From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Kamala Sohoni
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
On June 18, the Google Doodle commemorated Kamala Sohonie on her 112th birth anniversary.
Kamala Sohonie, the first Indian woman to earn a PhD in a scientific discipline, made significant contributions in the field of nutrition and fought against malnutrition among tribal children.
Despite facing gender bias, including from Nobel laureate CV Raman, Sohonie left a lasting impact on Indian science.
Who was Kamala Sohonie?
Kamala Sohonie (nee Bhagvat) was born on June 18, 1911, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
Her father and uncle were chemists who had studied at the Tata Institute of Sciences (now IISc, Bengaluru).
Sohonie graduated in 1933 with a BSc degree in Chemistry and Physics from Bombay University, topping the merit list.
Encounter with CV Raman
Sohonie faced rejection from CV Raman when she applied for an MSc degree at IISc.
Determined, she confronted Raman and challenged him to allow her admission.
Raman reluctantly agreed but imposed several conditions, including probation and restrictions on her status as a student.
Academic Achievements and Work
Sohonie completed her course with distinction and secured admission to Cambridge University, where she completed her PhD in just 14 months.
Her research focused on potatoes, leading to the discovery of the enzyme ‘Cytochrome C’ and its role in cellular respiration.
Returning to India, Sohonie served as the head of the Department of Biochemistry at Lady Hardinge College, New Delhi.
She worked at the Nutrition Research Lab, Coonoor, and the Royal Institute of Science in Mumbai, studying various food items to identify their nutrients.
Contribution to Nutrition and Social Impact
Sohonie’s notable work revolved around ‘neera,’ a palm extract drink recommended by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President.
She demonstrated that ‘neera’ was a rich source of Vitamin C and other nutrients, making it beneficial for the health of malnourished tribal children and pregnant women.
Sohonie also collaborated with the Aarey Milk project to improve milk quality.
Beyond her scientific endeavors, she played a vital role as a founding member of the Consumer Guidance Society.
Personal Life and Legacy
In 1947, Sohonie married MV Sohonie, an actuary, and the couple resided in Mumbai.
Kamala Sohonie’s accomplishments broke barriers and inspired future generations of women in science.
Her resilience against gender bias and remarkable contributions to nutrition and consumer protection remain an enduring legacy.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Miyawaki Forests
Mains level: Urban forestry
Central Idea: Prime Minister during his latest ‘Mann ki baat’ episode spoke about Miyawaki plantation, the Japanese method of creating dense urban forests in a small area.
Try this question:
Q.The Miyawaki Forests technique has to potential to revolutionize the concept of urban afforestation in India. Discuss.
Miyawaki Method
Miyawaki method is a method of urban afforestation by turning backyards into mini-forests.
It includes planting trees as close as possible in the same area which not only saves space, but the planted saplings also support each other in growth and block sunlight from reaching the ground, thereby preventing the growth of weed.
Thus the saplings become maintenance-free (self-sustainable) after the first three years.
It helps to create a forest in just 20 to 30 years while through conventional methods it takes anywhere between 200 to 300 years.
The technique
The native trees of the region are identified and divided into four layers — shrub, sub-tree, tree, and canopy.
The quality of soil is analysed and biomass which would help enhance the perforation capacity, water retention capacity, and nutrients in it, is mixed with it.
A mound is built with the soil and the seeds are planted at a very high density — three to five sapling per square meter.
The ground is covered with a thick layer of mulch.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Chromosomes
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
The Y chromosome, often known as the “master of maleness,” has fascinated scientists and historians for its role in determining sex and its unique genetic characteristics.
This article explores the intriguing journey of the Y chromosome, its significance, and recent discoveries that challenge previous assumptions.
What are Chromosomes?
Chromosomes are fundamental components of cells that play a vital role in storing and transmitting genetic information.
These structures contain genes, which carry instructions for the development, functioning, and inheritance of traits.
Chromosomes consist of tightly coiled DNA molecules wrapped around proteins called histones, forming chromatin.
Before cell division, chromosomes replicate into identical sister chromatids held together at the centromere.
Types of Chromosomes:
Autosomes: Non-sex chromosomes (22 pairs in humans) determine most traits.
Sex Chromosomes: Determine biological sex (XX for females, XY for males).
Functions of Chromosomes
Genetic Information Storage: Genes on chromosomes encode instructions for protein production and cellular processes.
