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  • Vaishali Rameshbabu: India’s New Chess Grandmaster

    Grandmaster

    Central Idea

    • Grandmaster Title: Indian chess player Vaishali Rameshbabu ( Pragnananda’s sister) has achieved the Grandmaster title by crossing 2,500 FIDE ranking points at the IV El Llobregat Open in Spain.
    • Significance: She becomes only the third Indian woman player to earn this title, joining the ranks of Koneru Humpy and Harika Dronavalli.

    Understanding the Grandmaster Title

    • Highest Chess Honor: The Grandmaster title is the pinnacle of achievement in chess, awarded by the International Chess Federation (FIDE).
    • Prestige: It signifies recognition as one of the world’s most talented chess players, proven in highly competitive environments.

    Other Recognized Chess Titles

    • FIDE Titles: Besides Grandmaster, FIDE awards seven other titles, including International Master (IM), FIDE Master (FM), Candidate Master (CM), Woman Grandmaster (WGM), Woman International Master (WIM), Woman FIDE Master (WFM), and Woman Candidate Master (WCM).
    • Lifetime Validity: All FIDE titles, including the Grandmaster title, are valid for life, barring revocation due to offenses like cheating.

    History and Criteria of Grandmaster Title

    • Origins: The term ‘grandmaster’ dates back about a century and was formalized by FIDE in 1950.
    • Initial Awardees: The first batch of Grandmaster titles in 1950 included 27 players, such as then-world champion Mikhail Botvinnik.
    • Current Criteria: To achieve the Grandmaster title, a player must reach a FIDE Classical or Standard rating of 2,500 and earn three Grandmaster norms.
    • Grandmaster Norms: These norms are based on stringent rules regarding tournament performance, including a performance rating of 2,600 or higher in a FIDE tournament with specific conditions.

    Vaishali Rameshbabu’s Path to Grandmaster

    • Performance: Vaishali’s achievement of the Grandmaster title is a testament to her exceptional performance in international chess tournaments.
    • Representation: Her success adds to India’s growing reputation as a powerhouse in the global chess community.

     

  • What is Vo5G (Voice over 5G)?

    Central Idea

    • India witnessed a significant improvement in call quality with the introduction of VoLTE (Voice over Long-Term Evolution) in 2016, offering clearer voice calls compared to 3G/2G networks.
    • With the advent of 5G in India, there’s growing anticipation for a new calling standard, Vo5G (Voice over 5G), already deployed in several countries.

    What is Vo5G?

    • Definition: Vo5G, also known as Voice over New Radio (VoNR), is the next generation of voice calling, utilizing 5G networks for voice transmission.
    • Advantages: It leverages 5G’s speed, capacity, and responsiveness to enhance voice call quality.
    • Global Trend: While Vo5G is gaining traction globally, its adoption in countries like India is still in the nascent stages.

    VoNR vs. VoLTE: The Advancements

    • Call Quality: VoNR offers superior call quality with advanced audio codecs, thanks to 5G’s higher bandwidth.
    • Connection Time: Reduced network latency in 5G ensures faster call connections with VoNR.
    • Reliability: VoNR promises better call continuity with lower packet loss, potentially reducing voice cut-outs.
    • Network Transition: VoNR aims to eliminate call drops experienced during the transition from 5G to 4G for VoLTE calls.

    Requirements for Vo5G

    • Compatible Device: Users need a Vo5G-supported phone, typically available in models released after 2022 with 5G capabilities.
    • Carrier Support: A network provider that offers Vo5G services is essential, along with a plan that includes Vo5G calling.
    • 5G Coverage: Effective use of Vo5G requires being in an area with 5G network coverage.

    VoNR in India

    • Availability: As of now, VoNR is not available in India, despite the ongoing 5G rollout in major cities.
    • Carrier Testing: Leading carriers like Reliance are reportedly testing VoNR for seamless integration with existing 4G and 5G networks.
    • Timeline: The exact timeline for VoNR’s widespread availability in India remains uncertain.

    Try this question from CSP 2019:

    Q.With reference to communication technologies, what is/are the difference/differences between LTE (Long-Term Evolution) and VoLTE (Voice over Long-Term Evolution)?

