to West Bengal in the east.
  • India Meteorological Department demarcates it as an agricultural region where cropping is mostly rainfed.
  • It is the region within the monsoon trough area that plays a central role in the dynamics of the Indian monsoon system.
  • It is characterized by intense convective activity, significant rainfall, and crucial atmospheric interactions that influence the overall behavior of the monsoon.
  • The MCZ typically experiences a concentration of atmospheric processes that drive the onset, progression, and withdrawal of the monsoon rains across the Indian subcontinent.

Features and Capabilities

  • ART-CI’s development unfolds incrementally as part of the Atmosphere & Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems & Services (ACROSS) umbrella scheme.
  • The facility will feature an extensive array of remote-sensing and in-situ instruments.
  • These tools would help monitoring of various atmospheric parameters like convection, cloud cover, precipitation, soil moisture, radiation levels, and microphysics.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Air Pollution

Global Methane Tracker, 2024

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Global Methane Tracker, 2024

Mains level: NA

Why in the news-

  • Methane emissions from fuel use in 2023 reached nearly record levels, totalling 120 million tonnes (Mt), as per the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) Global Methane Tracker 2024.

What is Global Methane Tracker (GMT)?

  • The IEA’s Methane Tracker is an online database that tracks oil and gas-related methane sources globally.
  • It provides estimates of emissions across various sectors, including oil, natural gas, coal, and bioenergy, with the energy sector contributing nearly 40% of human-related methane emissions
  • It provides current estimates of methane emissions and highlights potential reductions achievable through existing technologies.

GMT 2024: Key Findings 

  • Elevated Emissions: Satellite data revealed a more than 50% increase in large methane emissions in 2023 compared to the previous year.
  • Top Emitters: The United States and Russia emerged as the largest emitters of methane from oil and gas operations, contributing significantly to global emissions.
  • Fossil Fuel Leaks: Over 5 Mt of methane emissions were attributed to major fossil fuel leaks globally, including a significant blowout incident in Kazakhstan lasting over 200 days.
  • Cost of Emission Cut: Reducing methane emissions from fossil fuels by 75% by 2030 would require about $170 billion in spending – less than 5% of the income generated by the fossil fuel industry in 2023.

About Methane Pollution

  • Methane, is an organic compound composed of carbon and four hydrogen atoms (CH4).
  • Second-biggest anthropogenic contributor to global warming after carbon dioxide, 80 times more potent.
  • Global Warming Potential (GWP) measures warming caused by substances relative to carbon dioxide over a century.
  • Methane GWP100: 28, nitrous oxide 265, sulphur hexafluoride 23,500.
  • Short-lived climate pollutant, breaks down in a few years, unlike carbon dioxide.
  • Sources: Cattle farming, landfills, wastewater treatment, rice cultivation, industrial processes.
  • Energy, agriculture, and waste sectors are primary emitters, responsible for 30% of global warming.
  • Livestock emissions, including manure and gastroenteric releases, account for 32% of human-caused emissions.

Global steps to curb Methane Emissions 

  • Paris Agreement Goal: To limit warming to 1.5°C, methane emissions from fossil fuels must be reduced by 75% by 2030, necessitating substantial efforts and investments.
  • Global Methane Pledge: Launched at UN COP26 climate conference in Glasgow. Over 90 countries signed, led by the United States and the European Union (India not signed up).
  • First Global Stocktake (GST):  Released at COP28, called for countries to accelerate and substantially reduce non-carbon-dioxide emissions globally, including methane, by 2030. But it stopped short of providing a quantifiable target.

 

Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2016:

Q.In the cities of our country, which among the following atmospheric gases are normally considered in calculating the value of Air Quality Index?

  1. Carbon dioxide
  2. Carbon monoxide
  3. Nitrogen dioxide
  4. Sulphur dioxide
  5. Methane

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only

(b) 2, 3 and 4 only

(c) 1, 4 and 5 only

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

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

Celebrating Pi Day: A Tribute to Mathematics

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Pi, Sulbha Sutra

Mains level: NA

In the news

  • March 14, or 3/14, is celebrated globally as Pi Day, paying homage to the mathematical constant Pi (π).

About Pi Day

  • Initiated by: Physicist Larry Shaw of the Exploratorium museum in San Francisco started the tradition in 1988, which has since gained international recognition.
  • UNESCO Designation: In 2019, UNESCO designated Pi Day as the International Day of Mathematics, highlighting its significance in promoting mathematical awareness.

What is Pi?

  • Mathematical Constant: Pi (π) represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter, with a value of approximately 3.14.
  • Irrational Number: Pi is an irrational number, with a decimal representation that neither terminates nor repeats.
  • Ancient Approximations: Ancient civilizations, including Babylonians and Egyptians, approximated Pi using geometric methods, laying the foundation for its calculation.
  • Symbol of Beauty: Pi’s infinite and non-repeating decimal digits evoke a sense of wonder and appreciation for the intricacies of mathematics.

Do you know?

