Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Chin-Kuki-Zo Tribes
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
Manipur CM took it to social media where he alleged an “unnatural growth” in the population of the “Chin-Kuki-Zo” tribes in the state, posing a perceived threat to indigenous communities and national security.
About Chin-Kuki-Zo Tribes
|
Chin Tribe |
Kuki Tribe |
Zo Tribe |
| Ethnic Composition |
Major ethnic group in Myanmar’s Chin State; known for distinct customs and language. |
Heterogeneous group in Northeast India; recognized for diverse subtribes. |
Diverse ethnic group in Northeast India, Myanmar, and parts of Bangladesh. |
| Geographical Distribution |
Primarily in Myanmar’s Chin State; significant populations in Indian states like Mizoram. |
Mainly in Northeast India; also found in Chin State, Myanmar. |
Inhabits Northeast India, particularly Mizoram and Manipur; also in parts of Myanmar and Bangladesh. |
| Language |
Chin language, part of Kuki-Chin subgroup of Tibeto-Burman family. |
Kuki-Chin languages; various dialects with distinct variations. |
Mizo-Kuki-Chin languages; different dialects within Tibeto-Burman family. |
| Culture and Traditions |
Vibrant music, dance, festivals; celebrates Chin National Day. |
Rich oral traditions, folk music; celebrates festivals like Chavang Kut. |
Rich oral literature, vibrant festivals; celebrates Chapchar Kut and Mim Kut. |
| Livelihood |
Historically practiced subsistence agriculture; now diversified livelihoods. |
Historically practiced shifting (Jhum) cultivation; now engaged in various occupations. |
Historically practiced shifting (Jhum) cultivation; now diverse livelihood patterns. |
| Religion |
Predominantly Christianity with some traditional animistic beliefs. |
Predominantly Christianity with traditional animistic practices. |
Predominantly Christianity with remnants of traditional beliefs. |
| Socio-Political Organization |
Advocates for cultural identity and rights; e.g., Chin National Front. |
Promotes Kuki identity; active organizations like Kuki National Organization. |
Promotes Zo identity; e.g., Zomi Council and Mizo Zirlai Pawl. |
Issues with their migration
The Chin-Kuki-Zo tribes in Manipur are contributing to the conflict in the state due to various factors.
- There have been longstanding demands from various tribal groups for greater recognition of their ethnic identity and autonomy within Manipur.
- Land ownership and control are significant issues among the Chin-Kuki-Zo tribes in Manipur.
[2016] Consider the following pairs: (2016)
|
Community sometimes mentioned in the news |
In the affairs of |
| 1. |
Kurd |
Bangladesh |
| 2. |
Madhesi |
Nepal |
| 3. |
Rohingya |
Myanmar |
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 3 only |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Asset Reconstruction Companies, SARFAESI Act, 2002;
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
The RBI has introduced updated guidelines for Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) through a master direction, effective from April 24, 2024.
What is an Asset Reconstruction Company (ARC)?
|
Description |
| About |
ARC is a special financial institution that acquires debtors from banks at a mutually agreed value and attempts to recover the debts or associated securities. |
| Regulation |
- ARCs are registered under the RBI.
- Regulated under the SARFAESI Act, 2002 (Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Securities Interest Act).
|
| Objective |
ARCs take over a portion of the bank’s non-performing assets (NPAs) and engage in asset reconstruction or securitization, aiming to recover the debts. |
| Functions |
- Asset Reconstruction: Acquisition of bank loans or other credit facilities for realization.
- Securitization: Acquisition of financial assets by issuing security receipts.
|
| Foreign Investment |
100% FDI allowed in ARCs under the automatic route. |
| Limitiations |
- ARCs are prohibited from undertaking lending activities.
- They can only engage in securitization and reconstruction activities.
|
| Working |
- Bank with NPA agrees to sell it to ARC at a mutually agreed value.
- ARC transfers assets to trusts under SARFAESI Act.
- Upfront payment made to bank, rest through Security Receipts.
- Recovery proceeds shared between ARC and bank.
|
| Security Receipts |
Issued to Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs) for raising funds to acquire financial assets. |
| Significance |
- Banks can clean up their balance sheets and focus on core banking activities.
- Provides a mechanism for resolution of NPAs and debt recovery.
|
What are the new guidelines laid out by the RBI?
- Enhanced Capital Requirements:
-
-
- Minimum Capital Requirement Increase: ARCs are now mandated to maintain a minimum capital requirement of Rs 300 crore, a significant increase from the previous Rs 100 crore stipulation established on October 11, 2022.
- Transition Period for Compliance: Existing ARCs are granted a transition period to reach the revised Net Owned Fund (NOF) threshold of Rs 300 crore by March 31, 2026.
- Interim Requirement: However, by March 31, 2024, ARCs must possess a minimum capital of Rs 200 crore to comply with the new directives.
- Supervisory Actions for Non-Compliance:
-
-
- ARCs failing to meet the prescribed capital thresholds will face supervisory action, potentially including restrictions on undertaking additional business until compliance is achieved.
- Expanded Role for Well-Capitalized ARCs:
-
- Empowerment of Well-Capitalized ARCs: ARCs with a minimum NOF of Rs 1000 crore are empowered to act as resolution applicants in distressed asset scenarios.
- Investment Opportunities: These ARCs are permitted to deploy funds in government securities, scheduled commercial bank deposits, and institutions like SIDBI and NABARD, subject to RBI specifications. Additionally, they can invest in short-term instruments such as money market mutual funds, certificates of deposit, and corporate bonds commercial papers.
- Investment Cap: Investments in short-term instruments are capped at 10% of the NOF to mitigate risk exposure.
PYQ:
[2018] With reference to the governance of public sector banking in India, consider the following statements:
- Capital infusion into public sector banks by the Government of India has steadily increased in the last decade.
- To put the public sector banks in order, the merger of associate banks with the parent State Bank of India has been affected.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Critical Minerals, Mineral Security Partnership (MSP)
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
The Ministry of Mines has organized a pivotal summit in New Delhi aimed at fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and driving innovation in Critical Mineral beneficiation and processing.
What are Critical Minerals?
- Critical Minerals are indispensable for economic development and national security, with their scarcity or concentration in specific regions posing potential supply chain vulnerabilities.
- The declaration and identification of Critical Minerals is an ongoing process, influenced by technological advancements, market dynamics, and geopolitical factors.
Critical Minerals in India:
- India has identified 30 Critical Minerals (July 2023) based on factors like disruption potential, import reliance, and cross-sectoral usage.
- Antimony, Beryllium, Bismuth, Cobalt, Copper, Gallium, Germanium, Graphite, Hafnium, Indium, Lithium, Molybdenum, Niobium, Nickel, PGE, Phosphorous, Potash, Rare Earth Elements, Rhenium, Silicon, Strontium, Tantalum, Tellurium, Tin, Titanium, Tungsten, Vanadium, Zirconium, Selenium and Cadmium.
Global Perspective:
Various nations have outlined their lists of Critical Minerals based on unique circumstances:
- The US recognizes 50 minerals critical for national security and economic development.
- Japan has identified 31 minerals crucial for its economy.