    1. LTE ‘is commonly marketed as 3G and VoLTE is commonly marketed as advanced 3G.
    2. LTE is data-only technology and VoLTE is voice-only technology.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”l68j4x9ayu” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • Population-Level Genome Sequencing and Its Impact

    ‘deCODE’ Initiative

    Central Idea

    • The UK recently completed sequencing half a million whole genomes, nearly 0.7% of its population, under ‘deCODE’ Initiative.
    • Various countries have launched large-scale genome projects, with some focusing on specific populations like African ancestry.

    About ‘deCODE’ Initiative

    • Inception: Launched in Iceland in 1996, deCODE genomics enrolled most of the Icelandic population for genetic studies.
    • Contributions: The initiative enhanced disease genetics understanding and set standards for handling genomic data, integrating medical records with genealogies.

    Merit of Large-Scale Sequencing

    • Disease Research and Understanding: Large-scale genome sequencing allows researchers to identify genetic variations associated with various diseases. This information is crucial for understanding the genetic basis of diseases, including rare genetic disorders and complex conditions like cancer.
    • Personalized Therapies: With a better understanding of an individual’s genetic makeup, it becomes possible to develop personalized and targeted therapies. 
    • Genetic Counseling: Large-scale genome sequencing provides valuable information for genetic counseling, helping individuals and families understand their risk for certain genetic conditions.
    • Identification of Rare Variants: Large-scale sequencing efforts contribute to the identification of rare genetic variants that might be responsible for certain diseases. These discoveries are essential for expanding our knowledge of the genetic landscape and improving diagnostic capabilities.
    • Population Genetics and Evolution: Genome sequencing on a large scale allows researchers to study the genetic diversity within populations. This information is valuable for understanding human evolution, migration patterns, and population-specific genetic traits.

    Ethical and Regulatory Challenges

    • Privacy Concerns: Genome sequencing generates highly sensitive and personal information. There is a risk that genetic data could be misused or lead to privacy breaches.
    • Informed Consent: Obtaining informed consent for genome sequencing is complex due to the vast amount of information generated and the potential for incidental findings.
    • Data Ownership and Control: Balancing individual rights with the need for research and medical advancements requires careful consideration of data sharing, ownership, and access policies.
    • Genetic Discrimination: Concerns about genetic discrimination in areas such as employment, insurance, and education may discourage individuals from undergoing genome sequencing. L
    • Access to Genetic Services: Disparities in access to genetic services and genomic technologies may exacerbate existing healthcare inequalities.
    • Ethical Use of Genetic Data in Research: Researchers must adhere to ethical standards when using genetic data in research. This includes obtaining proper consent, ensuring data security, and transparently communicating the purpose and potential risks of the research.

    Long-Term Impact and Future Prospects

    • Beyond Individual Health: Population-scale genomics will enhance our understanding of human evolution, migration, and adaptation.
    • Personalized Medicine: It paves the way for personalized healthcare based on individual genetic profiles.
    • Billion Genome Project: The possibility of sequencing a billion genomes in a single project is on the horizon, alongside individuals’ rights to access and understand their own genomic data.

    Conclusion

    • Population-scale genomics is at the forefront of a genomic revolution, with the potential to transform healthcare, deepen our understanding of human biology, and shape our approach to medicine and biology.
    • This evolving field promises to bring personalized, precise treatments and a richer comprehension of our genetic heritage.

  • Six Exoplanets found in the Coma Berenices Constellation

    exoplanet

    Central Idea

    • Six exoplanets have been discovered orbiting HD 110067, a bright star in the Coma Berenices constellation, approximately 100 light-years away.
    • The planets’ radii range between that of Earth and Neptune, classifying them as ‘sub-Neptunes’.

    About Sub-Neptune Exoplanets

    • Prevalence: Sub-Neptunes are commonly found in close-in orbits around more than half of all Sun-like stars.
    • Mystery: Despite their prevalence, the composition, formation, and evolution of these planets remain largely unknown.

    Observational Details

    • TESS Observations: NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) observed dips in HD 110067’s brightness in 2020 and 2022.
    • CHEOPS Contribution: Additional observations from the CHaracterising ExOPlanets Satellite (CHEOPS) helped confirm the presence of six planets transiting the star.
    • Orbital Calculations: The study calculated the orbits of all six planets, ranging from about nine days for the innermost planet to approximately 54 days for the outermost planet.

