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Type: Prelims Only

  • Why are Indian soldiers in Maldives?

    maldives

    Introduction

    • With President Muizzu’s administration insisting on the withdrawal of Indian troops, a high-level core group has been set up to negotiate this process.
    • This situation raises questions about the reasons behind the presence of Indian troops and the factors fueling the ‘India Out’ campaign.

    Overview of the Current Situation

    • Official Statement: Maldives affirmed the policy of President Muizzu’s administration to remove Indian military personnel from the Maldives.
    • Negotiation Group: A core group, including Indian High Commissioner, met in Male to discuss the troop withdrawal, though the Indian government has not yet commented on these reports.

    Indian Military Presence in the Maldives

    • Troop Numbers: Contrary to the rhetoric of the ‘India Out’ campaign, only 88 Indian military personnel are stationed in the Maldives, primarily for training purposes.
    • Historical Context: Indian soldiers have been sent to the Maldives for training in combat, reconnaissance, and rescue-aid operations. The only time Indian troops were involved in active military operations was during the 1988 coup attempt, at the request of then-President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.

    Factors behind the ‘India Out’ Campaign

    • Controversy over Helicopters: The gifting of two Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters by India, used for humanitarian purposes, became a point of contention, portrayed as a military presence by certain political factions.
    • Perceived Lack of Transparency: The Solih government’s alleged opacity in dealings with India fueled suspicions.
    • Maritime Security Dependence: The Maldives relies on India for maritime security, collaborating to counter common threats.
    • Police Academy Speculations: The construction of a new police academy with Indian assistance led to rumours about its purpose and scale.
    • UTF Harbour Project Agreement: Speculations about the UTF (Uthuru Thila Falhu- Island) project being turned into an Indian naval base, despite official clarifications to the contrary.

    Conclusion

    • The insistence on the withdrawal of Indian troops from the Maldives and the ensuing ‘India Out’ campaign reflect a complex interplay of historical, political, and security factors.
    • While the Indian military presence has been primarily for training and humanitarian assistance, various internal and external elements have contributed to the current sentiment.
    • Understanding these nuances is crucial for comprehending the evolving relationship between India and the Maldives and the broader geopolitical implications in the region.

  • Madhya Pradesh’s Ken-Betwa River Project

    Ken-Betwa

    Introduction

    Overview of the Project and Violations

    • Project Details: The Lower Orr dam, a part of the Ken-Betwa river interlinking project’s second phase, began construction in 2019.
    • Violation of Clearance Laws: In 2022, an expert appraisal committee (EAC) reported that the project commenced without formal clearance from the Environment Ministry.
    • Incomplete Construction: As of the last report, about 82% of the dam and 33.5% of the canal network were completed without necessary clearances.
    • EAC’s Recent Recommendations: In December 2023, the EAC called for a fresh evaluation and more data on potential damage caused by the construction.

    What is the Ken Betwa Link Project?

    • First of its Kind: This project is the inaugural venture under the National Perspective Plan for interlinking Indian rivers.
    • River Linking: It involves transferring water from the Ken River to the Betwa River, both tributaries of the Yamuna.

    Phases of the Project

    • Phase-I Components: This includes the Daudhan dam complex, Low Level Tunnel, High Level Tunnel, Ken-Betwa link canal, and Power houses.
    • Phase-II Components: The second phase will see the construction of the Lower Orr dam, Bina complex project, and Kotha barrage.

    Utility of the Project

    • Irrigation Benefits: The project aims to irrigate 10.62 lakh hectares annually.
    • Drinking Water Supply: It is expected to provide drinking water to 62 lakh people.
    • Power Generation: The project will generate 103 MW of hydropower and 27 MW of solar power.
    • Regional Development: It promises to bring socio-economic prosperity to the Bundelkhand region through increased agricultural activities and employment.
    • Combating Rural Distress: The project is also seen as a solution to distress migration from this region.

    Ecological Issues with the Project

    • Scientific Basis: Concerns have been raised about the ‘surplus and deficit’ model and the availability of water in the Ken River.
    • Water Sharing Disputes: UP and MP have had disagreements over water sharing, especially during non-monsoonal months.
    • Environmental Impact: The project involves creating a reservoir dam in the Panna National Park and Tiger Reserve, impacting the downstream Ken Gharial Sanctuary.
    • Wildlife Act Compliance: Approval by the National Board for Wildlife, as required under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, has not been confirmed.

