Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: International Energy Efficiency Hub
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet has approved the signing of a âLetter of Intentâ that will enable India to join the International Energy Efficiency Hub (Hub).
About the International Energy Efficiency Hub
- The Hub was established in 2020 as the successor to the International Partnership for Energy Efficiency Cooperation (IPEEC), of which India was already a member.
- It is a global platform that promotes collaboration and energy efficiency among governments, international organizations, and the private sector.
- Members: As of July 2024, 16 countries (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Denmark, the European Commission, France, Germany, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Russia, Saudi Arabia, the US, and the UK.)
- The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), a statutory agency, has been designated as the implementing agency for Indiaâs participation in the Hub.
Significance for India
- India will benefit from opportunities to collaborate with other member states as a member.
- India can share its expertise and learn from international best practices in energy efficiency.
- The country will also contribute to global efforts to address climate change by promoting energy-efficient technologies and practices.
- Indiaâs participation will:
- Accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.
- Improve energy security by adopting more efficient energy practices.
Back2Basics: Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)Â
|
Details |
| Establishment |
Established in March 2002 under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001 |
| Objective |
To promote energy efficiency and conservation, reduce energy intensity, and enhance energy security |
| Governing Body |
Functions under the Ministry of Power, Government of India |
| Key Functions |
⢠Develops energy efficiency policies and strategies
⢠Implements energy conservation programs
⢠Coordinates with various sectors like industry, transport, and municipalities on energy efficiency
⢠Promotes R&D in energy conservation technologies |
| Key Initiatives |
⢠Standards and Labeling Program (Star rating system for appliances)
⢠Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) Scheme (for energy-intensive industries)
⢠Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) (for commercial buildings)
⢠National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE)
⢠Energy Efficiency Financing Platform (EEFP) |
| Important Programs |
⢠National Energy Conservation Awards
⢠Demand Side Management (DSM)
⢠Street Lighting National Program (SLNP) (LED streetlight replacement) |
| Goals |
⢠Reduce energy intensity in India
⢠Improve energy efficiency in key sectors like agriculture, industry, buildings, and appliances
⢠Contribute to sustainable development and reduce greenhouse gas emissions |
| International Cooperation |
Collaborates with UNDP, World Bank, and ADB on energy efficiency projects globally |
| Legislative Framework |
Operates under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001 |
| Achievements |
⢠Significant reduction in carbon emissions
⢠Supports India’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement |
|
PYQ:
[2016] On which of the following, can you find the Bureau of Energy Efficiency Star Label?
1. Ceiling fans
2. Electric geysers
3. Tubular fluorescent lamps
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Brain mapping of fruit flies and its applications
Why in the News?
Researcher have successfully mapped the entire brain of an adult fruit fly, marking the first time researchers have created such a detailed map of an adult animalâs brain.
How Was the Fruit Fly Brain Mapped?
- The process of mapping Fruit Flies (Drosophila melanogaster) brain began in 2013.
- Scientists dunked the brain of an adult fruit fly in a chemical bath, hardening it into a solid block.
- This process involved 7,050 sections of the brain and produced 21 million photos to map the entire brain.
- The first high-resolution image of the brain was created more than a decade after the work started.
|
Key findings
- Scientists identified more than 50 million connections between 139,000 neurons (brain nerve cells).
- They classified the cells into 8,453 distinct types, making it the largest catalogue of cell types in any brain.
- The research gave insights into how different types of cells function and how the fruit flyâs eyes process motion and color.
- A group of âhub neuronsâ was discovered, which may help speed up information flow.
Significance of the Work
- Although the human brain is more complex, the logic of how neurons communicate is similar between fruit flies and humans.
- Fruit flies are a valuable model system for neuroscience. Their brains solve many of the same problems that human brains do.
- It could help in understanding and treat mental health conditions like Parkinsonâs and depression.
- The mapping of the fruit flyâs brain raises hopes that scientists will eventually be able to map the entire human brain.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Chenchu Tribes and its unique culture
Why in the News?
- The Chenchu tribe, a particularly vulnerable tribal group (PVTG) in Andhra Pradesh, faces poverty, unemployment, and worsening living conditions due to the discontinuation of a special MGNREGS project.
- The government launched the MGNREGS Chenchu Special Project in 2009 to address their specific needs, providing 180 days of employment.
About Chenchu Tribe
|
Details |
| Location |
Primarily found in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Odisha |
| Habitat |
Sparse and deciduous Nallamala forest, part of the Eastern Ghats |
| Language |
Chenchu language, belonging to the Dravidian language family |
| Traditional Livelihood |
Hunter-gatherers, relying on forest produce like honey, roots, tubers, soapberries, and gum for sustenance |
| Role in Tiger Conservation |
Involved as tiger protection watchers in the Nagarjuna-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR) |
| Forest Rights |
Granted land rights under the Forest Rights Act (2006), allowing subsistence farming and forest dwelling |
| Challenges |
Facing displacement, low literacy rate (40.6%), and rehabilitation issues due to relocation from their forest homes |
| Cultural Practices |
Worship Malalamma Vana Devatha (goddess of honey); brew liquor from acacia bark, mahua flower, and jaggery |
| Society |
Community-oriented with close-knit family bonds, practicing traditional subsistence living and deeply connected to forest ecosystems |
| Population |
64,227 (2011 Census), spread across five districts in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana |
| Government Support |
Special rights granted under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (FRA) |
| Major Threats |
Displacement due to tiger conservation efforts, lack of modern skills, poverty, and low literacy rates |
PYQ:
[2013] Consider the following pairs :
Tribe: State
1. Limboo Limbu : Sikkim
2. Karbi : Himachal
3. Dongaria Kondh : Odisha
4. Bonda : Tamil Nadu
Which of the above pairs are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Classical Languages
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet has approved conferring the status of Classical Language to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali.