- The UK, EU, and Canada have their respective lists, reflecting their strategic priorities.
India became the 14th member of the Mineral Security Partnership (MSP) in June 2023.
- MSP seeks to bolster critical minerals supply chains to support economic prosperity and climate objectives.
- It seeks to ensure that critical minerals are produced, processed and recycled by catalyzing investments from governments and private sector across the full value chain.
- Members: The other member countries are United States, Australia, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the European Commission.
Note: Copper, gold and silver are not on the list of minerals under MSP (Wiki). |
Various Government Initiatives:
- MMDR Act Amendment (2023): 24 minerals were designated as critical and strategic under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act.
- National Mineral Policy (2019): The updated policy emphasizes the exploration and exploitation of Critical Minerals to harness India’s mineral potential effectively.
- Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL): A joint venture comprising National Aluminium Company Ltd (NALCO), Hindustan Copper Ltd (HCL), and Mineral Exploration Corporation Ltd (MECL), KABIL aims to secure a consistent supply of Critical Minerals by acquiring and developing assets overseas.
- Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL): It is a PSU that plays a significant role in the research and production of rare earth minerals.
India’s Critical Mineral Imports:
- Lithium Imports: In FY23, India imported 2,145 tonnes of lithium carbonate and lithium oxide, costing Rs 732 crore.
- Nickel and Copper Imports: The country imported 32,000 tonnes of unwrought nickel and 1.2 million tonnes of copper ore, costing Rs 6,549 crore and Rs 27,374 crore, respectively.
- Import Dependence: India relies entirely on imports for lithium and nickel, and 93% for copper.
Country-wise dependence:
- China: India heavily relies on China for the import of critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite.
- Australia: India is actively engaged with Australia for acquiring mineral assets, particularly lithium and cobalt, to secure its supply chain for critical minerals.
- Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile: India is engaging with these countries, known for their reserves of battery metals like lithium and cobalt, to diversify its sources for critical minerals.
|
PYQ:
[2019] With reference to the management of minor minerals in India, consider the following statements:
- Sand is a ‘minor mineral’ according to the prevailing law in the country.
- State governments have the power to grant mining leases of minor minerals, but the powers regarding the formation of rules related to the grant of minor minerals lie with the Central Government.
- State Governments have the power to frame rules to prevent illegal mining of minor minerals.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Thar Desert, Desert National Park;
Mains level: NA
Why in the News?
Rajasthan’s barren Thar Desert may turn green, says a recent study in the journal Earth’s Future.
Thar Desert
- The Thar Desert is the 18th largest subtropical desert globally and is one of the most densely populated deserts.
- Approximately 40% of the human population in Rajasthan resides in the Thar Desert.
- It extends from the Sutlej River and is bounded by the Rann of Kutch, the Aravalli Mountains, and the Indus River.
- About 85% of the Thar Desert is located in India, with the remainder in Pakistan.
- In India, it spans across Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, and Punjab as well.
- Civilizations are believed to have thrived in the Thar region around 50,000 years ago across the extinct Saraswati River.
- The Desert National Park (home to the endangered Great Indian Bustard, desert fox, desert cat, blackbuck, and Indian gazelle) is situated in the Thar Desert in the northwest Indian state of Rajasthan.
|
Why is the Thar desert getting greener?
-
-
- Alteration of Weather Patterns: Climate change is causing shifts in rainfall distribution in the thar desert area.
- Potential for Vegetation Growth: The increased precipitation could provide favorable conditions for vegetation growth, contributing to the greening of the desert.
-
-
- Westward Extension of Indian Monsoon: The Indian monsoon, known for bringing heavy rainfall to eastern India, is now extending further westward into regions like the Thar Desert.
- Impact on Moisture and Rainfall: This change in monsoon dynamics could lead to increased moisture and rainfall in the desert region, facilitating the growth of vegetation.
- Expansion of Indian Ocean Warm Pool (IOWP):
-
-
- Influence on Monsoon Patterns: The Indian Ocean Warm Pool (IOWP) influences monsoon patterns and rainfall distribution over the Indian subcontinent.
- Westward Expansion due to Climate Change: Climate change is causing the IOWP to expand westward, potentially resulting in increased rainfall over semi-arid regions like the Thar Desert and promoting greening.
- Water Management Practices:
-
-
- Contribution to Greening: Effective water management practices, such as rainwater harvesting and irrigation techniques like johad, kuis, and kunds, may be playing a role in the greening of the Thar Desert.
- Utilization of Water Resources: By harnessing and efficiently utilizing available water resources, local communities and authorities can support vegetation growth and ecosystem restoration efforts in the desert.
- Introduction of Irrigation
-
- Commercial Cropping: Irrigation was introduced during British colonial rule in the 19th and 20th centuries to convert arid and semi-arid ecosystems into cropland.
- Restrictions on Grazing: The right to graze animals was restricted to landowners who cultivated crops, leading to the transformation of nomadic pastoralists into sedentary agro-pastoralists.
PYQ:
[2018] Which of the following leaf modifications occur(s) in the desert areas to inhibit water loss?
- Hard and waxy leaves
- Tiny leaves
- Thorns instead of leaves
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[2020] The process of desertification does not have climate boundaries. Justify with examples.
[2013] Major hot deserts in northern hemisphere are located between 20-30 degree north and on the western side of the continents. Why? |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: LSAM 20;
Mains level: NA
Why in the News?
The Indian Navy has inducted the ‘Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge, LSAM 20 (Yard 130) into its fleet.
What is LSAM 20?
- LSAM 20 (Yard 130) is the Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge (Storage) inducted by the Indian Navy. (built by MSME Shipyard, M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane).
- LSAM 20 facilitates transportation, embarkation, and disembarkation of articles/ammunition to IN Ships.
- These Barges are indigenously designed and built under relevant Naval Rules and Regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping.
Objective
- A Torpedo Cum Missile Barge is a specialized vessel used by the Indian Navy to transport various types of ammunition, torpedoes, and missiles to operational areas.
- These barges play a crucial role in providing logistical support to naval vessels by ensuring the uninterrupted transportation of essential military supplies.
PYQ:
[2016] Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, 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: NHRC, GANHRI
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
- The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is gearing up to defend India’s human rights processes at a critical meeting of Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) in Geneva.
- A decision on retaining India’s NHRC’s “A status” accreditation is imminent at this summit.