    Issues with the Projects

    • Displacement: The project will lead to significant displacement of people.
    • Topographical Changes: The flat topography of the Ganga basin poses challenges for dam construction.
    • Inundation and Seismic Hazards: Large-scale water transfer risks inundating forests and creating seismic hazards in the Himalayan region.
    • Financial and Political Challenges: The project requires substantial financial investment and political support.
    • Land Acquisition and Ecological Feasibility: Consensus building for land acquisition and ecological concerns are major hurdles.

    Criticisms of Such Projects

    • Questionable Science: Critics argue that these projects are based on outdated water management understanding.
    • Contravention with Nature: They are seen as going against natural processes, posing more threats than opportunities.

    Way Forward

    • Expert Scrutiny: Thorough and independent expert scrutiny during the approval stage is crucial.
    • Independent Hydrological Study: A comprehensive study of these rivers is necessary to assess the feasibility and impact.

    Conclusion

    • Developmental projects like the Ken-Betwa Link should not compromise fragile ecosystems or important wildlife habitats.
    • The potential destructive impact on the flow of water and sanctuary ecosystems, along with legal compliance, needs clear assessment and consideration.
    • Sound environmental governance and due diligence are essential in balancing developmental needs with ecological preservation.

  • Houthi Rebels and Regional Dynamics

    Houthi Rebels

    Introduction

    • The United States and the United Kingdom have initiated military strikes against Houthi groups in Yemen on January 11.
    • This action is a response to the Houthis’ continued aggression towards maritime vessels in the Red Sea, a crucial global trade route.

    Background of the Conflict

    • Houthi Attacks on Shipping: Since November 2023, Houthi forces have targeted ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, disrupting one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes.
    • Israeli-Hamas Conflict: The Houthis’ actions are in response to the Israeli military’s bombardment of Gaza following an attack by Hamas on October 7, which resulted in significant casualties.

    Houthi Group and Regional Dynamics

    • Who Are the Houthis?: The Houthis are a Shia militant group engaged in the civil war in Yemen, controlling significant parts of the country, including the capital Sana’a.
    • Regional Rivalries: The conflict reflects long-standing regional rivalries, with Iran backing the Houthis and Saudi Arabia supporting the Yemeni government. The Houthis’ involvement in the Israel-Hamas war is also seen as part of these broader regional dynamics.

    Concerns for Global Trade

    • Impact on World Trade: Approximately 12% of global trade passes through the Red Sea and Suez Canal, making the security of this route critical.
    • Alternative Routes: Due to safety concerns, some ships have been rerouted around the Cape of Good Hope, leading to increased transit times and fuel costs.

    Implications for the Region

    • Operation Prosperity Guardian: Launched by the US, this coalition aims to ensure maritime security in the region, but partner countries have shown reluctance to contribute significantly.
    • Risks of Wider Conflict: There are concerns about the conflict spreading beyond Israel and Gaza, with the potential for unpredictable outcomes in the Middle East.
    • Impact on Yemeni Peace Negotiations: The strikes may affect ongoing peace negotiations in Yemen, mediated by Oman and the United Nations.

  • Nashik’s Kalaram Mandir: Religious and Social Significance

    Kalaram Mandir

    Introduction

    • The Kalaram Mandir, located on the banks of the Godavari in Nashik’s Panchavati area, has recently garnered attention with visits from prominent political leaders, including Prime Minister.
    • This temple, steeped in historical, religious, and social significance, has been a focal point for major political and social movements in India.

    Kalaram Mandir’s Legacy

    • Temple’s Name and Idol: The temple gets its name from the black statue of Lord Ram (‘Kala Ram’ means ‘Black Ram’). The sanctum sanctorum houses statues of Ram, Sita, Lakshman, and a black idol of Hanuman.
    • Construction and Features: Built-in 1792 by Sardar Rangarao Odhekar, the temple features 14 steps representing Ram’s years of exile and 84 pillars symbolizing the cycle of rebirth in Hinduism.
    • Historical Significance: The temple is renowned for its association with the epic Ramayana, where Lord Ram, along with Sita and Lakshman, is said to have spent time during their exile.

    Panchavati’s Role in the Ramayana

    • Significance in the Epic: Panchavati, the area where the temple is located, is significant in the Ramayana. It’s believed to be the site where Sita was abducted by Ravan, leading to the epic war in Lanka.
    • Name Origin: The name ‘Panchavati’ is derived from the presence of five banyan trees, making the region auspicious according to the epic.

    Temple as a Site of Social Reform

    • Dalit Satyagraha: In 1930, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and social activist Pandurang Sadashiv Sane (Sane Guruji) led a historic agitation at the Kalaram Mandir, demanding temple entry rights for Dalits.
    • Ambedkar’s Protest: The protest involved a sit-in outside the temple, with participants singing songs and raising slogans for equality.
    • Continued Relevance: The temple remains a symbol of the struggle for Dalit rights, highlighted by Uddhav Thackeray’s plan to visit on the day of the Ram temple consecration in Ayodhya.