Classical Languages in India:
|
Details |
| Objective |
To recognize and preserve Bharatâs profound cultural heritage embodied in these languages and their literary traditions. |
| Criteria for Classical Language Status |
2004 (when Tamil was declared a Classical Language):
- High Antiquity over a thousand years.
- A body of ancient literature valued by generations.
- Original literary tradition, not borrowed.
2005 (when Sanskrit was declared a Classical Language):
- High Antiquity over 1500-2000 years.
- Ancient literature valued by generations.
- Original literary tradition, not borrowed.
- Distinct from modern forms, with possible discontinuity.
2024 (as recommended by the Linguistic Experts Committee):
- High Antiquity over 1500-2000 years.
- Ancient literature valued by generations.
- Includes knowledge texts, prose, inscriptions.
- Distinct from current forms or may show discontinuity.
|
| Previously Conferred Status |
Tamil (2004), Sanskrit (2005), Telugu (2008), Kannada (2008), Malayalam (2013), Odia (2014) |
| Implementation Strategy |
⢠Establishment of Central Universities for Sanskrit (2020)
⢠Promotion of Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam, and Odia through the Central Institute of Indian Languages (Mysuru)
⢠National and International awards for Classical Languages |
| Impact on Employment |
⢠Employment in academia, research, and archiving
⢠Jobs in preservation, digitization, translation, and publishing of ancient texts |
| States Involved |
Maharashtra (Marathi), Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh (Pali, Prakrit), West Bengal (Bengali), Assam (Assamese) |
|
| The Eighth Schedule |
- Lists 22 official languages, governed by Articles 344(1) and 351 of the Constitution.
- Includes Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Dogri, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Maithili, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Odia, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Santali, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu
|
| Chronological Additions to the Eighth Schedule |
⢠1950: Initially included 14 languages
⢠1967: Sindhi added (21st Constitutional Amendment)
⢠1992: Konkani, Manipuri (Meitei), Nepali added (71st Constitutional Amendment)
⢠2003: Bodo, Dogri, Maithili, Santali added (92nd Constitutional Amendment)
⢠2011: âOriyaâ replaced with âOdiaâ (96th Constitutional Amendment) |
PYQ:
[2015] Which one of the following was given classical language status recently?
(a) Odia
(b) Konkani
(c) Bhojpuri
(d) Assamese
[2014] Consider the following languages :
1. Gujarati
2. Kannada
3. Telugu
Which of the above has/have been declared as âClassical Language / Languagesâ by the Government?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Navika Sagar Parikrama
Why in the News?
The second edition of Navika Sagar Parikrama, a global circumnavigation by sailboat was flagged off by Navy Chief at INS Mandovi in Goa.
About Navika Sagar Parikrama:
|
Details |
| Expedition |
- Navika Sagar Parikrama, a maritime expedition by the Indian Navy, aimed at circumnavigating the globe in a sailboat crewed by women officers.
- Symbolizes womenâs empowerment and Indian maritime traditions.
|
| Objective |
Promotes womenâs empowerment, gender equality, oceanic research, and Indian maritime traditions. |
| First Edition |
- Began on September 10, 2017, with an all-women crew of six officers aboard INSV Tarini.
- Completed on May 21, 2018.
|
| Second Edition |
Launched on October 2, 2024, with two women officers, Lieutenant Commander Dilna K. and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A., setting sail from INS Mandovi, Goa. |
| Agencies Involved |
- Indian Navy: Leading the initiative.
- National Institute of Oceanography (NIO): Marine research on microplastics and ferrous content.
- Wildlife Institute of India (WII): Research on large sea mammals.
- Sagar Defence: Providing drones for documentation.
- Defence Food Research Laboratory (DFRL): Supplying meals.
- Transform Rural India Foundation (TRIF) and Piramal Foundation: Supporting logistics and research.
|
| Route |
Divided into five legs with four stopovers:
1. Goa to Fremantle, Australia
2. Fremantle to Lyttleton, New Zealand
3. Lyttleton to Port Stanley, Falkland Islands
4. Port Stanley to Cape Town, South Africa
5. Cape Town to Goa, India |
PYQ:
[2016] Which one of the following is the best description of âINS Astradhariniâ, that was in the news recently?
(a) Amphibious warfare ship
(b) Nuclear-powered submarine
(c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
(d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Psychedelic Drugs
Why in the News?
Researchers from the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in collaboration with researchers from Cornell, Yale, and Columbia has uncovered how a psychedelic drug interacts with the brain to alleviate anxiety.