Inheritance: Chromosomes transmit genetic information during sexual reproduction through meiosis, ensuring genetic diversity in offspring.
Gene Expression Regulation: Chromosomes control gene activation or silencing, crucial for development and cell functioning.
Significance of Chromosomes
Understanding Genetic Disorders: Abnormalities in chromosomes cause conditions like Down syndrome, aiding diagnosis and comprehension.
Evolutionary Insights: Comparative analysis of chromosomes reveals evolutionary relationships and genetic material changes over time.
Advancements in Genetic Research: Chromosomes are crucial for genome sequencing, mapping, and studying gene expression, leading to improved understanding of human health, diseases, and targeted therapies.
Our focus: Y Chromosome
Genetic Origins: The Y chromosome is believed to have emerged approximately 200-300 million years ago in a common ancestor of mammals. Its genetic sequence, published in 2003, revealed that it accounts for only 2% of the genetic material inside a cell, encoding around 55 genes.
Quirks and Challenges: Referred to as the “juvenile delinquent” among chromosomes, the Y chromosome has repetitive sequences, a limited number of genes, and a reluctance to recombine with other chromosomes. These characteristics have led to debates about its functional utility and evolutionary trajectory.
Significance of the Y Chromosome
Historical Insights: Researchers have extensively studied the Y chromosome to understand human migration and evolution. It has provided valuable insights into paternity, genetic diversity, and our shared past.
Beyond Sex Determination: Contrary to earlier assumptions, recent studies have revealed that the Y chromosome plays a role in biological functions beyond sex determination. It contains genes associated with aging, lifespan regulation, and other vital processes.
Influence of the Y chromosome on Health
Sex Differences in Lifespan: In the animal kingdom, including mammals, females tend to live longer than males. The absence of a second Y chromosome in males exposes detrimental mutations in the X chromosome, potentially contributing to shorter lifespans.
Age-Related Loss of the Y Chromosome: Studies have shown that men experience a loss of the Y chromosome (LoY) with age, which has been associated with a higher risk of diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s. Research on mice models supports these findings, indicating a correlation between LoY and shorter lifespans and memory deficiencies.
Phenotypic Sex and Longevity: Recent research on fruit flies challenges the notion that the presence of a Y chromosome directly influences longevity. Instead, the phenotypic sex of an individual, determined by external genitalia, may play a more significant role.
Future of the Y Chromosome
Species-Specific Evolution: Some species, like rodents, have naturally lost their Y chromosome, offering insights into sex-chromosome turnover. These species serve as models for understanding the process and the potential repurposing of other chromosomes as sex chromosomes.
Signs of Replacement: Genomic analysis of Neanderthal DNA indicates that the Y chromosome has undergone replacement in the lineage leading to modern humans. This suggests that the Y chromosome’s role as the “master of maleness” may eventually be overtaken by another chromosome in the future.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Predator Drones
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the procurement of armed Predator Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) at the cost of over $3 billion.
The UAVs will be procured from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI), a United States-based aeronautics company.
Predator Drones: An Overview
The Predator UAV, manufactured by GA-ASI, is known as the MQ-9.
It has an endurance of over 27 hours, speeds of 240 KTAS, and can operate up to 50,000 feet.
It has a payload capacity of 3,850 pounds (1,746 kilograms) and can carry external stores of up to 3,000 pounds (1,361 kilograms).
Benefits and Capabilities of the MQ-9 UAV
The MQ-9 UAV has a higher payload capacity and horsepower compared to its predecessor, the MQ-1 Predator.
It provides long endurance, persistent surveillance, and strike capability for the warfighter.
The maritime variant of the MQ-9 UAV, known as Sea Guardian, has an endurance of over 30 hours.
Enhancing Indian Armed Forces’ Capabilities
The procurement of MQ-9 UAVs will enhance the Indian Armed Forces’ Intelligence-Surveillance-Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
These high-altitude, long-endurance drones will be able to carry out intelligence collection, strike strategic targets in mountains and maritime domains, and support various military operations.
Indian Armed Forces are expected to receive a total of 31 MQ-9s, with 15 for the Navy and eight each for the Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Previous Use of MQ-9 UAVs by India
In the aftermath of the Galwan Valley clashes in 2020, the Indian Navy had leased two MQ-9 UAVs, and the lease has since been extended.