    Characteristics of the Planets

    • Mass and Density Estimates: The planets have relatively low densities, suggesting the presence of large, hydrogen-rich atmospheres.
    • Resonant Orbits: All six planets are in resonant orbits, indicating regular gravitational interactions among them.
    • System’s Age: The resonant orbits suggest that the system has remained largely unchanged since its formation, estimated to be at least four billion years ago.

    HD 110067’s Uniqueness

    • Brightness and Host Status: HD 110067 is the brightest star known to host more than four transiting exoplanets.
    • Potential for More Discoveries: There is a possibility of additional planets within or beyond the star’s temperate zone, though such observations have not yet been made.
    • Learning Opportunity: The HD 110067 system presents a unique opportunity to study sub-Neptunes and understand how such planetary systems form and evolve.

  • UAE launches ALTÉRRA Fund for Climate Investments

    Central Idea

    • The United Arab Emirates, as the host of COP-28, has committed US$30 billion to establish ALTÉRRA, a climate investment fund.

    What is ALTÉRRA Fund?

    • Fund Objective: ALTÉRRA aims to mobilize US$250 billion globally by 2030, aspiring to be the largest fund dedicated to climate investments.
    • Focus: The fund is designed to transform emerging markets and developing economies through climate investments.
    • Clean Energy in India: An initial portion of the fund is allocated for developing over 6.0 GW of new clean energy capacity in India, including 1,200 MW of wind and solar projects expected to be operational by 2025.
    • Financial Requirements: Emerging markets and developing economies reportedly need US$2.4 trillion annually by 2030 to address climate change.
    • Key Verticals: ALTÉRRA will focus on four main areas: Energy Transition, Industrial Decarbonisation, Sustainable Living, and Climate Technologies.

    Leadership and Management

    • Chair: COP-28 President, Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, will chair the ALTÉRRA fund.
    • Management Entity: Lunate, an independent global investment manager, has established ALTÉRRA.
    • Domicile: The fund is domiciled in the Abu Dhabi Global Market.

    Mission and Impact

    • Transformational Solution: ALTÉRRA is positioned as a transformative solution for attracting private capital into climate-focused investments.
    • Multiplier Effect: The fund’s scale and structure are expected to create a significant impact in climate investment.
    • Reflection of COP Presidency’s Action Agenda: The launch of ALTÉRRA aligns with the UAE’s COP Presidency Action Agenda and efforts to make climate finance more available, accessible, and affordable.

  • India pitches for Green Credit Scheme at COP28

    Central Idea

    • India introduced the Green Credits Scheme at COP28 in Dubai. PM Modi emphasized that this program goes beyond the commercial nature of carbon credits, offering a broader environmental impact.

    What is Green Credits Programme?

    • Objective: The initiative aims to generate Green Credits through plantation on degraded wasteland.
    • Inception: Launched in October by the Environment Ministry, it is designed to incentivize various environment-positive actions.
    • Action Areas: Includes tree plantation, water management, sustainable agriculture, waste management, air pollution reduction, mangrove conservation, ecomark label development, and sustainable building.
    • Scope beyond Carbon: Unlike existing carbon credit systems, this program extends incentives to actions beyond carbon emission reductions, such as water conservation and soil improvement.

    Distinctive Features

    • Market-Based Approach: The program aims to create a market for trading green credits, similar to carbon credits, where companies can earn credits for environmental actions and trade them.
    • Development Stage: Methodologies and standards for measuring and verifying such actions are under development, and the market for these credits is yet to be established.
    • Initial Buyers: It is anticipated that private companies might purchase these green credits to fulfill their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) obligations.
    • Wider Beneficiaries: Unlike carbon markets, which primarily target industries and corporations, the green credit program can benefit individuals and communities as well.

  • India set to launch its first X-Ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat)

    Central Idea

    • The Indian Space Research Organisation, following a landmark 2023, will ring in the new year with the launch of the PSLV-C58 X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) mission on January 1, 2024.

