Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Blue Economy
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- The Interim Budget presented by Finance Minister underscores the importance of promoting an environment-friendly ‘blue economy’ for sustainable development.
Understanding Blue Economy
- Definition: The blue economy encompasses economic activities related to oceans, seas, and coastal regions, with a strong emphasis on sustainability.
- Global Perspective: The European Commission defines it as a wide range of established and emerging sectors linked to ocean resources, while the World Bank emphasizes the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth and livelihoods.
Significance for India
- India’s Coastal Abundance: With its extensive coastline, diverse marine resources, and tourism potential, India stands to benefit significantly from the blue economy.
- Balancing Growth: The blue economy seeks to achieve economic growth while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems.
Budget Proposals
- Restoration and Adaptation: A scheme focusing on climate-resilient activities, restoration, adaptation measures, and integrated coastal aquaculture and mariculture will be launched.
- Integrated Aquaparks: The budget outlines plans for setting up five integrated aquaparks to boost aquaculture productivity.
- Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): PMMSY will be intensified to double exports to Rs 1 lakh crore and generate 55 lakh employment opportunities.
India’s Blue Economy Policy
- Blue Economy 2.0: The budget introduces the concept of Blue Economy 2.0, building upon a draft policy framework released in July 2022.
- Policy Framework: The framework encompasses various aspects such as marine resources, coastal planning, tourism, fisheries, aquaculture, trade, technology, infrastructure, and international engagement.
Global Engagement
- G20 Summit: India, as the host of the G20 summit, prioritized blue economy discussions, emphasizing its significance on the global stage.
- Responsibility and Collaboration: India recognizes the importance of responsible artificial intelligence and sustainable ocean governance in the context of the blue economy.
Conclusion
- India’s commitment to promoting the blue economy aligns with global efforts for sustainable development.
- The Interim Budget’s proposals aim to harness the potential of India’s coastal resources while preserving the marine ecosystem, fostering economic growth, and creating employment opportunities.
- This strategic shift underscores India’s dedication to responsible and inclusive development.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Payments Banks
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed additional curbs on Paytm Payments Bank Ltd (PPBL), prohibiting it from operating its mobile wallet after February.
- This article provides insights into what payments banks are, their objectives, features, and the regulatory framework governing them.
Understanding Payments Banks
- Definition: Payments banks are financial institutions similar to regular banks but operate on a smaller scale without engaging in credit risk.
- Origin: The concept of payments banks was recommended by the Nachiket Mor Committee.
- Objective: The primary goal is to advance financial inclusion by providing banking and financial services to unbanked and underbanked areas, catering to migrant laborers, low-income households, small entrepreneurs, and more.
- Legal Framework: Payments banks are registered as public limited companies under the Companies Act 2013 and licensed under Section 22 of the Banking Regulation Act 1949.
- Regulation: They are governed by various legislations, including the Banking Regulation Act, 1949; RBI Act, 1934; Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999, among others.
Key Features of Payments Banks
- Differentiation: Payments banks are distinct entities, not universal banks.
- Scale: They operate on a smaller scale compared to traditional banks.
- Capital Requirements: Payments banks are required to have a minimum paid-up equity capital of 100 crores.
- Promoter Contribution: The promoter must contribute at least 40% of the paid-up equity capital for the first five years from the commencement of business.
Permissible Activities
- Accept deposits up to Rs. 2,00,000.
- Offer demand deposits in the form of savings and current accounts.
- Invest deposits in secure government securities as Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR), accounting for 75% of the demand deposit balance.
- Place the remaining 25% as time deposits with other scheduled commercial banks.
- Provide remittance services, mobile payments/transfers/purchases, ATM/debit cards, net banking, and third-party fund transfers.
- Act as a banking correspondent (BC) for other banks to offer credit and services beyond their capabilities.
Activities Not Permitted
- Loans and Credit Cards: Payments banks cannot issue loans and credit cards.
- Time and NRI Deposits: They are not authorized to accept time deposits or NRI deposits.