  • Baudhayana (800 BC – 740 BC) is said to be the original Mathematician behind the Pythagoras theorem and Calculation of Pi (3.142).
  •  Pythagoras theorem was indeed known much before Pythagoras, and it was Indians who discovered it at least 1000 years before Pythagoras was born!
  • The credit for authoring the earliest Sulbha Sutras goes to him.
  • Aryabhatta, another great Indian mathematician, worked out the accurate value of π to 3.1416. in 499AD.

 

Evolution of Pi Calculation

  • Archimedes’ Method: Greek polymath Archimedes devised a method to approximate Pi using inscribed and circumscribed polygons, pioneering early calculations.
  • Newton’s Contribution: Isaac Newton revolutionized Pi calculation using calculus, significantly simplifying the process and enabling rapid advancements.
  • Modern Computing: With the aid of modern computers, mathematicians have calculated Pi to trillions of decimal places, facilitating precise scientific calculations.

Practical Significance of Pi

  • Architectural and Engineering Applications: Pi plays a crucial role in designing structures, shaping engineering solutions, and facilitating accurate measurements.
  • Understanding the Universe: Pi’s significance extends to diverse fields, from space exploration to molecular biology, underscoring its universal applicability.
  • Intrinsic Value: Despite its vast decimal expansion, Pi holds intrinsic value as a symbol of mathematical beauty and infinity, inspiring exploration and discovery.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Uniform Civil Code: Triple Talaq debate, Polygamy issue, etc.

President approves Uttarakhand’s UCC Bill

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Governor's Legislative Powers

Mains level: NA

In the news

  • Under Article 201 of the Indian Constitution, the President gave assent to the ‘Uniform Civil Code Uttarakhand 2024’ Bill passed by the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly, on March 11 2024.

What is the Uniform Civil Code?

  • The UCC is mentioned in Article 44 of the Constitution as part of the Directive Principles of State Policy, that the state should work to establish a uniform civil code for all citizens across India.
    • However, the Constitution’s framers left it to the government’s discretion to implement the UCC.
  • Goa is the only state in India with a UCC, following the Portuguese Civil Code of 1867.

What are the SC Observations?

  • The Supreme Court has emphasized the importance of Governors promptly acting on Bills sent to them for assent after passage by Legislative Assemblies.
  • Bills should be returned “as soon as possible” to prevent undue delay, with significant constitutional intent behind this directive.

Governor’s Power over State Bills

 

[I] Article 200:

  • Article 200 delineates the process for State Legislative Assembly-passed Bills to be presented to the Governor for assent.
  • The Governor holds the authority to either assent, withhold assent, or reserve the Bill for consideration by the President.
  • Additionally, the Governor possesses the prerogative to return the Bill to the House or Houses with a message requesting reconsideration.

 

[II] Article 201:

  • Article 201 stipulates the procedures concerning Bills reserved for the President’s consideration.
  • It allows the President to either assent to or withhold assent from the Bill.
  • If necessary, the President can direct the Governor to return the Bill to the State Legislature for reconsideration.

 

Governor’s Discretion 

The Governor holds several options upon receiving a Bill:

  • Granting Assent.
  • Requesting the Assembly to reconsider specific provisions or the entire Bill.
  • Obligatory reservation for the President’s consideration, especially in cases posing a threat to the state high court or contravening constitutional provisions, DPSP, national interest, or Article 31A regarding compulsory property acquisition.
  • Although within the Governor’s authority, withholding assent is seldom practiced due to its contentious nature.

Committee Recommendations:

 

(1) Sarkaria Commission (1987):

  • It recommended that Governors exercise discretion in reserving Bills for Presidential consideration only in rare cases of unconstitutionality.
  • Bills should otherwise be processed as per ministerial advice, with a maximum six-month period for Presidential disposition.

 

(2) Punchhi Commission (2010):

  • It proposed a six-month timeframe for Governors to decide on Bills presented for assent, emphasizing timely decision-making.

Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2016:

Q.Consider the following statements:

  1. The Chief Secretary in a State is appointed by the Governor of that State.
  2. The Chief Secretary in a State has a fixed tenure.

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

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Places in news: Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Pobitora WLS, One-Horned Rhino and its habitat

Mains level: NA

rhino

Why in the news? 

  • The Supreme Court halted the Assam government’s attempt to revoke a 26-year-old notification establishing the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a significant rhino population.

What was the reason behind this decision?

  • The Supreme Court asserted that withdrawing a notification for a wildlife sanctuary required permission from the National Board of Wildlife, and clarified its order does not impede actions to protect forest dwellers’ rights.

About Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary 

  • Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary boasts the highest density of one-horned rhinos globally, second only to Kaziranga National Park in Assam. Often dubbed as ‘Mini Kaziranga,’ Pobitora shares a similar landscape and vegetation to its renowned counterpart.
  • The sanctuary shelters various endangered species, including one-horned rhinoceros, leopards, leopard cats, fishing cats, jungle cats, feral buffaloes, wild pigs, and Chinese pangolins.
  • Approximately 72% of Pobitora’s area comprises a wet savannah dominated by Arundo donax and Saccharum grasses, while the rest is covered by water bodies.

