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Type: Prelims Only

  • Special Provisions of NE States under Article 371

    Central Idea

    • The Supreme Court recently assured that special constitutional provisions protecting the interests of northeastern states under Article 371 will remain untouched.
    • As the Constitution Bench deliberates the challenge to Article 370’s abrogation in Jammu and Kashmir, we delve into the significance of these assurances and their implications.

    What is Article 371?

    • Article 371 of the Indian Constitution grants special provisions to various states to protect their unique cultural and tribal identities.
    • These provisions are aimed at preserving local customs, social practices, and land ownership.

    Preserving Tribal Culture

    • Context: Article 371 provides special provisions for several states, particularly in the northeast, to safeguard their tribal cultures and unique identities.
    • Article 371(A) – Nagaland: Article 371(A) ensures that acts of Parliament do not apply to Nagaland concerning Nagas’ religious and social practices, customary law, civil and criminal justice based on Naga customary law, and land and resource ownership.
    • State Assembly’s Role: These provisions only apply to Nagaland after the State Assembly passes a resolution to that effect.
    • Development Impediment: Some stakeholders, like Neikiesalie Nicky Kire of the NDPP, argue that Article 371(A) hampers development by preventing the government from carrying out development activities due to landowner preferences.

    Similar Provisions in Other States

    • Article 371-G – Mizoram: Similar to Nagaland, Article 371-G provides special provisions for Mizoram to protect Mizo religious and social practices, customary law, civil and criminal justice, and land ownership.
    • Article 371B – Assam: Article 371B facilitates the creation of the sub-state ‘Meghalaya,’ aiming to provide special provisions with respect to Assam.

    State-Specific Provisions

    • Article 371C – Manipur: This article addresses special provisions for Manipur, a state that was formed in 1972.
    • Article 371F and 371H – Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh: These articles discuss special provisions for Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, respectively, to address their unique needs.
    • Article 371 – Separate Development Boards: Article 371 empowers the President to establish separate development boards for specific regions within Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh, promoting balanced growth.

    Further State-Specific Provisions except NE

    • Articles 371D and 371E – Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Goa: These articles provide special provisions for these states to ensure their cultural and economic development.
    • Articles 371J and 371I – Karnataka and Goa: These articles grant special provisions to Karnataka and Goa, respectively, to address their specific requirements.

  • LCA Tejas successfully test-fires Astra BVR Air-to-Air Missile

    astra

    Central Idea

    • The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas has achieved another milestone with the successful test firing of the indigenous Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile called Astra.

    Indigenous Marvel of Astra Missile

    • The Astra missile is an indigenous Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India.
    • The missile is intended for use by both the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Navy.

    Purpose and Capability

    • Astra is designed to engage and eliminate high-speed, agile aerial targets in air combat scenarios.
    • It boasts advanced air combat capabilities and can engage multiple high-performance targets simultaneously.

    Aircraft Integration

    • Astra is integrated with various aircraft platforms, including the Su-30MKI fighter jet, Mirage 2000 multi-role combat fighters, Tejas light combat aircraft (LCA), MiG-29 and MiG-21 Bison fighter jets, and the Indian Navy’s Sea Harrier jet fighter.

    Features and Specifications

    (A) Design:

    • The missile is designed for high agility, accuracy, and reliability, ensuring a high single-shot kill probability (SSKP).
    • Astra measures approximately 3.8 meters in length and has a diameter of 178mm.
    • It has a launch weight of around 160 kilograms.

    (B) Advanced Variants:

    • DRDO is working on developing an advanced variant called Astra Mk-II.
    • Astra Mk-II is expected to have an extended range of 160 kilometers.

    (C) Guidance and Warhead:

    • The missile utilizes dual-mode guidance for accurate target tracking.
    • It is equipped with a high-explosive pre-fragmented warhead for effective engagement against threats.

    (D) Propulsion and Performance:

    • The Astra missile is powered by a smokeless, single-stage, solid fuel propulsion system.
    • It is capable of achieving launch speeds ranging from Mach 0.4 to Mach 2.

    (E) Launch Range and Agility:

    • The missile’s launch range is approximately 80 kilometers.
    • It can execute maneuvers with up to 40 g turns near sea level while engaging moving targets.

    Collaborative Development

    • Astra Mk-III, a variant of the missile, is being developed in collaboration with Russia.
    • This variant employs advanced solid fuel ducted ramjet (SFDR) engine technology.