- Non-Banking Subsidiaries: Payments banks cannot establish subsidiaries to engage in non-banking financial activities.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Gyanvapi Premise
Introduction
- The Varanasi District Court has issued an order permitting Hindu prayers to be conducted in the southern cellar of the Gyanvapi mosque complex, a decision met with both support and opposition.
- This development comes amid ongoing legal disputes concerning the worship rights at the site.
Allowing Prayers: Court’s Ruling
- Prayers Allowed: The Varanasi District Court has directed the district administration to facilitate the resumption of puja (worship) within the disputed southern cellar of the Gyanvapi mosque complex within seven days.
- Background: The order followed an application filed by Shailendra Kumar Pathak, the priest of the Acharya Ved Vyas Peeth temple, seeking worship rights for visible and invisible deities in the basement of the mosque.
Reaction and Legal Challenges
- Legal Challenge: The Anjuman Intezamia Committee of Gyanvapi Masjid, advised by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), intends to challenge the court’s decision in the Allahabad High Court.
- AIMPLB’s Stance: AIMPLB criticized the court’s ruling as “totally unacceptable” and drew parallels to past disputes like the opening of locks at the Babri Masjid in 1986. They expressed concerns about the targeting of old mosques after the establishment of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
Historical Perspective
- Prior Worship: The petitioner claimed that Hindu priests associated with the Vyas family used to perform daily rituals in the cellar before 1993 when it was discontinued by government orders.
- Contested Claims: A member of the Anjuman Intezamia committee contested the assertion, stating that there had never been any puja conducted in the cellar.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
- Next Hearing: The next hearing on this matter is scheduled for February 8, allowing the defendants, including the Anjuman Intejamia Masajid Committee that manages the Gyanvapi mosque, to file objections.
- Parallel Legal Challenge: Another order by the Allahabad High Court concerns a revision application challenging the Varanasi district judge’s refusal to direct the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to conduct a scientific survey of the mosque’s wazukhana area.
Concerns and Historical Parallels
- Ethical Concerns: The decision to permit puja in the Gyanvapi mosque’s basement raises ethical questions and concerns about religious rights.
- Parallels to History: AIMPLB sees parallels between recent developments and past disputes, raising concerns about historical patterns of targeting old mosques.
Conclusion
- The Varanasi District Court’s ruling allowing Hindu prayers in the Gyanvapi mosque’s southern cellar has ignited both legal challenges and discussions about religious rights and historical parallels.
- The case continues to be a subject of significant debate and legal scrutiny.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Modernization in Saudi Arabia , MBS's Policies
Introduction
- Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman’s Vision 2030 seeks to reshape Saudi Arabia, moving away from oil dependence and embracing modernity.
- This transformation faces resistance from traditionalists but aligns with a changing global image of Saudi Arabia as a tourist-friendly, welcoming nation.
Al-Ula: A Modern Oasis
- Historical Significance: Al-Ula, an ancient city along the incense route, is pivotal in MBS’s vision to modernize Saudi Arabia.
- Breaking Stereotypes: Saudi Arabia aims to challenge traditional beliefs by welcoming tourists beyond pilgrimage destinations.
- Nationalism Beyond Religion: The country’s evolving nationalism is detached from religion, emphasizing individual liberties and empowerment.
Winds of Change
- Empowering Women: Saudi Arabia promotes gender equality, offering scholarships and opportunities for young women.
- National Transformation: Young Saudis actively participate in the modernization drive, recognizing its benefits.
- Welcoming the ‘Other’: Saudi Arabia’s newfound friendliness towards foreigners, including easing visa norms and hosting entertainment events.
Challenges on Path to Modernity
- Cultural Sensitivities: Transitioning from conservative traditions is challenging, but Saudis are adapting to change.
- Historical Significance: Al-Ula’s archaeological treasures pose challenges given their potential impact on religious perceptions.
- Top-Down Change: Past experiences highlight the complexities of enforcing societal changes from the top.