    Political Significance

    • Recent Political Visits: The temple has seen visits from major political figures, reflecting its continued relevance in contemporary politics and social issues.
    • Symbol of Unity and Equality: Leaders visiting the temple often emphasize its role in symbolizing unity and the fight for social justice in India.

  • India’s renewed engagement in Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) Project

    tmt

    Introduction

    • India’s Department of Science and Technology (DST) has shown a renewed interest in the global scientific endeavor, the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project, as evidenced by their recent visit to Mauna Kea in Hawai’i.
    • This visit marks a significant step in addressing the challenges faced by this ambitious astronomical project.

    Overview of the TMT Project

    • Project Description: The TMT is envisioned as a 30-metre diameter primary-mirror optical and infrared telescope, designed for deep space observations.
    • International Collaboration: It is a joint venture involving the U.S., Japan, China, Canada, and India, with India’s participation approved by the Union Cabinet in 2014.

    Key facts related to TMT

    • Its 30m diameter prime-mirror will allow it to observe wavelengths ranging from ultraviolet to mid-infrared with up to 80 times more sensitivity of today’s largest telescopes.
    • It can deliver images at infrared wavelengths more than 12 times sharper than the famed Hubble Space Telescope and 4 times sharper than James Webb Space Telescope (JSWT).

    Challenges and Controversies

    • Location Issues: Mauna Kea, the proposed site for the TMT, is an inactive volcano considered sacred by local communities. The site has faced opposition due to its cultural and religious significance.
    • Legal Hurdles: The Supreme Court of Hawaii invalidated the construction permits in 2015, although they were later restored in 2018. Despite this, local opposition has continued to impede construction.

    Alternate Site Consideration

    • Plan B: The Observatorio del Roque de los Muchachos (ORM) on La Palma in Spain’s Canary Islands is being considered as an alternative site for the TMT.
    • India’s Stance: As per statements made in 2020, India prefers moving the project to an alternate site, subject to the availability of necessary permits and procedures.

    India’s Role and Contribution

    • Major Contributor: India is expected to play a significant role in the TMT project, contributing hardware, instrumentation, and software worth $200 million.
    • Mirror Production: Of the 492 required mirrors, India will contribute 83, showcasing its capabilities in precision engineering and technology.

    Current Status and Future Prospects

    • Ongoing Discussions: Efforts are being made to reach a consensus that respects the concerns of the local people in Hawai’i.
    • Progress in Component Development: Despite the delay in construction, significant advancements have been made in developing essential components for the TMT.
    • Decision Timeline: A firm decision on the project’s site is anticipated within the next two years, as per Annapurni Subramaniam, director of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIAP).

  • Himalayan Wolf Listed as ‘Vulnerable’ on IUCN Red List

    Himalayan Wolf

    Introduction

    • The Himalayan Wolf (Canis lupus chanco), a distinct lupine species inhabiting the Himalayas, has recently been classified as ‘Vulnerable’ on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)’s Red List.
    • This classification highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect this unique predator.

    About Himalayan Wolf

    • Taxonomic Status: Long a subject of taxonomic ambiguity, the Himalayan Wolf has been confirmed as a genetically unique lineage of wolves.
    • Population Estimate: The IUCN Red List estimates the population of mature individuals to be between 2,275 and 3,792, acknowledging the uncertainty of this figure.
    • Geographical Range: The Himalayan Wolf is found across the Himalayan range of Nepal and India and extends across the Tibetan Plateau.
    • Population in India: In the Indian Himalayas, the population is estimated to be between 227 and 378 mature individuals, primarily in Ladakh and the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, with potential small populations in Uttarakhand and Sikkim.

    Conservation Challenges

    • Habitat Decline: The species faces a continuing decline in habitat quality and extent.
    • Conflict with Livestock: Livestock depredation conflicts are significant, exacerbated by habitat modification and depletion of wild prey.
    • Hybridization Threats: Increasing populations of feral dogs in regions like Ladakh and Spiti pose a threat of hybridization.
    • Illegal Hunting: The Himalayan Wolf is hunted illegally for its fur and body parts, contributing to its declining numbers.