    Back2Basics: LCA Tejas

    lca

    • Origin: The LCA Tejas is an indigenous light combat aircraft developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) in collaboration with the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India.
    • Purpose: LCA Tejas is designed as a multi-role supersonic fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Navy.
    • Variants: There are two main variants of LCA Tejas:
    1. LCA Tejas Mark-I: Developed for the Indian Air Force, it is a single-seat, single-engine aircraft.
    2. LCA Tejas Mark-I Navy: Designed for the Indian Navy, it is adapted for carrier operations with features like reinforced landing gear and arrestor hook.
    • Design and Features:
    1. LCA Tejas features a delta wing design for enhanced maneuverability and stability.
    2. The aircraft incorporates advanced avionics, glass cockpit, and digital fly-by-wire controls.
    3. It is equipped with modern radar systems, electronic warfare systems, and weapons integration capabilities.
    • Powerplant: LCA Tejas is powered by a single engine, the General Electric F404-GE-IN20 turbofan engine.
    • Armament: The aircraft can carry a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, including missiles, bombs, and rockets.
    • Performance:
    1. The aircraft has a maximum speed of around Mach 1.8 (1,390 mph or 2,240 km/h).
    2. Its operational range is approximately 500 kilometers (310 miles).
    3. LCA Tejas has a service ceiling of around 50,000 feet (15,240 meters).
    • Induction and Service:
    1. The LCA Tejas Mark-I was officially inducted into the Indian Air Force in July 2016.
    2. The aircraft has participated in various national and international airshows, showcasing its capabilities.
    • Development and Challenges:
    1. The development of LCA Tejas faced several challenges, including technical and financial issues, leading to delays.
    2. However, the successful development and induction of the aircraft marked a significant achievement for India’s aerospace industry.

  • Can vehicles bear ‘Caste and Religious Stickers’?

    caste
    PC: The Quint

    Central Idea

    • Recent actions taken by the Noida and Ghaziabad Police to issue challans for displaying ‘caste and religious stickers’ on vehicles have stirred debate about the legality of such stickers.
    • This move, part of a special drive, raises questions about the intersection of vehicle regulations, social norms, and legal restrictions.

    Displaying Caste on Vehicles: Exploring Legal Framework

    • Caste and Religious Stickers: The legality of these stickers is assessed based on the Motor Vehicle Act and Motor Vehicle Rules.
    • State Orders: Various state governments, including Uttar Pradesh, have issued orders against affixing stickers signifying caste and religion on vehicles, even on the body of the vehicle.
    • Registration Number Plate: The Motor Vehicle Rules strictly forbid placing stickers on the registration number plate.

    Challenging Stickers and Law Enforcement

    • Challan Penalties: The penalties for placing such stickers on vehicles are set at Rs 1,000, while it rises to Rs 5,000 if the sticker is placed on the registration number plate.
    • Future Initiatives: The authorities have indicated their intention to continue conducting similar drives in the future.

    Number Plate Specifications and Violations

    • Number Plate Standards: The Motor Vehicle Rules specify the composition of the number plate, which should be a solid unit made of 1.0 mm aluminium with the letters “IND” in blue on the extreme left center.
    • Penalties for Violations: Section 192 of the MV Act outlines penalties for non-compliant number plates, including fines of up to Rs 5,000 for the first offense and potential imprisonment and fines for subsequent offenses.
    • 2019 Amendment: Post the 2019 MV Act amendment, the fines for violations rose to a maximum of Rs 2,000.

    Disobedience of Orders and Legal Consequences

    • Legal Basis: Police are issuing challans under Section 179 of the Motor Vehicles Act 1988 in the case of stickers on the body of vehicles.
    • Section 179 Details: Section 179 addresses “disobedience of orders, obstruction, and refusal of information.” Offenders can be fined up to Rs 500 as per the section.
    • Amendment Impact: Following the 2019 MV Act amendment, the fines for such offenses increased to a maximum of Rs 2,000.

    Conclusion

    • The legal scrutiny of ‘caste and religious stickers’ on vehicles underscores the tension between personal expressions, cultural practices, and legal regulations.
    • As legal frameworks evolve and society navigates its complex dynamics, finding the balance between individual rights and societal harmony remains an ongoing challenge.

  • Evolution of Madras to Chennai: Tracing its Historical Transition

    madras chennai

    Central Idea

    • Madras Day celebrated on August 22, commemorates the foundation day of the city of Madras, now known as Chennai.

