From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NTCA
Why in the News?
The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), the apex body responsible for tiger conservation, recently issued directives urging 19 States to prioritize the relocation of villagers residing in core tiger zones.
NTCA’s Directive:
According to the NTCA, 591 villages, comprising 64,801 families, reside in the core tiger zone, posing a significant concern for tiger conservation.
The core zone refers to the part of a tiger reserve where human activities such as hunting and forest produce collection are PROHIBITED, and tribals CANNOT reside.
Outside the core zone is the buffer zone, where certain activities are allowed but regulated.
About National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA):
Details
Constitution
Statutory body under MoEFCC, constituted under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Chairmanship
Chaired by the Minister for Environment and Forests.
Structure
• 8 experts in wildlife conservation and tribal welfare.
• 3 MPs.
• Inspector General of Forests as ex-officio Member Secretary.
Objectives
• Provide statutory authority to Project Tiger.
• Enhance Centre-State accountability in managing Tiger Reserves.
• Provide parliamentary oversight.
• Address livelihood concerns of local communities.
Powers and Functions
• Approve state-prepared tiger conservation plans.
• Prevent unsustainable land use in Tiger Reserves.
• Set standards for tourism and tiger conservation guidelines.
• Conduct tiger censuses (via M-STrIPES app).
• Support biodiversity conservation through eco-development and people’s participation.
Key Initiative
• Project Tiger, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for in-situ conservation of tigers, launched on April 1, 1973.
PYQ:
[2014] Consider the following statements:
1. Animal Welfare Board of India is established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
2. National Tiger Conservation Authority is a statutory body.
3. National Ganga River Basin Authority is chaired by the Prime Minister.
Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Yellow Food Dye
Why in the News?
Recent research reveals that FD&C Yellow 5, a common food dye, can temporarily make tissue transparent, with potential implications for cancer treatment and medical procedures.
AboutYellow Food Dye
FD&C Yellow 5, also known as Tartrazine, is a widely used synthetic food dye found in various snacks, drinks, and processed foods.
Approved by the FDA, it is commonly used to give products a vibrant yellow color.
How does it work?
The dye has the ability to make tissue transparent is based on its interaction with light, specifically through the Kramers-Kronig relations, a principle in physics.
It absorbs blue light, leaving only the red-orange spectrum visible.
This alters the refractive index of water, causing it to match the refractive index of fats and proteins in tissue.
When the refractive indices match, light can pass through tissue with less scattering, creating the appearance of transparency.
Potential Medical Applications of Yellow Food Dye
Cancer Treatment: By making tissues transparent, FD&C Yellow 5 could enhance photodynamic and photothermal therapies, allowing laser light to reach deeper tissues and target cancerous cells more effectively.
Vein Visibility: Transparent tissues could help make veins more visible, aiding in procedures like venepuncture for blood draws or injections, particularly in patients with hard-to-see veins.
Non-invasive Diagnostics: The dye could allow doctors to visualize internal organs and structures without the need for invasive procedures like biopsies or expensive imaging technologies like CT scans or MRIs.
PYQ:
[2018] Consider the following statements:
1. The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 replaced the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954.
2. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is under the charge of Director General of Health Services in the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
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: 23rd Law Commission and Terms of its reference
Why in the News?
The Union government has notified the constitution of the 23rd Law Commission of India with effect from September 1.
Terms of Reference of the 23rd Law Commission:
The 23rd Law Commission has been tasked with addressing similar objectives as previous Commissions, such as:
Identifying outdated laws that can be repealed.
Creating Standard Operating Procedures (SoP) for the periodic review of laws.
Identifying laws that are not in harmony with economic needs and suggesting amendments.
Like its predecessors, it will examine laws in light of the DPSP and suggest improvements or new legislation to fulfill the objectives outlined in the Preamble of the Constitution.
PM’s call for a uniform civil code reflects the need to implement, a Directive Principle outlined in the Constitution.
About the Law Commission of India:
Details
Nature
Non-statutory body periodically constituted by the Government of India. It is an Executive Body.
Establishment
First Commission during British India: Established in 1834 under the Charter Act of 1833, chaired by Lord Macaulay, Focused on the codification of laws like the Penal Code and Criminal Procedure Code.