About One-Horned Rhino:

  • IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable.
  • Habitat– Rhinos are mainly found in Assam, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh.
    • Assam has an estimated 2,640 rhinos in four protected areas, i.e. Pabitora Wildlife Reserve, Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park, Kaziranga National Park, and Manas National Park.
    • About 2,400 of them are in the Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNPTR).

Prelims Question:

Which wildlife sanctuary boasts the highest density of one-horned rhinos globally, second only to Kaziranga National Park in Assam?

a) Manas National Park

b) Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

c) Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park

d) Jim Corbett National Park

 

Post your answers here.

 

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Oil and Gas Sector – HELP, Open Acreage Policy, etc.

India’s First Cattle Dung-based Bio-CNG Station in Gujarat

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Cattle Dung-based Bio-CNG

Mains level: NA

In the news

  • Nestled along the Deesa-Tharad highway in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district lies India’s pioneering gas-filling station, seemingly unremarkable at first glance.
  • However, this station, powered by cattle and buffalo dung, marks a significant leap in renewable energy innovation.

Fuel Production from Dung: A Technological Marvel

  • Innovative Concept: The ‘BioCNG’ outlet in Dama village of Deesa taluka stands as India’s sole gas-filling station utilizing cattle and buffalo dung.
  • Daily Operations: The outlet serves 90-100 vehicles daily, selling 550-600 kg of gas generated from 40 tonnes of dung processed at an adjacent plant.
  • Dung Utilization: Approximately 40,000 kg of dung are sourced daily from 2,700-2,800 animals belonging to 140-150 farmers residing within a 10 km radius of the plant.

Understanding the Dung-to-Fuel Process

  • Biogas Production: Fresh dung, rich in methane and water, undergoes anaerobic digestion in a sealed vessel, yielding raw biogas.
  • Purification Process: The raw biogas undergoes purification to remove impurities like CO2 and H2S, resulting in compressed biogas (CBG) suitable for vehicle use.
  • Production Output: From 40 tonnes of dung, the plant generates 2,000 cubic meters of raw biogas containing 55-60% methane, 35-45% CO2, and 1-2% hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and moisture.

Dual Benefits: Fuel and Fertilizer

  • Fuel Value: CBG is sold at the station for Rs 72/kg, offering a renewable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional fuels.
  • Fertilizer Production: The process also yields bio-fertilizer, enriching soil health and providing an additional income stream for farmers.
  • Fertilizer Sales: The Banaskantha Union markets 8,000-10,000 kg of bio-fertilizer daily, with phosphate-rich organic manure (PROM) fetching Rs 15-16/kg and compost Rs 8-10/kg.

Significance: Decentralized Model for Sustainable Agriculture

  • Community Involvement: The initiative engages local farmers, who supply dung to the plant, fostering community participation and economic empowerment.
  • Replicability and Scalability: The model holds potential for replication across districts and states, offering a scalable solution for energy and agricultural needs.
  • Investment Plans: The Banaskantha Union plans to commission four additional 100-tonnes capacity plants by 2025, with a total investment of Rs 230 crore.

Conclusion

  • The establishment of India’s first dung-based gas-filling station represents a significant stride towards renewable energy adoption and agricultural sustainability.
  • As technology continues to evolve, decentralized models like these hold promise for transforming rural economies while mitigating environmental impact.
  • With ongoing support and investment, such initiatives can pave the way for a greener and more resilient future.

Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2019:

Q.In the context of proposals to the use of hydrogen-enriched CNG (H-CNG) as fuel for buses in public transport, consider the following statements:

  1. The main advantage of the use of H-CNG is the elimination of carbon monoxide emissions.
  2. H-CNG as fuel reduces carbon dioxide and hydrocarbon emissions.
  3. Hydrogen up to one-fifth by volume can be blended with CNG as fuel for buses.
  4. H-CNG makes the fuel less expensive than CNG.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

Enduring Friendship of Gandhi and Tagore: Exploring Their Legacy

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Rabindranath Tagore his literary works

Mains level: NA

In the news

  • Santiniketan celebrates ‘Gandhi Punyaha Din’ on March 10 every year, honoring Gandhi’s teachings on self-reliance and communal harmony.
  • This event highlights the profound friendship between MK Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore that spanned from 1914-15 until Tagore’s passing in 1941.

Try this PYQ from CSE Mains 2016:

Q. Highlight the differences in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the struggle for freedom.

 About Rabindranath Tagore

Details
Birth Born in Calcutta on 7th May 1861.
About
  • Known as ‘Gurudev’, ‘Kabiguru’, and ‘Biswakabi’.
  • Influential Bengali poet, novelist, and painter.
Literary Contributions
  • Composed over 2000 songs, known as ‘Rabindra Sangeet’.
  • Modernized Bengali prose and poetry.
  • Notable works include Gitanjali, Ghare-Baire, Gora, Manasi, Balaka, Sonar Tori, and Ekla Chalo Re.
  • Established Vishwa-Bharati University.
Awards
  • Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913 for Gitanjali.
  • First non-European to receive the Nobel Prize.
  • Awarded knighthood in 1915, renounced in 1919.
Death Passed away on 7th August 1941 in Calcutta.
Quotes
  1. “You can’t cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the sea.” – “Don’t limit the child to your own learning, for he was born in another time.”
  2. “If I can’t make it through one door, I’ll go through another door- or I’ll make a door. Something terrific will come no matter how dark the present.”
  3. “Facts are many, but the truth is one”.