The leased UAVs have completed 10,000 flight hours and have significantly contributed to the Indian Navy’s operations.
International Usage of MQ-9 UAVs
The MQ-9 UAV has been acquired by various countries, including the United States Air Force, Department of Homeland Security, NASA, Royal Air Force, Italian Air Force, French Air Force, and Spanish Air Force.
Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Change of Name under Article 21
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
Allahabad High Court has allowed a man to change his name citing fundamental rights under Articles 19(1) (a), 21, and 14.
Delhi High Court permitted two brothers to reflect their father’s changed surname on their Board certificates, asserting the right to identity as an intrinsic part of the right to life under Article 21.
Article
Summary
Article 19(1)(a)
Freedom of speech and expression: Citizens have the right to express their opinions and ideas freely, with reasonable restrictions to safeguard national interests and public order.
Article 21
Right to life and personal liberty: Individuals are protected from arbitrary deprivation of life or liberty and have the right to live with dignity. It includes the right to privacy and encompasses various aspects of human rights.
Article 14
Right to equality: All individuals are entitled to equal protection under the law, ensuring fairness and prohibiting discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. It promotes equality before the law for all citizens.
Right to Change Name
The right to change one’s name is recognized as a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty.
It is often exercised for various reasons, including personal preferences, religious conversions, marriage or divorce, or to overcome social or cultural barriers.
Individuals may choose to change their names to reflect their gender identity, religious beliefs, or to align with their professional or artistic pursuits.
Process to change the name
Prepare a petition stating the desire to change the name and reasons for the change.
Prepare an affidavit affirming the intention to change the name and get it notarized.
Publish a notice in two local newspapers announcing the name change.
Apply for Gazette notification through the Department of Publication.
Gather supporting documents like identity and address proof.
File the petition, affidavit, and supporting documents in the appropriate court.
Attend the court hearing and provide necessary explanations.
Obtain a court order approving the name change.
Update official documents with the new name.
Observations by the HCs
Allahabad High Court ruled that the rejection of the name-change applications by the authorities violates fundamental rights guaranteed under Articles 19(1)(a), 21, and 14.
It emphasized the need for congruence in all identity-related documents and the prevention of confusion and potential misuse.
Delhi High Court asserted the right to identity as an intrinsic part of the right to life under Article 21.
Restrictions on the Right to Change Names
Although the right to change names is a fundamental right, it is subject to reasonable restrictions.
Restrictions imposed by law must be fair, just, and reasonable.
Principle of proportionality and the value of human dignity play important roles in determining the reasonableness of restrictions (Jeeja Ghosh vs. Union of India, 2016).
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: National Pension Scheme (NPS)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has introduced a new feature for systematic withdrawal from the National Pension Scheme (NPS).
National Pension Scheme (NPS): A Brief Overview
The National Pension Scheme (NPS) is a voluntary retirement savings scheme launched by the Government of India in 2004.
It is regulated and administered by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).
The primary objective of the NPS is to provide a pension income to individuals upon their retirement.
Key Features of the NPS:
Contributions: Subscribers make regular contributions to their NPS account during their working years. These contributions accumulate and grow over time.
Investment Options: The NPS offers two investment options: a) Auto Choice: where the funds are invested based on the subscriber’s age, and b) Active Choice: where the subscriber can select the asset classes (equity, corporate bonds, and government securities) and the fund manager.
Portable Account: The NPS account is portable, allowing subscribers to maintain their account even if they change jobs or locations.
Withdrawal Options: Upon retirement, subscribers have the flexibility to withdraw a portion of their accumulated corpus as a lump sum and use the remaining amount to purchase an annuity, which provides a regular pension income.
Tax Benefits: NPS offers tax benefits at different stages. Contributions made by subscribers are eligible for tax deductions under Section 80C, while withdrawals are subject to certain tax exemptions.
Regulated and Transparent: The NPS is regulated by the PFRDA, ensuring transparency and oversight of the scheme. It follows strict investment guidelines and has mechanisms in place to safeguard the interests of subscribers.
Wide Coverage: The NPS is available to all Indian citizens, including salaried employees, self-employed individuals, and non-resident Indians (NRIs).
Benefits of the NPS
Retirement Income: The NPS provides a retirement income to subscribers, ensuring financial security during their post-retirement years.