Global Engagement
- Strategic Foreign Policy: Saudi Arabia’s balanced foreign policy has insulated it from regional conflicts.
- Cultural Riches: The country aims to showcase its archaeological wonders to the world.
- Green Initiatives: MBS’s ‘green’ approach and emphasis on renewables align with global trends.
Opportunities for India
- Improved Working Conditions: Indian migrant workers can expect better conditions and a renewed social contract.
- Educational and Cultural Exchanges: Indian educators and artists have opportunities to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s educational overhaul.
- Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: India can leverage Saudi Arabia’s counter-terrorism initiatives.
- Bilateral Investments: Collaboration in infrastructure and service sectors presents growth potential for both nations.
Conclusion
- Saudi Arabia’s journey towards modernity is marked by challenges and opportunities.
- As it reshapes its identity and engages with the world, India stands to benefit from this evolving partnership, contributing to mutual growth and cooperation.
- Saudi Arabia’s aspiration to excel in various fields aligns with India’s interests, paving the way for a fruitful relationship.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Brain Tissues in Computers
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- Researchers have achieved a groundbreaking fusion of brain-like tissue with electronics, creating an ‘organoid neural network.’
- This innovation marks a significant advancement in neuromorphic computing, directly incorporating brain tissue into computer systems.
Brainoware: Brain Tissues in Computers
- Development Team: A collaborative effort by scientists from Indiana University, the University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Centre, and the University of Florida resulted in this breakthrough.
- Publication: The study, published on December 11, signifies a convergence of tissue engineering, electrophysiology, and neural computation, expanding the horizons of scientific and engineering disciplines.
Context of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- AI’s Foundation: AI relies on artificial neural networks, silicon-based models of the human brain capable of processing vast datasets.
- Memory and Processing Separation: Conventional AI hardware separates memory and processing units, leading to inefficiencies when transferring data between them.
Introducing Biological Neural Networks
- Biocomputing Emergence: Scientists are exploring biological neural networks, composed of live brain cells, as an alternative. These networks can combine memory and data processing.
- Energy Efficiency: Brain cells efficiently store memory and process data without physically segregating these functions.
Organoid Neural Networks
- Biological Components: Brain organoids, three-dimensional aggregates of brain cells, were used to create an ‘organoid neural network.’
- Formation: Human pluripotent stem cells were transformed into various brain cells, including neuron progenitor cells, early-stage neurons, mature neurons, and astrocytes.
- Reservoir Computer: The network was integrated into a reservoir computer, comprising input, reservoir, and output layers.
Brainoware’s Capabilities
- Predicting Mathematical Functions: Brainoware demonstrated its ability to predict complex mathematical functions like the Henon map.
- Voice Recognition: The system could identify Japanese vowels pronounced by individuals with a 78% accuracy rate.
- Efficiency: Brainoware achieved comparable accuracy to artificial neural networks with minimal training requirements.
Promising Insights and Limitations
- Foundational Insights: The study provides crucial insights into learning mechanisms, neural development, and cognitive aspects of neurodegenerative diseases.
- Challenges: Brainoware necessitates technical expertise and infrastructure. Organoids exhibit heterogeneous cell mixes and require optimization for uniformity.
- Ethical Considerations: The fusion of organoids and AI raises ethical questions about consciousness and dignity.
Future Prospects
- Optimizing Encoding Methods: Future research may focus on improving input encoding methods and maintaining uniformity in organoids for longer experiments.
- Complex Computing Problems: Researchers aim to tackle more intricate computing challenges.
- Ethical Discourse: Ethical debates surrounding organoid consciousness and dignity will continue to evolve.
Conclusion
- The creation of Brainoware and the integration of brain organoids with computing systems represent a pioneering step towards more efficient and ethically-conscious AI systems.
- This innovative approach may revolutionize computing paradigms while prompting profound ethical considerations.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Fact-Checking Unit (FCU)
Mains level: Amended IT Rules
Introduction
- A two-judge Bench of the Bombay High Court recently delivered a split verdict on a comedian’s petition challenging the IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2023.