About National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
|
Details |
| Establishment |
- A Statutory Body;
- Established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
|
| Functions |
- Inquire into any violation of human rights
- Recommend immediate interim relief to victims or their families
- Intervene in court proceedings involving human rights violations
- Review constitutional and legal safeguards for human rights
- Study international instruments on human rights
- Promote human rights literacy
- Support the efforts of NGOs working in the field of human rights
|
| Powers |
- Regulate its own procedure
- Possess all the powers of a civil court
- Proceedings have a judicial character
|
| Chairperson |
- Must be a former Justice of the Supreme Court or Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
- Appointed by the President of India
|
| Members |
- Four full-time members;
- Chairperson: former Supreme Court Justice or Chief Justice;
- Other Member: former Judge of the Supreme Court;
- Other Member: former Chief Justice of a High Court;
- Three Members: with knowledge or experience in human rights, including at least one woman –
- Seven ex-officio members: Chairpersons of National Commissions viz., National Commission for Scheduled Castes, National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, National Commission for Women , National Commission for Minorities, National Commission for Backward Classes, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights; and the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities.
|
| Appointment |
- Appointed by the President, based on a committee recommendation including the Prime Minister, Speaker of Lok Sabha, Home Minister, Leaders of the Opposition in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and others
- Consultation with the Chief Justice of India for judicial appointments
|
| Removal |
- Removal by order of the President of India
- Consultation with the Supreme Court before removal
|
| Terms of Office |
- Hold office for a term of three years or until the age of 70
- Ineligibility for further government employment after office
- Eligible for reappointment
|
| Salaries |
Determined by the Central government |
| Reporting |
- Submits annual or special reports to the Central government and the concerned State government
- Reports laid before the respective legislatures, along with a memorandum of action taken on the recommendations and reasons for non-acceptance of any recommendations
|
| Limitations |
- The commission is not empowered to inquire into any matter after the expiry of one year from the date on which the act constituting the violation of human rights is alleged to have been committed
- Functions are recommendatory in nature, with no power to punish or award relief to violators
- Limited role concerning armed forces violations
|
GANHRI Concerns about India’s NHRC
India’s NHRC faced a potential downgrade in its accreditation status in 2023 due to concerns raised by the SCA regarding its operational independence and composition.
- Political Interference: The NHRC-India faced objections related to political interference in appointments, compromising its independence.
- Police Involvement: Involving the police in probes into human rights violations raised concerns about impartiality and fair investigations.
- Lack of Cooperation: The NHRC’s poor cooperation with civil society was criticized, hindering its effectiveness in protecting human rights.
- Lack of Diversity: The GANHRI highlighted the lack of diversity in staff and leadership positions within the NHRC. There is also lack of gender and minority representation.
- Insufficient Protection of Marginalized Groups: The NHRC was found to have taken insufficient action to protect marginalized groups, contrary to the U.N.’s principles on national institutions (the ‘Paris Principles).
Back2Basics: GANHRI (Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions)
|
| Purpose |
Promote and protect human rights globally |
| Year Established |
1993 |
| Headquarters |
Geneva, Switzerland |
| Members |
National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) from 114 member institutions |
| Key Functions |
- Promoting and strengthening NHRIs worldwide
- Advocating for human rights at national, regional, and global levels
- Facilitating cooperation and sharing of best practices among NHRIs
- Providing capacity-building support to NHRIs etc.
|
| Organizational Structure |
- President: Elected from GANHRI members for a specified term
- Bureau: Assists the President in overseeing GANHRI’s work
- Sub-Committees: Focused on specific thematic or regional issues
|
| Key Documents |
- Paris Principles: Provide guidance for the establishment and operation of NHRIs
- GANHRI Strategy: Outlines the organization’s strategic objectives and actions
|
| Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA) |
- Part of a five-year peer evaluation cycle for all 114 member institutions of GANHRI.
- Accreditation status holds significance as it determines its voting rights at international human rights forums.
|
PYQ:
[2011] Consider the following:
- Right to education.
- Right to equal access to public service.
- Right to food.
Which of the above is/are Human Right/Rights under “Universal Declaration of Human Rights”?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: ACS3 Project, Solar Sailing
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
NASA has launched its Advanced Composite Solar Sail System (ACS3) spacecraft that uses sunlight for propulsion from New Zealand into space.
About Advanced Composite Solar Sail System (ACS3) Project
- The spacecraft is slated to orbit 1,000 kilometers above Earth, deploying an 80-square-meter solar sail approximately 25 minutes after liftoff.
- It harnesses sunlight as a renewable propulsion source, marking a novel advancement in space exploration.
- It uses a compact CubeSat, similar in size to an oven, which facilitates propulsion by capturing solar particle energy.
- Operational Phases:
- The initial flight phase spans two months and involves subsystems checkout and solar sail deployment.
- A series of pointing maneuvers will showcase orbit raising and lowering, validating the effectiveness of sunlight pressure on the sail.
The Technology Behind: Solar Sailing
- Solar sails typically consist of lightweight, reflective materials such as Mylar or aluminized Kapton, which are deployed in space to capture sunlight.
- The sail is often configured as a large, thin membrane with a large surface area to maximize the amount of sunlight it can intercept.
- When sunlight reflects off a shiny solar sail, some of its momentum is transferred, giving the sail a small push.
Solar sailing offers several advantages over traditional propulsion methods, including:
- Efficiency: Solar sailing does not require onboard fuel, making it a highly efficient and sustainable propulsion method for long-duration missions.
- Continuous thrust: Unlike chemical rockets, which provide brief bursts of acceleration, solar sails can provide continuous thrust as long as they are exposed to sunlight.
- Maneuverability: Solar sails can change their trajectory by adjusting the orientation of the sail relative to the direction of incoming sunlight. This allows for precise navigation and maneuvering in space.
- Interstellar travel: Solar sailing has the potential to enable interstellar missions by gradually accelerating spacecraft to very high velocities over time, allowing them to explore distant star systems.
PYQ:
[2016] What is ‘Greased Lightning-10 (GL-10)’, recently in the news?
(a) Electric plane tested by NASA
(b) Solar-powered two-seater aircraft designed by Japan
(c) Space observatory launched by China
(d) Reusable rocket designed by ISRO |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: India’s Imports from China and Other Countries
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
- India’s imports from China surged to over $101 billion in the fiscal year 2023-24, marking a significant increase from approximately $70 billion recorded in 2018-19.
- The proportion of China’s industrial goods imports to India has risen from 21% to 30% over a span of 15 years, as highlighted in a report by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI).
India’s Import: GTRI study
- The GTRI study revealed that imports from China have grown at a pace 2.3 times faster than India’s overall imports during the 15-year period.
- Contrary to common belief, China has emerged as the top supplier in eight core industrial sectors, encompassing machinery, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and textiles, among others.
- India is experiencing stagnant exports valued at around $16 billion annually.
- Over a six-year period spanning from 2018-2019 to 2023-24, India’s cumulative trade deficit with China surpassed $387 billion, prompting apprehension among policymakers.
China’s Share of India’s Imports:
- China accounted for 15% of India’s overall imports in 2023-24, with $101.8 billion out of a total of $677.2 billion.
- Sector-wise Contributions:
- Electronics, Telecom, and Electrical Products: China’s contribution was 38.4% in April-January 2023-24.
- Clothing: Nearly 42% of India’s textile and clothing imports accounted from China.
- Machinery Sector: China accounted for 39.6% of India’s overall imports.
- Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sector: China’s share was 29.2%.
- Plastics and Related Articles: China provided articles worth $4.8 billion, accounting for 25.8% of total imports in this sector.