First Commission in Independent India: Established in 1955, chaired by M. C. Setalvad, then Attorney-General of India.
Primary Role
Advises the Ministry of Law and Justice on legal reform and reviews existing laws to suggest improvements and draft new legislation.
Recommendations are advisory and NOT binding on the government.
Composition
Headed by a Chairperson (usually a retired Supreme Court Judge or Chief Justice of a High Court),
4 full-time members (including a Member-Secretary), ex-officio members (Secretaries of the Departments of Legal Affairs and Legislative Department), and
Up to 5 part-time members.
Tenure
3 years, with provisions for reconstitution or extension as required by the government.
Key Functions
• Undertakes legal research.
• Review existing laws for reforms.
• Recommends repeal of obsolete laws.
• Suggest amendments and new legislations.
• Examines laws that affect the poor and marginalized.
Notable Recommendations by 22nd law Commission
• Uniform Civil Code.
• Amendments to the sedition law.
• Repeal of obsolete laws.
• Gender equality in personal laws.
• Improvements in judicial administration.
Reports Submitted
Over 277 reports on various legal issues including the implementation of international conventions, compulsory registration of marriages, etc.
Recent Activity
The 22nd Law Commission is focusing on issues like the Uniform Civil Code and amendments to the sedition law (Section 124A), among other legislative reforms.
PYQ:
[2014] The power to increase the number of judges in the Supreme Court of India is vested in:
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Supreme Court Flag and Insignia
Why in the News?
President Droupadi Murmu unveiled the new flag and insignia of the Supreme Court of India during the National Conference of District Judiciary in New Delhi.
AboutNew Flag and Insignia of the Supreme Court of India:
Details
Designed by
National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Delhi
Flag Design
Blue flag featuring three symbols:
Ashoka Chakra (Symbol of India’s legal and cultural heritage)
Supreme Court Building (Represents the institution of justice in India)
Constitution of India (Highlights the role of the Supreme Court as the guardian of the Constitution)
Insignia
Includes the Sanskrit phrase “Yato Dharmastato Jayah“ inscribed in Devanagari script.
Translates to “Where there is Dharma, there is victory“, symbolizing the Supreme Court’s dedication to justice and righteousness.
Occurs 13 times in the epic the Mahabharata.
Flag Formats
Available in cross table flat, single table flag, pole flag, and wooden frame versions
PYQ:
[2023] Consider the following statements in respect of the National Flag of India according to the Flag Code of India, 2002:
Statement-I: One of the standard sizes of the National Flag of India is 600 mm * 400 mm.
Statement-II: The ratio of the length to the height (width) of the Flag shall be 3:2.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect
d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: VisioNxt Fashion
Why in the News?
The Union Ministry of Textiles has launched India’s first fashion forecasting initiative ‘VisioNxt’.
AboutVisioNxt Initiative
Details
Launched By
National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in collaboration with the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.
Objective
To provide India-specific fashion trend insights and reduce dependence on global forecasting agencies.
Significance
India’s first initiative to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Emotional Intelligence (EI) to forecast fashion trends.
Key Features
Delivers localized fashion trend insights tailored for Indian designers, manufacturers, and retailers.
Provides forecasts reflecting India’s cultural diversity and socio-economic nuances.
Designed to support the Indian fashion and retail market with consumer-focused trend data.
AI Model Used
“DeepVision” – AI-based model that decodes Indian fashion patterns, analyzing attributes like style, color, and regional influences.
Accessibility
Bilingual resources (Hindi and English) through a web portal, making the insights accessible to a broader range of stakeholders in the Indian fashion industry.
Goal
To empower Indian fashion professionals with India-specific data, reducing reliance on international forecasting systems.
PYQ:
[2019] What makes the Indian society unique in sustaining its culture? Discuss.
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: Article 370, Article 35A,
Why in the News?
Ahead of assembly elections, many political parties are vowing for restoration of Article 370, Article 35A and Statehood in their manifestoes.
About Articles 370 and 35(A) of the Indian Constitution
[1] Article 370:
Description
Provision
Granted special autonomous status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir.
Nature
Initially intended as a temporary provision, subject to eventual change or abrogation.