    The Birth of Madras

    • 1639: The East India Company (EIC) purchased the town of Madrasapatnam on August 22, 1639, laying the foundation for the modern-day city of Chennai.
    • British Presence: The EIC established trading posts and fortified settlements along the eastern and western coasts, leading to the emergence of Madras as a crucial hub.

    Transition from Madras to Chennai

    • British Rule: The region remained under British rule until India gained independence in 1947, with both the state and city referred to as Madras.
    • 1969: The state was officially renamed Tamil Nadu, and in 1996, Madras transformed into Chennai as a nod to its historical roots.

    Origins and Significance of Madrasapatnam

    • Origins of the Name: The origin of the name “Madras” remains debated, with theories suggesting connections to local fishermen, churches, and the term “pattinam” (town on the coast).
    • Pre-British History: Madrasapatnam had a history shaped by various rulers, including the Pallavas and Cholas, before the British arrival.

    Purchase and Founding of Madrasapatnam

    • Damarla Venkatapathy Nayak: Under his influence, the English were granted a piece of land between the Cooum River and the Egmore River in 1639, where Fort St. George was established.
    • Chennapatanam: The city around Fort St. George was named Chennapatanam, honoring Chennappa Nayak, which later inspired the name “Chennai.”

    Urban Growth and Development

    • Growth of the City: Over the centuries, Chennai evolved from Fort St. George and the Black and White towns into a significant urban center.
    • Institutionalization: Under Governor Elihi Yale, a mayor and Corporation were established, and areas like Egmore and Tondiarpet were acquired.

    Evolution to Tamil Nadu and Chennai

    • Post-Independence Era: After British rule ended, Madras province became Madras State.
    • Demand for Change: Various demands to rename the state as Tamil Nadu gained traction, with K P Sankaralinganar’s protest in 1956 being a pivotal moment.
    • Name Change: The renaming to Tamil Nadu was approved by Parliament in 1968 and came into effect in 1969.
    • Chennai’s Transition: Chennai’s renaming from Madras in 1996 was part of a broader trend to shed colonial influences, though British influence on these names’ evolution cannot be denied.

    Continuing Identity

    • The transformation of Madras to Chennai is not just a change in nomenclature, but a reflection of the dynamic interplay between historical heritage, regional identity, and post-colonial aspirations.
    • The city’s evolution stands as a testament to the diverse threads that weave India’s urban tapestry.

  • Sculptures shed light on ancient Mylara Cult

    mylara

    Central Idea

    The recent discovery of two sculptures in the Basrur region near Kundapura, Udupi (Karnataka), has brought to light the existence of the ancient Mylara cult in the coastal area.

    What is the news?

    • A remarkable sculpture, discovered in a well at Basrur, showcases a royal hero seated on a horse, wielding a sword and a bowl in his right and left hands, respectively.
    • Notably, this sculpture lacks the depiction of Mylaladevi on the horse’s back.

    About Mylara Cult

    • Mylara, a revered folk deity, is believed to be a divine incarnation of Lord Shiva.
    • Known by various names such as Mailara, Khandoba, Khanderao, and Khandnatha, this deity holds a diverse range of titles that highlight its multifaceted nature.
    • Its origins can be traced back to the 12th century Shaivite tradition, associated with the revered Lingayat saint and philosopher Siddharama, aka. Siddharameshwara or Siddhalinga.
    • The influence of the Mylara cult spans across the southern regions of India, encompassing Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.

    Historical Significance

    • Basrur was a thriving trading hub during the Medieval period, bustling with trading guilds like Uhayadesi and Nanadesi.
    • These guilds actively participated in trade, making Basrur a pivotal center for various cults and cultural exchange.
    • The Mylara cult, known for its prominence in the Deccan region, flourished in Basrur as well.

  • Per- and Polyfluoro-Alkyl substances (PFAs): the Forever Chemicals

    A recent study published in Environment Science and Technology has found that rainwater from many places across the globe is contaminated with “per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances,” (PFAs) also called “forever chemicals”.

    What are PFAs?

    • PFAs are man-made chemicals used to make non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, stain-resistant fabrics, cosmetics, fire-fighting forms and many other products that resist grease, water and oil.
    • They refer to a group of over 3,000 widely used human-made chemicals linked to cancer and other health risks.
    • They have tendency to stick around in the atmosphere, rainwater and soil for long periods of time.
    • PFAs can migrate to the soil, water and air during their production and use.
    • Since most PFAs do not break down, they remain in the environment for long periods of time.
    • Some of these PFAs can build up in people and animals if they are repeatedly exposed to the chemicals.