Back2Basics: Top Importers of India
| S. No |
Importer |
Share of India’s Imports |
| 1. |
China (Biggest Importer in India) |
15.43% |
| 2. |
United Arab Emirates |
7.31% |
| 3. |
United States |
7.07% |
| 4. |
Switzerland |
3.82% |
| 5. |
Hong Kong |
3.12% |
| 6. |
Singapore |
3.09% |
| 7. |
Indonesia |
2.89% |
| 8. |
South Korea |
2.85% |
|
PYQ:
[2017] ‘China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’, In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbor. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pripyat River, Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
- The WWF has issued a stark warning regarding the dredging of the Pripyat River, adjacent to the Chernobyl nuclear disaster site.
- Concerns mount as the Pripyat River could transform into a permanent repository of radioactive substances, contaminating the water and food sources.
About Pripyat River
- Pripyat River is a significant waterway in Eastern Europe. It flows through Ukraine, Belarus, and a small portion of Russia.
- It is primarily situated within the Polesian Lowland, a region characterized by marshes, wetlands, and forests.
- The Pripyat River is approximately 761 km (473 miles) long.
- Physical Features:
- Tributaries: It has numerous tributaries, including the Stokhid River, Styr River, and Horyn River. The largest tributary of the Pripyat is the Teterev River, which joins it from the right bank.
- Drainage Basin: Its basin covers an area of around 121,000 square kilometers (46,700 square miles). It is one of the major tributaries of the Dnieper River, which eventually flows into the Black Sea.
Notable event: The Pripyat River gained international attention due to its proximity to the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, where the catastrophic nuclear accident occurred in 1986.
About Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster
- The Chernobyl Disaster occurred on April 26, 1986.
- It took place at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, near the town of Pripyat in northern Ukraine, then part of the Soviet Union.
- The explosion and subsequent fire released a large amount of radioactive material such as cesium-137 and strontium-90 into the atmosphere, resulting in widespread contamination.
|
PYQ:
[2020] Consider the following pairs?
River — Flows into
- Mekong — Andaman sea
- Thames — Irish Sea
- Volga — Caspian Sea
- Zambezi — Indian Ocean
Which of the pairs above is/are correctly matched?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Only 3
(d) None of the above/More than one of the above |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Yangli Festival, Khelchawa Festival, Tiwa Tribe
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
Tiwa tribals dance recently celebrated the Yangli festival at Bormarjong village, in Karbi Anglong district, Assam.
About Tiwa Tribals
- Tiwa tribes, also known as Lalungs, inhabit both the hills and plains of Assam and Meghalaya states.
- They hold the status of a Scheduled Tribe in Assam.
- The hill-dwelling Tiwa villagers engage in traditional practices such as Jhum cultivation, horticulture, and the cultivation of local crops and vegetables.
- Their language belongs to the Tibeto-Burman linguistic group.
|
About Yangli Festival
- The Yangli festival is celebrated before starting the paddy sowing
- It is also known as the Lakshmi Puja of the Tiwa people.
- It is celebrated with traditional rituals, emphasizing the community’s strong ties to agriculture, their primary livelihood.
- It serves as an occasion for prayers seeking a bountiful harvest and divine protection for crops against pests and natural calamities.
- It is held once in 5 years.
- In April, Khelchawa festival is celebrated by Tiwa tribes marking close of the harvest season.
Celebratory Activities:
- Festivities commenced with traditional rituals and vibrant dances.
- It continues with a joyous gathering along the riverbanks.
- It draws participation from over five hundred individuals representing various groups like Amchi, Rangkhai, and Magrat.
- Ceremonial animal sacrifices, including poultry and goats, are performed to honour the goddess and ensure her benevolence upon the Tiwa people’s granary, known as “NoBaro.”
PYQ:
[2014] Every year, a month long ecologically important campaign/festival is held during which certain communities/ tribes plant saplings of fruit-bearing trees. Which of the following are such communities/tribes?
(a) Bhutia and Lepcha
(b) Gond and Korku
(c) lrula and Toda
(d) Sahariya and Agariya |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), DPI Adoption Index Mains: NA
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
The World Bank, in collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MEITY), is spearheading the development of a state-level Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) adoption index.
About State-Level DPI Adoption Index
- World Bank confirmed that the project was in its preparatory stages.
- The envisioned state-level DPI index aims to identify gaps and opportunities for strengthening the DPI for the digital economy, promoting financial inclusion, and fostering public-private innovation.
- The index will assess different states based on their adoption levels of DPIs, intending to incentivize increased utilization of these digital systems.
What is Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)?
- DPI refers to the foundational digital infrastructure that enables the delivery of digital services and facilitates digital interactions between citizens, businesses, and governments.
- It encompasses various technological components, policies, and frameworks aimed at enhancing digital connectivity, accessibility, and efficiency in public service delivery.
| DPI, as defined by the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration (September 2023) “is a set of shared digital systems that are secure and interoperable, built on open technologies, to deliver equitable access to public and/or private services at a societal scale”. |
Three Pillars of DPI:
- DPI primarily focuses on three key pillars: identity, payments, and data management.
- India has pioneered the development of all three DPI pillars through its India Stack Platform, setting a global benchmark.
- Identity: Aadhar serves as India’s digital ID system.
- Payment: The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) facilitates real-time fast payments.
- Data Management: The Data Empowerment and Protection Architecture (DEPA) ensures consent-based data sharing.
India’s Initiatives Leveraging DPI
- Digital India: Initiatives like Digital Locker, e-sign framework, and the National Scholarship Portal are integral parts of the Digital India campaign.
- BharatNet: This project aims to provide affordable internet connectivity to rural India, leveraging high-speed broadband networks.
- National Health Stack: Designed to revolutionize healthcare, this infrastructure facilitates health data exchange and interoperability.
- National Knowledge Network (NKN): Facilitating collaborative research and innovation, NKN promotes knowledge sharing.
- UMANG: The Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance offers access to various government services and schemes.
- Government e-Marketplace (GeM): An online platform streamlining procurement processes for government agencies.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Sympathetic Solar Flares, Coronal Mass Ejections (CME), Solar Cycle
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
A rare celestial event unfolded as four solar flares called as Sympathetic Solar Flares simultaneously, signaling the onset of the Sun’s dynamic 11-year solar cycle.
What is a Solar Cycle?
- Given the Sun’s dynamic nature, electrically charged gases on its surface generate powerful magnetic fields, known as magnetic fields.
- These magnetic fields undergo stretching, twisting, and tangling due to the constant movement of gases on the Sun’s surface, resulting in solar activity.
- Scientists monitor solar cycles using sunspots. Solar activity fluctuates throughout the solar cycle, which typically spans about 11 years.
- The onset of a solar cycle typically features minimal sunspot activity, termed as a solar minimum.
- For instance, the last Solar Cycle 25 commenced in December 2019, characterized by a low number of sunspots.
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What are Sympathetic Solar Flares?
- Sympathetic solar flares are solar eruptions that occur in close temporal and spatial proximity to another solar flare or eruption.
- These events are believed to be interconnected through magnetic fields or other physical processes occurring on the Sun.
- When a solar flare or eruption happens on the Sun, it releases a burst of electromagnetic radiation and charged particles into space.
- In some cases, the energy released during these events can cause disturbances in the Sun’s magnetic field.