Powers of State
Allowed J&K to have its own Constitution and autonomyover internal matters except defense, foreign affairs, finance, and communications.
Presidential Order
President of India could extend or modify the application of Indian laws to J&K with the concurrence of the state government.
Autonomy Details
Provides a degree of autonomy to the state and permits the state to give some special privileges to its “permanent residents”.
Emergency Provisions
Emergency provisions are not applicable to the state on the grounds of “internal disturbance” without the concurrence of the State.
State Boundaries
Name and boundaries of the State cannot be alteredwithout the consent of its legislature.
Separate Institutions
State has its own constitution, a separate flag, and a separate penal code (Ranbir Penal Code).
Assembly Duration
Duration of the state’s Assembly is 6 years, unlike five in the rest of India.
Parliamentary Jurisdiction
Indian Parliament can pass laws regarding J&K in the matters of defense, external affairs, and communication only.
Any other law formed by Union will only be applicable in J&K by presidential order if it concurs with the state assembly.
Abolishment Condition
President may, by public notification, declare that this Article shall cease to be operative but only on the recommendation of the Constituent Assembly of the State.
Abolishment
In August 5, 2019, through a Presidential Order and a resolution passed by the Indian Parliament.
Impact of Abrogation
J&K’s special status was revoked.
It was reorganized into two Union Territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.
[2] Article 35A:
Description
Provision
Empowers the J&K legislature to define permanent residents of the state and provide them with special rights and privileges.
Insertion
Added to the Constitution through a Presidential Order in 1954.
Permanent Residents
Defined by the state as those who were state subjects on May 14, 1954, or have been residents for 10 years, and lawfully acquired immovable property.
Special Rights
Permanent residents were given exclusive rights to employment under the state government, acquisition of immovable property in the state, and scholarships.
Constitutionality Debate
Debated on the grounds that it was not added via an amendment procedure.
Criticism
Criticized for being discriminatory and creating a sense of separation from the rest of India.
Revocation
Along with Article 370, Article 35A was effectively nullified on August 5, 2019.
PYQ:
[2016] To what extent is Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, bearing marginal note “Temporary provision with respect to the State of Jammu and Kashmir”, temporary? Discuss The future prospects of this provision in the context of Indian polity.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Antibiotic Pollution
Why in the News?
The World Health Organization (WHO) released its first-ever global guidance on managing antibiotic pollution from manufacturing processes.
What is Antibiotic Pollution?
Antibiotic pollution refers to the contamination of natural environments, particularly water and soil, by antibiotics.
This pollution occurs when antibiotics are released into ecosystems through various sources, leading to the proliferation of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
AMR happens when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist the effects of antibiotics, making infections harder to treat and posing a significant threat to global health.
How does Antibiotic Pollution occur from the Manufacturing Process?
Wastewater Discharge: Antibiotic plants release wastewater with residual antibiotics and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) into local water bodies, contributing to drug-resistant bacteria.
Improper Solid Waste Disposal: Unused antibiotics, raw materials, and by-products are often disposed of improperly, contaminating soil and groundwater.
Inadequate Treatment: Many facilities lack effective systems to treat pharmaceutical waste, allowing antibiotics to enter the environment.
Mass Balance Calculations: Inefficient systems or mismanagement can lead to unintentional antibiotic discharge during recycling and waste estimation.
Leaks and Spills: Accidental leaks or spills during manufacturing, transportation, or storage introduce antibiotics into ecosystems.
Runoff: Rainwater can carry antibiotics from waste into nearby rivers, lakes, or agricultural land, further contaminating the environment.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bandipur Tiger Reserve (BTR)
Why in the News?
An elephant was rescued from a rail barricade in the Maddur range of Bandipur Tiger Reserve.
About the Bandipur Tiger Reserve (BTR):
Details
Location
Mysore and Chamarajanagar districts, Karnataka; at the tri-junction of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
Part of
Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Geography
“Ecological confluence” of the Western and Eastern Ghats (along with Mudumalai and Wayanad)
History
Established as Venugopala Wildlife Park in 1931; expanded as Bandipur Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger in 1973.
Surrounding Reserves
Bordered by Nagarahole Tiger Reserve (NW), Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (S), and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (SW).