Long-term Wealth Creation: The investment component of the NPS allows subscribers to accumulate wealth over time, potentially generating higher returns and building a substantial retirement corpus.
Flexibility and Control: Subscribers have the flexibility to choose their investment options and actively manage their NPS accounts, providing a level of control over their retirement savings.
Tax Efficiency: The NPS offers tax benefits both on contributions and withdrawals, making it a tax-efficient retirement savings option.
Portability: The portability feature of the NPS allows subscribers to continue their account irrespective of job changes or relocations.
Regulated and Secure: The NPS is regulated by the PFRDA, ensuring a secure and transparent framework for retirement savings.
Changes introduced: Systematic Withdrawal Plan
NPS subscribers will be allowed to withdraw 60% of their contributions systematically post-retirement.
The current system of one-time withdrawal will be replaced.
40% of the contributions must be in annuity.
Systematic withdrawals can be customized by the subscriber based on their needs.
Withdrawals can be made in lump sum or on a monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or annual basis.
This feature is applicable to individuals aged 60-75.
Benefits offered by this change
Flexibility: Subscribers can customize their withdrawals based on their financial needs.
Regular Income: Systematic withdrawals provide a regular income stream post-retirement.
Enhanced Financial Planning: Allows for better financial planning and management.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Nehru Memorial Museum and Library (NMML)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
The decision to rename the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library (NMML) Society has ignited a political controversy.
The institution will now be known as the ‘Prime Ministers Museum and Library Society’.
The controversy reflects the ongoing debate surrounding dynastic politics in India.
About the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library (NMML) (erstwhile)
NMML in New Delhi, is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Culture.
It is a leading resource center on India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.
Established in 1964, it houses extensive archives, including Mahatma Gandhi’s writings and private papers of prominent figures like Swami Sahajanand Saraswati, C. Rajagopalachari, and Sarojini Naidu.
It is located in the majestic Teen Murti House, the official residence of the first Prime Minister of India.
It has four major constituents, namely, a Memorial Museum, a library on modern India, a Centre for Contemporary Studies and the Nehru Planetarium.
Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya (the PM’s Museum)
In April 2022, the NMML inaugurated the Museum as a new addition to the institution.
It is a tribute to every Prime Minister of India since Independence, showcasing their contributions to the nation’s development over the past 75 years.
Why rename it now?
The meeting acknowledged the contributions of all past and present Prime Ministers and expressed the mission of the Society to preserve India’s democratic journey and legacy.
It was felt that renaming the institution would better align with this purpose.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Kari Ishad Mango, GI Tag
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
The Kari Ishad mango, prominently grown in Ankola taluk of Uttara Kannada, has been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications Registry.
The GI certificate has been issued to Matha Totagars Farmer Producer Company Limited, Ankola, and is valid until March 1, 2032 from March 31, 2023.
Kari Ishad Mango
The Kari Ishad mango is renowned for its unique aroma, luscious taste, high amount of pulp, and distinctive shape and size.
They are large and have an oblique to oval shape.
Typically, each panicle bears only one fruit, and a well-grown tree can produce up to 2,000 fruits in a season.
However, the fruit has a short shelf life of about five days.
Cultivation and Production
Apart from Ankola, the Kari Ishad mango is grown in Karwar and to a certain extent in Kumta of Uttara Kannada.
The prominent cultivation areas include Belse, Shetgeri, Belambara, Mogata, and Vandige villages of Ankola.
Vandige village stands out as the highest producer, yielding around 600 tonnes of fruits per season. Belse village boasts 1,500 plants.
Variants of the Mango
The Ishad mango has two variants:
Kari Ishad, characterized by its thin skin, abundance of pulp, and sweetness,
Bili Ishad, which has thick skin, less pulp, and sweetness.
Back2Basics: Geographical Indication (GI)
A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 w.e.f. September 2003.
GIs have been defined under Article 22 (1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Read the attached story
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
The field of taxonomy, which involves naming and classifying living beings, is currently engaged in a heated discussion regarding the renaming of species with objectionable scientific names.
These names often stem from problematic individuals associated with slavery, racism, derogatory terms, and racial slurs.
The debate has gained prominence in recent years, particularly in the wake of movements like Black Lives Matter, which seeks to address systemic racism and dismantle symbols of oppression.