About Psychedelic Drugs
- Psychedelic drugs are a class of psychoactive substances that alter perception, mood, and cognitive processes.Â
- These drugs often induce hallucinations, altered states of consciousness, and enhanced sensory experiences.
- They are typically associated with spiritual experiences and have historically been linked with counterculture movements, but they are now being studied for their potential in medical therapies.
- Examples of Psychedelic Drugs:
- LSD (Lysergic acid diethylamide): Known for causing intense visual hallucinations and altering thoughts, it is one of the most potent psychedelics.
- Psilocybin: The active compound found in magic mushrooms, known for creating visual and auditory hallucinations, as well as a deep sense of connection to the environment.
- MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine): Often associated with recreational use, but is also being researched for its therapeutic potential, especially in treating PTSD.
- DMT (Dimethyltryptamine): Produces powerful, short-lived hallucinatory experiences, sometimes referred to as the “spirit molecule.”
- Mescaline: Found in the peyote cactus, mescaline induces hallucinations and altered states of reality.
|
How do they work?
Psychedelics primarily affect the brain by interacting with the serotonin system, a network of neurotransmitters involved in regulating mood, perception, and cognition.
- Serotonin Receptors: Psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin bind to 5-HT2A receptors, a type of serotonin receptor. This interaction leads to altered perception, enhanced mood, and hallucinations.
- Brain Connectivity: They increase communication between different regions of the brain, breaking down normal patterns of activity. This leads to heightened creativity, altered sensory experiences, and a sense of connectedness.
How Psychedelics hold promise for treating Anxiety and Depression?
- Resetting Neural Circuits: Psychedelics may “reset” dysfunctional brain circuits, helping treat mood disorders.
- Reduced Anxiety: They reduce overthinking by dampening activity in the brain’s default mode network.
- Emotional Release: Patients experience emotional breakthroughs during psychedelic therapy sessions.
- Neuroplasticity: Psychedelics may promote adaptive brain connections, aiding in recovery from chronic stress and depression.
| PYQ:
[2018] Indiaâs proximity to two of the worldâs biggest illicit opium-growing states has enhanced her internal security concerns. Explain the linkages between drug trafficking and other illicit activities such as gunrunning, money laundering and human trafficking. What countermeasures should be taken to prevent the same? (250 Words, 15 Marks) |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Golden Langur
Why in the News?
The construction of wildlife passages and artificial canopy bridges along the India-Bhutan border has been prompted by increased deaths of the endangered golden langur due to road accidents.
About Golden Langur
|
Details |
| Identification |
- Recognizable by the color of their fur, which gives them their name.
- Fur color changes with the seasons.
- Young langurs are almost pure white.
|
| Geographic Range |
- Found in Assam, India, and neighboring Bhutan year-round.
- Inhabits an area bordered by the foothills of Bhutan (north), Manas river (east), Sankosh river (west), and Brahmaputra river (south).
|
| Habitat |
- Occupies moist evergreen and tropical deciduous forests, along with some riverine areas and savannahs in Assam and Bhutan.
- Prefers living in the upper canopy of sub-tropical forests in the south and temperate forests in the north.
|
| Conservation Status |
- IUCN: Endangered
- CITES: Appendix I
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I
|
| Habitat |
- Ripu Reserve Forest and Chakrashila WLS serve as vital habitats.
- Fragmented habitats face instability and threats.
|
PYQ:
[2012] Which one of the following groups of animals belongs to the category of endangered species?
(a) Great Indian Bustard, Musk Deer, Red Panda and Asiatic Wild Ass
(b) Kashmir Stag, Cheetal, Blue Bull and Great Indian Bustard
(c) Snow Leopard, Swamp Deer, Rhesus Monkey and Saras (Crane)
(d) Lion-tailed Macaque, Blue Bull, Hanuman Langur and Cheetal |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Fluorescent Nano-Diamonds (FND)
Why in the News?
Scientists at Purdue University have figured out how to levitate and spin Fluorescent Nanodiamonds (FNDs) in a vacuum.
What are FNDs?
- Fluorescent Nanodiamonds (FNDs) are stable, non-toxic carbon nanoparticles that emit consistent fluorescence, have a lifespan over 10 nanoseconds, and can be levitated and spun for advanced quantum research applications.
|
What are their Applications?
- Medical Diagnostics: FNDs are used for high-resolution imaging and tracking cells over extended periods due to their non-toxic nature.
- Temperature Sensing: FNDs can measure temperatures at the microscale, making them useful for scientific experiments.
- Correlative Microscopy: Their fluorescent properties make them ideal for combining different types of imaging techniques.
- Sensor Technologies: Due to their sensitivity to acceleration and electric fields, FNDs can be used in industry sensors and gyroscopes for rotation sensing.
- Quantum Computing: FNDs doped with nitrogen can be used for quantum superposition experiments and future quantum computing applications.
PYQ:
[2022] Which one of the following is the context in which the term “qubit” is mentioned?
(a) Cloud Services
(b) Quantum Computing
(c) Visible Light Communication Technologies
(d) Wireless Communication Technologies |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: FandO Trading
Why in the News?