- These rules grant the government the authority to establish a fact-checking unit (FCU) to identify fake, false, and misleading information about the government on social media platforms.
- The case will now be referred to a third judge by the Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court due to the disagreement between the two justices.
Provisions of IT Rules (2023)
- Fact-Checking Unit (FCU): Amended IT rules empower the government to establish an FCU to identify and remove fake, false, or misleading information related to the Central government’s business on social media platforms.
- Consequences for Non-compliance: Failure to comply with FCU directives may result in intermediaries losing their safe harbour protection under Section 79 of the IT Act, 2000.
Court’s Concerns and Observations
- Unfettered Power: The Court expressed concerns about the government’s unfettered power in the absence of clear guidelines and guardrails, emphasizing the need for necessary safeguards.
- Ambiguity in Terms: The Court noted ambiguity in terms like “fake, false, and misleading” which are subjective and open to interpretation, posing challenges in distinguishing between them.
- Selective Application: The Court questioned why the IT Rules exclusively targeted digital media, leaving print media unaffected, especially when the same content appears in both forms.
- FCU’s Role: Concerns were raised about the FCU’s role and the absence of recourse for users whose content is removed after being flagged by the FCU. The Court expressed worries about the user’s lack of remedy in such cases.
- Overreach: The Court raised concerns about the potential overreach of the Rules, emphasizing that even well-intentioned regulations must have limits to avoid excessive use of power.
- Lack of Opportunity for Defense: The Court found it remarkable that there was no provision in the Rules allowing an intermediary to defend or justify flagged content, violating principles of natural justice.
Legal Arguments
- Petitioners’ Stand: The petitioners argued that the amendment violated freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a) and did not satisfy reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2). They contended that the government’s power to decide the truth of content was excessive.
- Government’s Stand: The government defended the FCU, stating that it would only notify intermediaries about flagged content, and the intermediaries could choose to remove it or add a disclaimer. Users aggrieved by intermediary decisions could seek legal remedies in court.
Conclusion
- The split verdict highlights the complexity and significance of the IT Rules (2023) and their potential impact on freedom of speech and expression.
- The Court’s concerns about ambiguous terms, selective application, and lack of safeguards underscore the need for a balanced approach to regulate online content while protecting fundamental rights.
- The case’s referral to a third judge will determine its outcome and implications for digital media regulation in India.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Exercise ‘SADA TANSEEQ’
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- The inaugural edition of the India-Saudi Arabia Joint Military Exercise ‘SADA TANSEEQ’ was commenced in Rajasthan.
Exercise ‘SADA TANSEEQ’
- It is a joint military exercise conducted between the armed forces of India and Saudi Arabia.
- The exercise is designed to enhance the capabilities and interoperability of the troops from both nations in conducting joint operations in semi-desert terrains.
- It focuses on tactical training and sharing best practices in conducting operations in a sub-conventional domain.
- The primary objective is to strengthen the bond, cooperation, and camaraderie between the Indian and Saudi Arabian armed forces.
- It also serves as a platform for achieving shared security objectives and fostering bilateral relations between the two friendly nations.
Key components of the Exercise
- The exercise typically involves various military training activities such as establishing mobile vehicle checkposts, conducting cordon and search operations, house intervention drills, reflex shooting, slithering, and sniper firing.
- These activities help in building the capacity of the troops to work together effectively in semi-desert terrains, which can be crucial for addressing security challenges.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: E Ink Displays
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- E-readers like the Kindle offer an enjoyable reading experience with their paper-like E Ink displays.
- Developed at MIT in the 1990s, E Ink technology is now owned by E Ink Corporation.
What is E Ink Displays?
- Microcapsules and Charges: E Ink displays operate using microcapsules containing positively charged white particles and negatively charged black particles suspended in fluid. By applying electrical charges, these particles rise to the surface, creating text and images.