    About XPoSat Mission

    • Orbital Details: XPoSat will operate in a Low Earth Orbit at an altitude of about 650 km, with a low inclination of around 6 degrees.
    • Dual Scientific Payloads: The satellite is equipped with two payloads, enabling comprehensive studies of X-ray sources, including their temporal, spectral, and polarization characteristics.
    • Mission Goals: XPoSat’s primary objectives include measuring X-ray polarization in the 8-30 keV energy band and conducting long-term studies in the 0.8-15 keV band.
    • Mission Lifespan: The satellite is expected to be operational for approximately 5 years.
    • Observation Strategy: Observations by XPoSat will primarily occur during the Earth’s eclipse period to maximize efficiency.

    Payloads aboard XPoSat

    • POLIX – Primary Payload: The Polarimeter Instrument in X-rays (POLIX), developed by Bengaluru’s Raman Research Institute (RRI) with ISRO’s collaboration, is tailored to assess the degree and angle of polarization in medium X-ray energy ranges.
    • XSPECT – Secondary Payload: The X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing (XSPECT) payload, created by ISRO’s U.R. Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), will gather spectroscopic data in the 0.8-15 keV range.

    Significance of XPoSat

    • Polarization refers to the orientation of light waves. X-rays, a form of electromagnetic radiation, can also be polarized.
    • Studying it from cosmic sources provides valuable information about the physical conditions and processes occurring in extreme environments, such as around black holes, neutron stars, and supernova remnants.

  • [pib] Exercise MILAN

    Exercise MILAN

    Central Idea

    • Scheduled for February 2024, Exercise MILAN is set to be India’s largest multilateral naval exercise, with over 50 countries expected to participate.

    Exercise MILAN

    • Origin: Biennial exercise initiated by the Indian Navy in 1995 at the Andaman and Nicobar Command.
    • Initial Participation: Began with four countries – Indonesia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Thailand in 1995.
    • Growth over Years: The exercise has significantly grown in the number of participants and the complexity of exercises.
    • Expansion with Policies: Expanded under India’s ‘Act East policy’ and the SAGAR initiative.
    • Broader Inclusion: Now includes island nations in the Western Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and IOR littoral states.

    Significance of Exercise MILAN

    • Showcasing Naval Strength: This exercise reflects the Indian Navy’s growing engagement and capability to assist as a first responder and Preferred Security Partner in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
    • Enhanced Operational Reach: The Indian Navy’s increasing presence and operational reach through Mission Based Deployments and other engagements underscore India’s commitment to strong defense ties.
    • Importance of Naval Exercises: Conducting 17 multilateral and 20 bilateral exercises annually, these events are crucial for operational capability enhancement, interoperability, and strengthening diplomatic and maritime security ties.

  • Halal Certification Ban in Uttar Pradesh: A Comprehensive Overview

    Central Idea

    • On November 18, the Uttar Pradesh government imposed a state-wide ban on the “production, storing, distribution, and sale of halal certified edible items.”

    Understanding Halal and Halal Food

    • Definition of Halal: ‘Halal’ is an Arabic term meaning ‘permissible’ in English.
    • FAO Guidelines on Halal Food: The Food and Agriculture Organization defines halal food as compliant with Islamic Law, including specific slaughter methods.
    • Vegetarian Food and Halal: Generally, vegetarian food is deemed halal unless it contains prohibited substances like alcohol.
    • Labeling of Halal Products: Products claimed as halal must visibly display this on their labels.

    Halal-Certified Products

    • Purpose of Certification: Halal certification ensures food preparation adheres to Islamic law and is free from contamination.
    • Certification Bodies in India: Various private companies in India, like Halal India Pvt Ltd and Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind Halal Trust, offer halal certification. Some are government-recognized, while others are not.

    Controversy Surrounding Halal-Certified Products

    • Legality: The debate centers on the legality of certificate-issuing authorities and allegations of targeting specific religious communities.
    • Parallel Authority issue: The Indian government does not require halal certification; FSSAI certification is the standard for edible products.
    • International Trade and Halal Certification: As per the USDA 2022 report, halal certification is not essential for export or import trade permissions.
    • Religious violations: A case was filed against entities in Lucknow for purportedly exploiting religious sentiments to enhance sales through halal certification.