SEBI has introduced a six-step framework to protect investors and curb speculative trading, specifically targeting futures and options (F&O) trading by reducing volumes on expiry days and limiting retail participation.
What are the Future and Options (F&O)?
- Futures are contracts to buy or sell an asset (like stocks, indexes, or commodities) at a predetermined price on a future date.
- Options give the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell an asset at a set price before a certain date.
SEBIâs Six-Step F&O Framework (Effective November 2024 â April 2025):
In response to concerns about rising speculative trading, SEBI has outlined six key measures aimed at reducing retail interest in F&O trading:
- Upfront collection of options premiums
- Intraday monitoring of position limits
- Removing calendar spread benefits on expiry day
- Increasing the contract size for index derivatives
- Rationalizing weekly index derivatives to one benchmark per exchange
- Enhancing margin requirements on options expiry days
|
Key Changes for Retail Investors:
- Upfront Collection of Options Premiums: Retail investors must now pay the full premium upfront, limiting their ability to use high leverage in options trading.
- Increased Contract Size: The minimum contract size for index derivatives is raised to âš15 lakhs, reducing speculative retail participation by making it costlier to enter.
- Rationalization of Weekly Expiries: Only one benchmark index per exchange can have weekly expiries, lowering speculative trading opportunities and intraday volatility.
- Removal of Calendar Spread Benefits: Calendar spreads are no longer allowed on expiry days, discouraging aggressive trading strategies.
Impact on Brokers and Revenue:
- Decline in Trading Volumes: Brokers reliant on F&O trading will see reduced volumes due to fewer retail participants and higher barriers to entry.
- Revenue Drop in Options Trading: Firms like Zerodha may face a 30-50% revenue drop as retail participation in options decreases.
- Shift to Equity Trading: Retail investors may move towards equity trading, causing brokers to adapt their offerings.
- Adaptation for Brokers: Brokers with a balanced mix of cash and derivatives will be less impacted, while those focused on F&O need to shift strategies.
PYQ:
[2021] With reference to India, consider the following statements:â
1. Retail investors through demat account can invest in âTreasury Billsâ and âGovernment of India Debt Bondsâ in primary market.â
2. The âNegotiated Dealing System-Order Matchingâ is a government securities trading platform of the Reserve Bank of India. â
3. The âCentral Depository Services Ltd.â Is jointly promoted by the Reserve Bank of India and the Bombay Stock Exchange. â
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?â
(a) 1 only â
(b) 1 and 2 only â
(c) 3 only â
(d) 2 and 3 only â |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Gram Sabha
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj is organizing special Gram Sabhas across 750 Gram Panchayats on 2nd October 2024, marking Gandhi Jayanti.
Vision to Achieve Gram Swaraj Through Peopleâs Participation
- These special Gram Sabhas will embody Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of Gram Swarajâa vision of self-reliant villages driven by peopleâs participation in decision-making.
- It emphasizes community-led governance, where elders, women, and youth collaborate to develop Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDP).
Lal Bahadur Shastriâs Legacy
- The event also coincides with the birth anniversary of Lal Bahadur Shastri, Indiaâs second Prime Minister.
- Shastri championed the values of simplicity, self-reliance, and community development.
- Shastri’s slogan, âJai Jawan, Jai Kisan,â emphasized the strength of India’s rural economy and its farmers, making his vision a key component of this grassroots initiative.
|
About Gram Sabha
|
Details |
| Role and Significance |
⢠Centerpiece of the Panchayati Raj system
⢠Responsible for village development and local governance |
| Constitutional Provision |
⢠Defined under Article 243(b) of the Indian Constitution
⢠Primary body in the Panchayati Raj system
⢠A permanent body |
| Members |
⢠Individuals above 18 years of age
⢠Must be residing in the village
⢠Listed in the electoral rolls |
| Meetings |
⢠Must meet 2 to 4 times annually as per State Panchayat Raj Acts
⢠Common meeting dates:
1. Republic Day (26th Jan)
2. Labour Day (1st May)
3. Independence Day (15th Aug)
4. Gandhi Jayanti (2nd Oct)
⢠Panchayats may choose other dates for meetings |
| Organizing Body |
⢠Organized by the Panchayat Secretary (Gram Sevak)
⢠Done with approval of the Sarpanch |
| Conditions for Convening |
⢠10% of members or 50 people (whichever is greater) can request a meeting
⢠A written request must be submitted 5 days prior to the meeting |
| Decision-Making Process |
⢠All decisions of the Panchayat require the approval and validation of the Gram Sabha |
| Purpose |
⢠Discuss local governance and development issues
⢠Make need-based plans for the village |
PYQ:
[2012] In the areas covered under the Panchayat (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996, what is the role/power of Gram Sabha?
- Gram Sabha has the power to prevent alienation of land in the Scheduled Areas.
- Gram Sabha has the ownership of minor forest produce.
- Recommendation of Gram Sabha is required for granting prospecting licence or mining lease for any mineral in the Scheduled Areas.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: BRCA1Testing
Why in the News?
Angelina Jolie’s case highlighted hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) after she underwent preventive surgeries due to a BRCA1 gene mutation.
What is BRCA Testing?