    What harm do PFAs cause?

    • A variety of health risks are attributed to PFA exposure, including decreased fertility, developmental effects in children, interference with body hormones, increased cholesterol levels and increased risk of some cancers.
    • Recent research has also revealed that long-term low-level exposure to certain PFAs can make it difficult for humans to build antibodies after being vaccinated against various diseases.

    How can these chemicals be removed from rainwater?

    • There is no known method that can extract and remove PFAs from the atmosphere itself.
    • There are many effective, albeit expensive, methods to remove them from rainwater that has been collected through various rainwater harvesting methods.
    • One way to do this would be to use a filtration system with activated carbon.
    • The activated carbon will need to be removed and replaced regularly.
    • Also, the old contaminated material must be destroyed.

    Remedial measures

    • A cheaper method is under trial.
    • The researchers first placed a PFA compound in a solvent called DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide).
    • They then mixed it with sodium hydroxide (lye) in water.
    • They found that when this mixture was heated up to boiling temperature, the PFA compound began to degrade.
    • However, this method doesn’t work for all PFAs and only works for certain PFA subsets.

     

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  • Ajnala Massacre of 1857 and its Rediscovery

    ajnala

    Central Idea

    • A recent collaborative effort of professional geneticists has resulted in a scientific confirmation of the Ajnala massacre – an event lost to history for 165 years.
    • This project, marked by emotional intensity and rigorous analysis, brought long-lost victims to light through molecular and isotope data.

    Ajnala Massacre

    • Buried Tragedy: 282 soldiers of the 26th Native Bengal Infantry Regiment met a brutal fate during the 1857 uprising, drowned in a well by the British East India Company.
    • Discovery of Location: Cooper’s book provided clues that helped locate the 1857 Kallianwala Martyrs’ Well beneath the Gurdwara Singh Sabha in Ajnala.
    • Chance Encounter: In 2003, historian Surinder Kochhar found a reference to ‘Ajnala’ in a discarded book titled “Crisis in Punjab” by Frederick Henry Cooper.
    • Massacre Rediscovered: Kochhar’s research led to the revelation of the Ajnala Massacre, a grim incident hidden for over 157 years.

    Excavation and Revelation

    • Unveiling the Remains: The well was excavated in 2014, exposing the skeletal remains of the soldiers.
    • Gruesome Discovery:  During the 1857 Sepoy mutiny, many Indian soldiers revolted against the British. Around 500 revolted at Mian Mir Cantonment in Lahore.
    • Evading execution: They swam across the Ravi River to reach the town of Ajnala, now in Amritsar district. Of them, 218 were killed by British soldiers at Dadian Sofian village near Ajnala.
    • Dumped into a well: The remaining 282 were stuffed in a small room, where many died of asphyxiation. The rest were shot dead and their bodies were thrown into a well, which was later named “Kalianwala Khu” and “Shaheedan da Khu”.

    Verification and Acknowledgment

    • Scientific Verification: DNA-based evidence confirmed that the remains belonged to soldiers of the 26th Native Bengal Infantry regiment.
    • Historical Importance: The Ajnala Massacre adds to the narrative of the 1857 Indian uprising against the British East India Company’s oppression.

    Conclusion

    • The Ajnala Massacre underscores the often-overlooked brutalities of the 1857 Indian uprising.
    • The lack of acknowledgement and memorials can be attributed to the government’s hesitance to address uncomfortable aspects of history.

  • Last survivors of Piripkura tribe found

    piripkura

    Central Idea

    • Deep within the Amazon rainforest, the story of Tamandua Piripkura unfolds, embodying the struggle of Indigenous people.
    • This man is one of the last three survivors of the Piripkura people.

    Who are the Piripkura?

    • The Piripkura tribe is a small and isolated indigenous group in Brazil.
    • They are known for their extreme isolation and limited contact with the outside world.
    • They have intentionally avoided contact with mainstream society and have maintained their traditional way of life for generations.
    • The Piripkura territory is located in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil.
    • Their land lies within the Amazon rainforest, an area that is rich in biodiversity and crucial for the ecological balance of the region.

    Their dwindling population

    • The Piripkura tribe is estimated to consist of only 3 individuals.
    • Exact population figures are difficult to determine due to their isolation and the challenges associated with conducting a comprehensive census.
    • They face numerous challenges to their survival, including threats from illegal logging, mining, and land encroachment.