    Legal Aspects of Halal Certification

    • Complaints against Certification: Complaints have emerged against companies for allegedly issuing forged halal certificates for financial benefits.
    • Accusations of Illegal Certification: These companies are accused of lacking official recognition to issue halal certificates.

    Halal Certification System in India

    • Certifying Agencies: Various agencies provide halal certification to Indian companies, products, or food establishments.
    • Government Accreditation: The National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies under the Quality Council of India accredits these Halal Certification Bodies.
    • Advantages of Certification: Certification from recognized bodies benefits companies in both domestic and international markets.
    • DGFT Guidelines: The Directorate General of Foreign Trade mandates that only facilities with valid certification from accredited bodies can export ‘halal certified’ meat and meat products.
    • Government’s i-CAS Scheme: The ‘India Conformity Assessment Scheme’ was developed to regulate the halal certification process.

    Implications of the Ban

    • Quality confusions: The ban aims to address confusion over food quality standards and align with the Food Safety and Standards Act.
    • Curbing forged certification: Companies issuing forged certificates are accused of fostering social unrest and betraying public trust.
    • Economic Impact: There are apprehensions about a potential conspiracy to undermine the sales of non-halal certified products.
    • Financial Misuse: There are allegations that profits from these activities could be funneled towards supporting terrorist organizations and anti-national activities.

    Conclusion

    • This ban reflects the complex interplay between food safety regulations, religious practices, and commercial dynamics.
    • It highlights the need for a balanced approach in addressing such multifaceted issues.

  • Cabinet clears terms of reference for 16th Finance Commission

    Central Idea

    • The Union Cabinet approved the terms of reference (ToR) for the Sixteenth Finance Commission.
    • The Commission will devise a formula for revenue sharing between the Centre and the States for the period starting April 1, 2026.

    About Finance Commission

    • Establishment: The Finance Commission (FC) of India was established by the President in 1951 under Article 280 of the Indian Constitution.
    • Purpose: Its primary role is to define and regulate the financial relations between the central government and the individual state governments.
    • Legislative Framework: The Finance Commission (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1951, further outlines the qualifications, appointment, disqualification, term, eligibility, and powers of the Finance Commission.
    • Composition: Appointed every five years, the FC comprises a chairman and four other members.
    • Evolution: Since the First FC, changes in India’s macroeconomic landscape have significantly influenced the Commission’s recommendations.

    Constitutional Provisions

    • Article 268: Facilitates the levy of duties by the Centre, with collection and retention by the States.
    • Article 280: Outlines the FC’s composition, qualifications for members, and its terms of reference. It mandates the FC to recommend the distribution of net tax proceeds between the Union and States and the allocation among States. It also addresses the financial relations between the Union and States and the devolution of unplanned revenue resources.

    Key Functions of the Finance Commission

    • Tax Devolution: Recommends how net tax proceeds should be distributed between the Center and States.
    • Grants-in-Aid: Determines the principles governing these grants to States.
    • Augmenting State Funds: Advises on measures to enhance the States’ Consolidated Funds to support local bodies and panchayats, based on State Finance Commissions’ recommendations.
    • Other Financial Functions: Addresses any other financial matters referred by the President.

    Members of the Finance Commission

    • Structure and Standards: The Finance Commission (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1951, provides a structured format and global standards for the FC.
    • Qualifications and Powers: Specifies rules for members’ qualifications, disqualification, appointment, term, eligibility, and powers.
    • Composition: The Chairman is chosen for their experience in public affairs. The other members are selected based on their judicial experience, knowledge of government finances, administrative and financial expertise, or special economic knowledge.

    Challenges for the 16th Finance Commission

    • Overlap with GST Council: The coexistence with the GST Council, a permanent constitutional body, presents a new challenge.
    • Conflict of Interest: Decisions by the GST Council on tax rates could impact the FC’s revenue-sharing calculations.
    • Feasibility of Recommendations: While the Centre often adopts the FC’s suggestions on tax devolution and fiscal targets, other recommendations may be overlooked.

    Major Outstanding Recommendations

    • Fiscal Council Creation: The 15th FC proposed a Fiscal Council for collective macro-fiscal management, but the government has shown reluctance.
    • Non-Lapsable Fund for Internal Security: Though the Centre agreed ‘in principle’ to establish this fund, its implementation details are pending.