Gandhi and Tagore: Genesis of Friendship

  • First Encounter (March 6, 1915): Gandhi’s visit to Santiniketan, West Bengal, where he spent nearly a month, profoundly influenced Tagore’s idyllic school and laid the foundation for their friendship.
  • Shared Ideals: Both Gandhi and Tagore were proponents of education, social reform, and cultural revival, fostering a deep connection rooted in their common vision for India’s future.

Meeting of Two Titans

  • Tagore’s Acclaim: Tagore was already a global figure, having won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913, whereas Gandhi was yet to emerge as the leader he would become.
  • Crossing Paths: C F Andrews, recognizing their ideological synergy, facilitated their meeting in Santiniketan, marking the beginning of their enduring friendship.
  • Intellectual Exchange: Their initial encounter sparked lively discussions on spirituality, ethics, and the future of India, setting the stage for a profound intellectual partnership.

Diverse Perspectives and Respectful Disagreements

  • Philosophical Disputes: Gandhi and Tagore engaged in spirited debates on various issues, including social, political, and economic matters, reflecting their diverse perspectives.
  • Respecting Differences: Despite their disagreements, they maintained a deep respect for each other’s viewpoints, fostering a relationship that transcended ideological disparities.
  • Intellectual Integrity: Both leaders valued intellectual honesty and integrity, allowing for open dialogue and constructive criticism, even when their opinions diverged.

A Tale of Mutual Admiration

  • Endearing Nicknames: Tagore referred to Gandhi as “Mahatma,” signifying his reverence for Gandhi’s moral stature, while Gandhi addressed Tagore as “Gurudev,” acknowledging his role as a spiritual guide.
  • Common Ground: Despite their differences, both leaders shared a commitment to truth, non-violence, and service to humanity, which formed the bedrock of their friendship.
  • Shared Vision: Gandhi and Tagore envisioned a free and inclusive India, where diversity was celebrated, and social justice prevailed, inspiring generations to strive for a better future.

Legacy and Influence

  • Historical Reflections: Their friendship reflected an era of profound intellectual exchange and collaboration, shaping India’s socio-cultural fabric during a pivotal period in its history.
  • Modern Interpretations: Scholars continue to analyze their correspondence and interactions, offering insights into the complexity and depth of their relationship, which remains relevant in contemporary discourse.
  • Global Impact: The principles espoused by Gandhi and Tagore continue to resonate globally, inspiring movements for peace, justice, and human rights across the world.

Conclusion

  • The enduring friendship between Gandhi and Tagore stands as a testament to the power of intellectual exchange, mutual respect, and shared ideals.
  • Their bond, characterized by respectful disagreements and a commitment to truth, continues to inspire generations and holds lessons for fostering dialogue and understanding in today’s world.
  • As we reflect on their legacy, we recognize the enduring relevance of their teachings in shaping a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

GE Marvel: Parthenogenesis in Drosophila Fruit Flies

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Drosophila, Parthenogenesis

Mains level: NA

In the news

  • In a recent milestone, researchers from Cambridge University and the California Institute of Technology achieved a remarkable feat: transforming a sexually reproducing fruit-fly species into one capable of asexual reproduction through minor genetic modifications.

About Drosophila

  • Drosophila is a genus of two-winged flies commonly known as fruit flies that are used in evolutionary and developmental studies.
  • It is a genus of flies, belonging to the family Drosophilidae, whose members are often called “small fruit flies” or pomace flies, vinegar flies, or wine flies, a reference to the characteristic of many species to linger around overripe or rotting fruit.
  • The Drosophila melanogaster genome has 200,000,000 base pairs distributed across four DNA molecules, encoding about 13,600 genes.
  • Hence it is one of the most widely-used and preferred model organisms in biological research across the world for the last 100 years.

Parthenogenesis (Asexual Reproduction) in Drosophila Family

  • Parthenogenesis Discovery: Parthenogenesis, or fatherless reproduction, was observed in Drosophila mangebeirai, a species consisting solely of females.
  • Facultatively Parthenogenetic Species: Approximately 76% of sexually reproducing species, including Drosophila mercatorum, were found to exhibit facultative parthenogenesis, wherein isolated virgin females hatch eggs that develop into offspring without fertilization by males.
  • Canonical Species: Drosophila melanogaster, the standard species for research, strictly reproduces sexually.

Genetic Basis of Parthenogenesis

  • Identifying Relevant Genes: Researchers aimed to identify genes facilitating parthenogenetic development in Drosophila mercatorum eggs and modify the Drosophila melanogaster genome accordingly.
  • RNA Sequencing: Utilizing RNA sequencing, researchers identified 44 genes in parthenogenetic D. mercatorum eggs that exhibited differential expression compared to sexually reproducing eggs.