Rivers
Surrounded by River Kabini (North) and River Moyar (South).
Climate
Tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.
Flora
Dry deciduous to tropical mixed deciduous forests; includes rosewood, sandalwood, Indian laurel, and bamboo species.
Fauna
Home to the largest population of wild Asian elephants in South Asia; also includes Bengal tiger, gaur, sloth bear, dhole, and others.
PYQ:
[2017] From the ecological point of view, which one of the following assumes importance in being a good link between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Read the attached story
Why in the News?
The Indian Army has announced two significant events, HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 and HIMTECH-2024, aimed at advancing military technologies for operations in high-altitude areas.
About HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2
HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 is scheduled to take place at Wari La, near Leh on 17-18 September 2024.
This event serves as a platform for the Indian Drone Industry to demonstrate drone solutions tailored for high-altitude areas, where the Indian Army frequently operates.
The event will be conducted under actual terrain and environmental conditions at altitudes ranging from 4,000 to 5,000 meters to test the drones’ performance in realistic scenarios.
Indigenous drone manufacturers are invited to participate, demonstrating various drone types, including:
Surveillance drones
Loitering munitions
Logistics drones
Swarm drones
Drones with specialized roles and payloads, such as Electronic Warfare, Synthetic Aperture Radar, Communication Intelligence, and Electronic Intelligence.
It is conceptualized to discuss, demonstrate, and explore new opportunities for the development and integration of technologies for high-altitude military operations.
It has been organized in collaboration with FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry).
It will highlight the latest technologies and systems developed to meet the operational requirements along India’s Northern Borders.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Project ‘Strawberry’; LLMs.
Why in the News?
OpenAI has planned to release its most powerful AI model likely as part of ChatGPT-5. Initially called Project Q* (Q-star), it is now codenamed Project Strawberry.
What is Project Strawberry?
Nearly six months ago, OpenAI’s secretive Project Q* (Q-Star) gained attention for its innovative approach to AI training.
OpenAI is now working on a new reasoning technology under the code name “Strawberry” believed to be the new name for Project Q*.
Strawberry aims to enable AI models to plan ahead, autonomously search the internet, and conduct deep research.
What are Large Language Models (LLMs)?
LLMs are advanced artificial intelligence (AI) systems designed to understand, generate, and process human language.
They are built using deep learning techniques, particularly neural networks, and are trained on vast amounts of text data.
Difference from Existing AI Models
Existing Large Language Models (LLMs) can summarize texts and compose prose but struggle with common sense problems and multi-step logic tasks.
Current LLMs cannot plan ahead effectively without external frameworks.
Strawberry models are expected to enhance AI reasoning, allowing for planning and complex problem-solving.
These models could enable AI to perform tasks that require a series of actions over an extended time, potentially revolutionizing AI’s capabilities.
Potential Applications of Strawberry Models
Advanced AI models could conduct experiments, analyze data, and suggest new hypotheses, leading to breakthroughs in sciences.
In medical research, AI could assist in drug discovery, genetics research, and personalized medicine analysis.
AI could solve complex mathematical problems, assist in engineering calculations, and participate in theoretical research.
AI could contribute to writing, creating art and music, generating videos, and designing video games.
PYQ:
[2020] With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following?
Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units.
Create meaningful short stories and songs.
Disease diagnosis.
Text-to-Speech Conversion.
Wireless transmission of electrical energy.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2, 4 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
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: Review Petition
Why in the News?
Some medical students have filed a review petition against the Supreme Court’s dismissal of their plea to cancel NEET UG 2024 over alleged malpractices.
What is a Review Petition?
Details
Constitutional Provision
Article 137 of the Constitution allows the Supreme Court to review any of its judgments or orders.
Scope of Review
Corrects “patent errors” and not minor mistakes.
It is not an appeal; it does not involve re-evaluating the entire case but correcting grave errors resulting in a miscarriage of justice.
Filing Review Petition
Can be filed by any person aggrieved by a ruling, not necessarily a party to the case.
Must be filed within 30 days of the judgment or order.
Delay can be condoned if justified with strong reasons.
Grounds for Review
Discovery of new and important evidence not available earlier despite due diligence.