- These disturbances can trigger the occurrence of additional flares loop or eruptions in nearby regions of the Sun’s surface.
- This event follows coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and intense plasma bursts.
Implications for Earth
- Potential impacts include disruptions to power grids, interference with communication networks, and increased radiation exposure for astronauts and aircraft passengers.
- Solar storms can lead to spectacular natural light shows known as auroras, which are typically visible near the Earth’s magnetic poles.
PYQ:
[2012] The increasing amount of carbon dioxide in the air is slowly raising the temperature of the atmosphere, because it absorbs:
(a) the water vapour of the air and retains its heat
(b) the ultraviolet part of the solar radiation
(c) all the solar radiations
(d) the infrared part of the solar radiation |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mercury Poisoning, Membranous Nephropathy, Minamata Convention.
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
- Researchers from Kerala reported 15 cases of Membranous Nephropathy (MN) linked to the regular application of fairness creams.
- These creams contained high levels of mercury, sometimes exceeding the safe limit by 10,000 times.
Mercury Contamination in Hair Cream
- Blood and urine screenings of affected individuals unveiled alarmingly high levels of mercury, a well-known toxic element.
- The fairness creams contained mercury levels up to 10,000 times above the permissible limit of 1 ppm under Minamata Convention (2013).
- Most cases were PLA2R (phospholipase A2 receptor) negative, indicating a different cause.
- Cases of MN linked to Neural epidermal growth factor-like protein 1 (NELL-1) have been identified.
- NELL-1 has been associated with MN caused by traditional medicines containing high mercury levels.
Understanding Membranous Nephropathy
- Membranous Nephropathy (MN) is a nephrotic syndrome, characterized by excessive protein leakage into urine, eventually leading to kidney failure. Symptoms such as fatigue, edema, and proteinuria were found to have a history of regular fairness cream usage.
Impact of Mercury:
- Mercury in fairness creams inhibits melanin formation, resulting in lighter skin. Consumers perceive higher mercury levels as more effective for skin whitening.
- Mercury, a potent heavy metal found in these creams, penetrates the body through various channels, including sweat glands and hair follicles, causing systemic toxicity.
- Chronic exposure to mercury can result in kidney damage, neurological disorders, and a myriad of other health complications.
Back2Basics: Minamata Convention on Mercury
- The Minamata Convention on Mercury is devised to safeguard human health and the environment from the detrimental impacts of mercury and its derivatives.
- Its name derives from the Japanese bay where, during the mid-20th century, industrial wastewater tainted with mercury inflicted severe health damage upon thousands of individuals, leading to what is now recognized as “Minamata disease.”
- Signed in 2013 and enforced in 2017, it operates as a United Nations treaty under the purview of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
- Countries ratifying the Convention are legally obliged under international law to implement these regulations.
- 128 countries are signatories, with 119 of them having ratified it; India became a party by ratifying it in 2018.
Activities covered by the Convention:
- The Convention encompasses all phases of the mercury life cycle, aiming to regulate and diminish mercury usage across various products, processes, and industries.
- This encompasses regulations about:
- Mercury mining involves bans on new mines and the gradual phase-out of existing ones.
- Gradual reduction and elimination of mercury utilization in numerous products and procedures.
- Control measures address emissions into the atmosphere and release into soil and water bodies.
- Oversight of the informal artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector.
- Management of interim mercury storage and its disposal once classified as waste, as well as remediation of mercury-contaminated sites and associated health issues.
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PYQ:
[2010] Indiscriminate disposal of used fluorescent electric lamps causes mercury pollution in the environment. Why is mercury used in the manufacture of these lamps?
(a) A mercury coating on the inside of the lamp makes the light bright white
(b) When the lamp is switched on, the mercury in the lamp causes the emission of ultra-violet radiations
(c) When the lamp is switched on, it is the mercury which converts the ultra-violet energy into visible light
(d) None of the statement given above is correct about the use of mercury in the manufacture of fluorescent lamps |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Doctrine of Repugnancy; Sachar Committee, Article 254, Waqf
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
- The Madras High Court ruled the Tamil Nadu Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Amendment Act of 2010 as repugnant and unconstitutional.
- The amendment conferred authority on the Tamil Nadu Waqf Board CEO to order evictions, contradicting with the Central legislation, the Waqf Act of 1995.
Madras HC Verdict:
- Parliament’s 2013 amendment to Waqf Act prevails over Tamil Nadu’s legislation.
- It already provides uniform and effective mechanisms for possession recovery.
Arguments made by TN:
- Lawyers argue 2010 amendment exercised power under Concurrent List, required Presidential assent.
- State law and Central law cannot co-exist, Parliament’s 2013 amendment prevails.
- Original provisions of Waqf Act not sufficient to deal with encroachments.
- Tamil Nadu enacted 2010 amendment based on Sachar Committee recommendation.
Sachar Committee:
A seven-member high-level committee headed by former Chief Justice of Delhi High Court Rajinder Sachar to study the social, economic, and educational condition of Muslims in March 2005. |
What is Doctrine of Repugnancy?
- The doctrine of repugnancy arises when two laws conflict and produce different outcomes when applied to the same situation.
- It occurs when the provisions of two laws are so contradictory that complying with one law would mean violating the other.
- Article 254 of the Indian Constitution establishes the Doctrine of Repugnancy in India, providing a framework for resolving conflicts between Central and State laws.
- It resolves conflicts between Central and State laws.
Key Provisions of Article 254:
1. Article 254(1):
- Declares that if a law passed by a State Legislature contradicts a law passed by Parliament, the State law will be deemed void.
- The law enacted by Parliament will take precedence over the State law.
2. Article 254(2):
- Allows States to enforce legislation that contradicts Parliament’s laws if they receive assent from the President.
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PYQ:
[2016] The Parliament of India acquires the power to legislate on any item in the State List in the national interest if a resolution to that effect is passed by the:
(a) Lok Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership
(b) Lok Sabha by a majority of not less than two-thirds of its total membership
(c) Rajya Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership
(d) Rajya Sabha by a majority of not less than two-thirds of its members present and voting |
Back2Basics: What is Waqf property and what does the Waqf Act state?
|
Details |
| Enactment |
- Enacted by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1954 to centralize Waqf properties.
- Led to the formation of the Central Waqf Council in 1964.
- Amended in 1995 under the Congress government of PV Narasimha Rao, granting extensive powers to Waqf Boards.
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| Key Provisions |
- Section 3(R) of the 1995 amendment designates properties as Waqf if deemed sacred, religious, or charitable according to Muslim law.
- Article 40 mandates the Waqf Surveyor and Board to determine property ownership.
- 2013 amendments require State Waqf Boards to appoint Survey Commissioners to manage properties and settle disputes.
|
| Legal Status |
Property declared as Waqf cannot be contested in court; appeals must be made to the Waqf Board. |
| Chairmanship |
- Union Minority Welfare Minister serves as ex-officio chairman of the Central Waqf Council.
- State Waqf Boards consist of seven Muslim members.
|
Waqf Property
|
|
Details |
| Definition |
- Property donated for charitable purposes in the name of Allah.