- BRCA testing is a genetic test that looks for mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
- These genes normally help repair DNA, but when they are mutated, they increase a personâs risk of developing certain cancers, particularly breast and ovarian cancers.
- BRCA testing identifies whether a person has inherited these mutations, which can lead to Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) and other cancers.
- The test is done using a blood or saliva sample, which is collected and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
- In the lab, next-generation DNA sequencing or other genetic analysis methods are used to examine the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes for harmful mutations.
- The test results can show whether a person has inherited a harmful mutation in these genes.
- If the result is positive, it means they are at a higher risk for developing certain cancers.
Issues with BRCA Testing
- BRCA testing in India is expensive, costing between âš15,000 to âš30,000, which makes it unaffordable for many, particularly in lower-income populations.
- Testing is often only offered to individuals with a family history of cancer, which misses about 50% of people who may have the mutations but no known family history.
Significance for India
- Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in India, accounting for 27% of all cancer cases.
- Women with BRCA mutations have up to a 72% risk of developing breast cancer.
- Early identification allows for preventive measures, such as regular screenings or surgeries, which can reduce cancer incidence by up to 100%.
- By increasing access to population-wide BRCA testing, India can improve early detection and reduce the burden of cancer on its healthcare system.
- Early identification can also lower treatment costs and improve outcomes.
PYQ:
[2019] âRNA interference (RNAi)â technology has gained popularity in the last few years. Why?
- It is used in developing gene silencing therapies.
- It can be used in developing therapies for the treatment of cancer.
- It can be used to develop hormone replacement therapies.
- It can be used to produce crop plants that are resistant to viral pathogens.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 4
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 1 and 4 only |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Arun River, Isostatic Rebound
Why in the News?
The Arun River, which flows across Nepal and Tibet, is eroding rock and soil in its basin, leading to the rise of Mount Everest by up to 2 mm a year.
How is Arun River making the Everest taller?
The Arun River is contributing to the rise of Mount Everest through a process called isostatic rebound. Hereâs how it works:
1. River Incision:
- The Arun River, which flows about 75 km from Mount Everest, is eroding large amounts of rock and soil from the surrounding landscape.
- This process of erosion reduces the weight on the Earth’s crust in the Arun River basin.
- A study by UCL suggests that the Arun River’s ability to carve out large amounts of rock and other materials may be due to it capturing another river or water system in Tibet.
- This process is known as River Incision, where the river cuts downward into its bed, deepening its channel.
- The erosion began to accelerate around 89,000 years ago when the Arun River merged with the Kosi River, removing large amounts of landmass and further reducing the weight on the regionâs crust.
2. Isostatic Rebound:
- When the weight of the land (due to rocks, soil, or even ice) decreases, the Earthâs crust rises to balance the change.
- This is similar to how a boat rises in water when heavy cargo is removed.
- The removal of landmass in the Arun River basin allows the crust underneath Mount Everest to rise.
|
About Arun RiverÂ
- The Arun River originates in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, where it is known as Phung Chu or Bum-chu in Tibetan.
- It flows into Nepal and confluences with the Sun Koshi and Tamur River at Tribenighat, forming the Sapta Koshi River.
- Tributaries:
- Left tributaries: Yeru Tsanpo, Trakar-chu.
- Right tributary: Barun River.
- At the Nepal border, the Arun River is approximately 3,500 meters (11,500 ft) above sea level.
- The river drains into the Koshi River, significantly contributing to the Sapta Koshi River system in Nepal.
- It is the largest trans-Himalayan river in Nepal, playing a crucial role in supporting the regionâs hydrology and ecosystems.
- It provides around 37% of the total water in the Sapta Koshi system, following the Sun Koshi which contributes 44%.
- Recently, the Arun-III Hydro Power Project (900 MW), which constructed with $6.95b Indian assistance, achieved a milestone with a tunnel breakthrough.
PYQ:
[2017] With reference to river Teesta, consider the following statements:
1. The source of river Teesta is the same as that of Brahmaputra but it flows through Sikkim.
2. River Rangeet originates in Sikkim and it is a tributary of river Teesta.
3. River Teesta falls into Bay of Bengal at the border of India and Bangladesh.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Physical Geography (Annular Solar Eclipse)
Why in the News?
An annular solar eclipse will be visible in parts of South America on October 2, 2023. It, however, will not be visible from India.
What is a Solar Eclipse?
- A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon moves between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun’s light either fully or partially, casting a shadow on certain parts of the Earth.
- There are four types of solar eclipses:
-
- Total Solar Eclipse: When the Moon completely blocks the Sun, turning the sky dark. People in the path of a total solar eclipse can witness the Sunâs corona (its outer atmosphere), which is normally hidden by the bright sunlight.
- Annular Solar Eclipse: Occurs when the Moon is at or near its farthest point from Earth. The Moon does not fully cover the Sun, leaving a visible ring of fire around the Moon. This is what people in parts of South America will witness on October 2, 2023.
- Partial Solar Eclipse: Happens when the Moon blocks only a part of the Sun, giving it a crescent shape. During both partial and annular eclipses, areas outside the Moonâs umbra (the darkest part of its shadow) experience a partial eclipse. It is the most common type of solar eclipse.