- Reflective Light: Unlike LCD and LED displays that require backlighting, E Ink displays reflect ambient light, resembling paper and reducing eye strain during prolonged reading.
- Energy Efficiency: E Ink’s lack of backlighting results in minimal power consumption, as energy is only used when the image changes. This makes it ideal for devices like e-readers and ensures a long battery life.
- Outdoor Legibility: E Ink displays offer high contrast and readability even under bright lighting conditions, unlike LCD/LED displays that suffer under sunlight.
Differentiating E Ink from E Paper
- While often used interchangeably, E Ink and E Paper represent distinct display technologies. E Paper encompasses any screen mimicking real paper.
- Whereas E Ink specifically employs microcapsules with white and black particles in a clear fluid.
Applications of E Ink Displays
- E Ink in E-Readers: E Ink gained popularity in early e-readers like the Amazon Kindle, offering clear text even in bright sunlight. It remains a feature in Kindle and Kobo e-readers today.
- Brief Stint in Mobile Devices: E Ink briefly appeared in some early cell phones but was eventually replaced by more advanced displays.
- Revival in Mobile Devices: Some startups are reintroducing E Ink in smartphones, emphasizing reduced screen time and enhanced focus on communication and productivity.
- Beyond Mobile Devices: E Ink displays are expanding to various urban applications, including bus stop displays and walking direction signs. Restaurants are adopting E Ink menu boards for their matte, glare-free surfaces and readability in diverse lighting conditions.
Pros and Cons
- Advantages: E Ink displays excel in low power consumption, making them suitable for devices requiring extended battery life. They also minimize eye strain due to their paper-like visual experience, matte surface, and outdoor readability.
- Drawbacks: E Ink displays have slower refresh rates compared to LCD and OLED screens, rendering them unsuitable for video or animation. They also have limitations regarding color and resolution and remain relatively expensive for larger sizes.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: UNESCO World Heritage List
Mains level: Maratha Military Landscapes
Introduction
- India’s nomination for the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2024-25 is the “Maratha Military Landscapes of India.”
- This nomination encompasses twelve distinct components, each holding a unique place in history and culture.
- Together, they illuminate the strategic military prowess of the Maratha rulers during the 17th to 19th centuries.
Maratha Military Landscapes
- Selecting the Twelve: Maharashtra boasts more than 390 forts, with only twelve chosen for the Maratha Military Landscapes. Among them, eight are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India, including Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, and Gingee. Salher, Rajgad, Khanderi, and Pratapgarh are safeguarded by the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Government of Maharashtra.
- Diverse Fort Types: These forts encompass hill forts, hill-forest forts, hill-plateau forts, coastal forts, and island forts, each with its distinct historical and geographical significance.
- Historical Significance: These forts, scattered across varied geographical and physiographic regions, exemplify the Maratha rulers’ exceptional fortification and military strategies.
Maratha Military Ideology
- The origins of Maratha Military ideology can be traced back to the 17th century during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (circa 1670 CE).
- This enduring legacy continued through subsequent rules, including the Peshwa rule until 1818 CE.
Nomination and Criteria
The Maratha Military Landscapes of India is nominated in the category of cultural criteria, specifically under:
-
- Criterion (iii): Bearing exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or civilization.
- Criterion (iv): Exemplifying outstanding architectural or technological ensembles representing significant stages in human history.
- Criterion (vi): Tangibly associated with events, traditions, beliefs, and works of universal significance.
India’s Rich UNESCO Heritage
- Existing World Heritage Sites: India currently boasts 42 World Heritage Sites, comprising 34 cultural sites, seven natural sites, and one mixed site.
- Maharashtra’s Contribution: Maharashtra contributes significantly to India’s heritage with six World Heritage Sites, including Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Elephanta Caves, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai, and the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala (in the natural category).
- A Cultural Gem: The Maratha Military Landscapes of India, included in the Tentative List of World Heritage sites in 2021, stands as Maharashtra’s sixth cultural property nominated for inclusion in the prestigious World Heritage List.