Engineering Asexual Reproduction

  • Genetic Modifications: Researchers manipulated the expression levels of specific genes in the Drosophila melanogaster genome to mimic those observed in parthenogenetic D. mercatorum eggs.
  • Outcome: Genetic alterations, including overexpression of the pologene and Myc gene and reduced expression of the Desat2 gene, resulted in approximately 1.4% of D. melanogaster eggs exhibiting parthenogenesis, with viable offspring reaching adulthood.
  • Reproductive Potential: Parthenogenetically produced adult flies were capable of mating with males and producing progeny, demonstrating facultative parthenogenesis in a strictly sexually reproducing species.

Mechanism Involving Polar Bodies

  • Role of Polar Bodies: Polar bodies, by-products of chromosome transmission mechanisms during fertilization, were implicated in initiating embryonic development in unfertilized eggs.
  • Efficiency Alterations: Genetic modifications likely impaired the sequestration and disposal of polar bodies, enabling them to substitute for the missing male pronucleus and initiate embryonic development.

Implications for Pest Control

  • Pest Management: Raises concerns about unintended consequences in pest control strategies reliant on sterilization or genome editing.
  • Genetic Engineering: Opens avenues for genetic manipulation in model organisms, aiding research in gene drive technology and population control.
  • Conservation Biology: Offers insights into species adaptability and potential impacts of genetic interventions on natural populations.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Indian Air Force Updates

All about India’s Indigenous Fifth-Gen Fighter Jet AMCA

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)

Mains level: Fifth Generation Fighter Aircrafts and their combat capabilities

In the news

  • The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has approved a Rs 15,000 crore project for the development of India’s fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), marking a significant stride in indigenous defense capabilities.

About Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)

  • The AMCA project aims to design and manufacture a stealthy multirole fighter jet to bolster the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) combat fleet.
  • It was first initiated in 2007.
  • It is led by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the DRDO.

Features of AMCA

  • Stealth Technology: Equipped with advanced stealth features, the 25-tonne twin-engine aircraft will evade enemy radar detection, placing it on par with or even surpassing other fifth-generation stealth fighters globally.
  • Fuel and Weapons Capacity: The aircraft will feature a concealed internal fuel tank with a capacity of 6.5 tonnes and an internal weapons bay for carrying a diverse range of weapons, including indigenous armaments.
  • Engine Specifications: Initially powered by the US-built GE414 engine, the AMCA Mk2 variant will utilize a more powerful 110kN engine developed indigenously by DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) in collaboration with foreign defense partners.
  • Specialized Design Features: The AMCA will incorporate innovative design elements such as a diverterless supersonic inlet and a serpentine air intake duct to optimize engine performance and minimize radar emissions.

Significance of the development

  • Indigenous boost: AMCA project underscores India’s quest for self-reliance in defense technology, following its withdrawal from the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) collaboration with Russia in 2018.
  • Stealth Advantages: As a fifth-generation fighter, the AMCA will possess low electromagnetic signature, enhancing survivability and lethality in modern combat scenarios.
  • Enhanced Capabilities: With advanced sensors and weaponry, the AMCA will be capable of detecting and engaging enemy aircraft while remaining undetected, offering a significant advantage over fourth-generation counterparts.

Development Timeline and Prospects

  • Flight Schedule: Following CCS approval, the ADA aims to conduct the first flight of the AMCA within four and a half to five years, with full development expected to span around a decade.
  • Manufacturing Partnerships: HAL will undertake aircraft production, with private industry collaboration anticipated to expedite the manufacturing process.
  • Operational Imperatives: The IAF’s requirement for seven squadrons of AMCA underscores its pivotal role in augmenting India’s air combat capabilities amid dwindling fighter squadron numbers.

Global Context and Future Prospects

  • Limited Fifth-Generation Fleet: While countries like the US, China, and Russia possess fifth-generation stealth fighters, the AMCA will add India to this exclusive list, enhancing its strategic posture in the region.
  • IAF’s Modernization Needs: Amidst retiring legacy aircraft, the induction of AMCA squadrons will address critical operational gaps, ensuring a potent air combat fleet for the future.

Conclusion

  • The development of AMCA heralds a new era of indigenous defence manufacturing in India, underlining the nation’s commitment to technological advancement and military modernization.
  • With its advanced capabilities and stealth features, the AMCA promises to be a game-changer in the realm of aerial warfare, reinforcing India’s position as a formidable force in the global defence arena.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Roads, Highways, Cargo, Air-Cargo and Logistics infrastructure – Bharatmala, LEEP, SetuBharatam, etc.

GPS-based Highway Toll Collection: The New Proposed System

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: GAGAN, Fastags

Mains level: NA

In the news

  • The government’s plan to implement a new highway toll collection system based on the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) before the 2024 election model code of conduct kicks in.
  • In this article, we delve into the details of the proposed system, its challenges, privacy safeguards, and its relationship with the existing FASTag system.