- Hybrid Solar Eclipse: The rarest type, where the eclipse shifts between total and annular as the Moon’s shadow moves across the Earth. Some places see a total solar eclipse, while others see an annular one.
Frequency of Solar Eclipses
- A solar eclipse can only occur during the new moon, when the Moon and Sun are aligned on the same side of the Earth.
- A new moon happens approximately every 29.5 days because that is the time it takes for the Moon to orbit the Earth.
- However, solar eclipses donât happen every month. They occur two to five times annually, but not every new moon results in an eclipse.
- Why donât they occur every month:
- The Moonâs orbit around the Earth is tilted by about 5 degrees compared to the Earthâs orbit around the Sun.
- This means the Moonâs shadow usually misses the Earth.
- A solar eclipse only occur when the Moon crosses specific points in its orbit, called nodes, where the Moonâs orbit intersects the plane of Earthâs orbit around the Sun.
- When a new moon occurs at one of these nodes, a solar eclipse is possible.
PYQ:
[2019] On 21st June, the Sun
(a) does not set below the horizon at the Arctic Circle
(b) does not set below the horizon at Antarctic Circle
(c) shines vertically overhead at noon on the Equator
(d) shines vertically overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Dadasaheb Phalke Award
Why in the News?
Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty will be conferred with the 2022 Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
Mithun Chakraborty to Receive Dadasaheb Phalke AwardÂ
- Mithun Chakraborty has played a wide range of roles throughout his career, from a tribal in âMrigayaaâ (1976) to an action hero and a dancing star, becoming one of the most versatile actors in Indian cinema.
- His performance in âDisco Dancerâ (1982) made him an international sensation, with the movie being a massive hit across Asia, then Soviet Union, Eastern Europe, and other regions after Raj Kapoor.
- He has worked in more than 350 films across multiple Indian languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Odia, Bhojpuri, Tamil, and Punjabi, demonstrating his wide-ranging influence.
- Mithun has won three National Film Awards for his outstanding performances in films like âMrigayaaâ (1976), âTahader Kathaâ (1992), and âSwami Vivekanandaâ (1998).
- He was awarded the Padma Bhushan, Indiaâs third-highest civilian honor, in 2023, recognizing his contributions to the arts.
- As the chairperson of the Film Studios Setting & Allied Mazdoor Union (FSSAMU) for three decades, Mithun has been actively involved in improving the welfare of film industry workers.
|
About Dadasaheb Phalke Award
|
Details |
| Organized by |
- Directorate of Film Festivals, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
- Presented by the President of India.
|
| First Presented |
1969 |
| Purpose |
To honor individuals (filmmakers, actors, singers etc.) for their “great and outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema” |
| Named After |
- Dadasaheb (Dhundiraj Govind) Phalke, “Father of Indian Cinema”.
- He directed and produced India’s first full-length feature film, Raja Harishchandra, in 1913.
- This landmark film is considered the starting point of the Indian cinema.
|
| Notable Recipients |
Devika Rani (1969), Prithviraj Kapoor (1971), Satyajit Ray (1985), Raj Kapoor (1987), Lata Mangeshkar (1989), Asha Bhosle (2000), Yash Chopra (2001), Rajinikanth (2019), Amitabh Bachchan (2018) , Waheeda Rehman (2021). |
| Components of the Award |
- âš1,000,000 (US$12,000) cash prize;
- Swarna Kamal (Golden Lotus) medallion, a shawl.
|
| Selection Criteria |
Awarded to individuals for their âgreat and outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinemaâ. |
| Selection Committee |
A committee consisting of eminent personalities from the Indian film industry. |
PYQ:
[2014] What do understand by the concept âfreedom of speech and expressionâ? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do the films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Exercise KAZIND
Why in the News?
The 8th edition of Exercise KAZIND-2024 has commenced in Uttarakhand.
About Exercise KAZIND-2024
- Exercise KAZIND is an annual joint military exercise between India and Kazakhstan.
- It was first initiated as Exercise PRABAL DOSTYK in 2016 and later renamed Exercise KAZIND after the second edition.
- The exercise involves Army contingents from both countries and, since 2023, also includes Air Force personnel, making it a Bi-service Exercise.
-
- It focuses on Counter Terrorism operations in sub-conventional environments under the United Nations mandate.
- Tactical drills practiced include Raid, Search and Destroy Operations, Small Team Insertion and Extraction, and Counter Unmanned Aerial System Operations.
-
- The exercise aims to develop skills, resilience, and coordination for joint military operations in semi-urban and urban environments.
- It allows both countries to share best practices, enhance mutual cooperation, and strengthen military ties.
PYQ:
[2024] Which of the following statements about the Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023 is/ are correct?
- This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.
- It commenced in Aundh (Pune).
- Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.
- Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise.
Select the answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 1 and 4
(c) 1 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)
Why in the News?
Following complaints from Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card holders about being reclassified as âforeigners,â the Ministry of External Affairs clarified, that no changes have been made to the rules governing OCI status.
About Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)
|
Details |
| About |
- OCI scheme, introduced in August 2005, allows Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) who were citizens of India after January 26, 1950 or were eligible for Indian citizenship on that date, to register for OCI status.