    Conservation Strategies Proposed

    • Habitat and Prey Restoration: Securing and restoring healthy wild prey populations and landscapes, and establishing wildlife habitat refuges.
    • Improved Livestock Management: Enhancing livestock guarding methods, including predator-proof corral pens, sustainable herding practices, and holistic management practices.
    • Feral Dog Population Management: Addressing the growing challenge of feral dogs that threaten the Himalayan Wolf through hybridization.
    • Trans-boundary Conservation Efforts: Collaborative efforts among range countries for research, monitoring, and conservation.
    • Herding/Pasture Management: Improving practices in regions where wolves are heavily dependent on livestock, such as in Ladakh.
    • Inclusion in Conservation Programs: Incorporating the Himalayan Wolf in conservation programs to promote public acceptance and reduce persecution.

  • Kerala’s Operation AMRITH to combat Antimicrobial Resistance

    Introduction

    • The Kerala Drug Control Department launched Operation Amrith (Antimicrobial Resistance Intervention For Total Health), a significant initiative to curb the overuse of antibiotics in the state.

    Operation AMRITH

    • Objective: The initiative aims to optimize antibiotic use by preventing over-the-counter (OTC) sales and ensuring compliance with prescription requirements.
    • Pharmacy Regulations: Pharmacies are required to maintain accurate records of antibiotic sales and display notices stating that antibiotics will not be sold without a doctor’s prescription.
    • Public Participation: The initiative encourages public involvement by allowing individuals to report pharmacies that sell antibiotics without a prescription.

    Enforcement and Compliance

    • Surprise Raids: The program includes conducting surprise checks in retail medical shops to detect OTC sales of antibiotics.
    • Toll-Free Complaint Number: A toll-free number (18004253182) is provided for the public to lodge complaints against medical shops violating the rules.
    • Immediate Action: Complaints are swiftly transferred to relevant zonal offices for verification, followed by immediate departmental action upon confirmation of violations.

    Background and Context

    • Kerala’s AMR Strategy: Kerala was the first state in India to develop a state action plan on AMR, the Kerala Anti-Microbial Resistance Strategic Action Plan (KARSAP), in 2018.
    • Multi-Sectoral Approach: The plan, aligned with India’s National Action Plan on AMR, addresses human, animal, and environmental aspects of AMR containment.
    • Support and Collaboration: The plan was developed with contributions from the Centre for Science and Environment and involves various state departments in its implementation.
    • Surveillance Networks: The Kerala Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Network (KARS-NET) monitors AMR in humans, while an integrated plan covers non-human sector surveillance.
    • AMR Laboratory: The Kerala State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) inaugurated an AMR laboratory for environmental surveillance in August 2023.
    • PROUD Initiative: The Programme on Removal of Unused Drugs (PROUD) is a drug take-back program piloted in Thiruvananthapuram for the proper disposal of unused antibiotics.

  • Demolition of Delhi’s Sunehri Masjid

    Sunehri Masjid

    Introduction

    • The Indian History Congress (IHC), a prominent body of historians, has recently taken a stand against the proposed demolition of the Sunehri Masjid, a late medieval mosque in New Delhi.
    • Since 1984, the IHC has consistently advocated for the protection of monuments, emphasizing that all structures over 200 years old should be strictly preserved under the Protection of Monuments Act.

    About Sunehri Masjid

    Details
    Location Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi, India
    Built By Mughal noble Roshan-ud-Daula
    Construction Period 1721-1722
    Legend In 1739, Persian invader Nadir Shah, ordered the invasion and plunder of Delhi city while standing in this mosque.
    Dedication Dedicated to Shah Bhik (spiritual mentor of Roshan-ud-Daula)
    Architectural Style Mughal Architecture
    Architectural Features Three golden-domed turrets, slender minarets, stucco decorations
    Educational Role Hosted Madrasa Aminia in 1897, later relocated to Kashmiri Gate in 1917

     

  • Mumbai Trans Harbour Link: India’s Longest Sea Bridge

    • Prime Minister is set to inaugurate the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), officially named the Atal Setu Nhava Sheva Sea Link.

    Introduction

    • Prime Minister is set to inaugurate the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), officially named the Atal Setu Nhava Sheva Sea Link.
    • This 22 km bridge, conceptualized six decades ago, represents a significant development in India’s infrastructure, promising to transform connectivity and economic prospects in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

    Atal Setu: the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link

    • Bridge Specifications: The MTHL is a 22-km-long, six-lane twin-carriageway bridge over the Thane Creek in the Arabian Sea. It connects Sewri in Mumbai to Chirle in Raigad district.
    • Components: The structure comprises a 16.5 km sea link and 5.5 km of viaducts on land at both ends.
    • Project Objective: Aimed at enhancing connectivity within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, the MTHL is expected to spur economic growth, reduce travel time, and alleviate congestion on existing routes.