New Proposed Highway Tolling System

  • Utilization of GNSS: The system will employ an On-Board Unit (OBU) or tracking device fitted inside vehicles, leveraging the Indian satellite navigation system, GAGAN, for accurate location mapping.
  • ANPR Technology: It will use an automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) system through cameras installed on highways and deduct tolls based on the distance travelled by a vehicle.
  • Digital Image Processing: Co-ordinates of national highways will be logged digitally, and toll rates will be assigned based on the distance travelled by a vehicle, with toll amounts deducted from a wallet linked to the OBU.
  • Enforcement Mechanisms: Gantries mounted with CCTV cameras will monitor highways, capturing high-security registration plate images to prevent evasion, ensuring compliance with the tolling system.

Challenges in Implementation

  • Recovery of Unpaid Tolls: Recovering toll amounts from non-compliant users poses a challenge, especially when digital wallets linked to OBUs are empty.
  • Evasion and Non-Compliance: Vehicles traveling without OBUs or deliberately switching them off, or misuse of OBUs to pay lower tolls, present enforcement challenges.
  • Infrastructure and Legal Amendments: Setting up ANPR-based systems and amending toll collection rules are essential for the effective implementation of the new system.

Privacy Safeguards

  • Usage of GAGAN: Utilizing the indigenous GAGAN system instead of GPS ensures data security within the country, addressing privacy concerns.
  • Legal Framework: The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, aims to safeguard privacy, although concerns regarding increased state surveillance exist.

Co-Existence with FASTags

  • Complementary Systems: The new tolling system will co-exist with FASTags, with no decision yet on mandating OBUs for all vehicles.
  • Operational Efficiency: While FASTags have achieved robust compliance, the GNSS-based system offers lower operational costs and streamlines toll collection processes.

Key Statistics

  • FASTag Compliance: By December 2023, 98.9% of vehicles passing through toll fee plazas at national highways were FASTag compliant, reflecting widespread adoption.
  • Toll Collection Growth: Toll collection increased 1.5 times from ₹17,942 crore in 2016-2017 to ₹27,744 crore in 2020-2021 at National Highway fee plazas, showcasing the effectiveness of existing mechanisms.

Conclusion

  • The proposed GNSS-based toll collection system represents a paradigm shift in highway tolling mechanisms, promising greater accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.
  • However, challenges such as recovery of unpaid tolls and infrastructure requirements need to be addressed for successful implementation.
  • With adequate safeguards for privacy and co-existence with FASTags, the new system holds the potential to revolutionize highway toll collection in India.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Roads, Highways, Cargo, Air-Cargo and Logistics infrastructure – Bharatmala, LEEP, SetuBharatam, etc.

Sela Tunnel: Enhancing Border Connectivity

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Sela Tunnel Project

Mains level: All weather connectivity near LAC

In the news

  • The inauguration of the Sela Tunnel by Prime Minister Narendra Modi marks a significant milestone in India’s border infrastructure development, particularly in the strategic Tawang sector.

About Sela Tunnel Project

Details
Location West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh

On the Balipara-Chariduar-Tawang (BCT) Road

Feat World’s longest bi-lane tunnel at an altitude above 13,000 feet.
Connectivity  Ensures all-weather connectivity between Guwahati in Assam and Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh.
Highway Excavated below the Sela Pass on the NH-13 component of the Trans-Arunachal Highway system.
Construction Built by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) under Project Vartak.

Construction commenced on April 1, 2019.

Project Details Tunnel 1: Single-tube tunnel, 980m in length. –

Tunnel 2: Bi-lane tunnel, 1555m in length, including one escape tube for emergencies.

Roads: Approach to Tunnel 1 (7100m), road between the two tunnels (1340m), approach to Tunnel 2 (340m).

 

Infrastructure Details

  • Strategic Location: Situated on the, the Sela Tunnel provides a crucial link between Guwahati and the strategically important Tawang sector in Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Military Significance: The tunnel facilitates faster military movement to Tawang, home to the Indian Army’s IV Corps, ensuring swift deployment and operational readiness along the border.
  • Operational Benefits: By bypassing foggy stretches at Nechiphu and snow-covered terrain at Sela Pass, the tunnel reduces travel distance by nearly 10 km and travel time by almost an hour for convoys, enhancing logistical efficiency.
  • Technology and Safety: Constructed using the new Austrian tunnelling method, the Sela Tunnel incorporates state-of-the-art safety features, meeting the highest standards set by the Defence Ministry.

Geopolitical Context

  • Strategic Considerations: Tawang’s geographical significance extends to its proximity to the Brahmaputra plains and its role as a vital axis to Tezpur in Assam, strengthening India’s military posture.
  • Historical Significance: Tawang holds historical and cultural importance as the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama and a prominent centre of Tibetan Buddhism, adding to its strategic value.
  • Security Imperatives: Given China’s territorial claims over Tawang and Arunachal Pradesh, India remains vigilant, fortifying its military presence and infrastructure to safeguard its sovereignty.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Foreign Policy Watch: India-Sri Lanka

Tamil Nadu Fishermen’s Plight over Katchatheevu Island

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Katchatheevu Island

Mains level: NA

In the news

  • Frustrated by the continuous actions against them by Sri Lankan authorities, Tamil Nadu fishermen announced an indefinite strike starting February 17, disrupting their daily activities.
  • The fishermen’s protest led to an unprecedented decision to abstain from the annual St. Antony’s Church festival at Katchatheevu, a significant event symbolizing their fishing rights.