- Serves as a form of dual citizenship for the Indian diaspora.
- The Ministry of Home Affairs defines an OCI.
|
| OCI Card Benefits |
OCI cardholders receive a multiple-entry, life-long visa to visit India and are exempt from registering with local authorities for extended stays. |
| Population (as of 2023) |
USA: 16.8 lakh > UK: 9.34 lakh > Australia: 4.94 lakh> Canada: 4.18 lakh |
| Recent Rules (2021 Notification) |
- OCI card holders need permission to visit protected, restricted, or prohibited areas.
- Special permits are also required for activities such as conducting research, undertaking missionary or journalistic work, and visiting areas like Jammu & Kashmir.
|
| OCI vs NRI Rights |
Under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) 2003, OCI card holders are now on par with foreign nationals regarding economic, financial, and educational rights, reversing earlier parity with NRIs. |
| Significant Changes to OCI Rules |
- 2005: Lifelong visas and exemption from FRRO registration
- 2007: Parity with NRIs for inter-country adoption and domestic airfare
- 2009: Parity with NRIs for entry fees to monuments and professions like doctors and architects
|
| Eligibility Restrictions |
- Individuals with parents or grandparents from Pakistan or Bangladesh cannot apply for an OCI card.
- Foreign military personnel (retired or active) are also not eligible.
|
| Spouse Eligibility |
Spouses of Indian citizens or OCI card holders, whose marriage has been registered for at least two years, can apply for an OCI card. |
| OCI Card Restrictions |
- OCI card holders cannot vote, hold constitutional positions, or be elected as a members of Parliament or Legislative Assembly.
- They are also restricted from holding government employment in India.
|
PYQ:
[2021] With reference to India, consider the following statements: (2021)
- There is only one citizenship and one domicile.
- A citizen by birth only can become the Head of State.
- A foreigner once granted citizenship cannot be deprived of it under any circumstances.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Neutrino Fog
Why in the News?
The LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) experiment revealed that as we continue to push the boundaries of dark matter detection, the issue of neutrino fog becomes increasingly significant.
What is the LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) Experiment?
- The LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) experiment is a cutting-edge dark matter detection project located deep underground at the Sanford Underground Research Facility in South Dakota, USA.
- It is one of the most sensitive experiments in the world designed to detect dark matter particles, which are believed to make up about 85% of the matter in the universe but have not yet been directly observed.
- The heart of the LZ experiment is a tank filled with 10 tonnes of liquid xenon, a very dense and pure material.
- The idea is that if a dark matter particle collides with a xenon atom, it will produce a tiny burst of light and free electrons.
- These interactions are then detected by sensitive equipment surrounding the xenon.
- The experiment is located 1.5 km below the Earth’s surface.
|
What is Neutrino Fog?
- Neutrinos, often referred to as âghost particles,â are subatomic particles with nearly zero mass and no electric charge.Â
- âNeutrino Fogâ refers to the interference caused by neutrinosâsubatomic particles that rarely interact with matterâin dark matter detection experiments.
- Neutrinos are produced naturally in the Sun’s core, supernovae, and even Earthâs atmosphere.
- Though they pass through most matter undetected, their weak interactions can cause small disturbances in highly sensitive detectors.
- As dark matter detectors become larger and more sensitive, they are more likely to detect neutrinos, leading to a “fog” of signals that can obscure or mimic potential dark matter interactions.
PYQ:
[2015] In the context of modern scientific research, consider the following statements about âIceCubeâ, a particle detector located at South Pole, which was recently in the news:
1. It is the worldâs largest neutrino detector, encompassing a cubic kilometre of ice.
2. It is a powerful telescope to search for dark matter
3. It is buried deep in the ice.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 only |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hepatitis E Virus (HEV)
Why in the News?
Recent research indicates that pigs may act as a transmission vehicle for a strain of the hepatitis E virus (HEV) commonly found in rats, known as Rocahepevirus ratti, or rat HEV.
Role of Pigs in Transmission
- HEV Reservoir: Pigs naturally carry hepatitis E virus (HEV), particularly strains that can infect humans.
- Transmission via Pork: Humans can contract HEV by consuming raw or undercooked pork from infected pigs.
- Environmental Contamination: Infected pigs shed HEV in faeces, contaminating the environment and water sources, potentially spreading the virus to humans.
- Poor sanitation in pig farms facilitates HEV transmission between pigs and increases the risk of human infection through the food chain.
- Cross-Species Transmission: Pigs may also act as intermediaries for rat HEV, transmitting the virus from rats to humans in farm environments.
|
About Hepatitis E Virus (HEV):
- Hepatitis E is caused by the Hepatitis E Virus (HEV), which is a positive-sense, single-stranded, non-enveloped RNA virus.
- HEV is classified under the family Hepeviridae, genus Orthohepevirus.
- It was first identified during an outbreak among Soviet soldiers in Afghanistan in 1983.
- The earliest well-documented HEV epidemic occurred in New Delhi, India, in 1955, retrospectively identified as HEV.
-
- The primary route of transmission is fecal-oral, especially through contaminated water and food.