    Historical Context and Development

    • Initial Proposal: The concept of a bay crossing was first proposed in 1963 by Wilbur Smith Associates but remained dormant for decades.
    • Revival and Challenges: The project was revived in the late 90s, with the first tenders floated in 2006. After initial interest from Reliance Infrastructure and subsequent withdrawal, the project faced multiple bidding challenges.
    • Funding and Execution: The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) partnered with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for funding, leading to the commencement of work in early 2018. The project cost totaled Rs 21,200 crore, with a significant loan from JICA.

    Impact of the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link

    • Travel Time Reduction: A study by MMRDA and JICA predicts that the MTHL will cut the average travel time between Sewri and Chirle from 61 minutes to less than 16 minutes.
    • Economic and Connectivity Benefits: The bridge is expected to integrate Navi Mumbai’s economy with Mumbai and improve connectivity to key locations like the Navi Mumbai International Airport, Mumbai Pune Expressway, and the Mumbai-Goa Highway.
    • Vehicle Usage: An estimated 40,000 vehicles are expected to use the link daily in its opening year.

    Concerns and Challenges

    • Accessibility for Commuters: Doubts remain about the bridge’s utility for daily commuters between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, considering the high toll cost and the distance of landing points from main residential areas.
    • Additional Commuting Costs: The toll fee of Rs 250 for a one-way crossing and the bridge’s landing points being over 10 km from major residential zones like Vashi and Nerul may increase commuting expenses.
    • Lack of Public Transport Options: As of now, there are no announcements regarding public transport facilities, such as dedicated bus lanes, on the bridge.

  • Swachh Survekshan Awards 2023: Surat, Indore are the cleanest cities

    Introduction

    • Surat in Gujarat and Indore in Madhya Pradesh have been jointly recognized as the cleanest cities in India at the Union Urban Affairs Ministry’s annual Clean City Awards 2023.

    About Swachh Survekshan

    • Swachh Survekshan, initiated by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in 2016, serves as a competitive framework to promote urban sanitation improvements and citizen participation.
    • Over time, Swachh Survekshan has grown to become the world’s largest urban sanitation survey.
    • In the 2023 edition (SS 2023), emphasis is placed on source segregation of waste, increasing cities’ waste processing capacity, and reducing waste sent to dumpsites.
    • SS 2023 introduces new indicators with added importance, focusing on phased plastic reduction, enhanced plastic waste management, “waste to wonder” parks, and zero-waste events.
    • The ranking of wards within cities is encouraged through SS 2023.
    • The survey assesses cities on dedicated indicators addressing issues such as ‘Open Urination’ (Yellow Spots) and ‘Open Spitting’ (Red Spots).

    Highlights of the Clean City Awards 2023

    • Top Rankings: Surat and Indore shared the top spot, with Navi Mumbai securing the third position in the cleanest cities category.
    • Indore’s Continued Success: Remarkably, Indore has maintained its status as the cleanest city for the seventh consecutive year.
    • Other Top Cities: The list of the top 10 cleanest cities also includes Greater Visakhapatnam, Bhopal, Vijayawada, New Delhi, Tirupati, Greater Hyderabad, and Pune.

    State Rankings and Special Categories

    • Maharashtra Leads: In the state rankings, Maharashtra emerged as the top performer, followed by Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.
    • Smaller Cities and Cantonnement Boards: In cities with a population of less than one lakh, Sasvad and Lonavala in Maharashtra, and Patan in Chhattisgarh, were top performers. Mhow Cantonment Board in Madhya Pradesh was recognized as the cleanest cantonment board.
    • Cleanest Ganga Towns: Varanasi and Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh won awards for being the cleanest towns along the Ganga river.

    Awards and Themes

    • Swachh Survekshan Awards: Initiated by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in 2016, these awards have become the world’s largest urban sanitation survey.
    • Themes: The 2023 survey focused on the theme “Waste to Wealth,” while the upcoming 2024 survey will emphasize “Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.”

    Indore’s Journey to the Top

    • Leap in Rankings: Indore’s remarkable journey from ranking 25th in 2016 to consistently holding the top position is noteworthy.
    • Key Factors for Success: The city’s success is attributed to a sustainable system of garbage collection, processing, and disposal, along with citizen participation and innovative sanitation measures.

    Indore’s Sanitation Initiatives

    • Waste Segregation and Disposal: Indore revamped its sanitation and waste collection system, involving NGOs and changing routes for garbage disposal vehicles.
    • Legacy Waste Management: The city efficiently cleared and treated large amounts of legacy waste at the Devguradiya ground.
    • Infrastructure Development: Funds were allocated for constructing transfer stations and treatment plants for waste management.
    • Community Engagement: Efforts were made to build sanitation habits among citizens, including the distribution of free dustbins and imposing fines for littering.