- Donated by individuals for public benefit; no individual ownership rights.
|
| Donation Criteria |
Must be donated by Muslims above the age of 18. |
| Ownership |
- Upon donation, property becomes Allah’s possession;
- Family members have no claim after donor’s demise.
|
| Types |
Includes movable or immovable property donated for charitable purposes. |
| Management |
Overseen by the Waqf Board, responsible for legal matters and property administration. |
| Total Properties |
- Over 8,65,646 properties registered with the Waqf Board in India.
- Estimated to cover 8 lakh acres of land with a market value of approximately Rs 1.20 lakh crore.
- State-wide Share:
- West Bengal: More than 80,000 properties registered.
- Punjab: 70,994 properties under Waqf Board.
- Tamil Nadu: 65,945 properties managed.
- Karnataka: 61,195 properties overseen.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ross Ice Shelf, Whillans Ice Stream
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
- Scientists found out that the huge Ross Ice Shelf, almost as big as France, moves forward a few centimetres daily.
- This happens because of the Whillans Ice Stream, a fast-moving river of ice that sometimes gets stuck and then suddenly moves forward.
About Ross Ice Shelf
- Ross Ice Shelf is the largest ice shelf of Antarctica roughly the size of France.
- It was discovered by Sir James Clark Ross on 28 January 1841.
- The shelf spans an area of roughly 500,809 square kilometers, about the size of France or the Yukon Territory in Canada.
- It is several hundred meters thick. In the shelf’s southern reaches, nearest the True South Pole, the ice can be as thick as 750m.
- The nearly vertical ice front to the open sea is more than 600 km long, and between 15 and 50 meters high above the water surface. However, 90% of the floating ice is below the water surface.
- It is fed primarily by giant glaciers, or ice streams, that transport ice down to it from the high polar ice sheet of East and West Antarctica.
- Most of Ross Ice Shelf is in the Ross Dependency claimed by New Zealand.
- It floats in, and covers, a large southern portion of the Ross Sea and the entire Roosevelt Island located in the east of the Ross Sea.
Spotlight: Icequakes on Ross Ice Shelf
- Influence of Ice Stream: Most glaciers move slowly, but the Whillans Ice Stream stops and starts suddenly. This might happen because there isn’t enough water below to help it move smoothly.
- Sudden Movements: These sudden movements, like tiny earthquakes, push against the Ross Ice Shelf.
- Threat to Stability: Even though these daily shifts aren’t caused by humans, they could make the Ross Ice Shelf weaker over time. Ice shelves slow down the flow of ice into the ocean.
- Retreat of Glacier: If the Ross Ice Shelf gets weaker or breaks, it could speed up melting and raise sea levels.
PYQ:
[2013] On the planet earth, most of the freshwater exists as ice caps and glaciers. Out of the remaining freshwater, the largest proportion
(a) Is found in the atmosphere as moisture and clouds
(b) Is found in freshwater lakes and rivers
(c) Exists as groundwater
(d) Exists as soil moisture |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pulicat Wetland and its topography; Eco-sensitive Zones (ESZs)
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
- Settlement of claims for local communities within Pulicat Wetland and Birds Sanctuary boundary raises concerns.
- State government plans to denotify a significant portion of the sanctuary and Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) for industrial park development.
About Pulicat Wetland and Birds Sanctuary
- Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary is the second-largest bird sanctuary in India.
- It cuts across Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh and Thiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu.
- The sanctuary is situated along the coast of the Bay of Bengal covering an area of 759 square kilometers.
- The sanctuary is bordered by the Arani River at its southern tip, the Kalangi River from the Northwest, and the Swarnamukhi River at the northern end.
- Pulicat Lake runs parallel to the Bay of Bengal and has a sand bar, making it a lagoon of its own kind.
- Sriharikota, renowned as India’s rocket launch pad and home to the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, separates the lake from the Bay of Bengal.
- The sanctuary includes 16 island villages and 30 villages adjoining the lake, whose inhabitants depend on the lake for their livelihood.
- Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary hosts a large number of migratory birds during winter, including gulls, terns, plovers, shanks, curlews, and storks.
- It is a habitat for a variety of bird species such as flamingos, pelicans, storks, herons, and ducks.
What are the Eco-sensitive Zones (ESZs)?
- Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) or Ecologically Fragile Areas (EFAs) are areas notified by the MoEFCC around Protected Areas, National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries.
- The purpose of declaring ESZs is to create some kind of “shock absorbers” to the protected areas by regulating and managing the activities around such areas.
- They also act as a transition zone from areas of high protection to areas involving lesser protection.
How are they demarcated?
- The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 does NOT mention the word “Eco-Sensitive Zones”.
- However, Section 3(2)(v) of the Act, says that Central Government can restrict areas in which any industries, operations or processes or class of industries, operations or processes shall be carried out or shall not, subject to certain safeguards.
- Besides Rule 5(1) of the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986 states that central government can prohibit or restrict the location of industries and carrying on certain operations or processes on the basis of certain considerations.
- The same criteria have been used by the government to declare No Development Zones (NDZs).
Defining its boundaries
- An ESZ could go up to 10 kilometres around a protected area as provided in the Wildlife Conservation Strategy, 2002.
- Moreover, in the case where sensitive corridors, connectivity and ecologically important patches, crucial for landscape linkage, are beyond 10 km width, these should be included in the ESZs.
- Further, even in the context of a particular Protected Area, the distribution of an area of ESZ and the extent of regulation may not be uniform all around and it could be of variable width and extent.
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PYQ:
[2017] Consider the following statements:
1. In India, the Himalayas are spread over five States only.
2. Western Ghats are spread over five States only.
3. Pulicat Lake is spread over two States only.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1 and 3 only |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CCO and its Functions
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
The Coal Controller’s Organisation (CCO) recently held inspections of Coal Mines to ensure the accuracy of Coal class and grade declarations.
Coal Sector in Indian Economy:
- The Indian coal sector is one of the 8 core sectors contributing heavily to the economic development of India.
- In India, there are 4 grades of coal available: Lignite, Bituminous, Sub-Bituminous, and Anthracite, and out of which Anthracite is the highest grade of coal.
- More than 70% of Coal reserves in India are mainly found in the South-Central region i.e. in Orissa, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand.
- India is the second-largest producer of Anthracite globally after China.
- The mining sector accounts for more than 2% contribution to the total GDP of India.
- India, had a global share of Coal production nearly 9%.
- India’s share of coal in major imports in FY 2023 was estimated at 8%.
- India exports coking coal to neighboring countries, including Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan.
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About Coal Controller’s Organisation (CCO)
- The CCO was established in 1975 under the Coal Mines (Conservation and Development) Act, 1974.
- It operates under the Ministry of Coal.
- It is headquartered in Kolkata and field offices at Dhanbad, Ranchi, Bilaspur, Nagpur, Sambalpur, Kothagudem, and Asansol.
Functions of CCO
- Regulatory Oversight: Regulates coal industry activities, ensuring compliance with laws and policies.
- Inspections: It conducts inspections of collieries to ensure the accuracy of coal class and grade declarations under the Colliery Control Rules, 2004 (Amended in 2021).
- Quality Control: Establishes and enforces standards for coal quality through testing and inspection.