- Zoonotic transmission is possible with genotypes 3 and 4, commonly spread through undercooked meat or direct animal contact.
-
- Jaundice, nausea, fatigue, and elevated liver enzymes.
- Severe cases can lead to liver failure, especially in pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals.
-
- A vaccine, HEV 239, is approved for use in China, but no vaccine is widely available or approved in most countries, including the United States.
- There is no specific antiviral treatment for acute HEV.
- Prevention relies on improved sanitation, safe drinking water, and proper food handling.
PYQ:
[2019] Which one of the following statements is not correct?
(a) Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV.
(b) Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine.
(c) Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses are several times more than those infected with HIV.
(d) Some of those infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses do not show the symptoms for many years. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Coral Bleaching and Coral Regeneration
Why in the News?
A study conducted at Moorea, French Polynesia, has revealed that the network of dead coral skeletons left behind by bleaching events prevents reefs from regenerating.
About Corals
- Corals are marine invertebrates made up of genetically identical organisms called polyps.
- Polyps have a mutualistic relationship with microscopic algae called zooxanthellae that live within their tissues.
- Zooxanthellae perform photosynthesis, providing the corals with carbohydrates, while the corals offer compounds needed for photosynthesis.
- Corals have calcium carbonate skeletons, which help in building the reef structure.
- Thousands of polyps combine to form coral colonies, which multiply and grow over time.
- Coral reefs are underwater ecosystems formed by the accumulation of calcium carbonate skeletons from corals.
- Known as the “rainforests of the seas”, they provide habitat and protection for a wide variety of marine life.
- Coral reefs are built by both hard and soft corals and grow over time as more corals attach to the reef structure.
- They are the largest living structures on the planet, vital for marine biodiversity.
|
Challenges due to Dead Corals
- Shelter for Seaweed: Dead coral skeletons create a complex structure that offers protection to macroalgae (seaweed) from herbivores. This allows seaweed to colonize the reef quickly, outcompeting young coral.
- Impeded Herbivory: The complex landscape of dead corals prevents herbivores, which normally graze on algae, from accessing the macroalgae effectively. This leads to unchecked algae growth.
- Increased Competition: Macroalgae grow faster and reproduce more frequently than coral, leading to increased competition for space, light, and nutrients, which further inhibits young coral from settling and growing.
- Annual Coral Reproduction: Coral typically spawns only once a year, while algae reproduce continuously. This gives algae a competitive advantage in newly available spaces left by dead coral skeletons.
- Altered Ecosystem Balance: The presence of dead coral shifts the balance between herbivores, algae, and coral, making it difficult for the reef to regenerate naturally.
Conditions for Reef Regeneration
- Flat Substrate: After events like cyclones, which remove coral but leave behind a flat surface, reefs tend to recover more easily, as young coral can settle and regrow without much competition from macroalgae.
- Herbivore Activity: Active herbivory is crucial for reef recovery, as herbivores control the growth of macroalgae, allowing space for coral recruits to settle and thrive.
- Clear Space for Coral Recruits: To regenerate effectively, coral needs open space free from excessive algae. Removing dead coral skeletons might help create these conditions.
- Frequent Disturbances: Coral reefs are better adapted to recover from frequent but non-lethal disturbances like storms, which scrape off coral and allow for fresh regrowth, compared to bleaching events, which leave the dead coral structure intact.
- Water Quality and Temperature: Coral recovery depends on optimal water conditions, including the absence of pollutants and suitable temperatures.
PYQ:
[2018] Consider the following statements
- Most of the worldâs coral reefs are in tropical waters.
- More than one-third of the worldâs coral reefs are located in the territories of Australia, Indonesia and Philippines.
- Coral reefs host far more number of animal phyla than those hosted by tropical rainforests.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
Why in the News?
The âArogya Sanjeevani Policyâ serves as a reference point for choosing health insurance for hospitalisation.
About Arogya Sanjeevani Policy:
|
Details |
| Launch Date |
April 2020 |
| Issued by |
Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) |
| Objective |
To provide basic and affordable health insurance coverage to all citizens |
| Sum Insured |
âš1 lakh to âš5 lakh per policy year |
| Coverage |
Hospitalization, pre and post-hospitalization expenses, daycare procedures, AYUSH treatments, COVID-19 coverage |
| Pre-Existing Conditions |
Coverage after 4 years of continuous policy renewal |
| Co-Payment |
5% co-payment on all claims |
| Premium |
Varies based on age, sum insured, and insurer |
| Waiting Period |
30 days for new policies; 48 months for pre-existing diseases |
| Daycare Procedures |
Covers over 50+ daycare treatments |
| Room Rent Limit |
Up to 2% of the sum insured per day (maximum âš5,000 per day) |
| ICU Room Rent |
Up to 5% of the sum insured per day (maximum âš10,000 per day) |
| AYUSH Treatments |
Covers Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy treatments |
| Maternity Coverage |
Not covered |
| Network Hospitals |
Cashless facility in network hospitals |
| Eligibility |
Individuals aged 18 to 65 years |
PYQ:
[2019] Performance of welfare schemes that are implemented for vulnerable sections is not so effective due to the absence of their awareness and active involvement at all stages of the policy process â Discuss. |
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