Controversial Naming Practices
(1) Species Named after Controversial Figures:
Anophthalmus hitleri: The blind beetle named after Adolf Hitler by an entomologist who admired him gained popularity among Neo-Nazis, leading to its near-extinction.
Uta stansburiana: The lizard named after Howard Stansbury, known for his involvement in the massacre of Timpanogos Native Americans.
Hibbertia scandens: The plant named after George Hibbert, a prominent member of the pro-slavery and anti-abolition lobby.
(2) Species Named with Derogatory Terms:
Hottentotta tamulus scorpion: The use of “Hottentot” as a derogatory term for Indigenous Black people in Africa.
Rauvolfia caffra: The quinine tree named with an offensive term considered hate speech against Black communities in South Africa.
Rules and International Bodies
Nomenclature Codes: International bodies such as ICZN, ICNafp, ICNB, and ICTV govern the naming of animals, plants, bacteria, and viruses, respectively.
Validity and Publication: New names must be published in openly distributed publications and accompanied by detailed descriptions of typical specimens.
ICZN: International Commission of Zoological Nomenclature
ICNafp: International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants
ICNB: International Code of Nomenclature of Bacteria
ICTV: International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses
Scientific Naming Process
Two-part Scientific Names: Each species has two scientific names, with the first denoting the genus and the second identifying the species within the genus. Both names are italicized.
Naming Conventions: Names are often derived from Latin or Greek, reflecting distinctive features or characteristics of the species.
Challenges in Changing Offensive Names
Limited Appetite for Change: International committees show little inclination to engage in debates on potentially offensive names, prioritizing stability and universality.
Criteria for Name Change: The rules state that name changes should only occur with profound taxonomic knowledge or to rectify names conflicting with established rules.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Wari, Warkari
Mains level: Not Much
The Sant Tukaram and Sant Dyaneshwar Palkhi processions started their three-week-long journeys from the temple towns of Dehu and Alandi in Pune.
Pandharpur Wari
The deities are said to be shifted to Pandharpur right away from Vitthala Temple, Hampi (Karnataka) to avoid demolition.
Tradition: The Wari tradition is an 800-year-old pilgrimage in Maharashtra, where devotees, known as Warkaris, undertake a foot journey to the Vithoba temple (Incarnation of Vishnu) in Pandharpur.
Largest walking event: The event is said to be one of the world’s largest and oldest movements where people gather on one day each year and walk a distance of around 250 km.
Guinness Record: The Wari has been classified by the World Book of Records as “one of the most visited places in a day”
Essence of Wakari Panth: The Wari is a ritualistic practice and a distinctive part of Maharashtrian culture, representing the essence of the Wakari Panth, which is a sect within the Bhakti tradition.
Four Processions: The Wari takes place in four months – Chaitra, Ashadh, Kartik, and Magh. The Ashadhi Ekadashi Wari is the most popular and significant among these processions.
Historical Evolution
Changed over time: Over the years, the Wari procession has evolved with changing practices, associated legends, and unique systems of organization and management.
Influence of Sant Dyaneshwar: The Wari tradition can be traced back to Sant Dyaneshwar, the father of Sant Dyaneshwar, who played a pivotal role in promoting the pilgrimage to Pandharpur.
Legacy of Sant Namdev: Sant Namdev (whose verses find mention in Guru Granth Sahib), a contemporary of Sant Dyaneshwar, also followed the tradition and composed devotional compositions expressing his devotion to Lord Vitthala.
Rituals and Cultural Aspects
Dindi and Musical Fervor: Dindis, comprising groups of devotees, accompany the palkis during the Wari, singing, chanting, and dancing. Musical instruments like the veena and mridangam enhance the devotional fervor.
Seva Dindis and Social Initiatives: Seva Dindis perform selfless service along the Wari route, including annadana (donation of food), medical assistance, and rural infrastructure development.
Social Messaging and Initiatives: The Wari has been utilized as a platform for social messaging and initiatives such as promoting cleanliness through the ‘Nirmal Wari’ campaign and women-centric drives like ‘Wari Nari Shakti’ focusing on menstrual hygiene.
Try this PYQ:
Consider the following pairs:
Traditions Communities
Chaliha Sahib Festival — Sindhis
Nanda Raj Jaat Yatra — Gonds
Wari-Warkari — Santhals
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