Katchatheevu Island: Historical Background

  • Colonial Influence: Katchatheevu, a 285-acre island, has its origins in a 14-century volcanic eruption. It was historically under the control of the Jaffna kingdom in Sri Lanka and later the Ramnad Zamindari in India.
  • British-Era Claims: Both India and Sri Lanka claimed Katchatheevu in the early 20th century to establish fishing boundaries. The ownership dispute continued even during the British Raj.

1974 Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Agreement

  • Landmark Decision: Indira Gandhi’s government decided to cede Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka as part of the 1974 agreement, aiming to establish maritime borders.
  • Political Implications: The decision raised concerns in Tamil Nadu, where voices protested the lack of state assembly consultation and the impact on traditional fishing rights.
  • Fishing Ambiguity: The agreement allowed Indian fishermen access to Katchatheevu “hitherto,” but fishing rights remained ambiguous, leading to disputes.

Sri Lankan Civil War and Beyond

  • Civil War Dynamics: The Sri Lankan civil war (1983-2009) shifted focus from the Katchatheevu issue as Sri Lanka’s naval forces grappled with internal strife.
  • Post-War Reality: Post the civil war, Sri Lanka reinforced maritime defense, leading to the arrest of Indian fishermen venturing into their waters, reigniting demands for Katchatheevu’s retrieval.

Tamil Nadu’s Persistent Concerns

  • Political Backlash: Tamil Nadu politicians across parties raised objections against ceding Katchatheevu without state assembly consent, citing historical ties and livelihood impacts.
  • Legal Battles: Late J Jayalalitha’s AIADMK filed petitions challenging the 1974 agreement, arguing it affected traditional fishing rights. However, the Union government’s stance remained unaltered.
  • Government’s Position: Despite vocal demands from Tamil politicians, the Modi government maintained that the island’s status was finalized in 1974 and reclaiming it would require drastic measures.

Contemporary Implications

  • Symbol of Sovereignty: Katchatheevu symbolizes regional and sovereignty concerns, reflecting tensions between Tamil Nadu’s interests and central government decisions.
  • Geopolitical Dilemma: The case highlights the delicate balance between historical claims, political sentiments, and international agreements in the context of bilateral relations.

Conclusion

  • The island of Katchatheevu continues to serve as a reminder of India’s historical intricacies, reflecting the delicate balancing act between state interests, national decisions, and regional aspirations.
  • While Tamil Nadu’s calls for retrieval echo in the political corridors, the longstanding 1974 agreement and subsequent geopolitical realities create a complex landscape.
  • As the island’s fate intertwines with broader diplomatic relations, Katchatheevu remains a testament to the complexities of national sovereignty and regional sentiment.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Wildlife Conservation Efforts

7,396 Golden Langur in India, reveals survey

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Golden Langur

Mains level: NA

Golden Langur

In the news

  • The latest survey conducted by the Primate Research Centre NE India (PRCNE), Assam Forest Department has estimated a population of approximately 7,396 Golden Langur (Trachypithecus geei) in India.

About Golden Langur

Details
Identification
  • Recognizable by the color of their fur, which gives them their name.
  • Fur color changes with the seasons.
  • Young langurs are almost pure white.
Geographic Range
  • Found in Assam, India, and neighboring Bhutan year-round.
  • Inhabits an area bordered by the foothills of Bhutan (north), Manas river (east), Sankosh river (west), and Brahmaputra river (south).
Habitat
  • Occupies moist evergreen and tropical deciduous forests, along with some riverine areas and savannahs in Assam and Bhutan.
  • Prefers living in the upper canopy of sub-tropical forests in the south and temperate forests in the north.
Conservation Status
  • IUCN: Endangered
  • CITES: Appendix I
  • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I
Key Habitats
  • Ripu Reserve Forest and Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary serve as vital habitats.
  • Fragmented habitats face instability and threats.

 


Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2012:

Which one of the following groups of animals belongs to the category of endangered species?

(a) Great Indian Bustard, Musk Deer, Red Panda and Asiatic Wild Ass

(b) Kashmir Stag, Cheetal, Blue Bull and Great Indian Bustard

(c) Snow Leopard, Swamp Deer, Rhesus Monkey and Saras (Crane)

(d) Lion-tailed Macaque, Blue Bull, Hanuman Langur and Cheetal

 

Post your answers.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

Connectome: the Map of the Brain

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Connectome, Synapse, Neurons

Mains level: NA

connectome


In the news

  • The human brain, composed of billions of neurons, orchestrates intricate processes that sustain life and enable complex cognitive functions.
  • Understanding these neural interactions is paramount, and scientists have achieved this through the concept of the connectome.

What is Connectome?