Back2Basics: UNESCO World Heritage Sites
|
Description |
| UNESCO World Heritage Sites |
Landmarks or areas selected by UNESCO for their cultural, historical, scientific, or other significant value, legally protected by international treaties. |
| Importance |
World Heritage Sites represent collective and preservative interests of humanity, signifying remarkable accomplishments and intellectual history. |
| Selection Criteria |
Sites must be already-classified landmarks, unique and significant culturally or physically, such as ancient ruins, historical structures, cities, monuments, etc. |
| Conservation |
World Heritage Sites require practical conservation to protect them from risks like trespassing, uncontrolled access, or administrative negligence. |
| World Heritage Committee |
Selects and monitors World Heritage Sites, manages the World Heritage Fund, and provides financial assistance. Composed of 21 states parties elected for a four-year term. |
| Membership |
India is not a member of the World Heritage Committee. |
Note: “States parties” refer to the countries that have ratified the World Heritage Convention and participate in the decision-making process.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Northern White Rhino
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- The northern white rhino, once on the brink of extinction, saw its last male member pass away in 2018, leaving the subspecies on the verge of being lost forever.
- However, a pioneering initiative was launched in 2015 by a group of international scientists known as BioRescue, to resurrect the northern white rhino through in vitro fertilisation (IVF).
About Northern White Rhino
|
Details |
| Scientific Name |
Ceratotherium simum cottoni |
| Geographic Range |
Eastern and Central Africa |
| Population Status |
Critically Endangered (Only 2 individuals alive) in 2024 |
| Physical Characteristics |
Grayish-white color, two horns, hump on the neck |
| Social Behavior |
Solitary, occasionally seen in small groups |
| Diet |
Herbivorous, primarily grazers |
| Conservation Efforts |
Extensive efforts to save from extinction |
| IUCN Red List Status |
Critically Endangered |
White Rhino Resurrection IVF Project
- Project: BioRescue, a team of scientists from around the world, embarked on a mission to revive the northern white rhino through IVF in 2015.
- Historic Breakthrough: In a remarkable achievement, scientists announced the first-ever rhino pregnancy via the transfer of a lab-made rhino embryo into a surrogate mother.
- Persistence and Dedication: The breakthrough with a southern white rhino, a close relative, followed 13 attempts, showcasing the dedication of the scientists.
Challenges on Road to Revival
- Unique Challenge: Northern white rhinos face an unusual predicament due to the infertility of the last two surviving females, Najin and Fatu.
- Surrogacy Complexity: Preparing a southern white female as a surrogate mother involves isolation, infection prevention protocols, and precise identification of the fertile window.
- Genetic Viability: Even with successful IVF and surrogacy, the limited gene pool from eggs and sperm of deceased zoo rhinos poses a challenge.
- Stem Cell Possibilities: Exploring stem cell techniques to broaden the gene pool shows promise but is experimental and challenging to implement in rhinos.
Lessons from Conservation
- Wild Resilience: Conservation efforts saved the southern white rhino from near-extinction, with their numbers rebounding from a mere 20 in the 19th century to over 17,000.
- Crossbreeding Dilemma: Crossbreeding northern and southern subspecies is not a viable solution due to the loss of unique attributes.
- Behavioral Legacy: Restoring a species requires more than genetic revival; it necessitates the transmission of behavioral traits learned from adults of the same species.
The Race against Time
- Critical Window: To preserve the northern white rhino’s unique behavioral traits, the first IVF calves must learn from the last two surviving females, Najin and Fatu.
- Looming Deadline: With Najin at 35 and Fatu at 24, the window for this crucial interaction is closing, as northern white rhinos rarely live beyond 40 in captivity.
- A Costly Endeavor: BioRescue, funded by the German government and donors, has invested millions in this project, raising questions about resource allocation and prioritization.