- Grading and Classification: Categorizes coal into grades based on quality and intended use.
- Licensing and Permissions: Issues licenses and permits to coal producers, traders, and consumers.
- Data Collection and Analysis: Collects and analyzes data on coal production, consumption, and market trends.
- Research and Development: Conducts or sponsors R&D to improve mining techniques and coal quality.
- Conservation and Sustainability: Formulates policies for coal resource conservation and sustainable development.
- Enforcement and Compliance: Ensures compliance with coal-related regulations through inspections and enforcement actions.
Grades of Coal in India
The gradation of coal is based on-
- Non-Coking Coal: Based on Gross Calorific Value (GCV).
- Coking Coal: Ash Content
- Semi Coking /Weakly Coking Coal: Ash plus Moisture Content
What is Coke?
- Coke is a solid carbonaceous material derived from heating coal in the absence of air.
- It is a porous, hard, black substance with a high carbon content and few impurities.
- Coke is primarily used as a fuel and as a reducing agent in the process of smelting iron ore to produce steel in a blast furnace.
Types of Coal based on Coking ability
- Non-Coking Coal: Non-coking coal, also known as thermal coal, is coal that does not have the ability to undergo conversion into coke when heated in the absence of air. It is primarily used for power generation in thermal power plants, as well as for other industrial applications such as cement production and heating.
- Coking Coal: Coking coal, also known as metallurgical coal, is a type of coal that possesses the necessary properties to undergo conversion into coke when heated in the absence of air. Coking coal is characterized by its high carbon content, low ash content, and ability to form a strong, porous coke when heated.
- Semi Coking / Weakly Coking Coal: Semi-coking or weakly coking coal is a coal type that falls between non-coking coal and coking coal in terms of its properties. While it does not fully qualify as coking coal due to certain limitations in its coking properties, it exhibits some degree of coking ability when heated.
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PYQ:
[2022] In India, what is the role of the Coal Controller’s Organization (CCO)?
- CCO is the major source of Coal Statistics in Government of India.
- It monitors progress of development of Captive Coal/Lignite blocks.
- It hears any objection to the Government’s notification relating to acquisition of coal-bearing areas.
- It ensures that coal mining companies deliver the coal to end users in the prescribed time.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 3 and 4 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 4 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: 95Mat5 Antibody
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
After multiple rounds of screening, researchers have identified an antibody, 95Mat5 that showed promising results in making a potent antidote against various snake venoms.
What is 95Mat5?
- 95Mat5 is a universal antivenom developed to neutralize the toxins present in snake venoms.
- Development Process:
- The scientists first synthesized variants of a toxin called long-chain 3FTxs (3FTx-L), which are found in the venoms of various snakes, including cobras, kraits, mambas, and monocled cobras.
- They then screened billions of human antibodies expressed on the surface of yeast cells to find antibodies that bound best to the synthesized toxins.
- After multiple rounds of screening, they identified a shortlist of antibodies that broadly reacted with most of the 3FTx variants used in the study.
- The selected antibodies were further tested in vitro in human cells to determine which ones could best neutralize the toxins.
Mechanism of Action
- 95Mat5 specifically targets α-neurotoxins, which are a specific class of 3FTxs that prevent nerve and muscle cells from responding to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in carrying messages from neurons to muscles.
- By binding to the toxins, 95Mat5 prevents toxins from interacting with the receptors in human nerve and muscle cells, thereby blocking their ability to induce paralysis and other deadly effects.
- In animal experiments, 95Mat5 demonstrated efficacy in neutralizing the toxins present in the venoms of various snake species, protecting the animals from death.
Global Impact of Snakebites
- Venomous snakebites claim over 100,000 lives annually, with around 400,000 individuals suffering permanent disability.
- Low and middle-income countries, especially India and Africa, bear the brunt of this burden.
- India alone witnessing an average of 58,000 deaths each year.
- In 2017, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared snakebite envenoming as a highest priority Neglected Tropical Disease, shedding light on a long-hidden health crisis.
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PYQ:
[2020] With reference to carbon nanotubes, consider the following statements:
- They can be used as carriers of drugs and antigens in the human body.
- They can be made into artificial blood capillaries for an injured part of human body.
- They can be used in biochemical sensors.
- Carbon nanotubes are biodegradable.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2, 3 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: Commonwealth of Nations, CPGRAMS
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
India’s Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) received global recognition during the 3rd Biennial Pan-Commonwealth Heads in London.
What is CPGRAMS?
- The primary objective of CPGRAMS is to provide citizens with a user-friendly mechanism to register complaints or grievances related to various government departments and agencies.
- It is an online platform available to the citizens 24×7 to lodge their grievances to the public authorities on any subject related to service delivery.
- It was created in June 2007 by the Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances.
- It has been designed in-house by the National Informatics Centre team.
- Prime Minister is the supreme head of the CPGRAMS.
Key functions of CPGRAMS include:
- Grievance Lodging and Tracking: Citizens can lodge grievances online and track their progress using a unique registration number generated by the system.
- Role-Based Access: Every Ministry and state have role-based access to this system, ensuring that grievances are forwarded to the concerned Ministries or Government Departments.
- Appeal Facility: CPGRAMS provides an appeal facility to the citizens if they are not satisfied with the resolution by the Grievance Officer.
- Feedback Mechanism: After the closure of grievance, if the complainant is not satisfied with the resolution, they can provide feedback. If the rating is ‘Poor’, the option to file an appeal is enabled. The status of the Appeal can also be tracked by the petitioner with the grievance registration number.
Issues that are NOT taken up under CPGRAMS:
- Subjudice cases or any matter concerning judgment given by any court.
- Personal and Family disputes.
- Right to Information (RTI) Queries.
- Anything that impacts upon territorial integrity of the country or friendly relations with other countries.
- Grievances of Government employees concerning their service matters including disciplinary proceedings etc because there is already a mechanism for addressing these issues.
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What is the Commonwealth of Nations?
- The Commonwealth of Nations is an intergovernmental organization of 53 member states that are mostly former territories of the British Empire.
- It dates back to the first half of the 20th century with the decolonization of the British Empire through increased self-governance of its territories.
- It was originally created as the British Commonwealth of Nations through the Balfour Declaration at the 1926 Imperial Conference.
- It was formalized by the UK through the Statute of Westminster in 1931.
- The symbol of this free association is Queen Elizabeth II, who is the Head of the Commonwealth.
- Membership: Based on free and equal voluntary cooperation.
History of its creation
- The Commonwealth was created in the early 1900s when nations that were formerly a part of the British Empire began to secede.
- India is one of the founding members of the modern Commonwealth.
- India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, played a key role in the creation of the modern Commonwealth in 1949, Indian policy-makers over the years have considered it as a relic of empire and steeped in colonial legacy.
Working of Commonwealth
- Commonwealth members have no legal obligations to one another.
- Instead, they are united by language, history, culture and their shared values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
Actual functioning: Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM)
- CHOGM which takes place every two years is a platform for all Commonwealth leaders to meet and discuss issues about the Commonwealth.