  • Definition: The Connectome serves as a comprehensive map of neuronal connections, akin to a cartogram illustrating the intricate network of synapses transmitting electrical and chemical signals within the brain.
  • Neural Communication: Neurons communicate through synapses, where dendrites receive chemical signals converted into electrical impulses transmitted along the axon. Subsequently, the cell releases chemicals into synapses based on electrical inputs, facilitating communication with neighbouring neurons.

Applications in Neuroscience

  • Functional Insights: Mapping the connectome provides invaluable insights into brain function, shedding light on processes underlying cognitive functions and elucidating the impact of neurological disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Drug Development: By unravelling cellular connections, researchers gain crucial knowledge about cognitive processes and associated disorders, informing the development of novel therapeutic interventions for conditions affecting neurological health.

Challenges and Progress

  • Complexity of the Brain: The intricate nature of the brain and the vast amount of data it processes present significant challenges in mapping the connectome.
  • Simplified Understanding: Despite these challenges, the connectome has revolutionized scientists’ comprehension of the brain, offering a clearer understanding of neurological health and paving the way for advancements in neuroscience research.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Trade Sector Updates – Falling Exports, TIES, MEIS, Foreign Trade Policy, etc.

EoUs, SEZs to get RoDTEP sops

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: RoDTEP Scheme, SEZ, EoU

Mains level: NA

In the news

  • In a significant move aimed at bolstering India’s export sector, the Centre recently announced the extension of tax refunds under the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) Scheme to outbound shipments from Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and Export Oriented Units (EOUs).

About RoDTEP Scheme

  • Introduced by the Government as a duty remission scheme on exports, implemented from 1st January 2021.
  • Aimed at repealing and reducing taxes for exported products to boost exports in the country.
  • Administered by the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance.
  • Provides reimbursement of taxes, duties, and levies not refunded under any other mechanism, incurred by export entities in the manufacturing and distribution of exported products.
  • Includes direct costs incurred by exporters and prior stage cumulative indirect taxes on goods.

Compliance with the WTO

  • Follows the global principle that taxes/duties should not be exported.
  • Replaced the Merchandise Export Incentive Schemes (MEIS) after a WTO dispute ruling against India.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Applicable to all export sectors regardless of turnover, with the country of manufacturing of exported goods in India.
  • Applies to merchant or manufacturer exporters directly exporting goods.
  • Goods exported through e-commerce platforms are eligible.

Refund process

  • Rebate provided to eligible exporters as a percentage of the Freight on Board (FOB) value of exports.
  • Remission issued as transferrable e-scrips maintained in an electronic credit ledger by CBIC.
  • E-scrips can be used for paying basic customs duty on imports or transferred electronically to another party.

Back2Basics:

(1) Export Oriented Units (EOUs)

Details
Establishment EOUs are established under the provisions of the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992, and the Export Import Policy.
Regulation Regulated by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
Benefits
  • Duty-free procurement of raw materials.
  • Reimbursement of GST and duty on fuels.
  • Fast track clearance facilities.
  • Exemption from industrial licensing for certain sectors.
Qualification Project must have a minimum investment of Rs. 1 crore in plant and machinery, except for specific sectors like software technology parts and biotechnology parks.
Geographical Scope EOUs can be set up anywhere in India based on scheme criteria.
Comparison with SEZs
  • SEZs are demarcated enclaves outside Customs jurisdiction.
  • SEZs enjoy tax exemptions, while EOUs pay taxes that can be claimed as refunds later.

 

(2) Special Economic Zones (SEZs)

Details
Inception Date SEZ policy in India was first implemented on April 1, 2000.
Objective
  • Enhance foreign investment and provide an internationally competitive and hassle-free environment for exports.
  • Promote exports and ensure a level playing field for domestic enterprises.
SEZ Act 2005 Enacted to provide the legal framework covering all important aspects of SEZ development and operations.
Setting up SEZs
  • Any private/public/joint sector, state government, or its agencies can establish an SEZ.
  • Foreign agencies can also set up SEZs in India.
Role of State Governments
  • State government representatives are consulted during the proposal consideration phase.
  • States must ensure the availability of basic infrastructure like water and electricity before recommending proposals.
Government Control
  • Statutory functions are controlled by the government in all SEZs.
  • The central government controls operation and maintenance in central government-controlled SEZs; the rest are privatized.
Exemption from Labor Laws
  • SEZs are subject to normal labor laws enforced by state governments.
  • A single-window clearance mechanism and simplified procedures/returns have been requested from state governments.
Monitoring Units in SEZs Annually by a unit approval committee consisting of a development commissioner, customs, and state government representatives.
Special Features for Business Units
  • Business units in SEZs are entitled to incentives and a simplified operating environment.
  • No license is required for imports, including second-hand machinery.

 


Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2016:

Recently, India’s first ‘National Investment and Manufacturing Zone’ was proposed to be set up in

(a) Andhra Pradesh

(b) Gujarat

(c) Maharashtra

(d) Uttar Pradesh

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Join us across Social Media platforms.

💥Mentorship New Batch Launch
💥Mentorship New Batch Launch