The Bigger Picture
- A Noble Cause: The effort to revive the northern white rhino stems from a sense of responsibility to counteract human-driven extinction.
- Conservation Imperative: While the project is ambitious, critics raise concerns about neglecting other endangered species and the need to protect natural habitats.
- Broader Crisis: Rhino populations across species face grave threats, including poaching, with one rhino poached every 16 hours in Africa.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Neutron Stars
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- In the field of astronomy, astronomers sometimes stumble upon celestial objects that leave them scratching their heads.
- In a recent study published in Science, a discovery was reported that is likely to get scientists talking and asking questions.
Neutron Stars: Exceptionally Dense
- Incredibly Dense Objects: Neutron stars are some of the densest things in the universe. They’re as compact as an atomic nucleus but as big as a city, pushing our understanding of super-dense matter to the limit.
- A Weighty Matter: The heavier a neutron star is, the more likely it is to eventually collapse and become something even denser, like a black hole.
Puzzling the Boundary
- A Cosmic Mystery: To understand what happens when neutron stars turn into black holes, objects that are in-between need to be found. These objects also need to be studied very carefully over a long time.
- A New Discovery: A cosmic system has been found in the NGC 1851 star cluster that doesn’t fit neatly into the categories of neutron stars or black holes.
NGC 1851E: The Revelation
- Seeing Something New: Inside NGC 1851, a pair of stars has been spotted that provides fresh insights into the extreme matter in the universe. This system has a millisecond pulsar, a fast-spinning neutron star that sends out beams of radio light, and a massive, dark companion that can’t be seen at any wavelength of light.
- The Pulsar’s Role: Millisecond pulsars are like cosmic clocks. They spin steadily, and any changes in their spin can tell important things about what’s around them.
Unveiling the Weight of Secrets
- Very Precise Measurements: The MeerKAT radio telescope in South Africa was used to closely watch the NGC 1851E system.
- What Was Found: Observations allowed figuring out exactly how the two objects move around each other and how heavy they are together. The system’s mass is almost four times that of the Sun, and the invisible companion is denser than a regular star but not as heavy as a black hole.
- A Strange Mass Gap: The companion’s mass falls in a range that’s puzzling to scientists, between the heaviest neutron stars and the lightest black holes. Understanding objects in this range is a big mystery in astrophysics.
A Stellar Dance: Cosmic Partnerships
- A Fascinating Idea: One intriguing possibility is that a pulsar is circling around what’s left after two neutron stars collided, something made possible because there are many stars packed closely together in NGC 1851.
- Starry Dance Floor: In this crowded group of stars, they twirl around each other, changing partners as they go. If two neutron stars get too close, they collide, creating a black hole. This black hole can then disturb the dance of other stars in the cluster.
- Still Many Questions: The work isn’t finished. Research is continuing to figure out exactly what the companion is. Is it the lightest black hole, the heaviest neutron star, or something completely different?
- Exploring New Frontiers: When at the border between neutron stars and black holes, there’s a chance of discovering completely new types of objects.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India
Mains level: urgent need for increased legal protection and a dedicated conservation approach
Central Idea:
The report on the status of snow leopards in India, released by the Government of India and non-profit organizations, reveals that only 34% of the snow leopard habitat is legally protected. With snow leopards present in the country, the report emphasizes the need for a dedicated Snow Leopard Cell at the Wildlife Institute of India for long-term population monitoring and conservation efforts.
Key Highlights:
- Snow Leopard Population: India is home to snow leopards, and their habitat covers square kilometers.
- Legal Protection: Only a third of the snow leopard habitat in India is legally protected, posing a significant threat to the species.
- Unprotected Areas: Nearly 70% of the crucial snow leopard habitat remains unprotected, highlighting the need for conservation measures.
- Population Assessment: The four-year assessment conducted by SPAI using camera traps identified unique individuals.
- Hotspots: Ladakh has the highest number of snow leopards, followed by Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
Key Challenges:
- Limited Legal Protection: The majority of snow leopard habitat lacks legal safeguards, exposing them to potential threats.