  • Megalithic Hat Stones unearthed in Nagaparamba

    megalithic

    Central Idea

    • Recent archaeological excavations in Tirunaya near Nagaparamba (Kerala) have brought to light a collection of hemispherical laterite stones known as hat stones or Thoppikkallu in Malayalam.

    Nagaparamba Megalithic Treasure

    • Thoppikkallu: Hat stones, referred to as Thoppikkallu in Malayalam, served as lids for burial urns during the megalithic era, offering a unique glimpse into burial practices.
    • Cultural Insights: The discoveries may provide valuable insights into the life and culture of the ancient inhabitants of the area, dating back more than 2,000 years.

    Unraveling the Mystery of Megaliths

    • Megalithic Structures: Megaliths were constructed as either burial sites or commemorative memorials, creating a distinctive landscape of archaeological significance.
    • Burial Remains: Examples of burial megaliths include dolmenoid cists, cairn circles, and capstones, each with its unique design and purpose.
    • Non-Sepulchral Megaliths: Non-burial megaliths, such as menhirs, hold a different purpose and significance.
    • Historical Context: The majority of Indian megaliths are attributed to the Iron Age, spanning from 1500 BC to 500 BC.
    • Regional Concentration: These intriguing structures are concentrated in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.

  • Hurricane Hilary’s rare journey towards West Coast

    hilary

    Central Idea

    • Hurricane Hilary’s unexpected trajectory towards Southern California and Mexico has caught meteorologists and residents off guard.
    • The only recorded instance of a tropical storm with hurricane-force winds hitting Southern California dates back to 1858, impacting San Diego.

    What is a Hurricane?

    • A hurricane, also known as a tropical cyclone or typhoon in different regions, is a powerful and intense tropical storm characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and low atmospheric pressure.
    • Here are the key features and characteristics of a hurricane:
    1. Formation: Hurricanes typically form over warm ocean waters, where the sea surface temperature is at least 26.5 degrees Celsius (about 80 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher. Warm ocean water provides the energy needed to fuel the storm’s growth.
    2. Energy Source: Hurricanes derive their energy from the heat released when moist air rises and condenses into clouds and rain. This process, known as latent heat release, powers the storm and leads to the development of strong winds.
    3. Eye: At the center of a hurricane is a relatively calm and clear area known as the “eye.” The eye is surrounded by a circular band of intense thunderstorms called the “eyewall,” where the strongest winds and heaviest rainfall occur.
    4. Wind Speeds: Hurricanes are characterized by extremely strong winds that can reach speeds of over 74 miles per hour (119 kilometres per hour) for a storm to be classified as a hurricane. Major hurricanes can have wind speeds exceeding 111 miles per hour (179 kilometers per hour).
    5. Categories: Hurricanes are categorized based on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which ranges from Category 1 (weakest) to Category 5 (strongest). Category 1 hurricanes have sustained winds of 74-95 mph, while Category 5 hurricanes have winds greater than 157 mph.

    About Hurricane Hilary

    • Unlike hurricane-prone states on the Gulf of Mexico, California and Mexico’s west coast lack experience in dealing with such events.
    • Hurricane Hilary’s expected landfall in the Baja peninsula of Mexico poses risks of landslides, flooding, and extensive damage due to the region’s geographical features and population density.

    Factors behind its intensification

    • Ocean Temperature Factor: Hurricanes require ocean waters above 26 degrees Celsius to form. The west coast’s colder waters are less conducive to hurricane formation.
    • Vertical Wind Shear: Strong upper-level winds can disrupt hurricanes’ structure and prevent their formation. West coast’s stronger wind shear reduces the likelihood of hurricanes.
    • Trade Wind Influence: Trade winds, which steer hurricanes, play a pivotal role in directing them toward the east coast while diverting them away from the west coast.
    • Westward Trajectory: Hurricanes originating in the eastern Pacific tend to move west-northwest, taking them away from the west coast and out to sea.

    Climate Change induced factors

    • Climate Change Impact: Climate change leads to more frequent and intense hurricanes. Rising ocean temperatures due to greenhouse gas emissions contribute to increased hurricane intensity.
    • Ocean Heat Absorption: Oceans have absorbed 90% of excess heat from greenhouse gas emissions, leading to higher sea surface temperatures and stronger hurricanes.
    • Marine Heat Waves: Elevated sea surface temperatures result in marine heat waves, intensifying storm systems and amplifying their impact on land.
    • El Nino’s Role: El Niño, an abnormal warming of equatorial Pacific Ocean waters, can weaken wind shear in the eastern Pacific, creating conditions conducive to hurricane formation.