Mistake or errors apparent on the face of the record.
Procedure in the Court
Review petitions are usually heard through circulation without oral arguments.
In exceptional cases, oral hearings may be allowed, especially in death penalty cases.
Heard by the same bench of judges who delivered the original judgment or order.
Option After Review Fails
If a review petition is dismissed, a curative petition can be filed as per the Roopa Hurra v. Ashok Hurra (2002) ruling, on very narrow grounds similar to a review petition.
PYQ:
[2017] In India, Judicial Review implies:
(a) the power of the Judiciary to pronounce upon the constitutionality of laws and executive orders.
(b) the power of the Judiciary to question the wisdom of the laws enacted by the Legislatures.
(c) the power of the Judiciary to review all the legislative enactments before they are assented to by the President.
(d) the power of the Judiciary to review its own judgements given earlier in similar or different cases.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Jaipur, World Heritage Sites in India
Why in the News?
The Walled City of Jaipur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2019, is set for heritage conservation and development with a budget of ₹100 crore.
Aboutthe World Heritage City of Jaipur:
Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur was designed as a commercial capital with a grid layout that reflects Vedic architectural principles.
Unlike many other Indian cities built in hilly terrains, Jaipur was established on a plain, allowing for a systematic urban design characterized by wide streets and public squares known as chaupars.
Architectural Significance
Jaipur’s urban planning is notable for its geometric structure, which integrates traditional Hindu concepts with modern Western influences.
The city is divided into nine blocks, with two reserved for state buildings and the remaining for public use. Known for its distinctive pink-colored buildings, which give it the nickname “Pink City.”
The architecture features uniform facades along the main streets. Key monuments include:
Hawa Mahal: A palace known for its intricate façade and numerous windows.
City Palace: A royal residence that blends Mughal and Rajput architecture.
Jantar Mantar: An astronomical observatory built by Jai Singh II.
Govind Dev Temple: A significant religious site reflecting the city’s cultural heritage.
Jaipur’s (Pink City) Criteria for UNESCO Recognition
Criterion (ii): Exhibiting an important interchange of human values in architecture and urban planning.
Criterion (iv): Representing a significant example of a planned city that reflects the cultural traditions of its time.
Criterion (vi): Being directly associated with events or living traditions of universal significance, particularly in the context of its festivals and cultural practices.
Other Important Places Contributing to World Heritage Status
Amber Fort (Amer Fort)
A majestic fort known for its artistic Hindu and Mughal architectural style, located on a hill overlooking Maota Lake.
Famous for its intricate carvings, mirror work, and expansive courtyards.
City Palace
A complex of palaces, courtyards, and museums in the heart of Jaipur, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Combines Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, showcasing royal artifacts, costumes, and weapons.
Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)
A five-story palace with 953 small windows (jharokhas), designed to allow royal women to observe street activities while remaining unseen.
An iconic example of Rajput architecture with intricate latticework and unique design.
Jantar Mantar
An astronomical observatory with 19 large instruments, including the world’s largest stone sundial.
A separate UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflecting the scientific achievements of the 18th century.
Nahargarh Fort
Built in 1734, located on the Aravalli Hills, offering panoramic views of Jaipur city.
Served as a retreat and defensive structure for the royal family, showcasing the military architecture of the period.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lothal and other IVC Sites
Why in the News?
A recent study by the Indian Institute of Technology-Gandhinagar (IITGn) has presented new evidence supporting the presence of a dockyard (222 x 37 metres) at Lothal, which was earlier debated.
Evidence of Lothal’s Dockyard
The discovery of Lothal, located in the Bhal region of Gujarat during the 1950s, initiated debates among archaeologists about the existence of a dockyard.
The IITGn study reveals that the Sabarmati River once flowed close to Lothal during the Harappan period, contrasting its current course, which is 20 km away.
The study suggests a trade route linking Ahmedabad, through Lothal, Nal Sarovar, and the Little Rann, to Dholavira, another prominent Harappan site.
Satellite imagery and multi-sensor data analysis have uncovered the ancient channels of the Sabarmati River, confirming Lothal’s strategic location on a significant riverine route.
The study also suggests that traders might have arrived in Gujarat via the Gulf of Khambhat, collected materials from Ratanpura, and transported them to Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq).