- The motto behind the meeting is to reaffirm common values, address the shared global challenges and agree on how to work to create a better future.
PYQ:
[2012] With reference to consumers rights/privileges under the provisions of law in India, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Consumers are empowered to take samples for food testing.
2. When a consumer files a complaint in any consumer forum, no fee is required to be paid.
3. In case of death of a consumer, his/her legal heir can file a complaint in the consumer forum on his/her behalf.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[2016] The plan of Sir Stafford Cripps envisaged that after the Second World War,
(a) India should be granted complete independence
(b) India should be partitioned into two before granting independence
(c) India should be made a republic with the condition that it will join the Commonwealth
(d) India should be given Dominion status |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Areas in South America;
Mains level: NA
Why in the News?
South America, known for its diverse landscapes and cultures, also harbors several disputed territories, each with its own historical, geopolitical, and economic significance. These disputes often arise from conflicting territorial claims, historical grievances, or resource-rich areas.
Diverse Landscapes of South America:
- The Pacific Coastal Strip:
- Between the ocean and the Andes mountain Range.
- The coastline of South America is smooth and regular. At the river mouths, some inlets are used as harbors. The southwestern coast of the continent has fiords or deep inlets of the sea.
- Andes Mountain Range:
- The Andes stretch through the entire continent, running in the north-south direction from the Isthmus of Panama to the Strait of Magellan. The second-highest mountain system in the world.
- Mount Aconcagua (an extinct volcano lies in Argentina)
- Mount Ojas del Salado is the highest active volcano in the world of Argentina.
- Part of seven countries: Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, Peru, Chile, and Argentina.
- They form a chain of ranges and knots with enclosed intermontane plateaus namely in Ecuador and Bolivia.
- Being part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, there are many volcanoes and frequent earthquakes in this region. Mount Cotopaxi and Mount Chimborazo are active volcanic peaks, which is the highest peak in South America.
- About the Amazon River:
- It is the world’s largest and second-longest (6,400 km) river in the world after the Nile.
- Its journey begins high in the Andes Mountains. The river then makes its way east through thousands of miles of rainforests and lowlands until it empties into the Atlantic Ocean on the northeastern coast of Brazil
- Its watershed spans the countries of Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, and Bolivia.
- It has more than 1,100 tributaries, which include the rivers like the Rio Negro, the Madeira River, and the Xingu River, etc.
- The Amazon Rainforest, which represents about half of the Earth’s remaining rainforest, also constitutes its single largest reserve of biological resources.
- It is sometimes referred to as the “lungs of the Earth” due to its role in regulating the planet’s oxygen and carbon cycles.
Disputed Areas in South America
|
Countries Involved |
Key Points |
Geographical Features |
| Gulf of Venezuela |
Colombia, Venezuela |
- Inlet of the Caribbean Sea is Disputed over islands such as Los Monjes Archipelago due to Fishing rights and potential oil reserves.
- Interpretation disputes regarding the 1941 Treaty of Delimitation
- Recent tensions over maritime confrontations and oil exploration activities.
|
Surrounded by coastal mountain ranges with waters fed by several rivers |
| Essequibo Region |
Guyana, Venezuela |
- Covers two-thirds of Guyana’s territory Historical grievances claimed by Venezuela.
- Recent oil discoveries raising tensions; ICJ case filed by Guyana.
- Essequibo River flows through this region.
|
Diverse landscapes including rainforests, savannahs, and mountains with the Essequibo River |
| Atacama Desert |
Peru, Chile |
- Extremely Arid desert region
- War of the Pacific led to Chile’s control
- Valuable mineral resources contribute to disputes
- Bilateral talks and arbitration proposals for settlement
|
Bordered by the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean with salt flats, sand dunes, and volcanic formations |
| Falkland Islands (Malvinas) |
Argentina, UK |
- Sovereignty disputes since 1833
- Economic interests include fisheries, tourism, and potential oil reserves
- Diplomatic efforts and UN resolutions for resolution
|
Consists of two main islands with rugged coastlines and low mountains |
| Darien Gap |
Colombia, Panama |
- Dense jungle terrain separating North and South America
- Challenges in illegal immigration discussions
- Characterized by dense rainforests, swamps, and mountains
|
Part of the Darien National Park with dense rainforests, mangroves, and steep mountain slopes |
| Arroyo de la Invernada or Rincon de Artigas… |
Brazil, Uruguay |
- Dispute over the Invernada River region near Masoller
- UN does not officially recognize the claim
- 237 km2 region with significant natural resources
- Efforts to resolve through bilateral talks and international mediation
|
Rolling hills, grasslands, and small rivers with the Invernada River |
| New River Triangle (Tigri Area) |
Suriname, Guyana |
- Disputed region within the Guiana Highlands
- Conflicting claims over territory interpretation of historical treaties and boundaries
|
Dense rainforests, mountain ranges, and numerous rivers |
| Isla Brasilera/Ilha Brasileira |
Brazil, Uruguay |
- Uruguay claims ownership of Isla Brasilera
- Strategically located near the tripoint with Argentina
- Efforts to resolve through diplomatic negotiations and legal arguments
|
Small island located in the Uruguay River with lush vegetation |
| Isla Suarez/Ilha de Guajara-mirim |
Bolivia, Brazil |
- Located in the Rio Mamore as a border between Bolivia and Brazil
- Economically dependent on Guajara-Mirim, Brazil
- Treaty signed in 1958 maintains the status quo
- Challenges of border management in riverine environments
|
Riverine island characterized by tropical vegetation and wetlands |
| Southern Patagonian Ice Field |
Argentina, Chile |
- Spanning parts of Argentina and Chile
- Border demarcation remains undefined in certain areas
- Bilateral efforts for resolution include scientific cooperation and mapping projects
|
Vast expanse of ice and snow covering rugged mountain ranges and deep valleys |
| Lithium Triangle |
Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile |
- It is characterized by various salt pans or salars, concentrated along the Atacama Desert and adjacent arid regions.
- The Salar de Atacama in Chile boasts the highest lithium concentration (0.15% by weight) among all brine sources worldwide.
- Argentina boasts more than half of the world’s total lithium resources and holds the distinction of having the 2nd-largest lithium resources, the 3rd-largest lithium reserves, and the 4th-largest lithium production in the world.
- India’s KABIL (Khanij Bidesh India Ltd) has announced an investment of ₹211 crore ($25.712 million) over five years for exploration stage activities in five lithium blocks in the Fiambala area of Argentina.
|
Key reserves of Lithium include:
- Uyuni (Bolivia): This salt flat is not only the world’s largest salt flat but also contains significant lithium reserves.
- Atacama (Chile): Located in the Atacama Desert, Salar de Atacama is home to one of the largest lithium reserves globally.
- Hombre Muerto (Argentina): This salt flat in northwestern Argentina also hosts lithium extraction operations.
|
Note: Bolivia and Paraguay are land-locked countries in South America
| PYQ:
[2013] “Climate is extreme, rainfall is scanty and the people used to be nomadic herders.”
The above statement best describes which of the following regions?
(a) African Savannah
(b) Central Asian Steppe
(c) South American Tropical
(d) Siberian Tundra |
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