About Lothal:
Details
Location
Bhal region, Gujarat, India
Historical Significance
Built around 2200 BC; major trade centre for beads, gems, and ornaments
Name Meaning
“Lothal” means “the mound of the dead” in Gujarati (Similar to Mohenjodaro)
Discovery
Discovered by S.R. Rao; excavated from 1955 to 1960
Port City Evidence
Earliest known dock; connected to the ancient Sabarmati River
Key Features
Tidal dockyard, marine microfossils, and a basin for sailing boats
Heritage Status
Nominated for UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014; only port-town of the Indus Valley Civilization
PYQ:
[2021] Which one of the following ancient towns is well-known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelling water into connected reservoirs?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Anti-Naxal Operations in India
Why in the News?
In a significant anti-Naxal operation, nine Maoists were killed by security forces in the forests along the border of Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada.
This operation was part of ongoing efforts to eliminate Naxalite influence in the region.
Anti-Naxal Operation in Dantewada
Dantewada, a district in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, India, is known as a hotbed of Naxal (Maoist) insurgency.
The region has seen numerous anti-Naxal operations over the years due to its dense forests, rugged terrain, and the presence of significant Naxalite (Maoist) cadres.
Important security operations against Naxalism:
Details
Operation Greyhounds
1989 – Ongoing: A specialized anti-Naxal force created to combat Naxal insurgency in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Operation Green Hunt
2009 – Ongoing: To flush out Naxalite insurgents in the “Red Corridor ” from their strongholds.
Operation Thunderstorm
2010: To target Naxal cadres in the dense forest regions of Lalgarh, West Bengal.
Operation Octopus
2014: To clear Maoist influence from the Sukma district of Chhattisgarh.
Operation All Out
2015 – Ongoing: To launch coordinated offensive operations against Naxalites in Jharkhand and Bihar.
Operation Samadhan
2017 – Ongoing: A comprehensive strategy to combat LWE by addressing both security and developmental issues.
Operation Prahar
2017 – Ongoing: To eliminate top Maoist leaders and dismantle support networks in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh.
Operation Monsoon
2018: To target Maoist groups during the monsoon season when their activities are restricted.
PYQ:
[2022] Naxalism is a social, economic and developmental issue manifesting as a violent internal security threat. In this context, discuss the emerging issues and suggest a multi-layered strategy to tackle the menace of Naxalism.
Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: SCOMET List
Why in the News?
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, has released the updated SCOMET (Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment, and Technologies) list for the year 2024.
What is the SCOMET List?
Details
Purpose
To regulate the export of dual-use items that can be used for both civilian and military applications, particularly those that could contribute to the development of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and their delivery systems.
Regulatory Authority
Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.
Notification
Notified by DGFT under Appendix 3 to Schedule 2 of the ITC (HS) Classification of Export and Import Items.
Legal Framework
Governed by Chapter IVA of the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992, as amended in 2010.
This chapter provides the legal basis for export control of dual-use items and outlines penalties for non-compliance.
Policy and Procedures
Outlined in Chapter 10 of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) and the Handbook of Procedures (HBP) 2023.
These documents provide the detailed procedure for licensing, application, and compliance for exporting SCOMET items.
Categories
The SCOMET List includes multiple categories:
1. Category 0: Nuclear materials and nuclear-related dual-use items.
2. Category 1: Toxic chemical agents and precursors.
3. Category 2: Materials and materials processing equipment.
4. Category 3: Electronics.
5. Category 4: Computers.
6. Category 5: Telecommunications and information security.
7. Category 6: Sensors and lasers.
8. Category 7: Navigation and avionics.
9. Category 8: Marine.
10. Category 9: Aerospace and propulsion.
New Licensing Authority for Category 6
Department of Defence Production (DDP), Ministry of Defence is the new licensing authority for the export of items under Category 6 (Sensors and Lasers).
Export Licensing
Exporters must obtain a specific license from DGFT (or DDP for Category 6) to export SCOMET items.
The licensing process includes a comprehensive review to ensure that exports do not contribute to the proliferation of WMDs or unauthorized military use.
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: Article 348(1)(a), Article 348 (2)
Why in the News?
A growing movement in India is advocating for use of regional languages in High Court proceedings to make justice more accessible to the common citizen.
Current Scenario: Regional Languages in High Courts
Out of India’s 25 High Courts, only 4 — Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar — are authorized to use Hindi in their proceedings and legal documents.
BiharHC was the last High Court to receive authorization to use Hindi in 1972.
A litigant possesses the fundamental right to comprehend and engage in courtroom proceedings, under Article 19 and Article 21.
She/ He is entitled to present their case in a language they understand before the magistrate.
Additionally, the “Right to Justice” is explicitly recognized under Article 21 of the Constitution.
Despite these provisions, the use of regional languages in High Courts remains limited.
Constitutional Provisions for Regional Languages in Judiciary:
Provision
Details
Article 348(1) (a)
Language of Proceedings
English is the official language for proceedings in the Supreme Court, High Courts, and specified tribunals.
All records and ordersmust be in English.
Purpose
Ensures uniformity and consistency in legal proceedings and documentation at the highest judicial levels.
Scope
Applies to the Supreme Court, High Courts, and all authorities mentioned in Article 323A or Article 323B.
Article 348(2)
Use of Other Languages
The President may authorize the use of Hindi or any other regional language in addition to English.
Authorization is subject to conditions specified by the President.
Purpose
Allows for regional languages to be used in judicial proceedings, making the system more accessible to non-English speakers.
Scope
Can be applied in the Supreme Court, High Courts, and other authorities as mentioned in Article 323A or Article 323B.
PYQ:
[2021] Which one of the following in Indian polity is an essential feature that indicates that it is federal in character?
(a) The Independence of the judiciary is safeguarded.
(b) The Union Legislature has elected representatives from constituent units.
(c) The Union Cabinet can have elected representatives from regional parties.
(d) The Fundamental Rights are enforceable by Courts of Law.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Vision JK @2047
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions has presented the Vision J&K @2047 describing it as an integral part of Vision India @2047.
What is J&K @2047?
Vision J&K @2047 is a long-term strategic plan for Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).
It seeks to develop the region into a model of sustainable development, economic growth, and social harmony by the year 2047, coinciding with India’s 100th year of independence.
Key features of Vision J&K @2047:
Vision J&K @2047 focuses on restoring democratic governance through Assembly elections and establishing Zilla Parishads.
It aims to enhance infrastructure, create job opportunities, and drive economic development in the region.
Significant improvements in education and healthcare are planned, along with empowerment initiatives for women and minorities.
Governance reforms aim to enhance administrative efficiency and reduce bureaucratic hurdles.
Promotion of local industries and entrepreneurship is a key component to achieve economic self-sufficiency.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Rule 170 of Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 2018
Why in the News?
The Supreme Court has raised concerns over the AYUSH ministry’s notification, which advised state licensing authorities not to take action under Rule 170 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act in the context of the ongoing case against Patanjali Ayurved.
Rule 170 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 2018:
Details
What is it?
Rule 170 was introduced in 2018 to regulate the manufacture, storage, and sale of Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Unani medicines, focusing on controlling misleading advertisements in the AYUSH sector.
Requirements
• AYUSH drug manufacturers must obtain approval and a unique identification number from state licensing authorities before advertising their products.
• Required documentation includes textual references, rationale, indications for use, and evidence of safety, effectiveness, and quality.
Key Provisions
Prohibits advertisement of AYUSH products without prior state authority approval.
Advertisements may be rejected if they:
– Lack of contact details of the manufacturer.
– Contain obscene or vulgar content.
– Promote products for enhancing sexual organs.
– Feature endorsements from celebrities or government officials.
– Refer to government organizations.
– Convey false impressions or make misleading or exaggerated claims.
Rationale Behind
• Introduced following a parliamentary standing committee’s concerns about misleading claims in the AYUSH sector.
• Aims to ensure proactive measures by the AYUSH ministry against such advertisements.
Challenges
• AYUSH drug manufacturers are required to obtain licenses from drug controllers similar to allopathic medicines. • Unlike allopathic drugs, AYUSH drugs do not need to undergo Phase I, II, or III trials for approval.
PYQ:
[2019] How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?