- Undefined Range: The absence of an extensive nationwide analysis has left the snow leopard range in India undefined.
- Population Estimate: The need for a revised estimate arises, challenging the previous range of snow leopards in India.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- Snow Leopard Cell: Proposed dedicated unit for long-term monitoring and conservation efforts.
- SPAI: The Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India, coordinating the assessment.
- Camera Traps: Utilized for capturing images of snow leopards at locations.
- Vulnerable: Snow leopards are classified as ‘Vulnerable’ in the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.
Key Quotes:
- “The snow leopard range in India remained undefined due to lack of an extensive nationwide analysis.”
- “Regular assessments will offer valuable insights for identifying challenges, addressing threats, and formulating effective conservation strategies.”
Key Statements:
- The report emphasizes the necessity of a Snow Leopard Cell for effective conservation strategies.
- Regular population assessments are crucial for understanding challenges and threats to snow leopards.
Key Examples and References:
- The report cites Ladakh, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh as hotspots for snow leopards.
- SPAI, with partners like the Wildlife Institute of India, conducted the assessment using camera traps.
Key Facts and Data:
- Snow leopard occupancy was recorded in square kilometers, with an estimated presence in square kilometers.
Critical Analysis:
The report underscores the urgent need for increased legal protection and a dedicated conservation approach, citing the inadequacy of the previous population estimate and the undefined snow leopard range. The increased coverage of the region compared to 2016 is noted, but challenges persist, requiring immediate attention.
Way Forward:
- Establish Snow Leopard Cell: Create the proposed Snow Leopard Cell for consistent monitoring and organized studies.
- Regular Assessments: Adopt a periodic population estimation approach every fourth year for continuous insights.
- Legal Safeguards: Increase legal protection for the remaining unprotected snow leopard habitat.
- Revised Population Estimate: Conduct a revised assessment to accurately determine the snow leopard population in India.
- Public Awareness: Increase public awareness to garner support for snow leopard conservation efforts.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Indian Grey Wolf
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- The recent sighting of an endangered Indian grey wolf within the vast expanse of the National Chambal Sanctuary in Etawah after 20 years has sparked immense excitement among wildlife enthusiasts and experts.
About Indian Grey Wolf
|
Conservation Status |
| Scientific Name |
Canis lupus pallipes |
| Adaptation to Climate |
Thrives in warmer conditions |
| Social Behavior |
Travels in smaller packs, less vocal |
| Physical Traits |
Size falls between Tibetan and Arabian wolves |
| Preferred Habitat |
Scrublands, grasslands, semi-arid regions |
| Wide Distribution |
Indian subcontinent to Israel, ~3,000 in India |
| IUCN Listing |
Least Concern |
| Legal Protection |
Schedule I of Wildlife Act, CITES Appendix I |
| Major Threats |
Habitat loss, prey population decline |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Humboldt's Enigma
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- The question of where biodiversity is concentrated has intrigued explorers and naturalists for centuries. Humboldt has tried to answer this question.
Humboldt’s Insights
- Alexander von Humboldt: A polymath of the 18th century, Humboldt recorded diverse natural observations, proposing a relationship between temperature, altitude, humidity, and species distribution.
- Mountain Exploration: During his exploration of South America, Humboldt studied plant distribution on mountains, noting variations with elevation.
- Chimborazo Mountain: Humboldt used Chimborazo Mountain in Ecuador as an example, illustrating the concept of mountain diversity.
What is Humboldt’s Enigma?
- Sun’s Energy: Tropical areas receive more solar energy, fostering greater primary productivity and biodiversity due to the availability of ecological niches.
- Mountain Exception: Mountains, despite being outside the tropics, have been an exception to the rule, posing Humboldt’s enigma.
Biodiversity Drivers
- Earth’s History, Geography, and Climate: These factors are the primary drivers of mountain diversity.
- Geological Processes: Mountains serve as ‘cradles’ for new species due to geological processes like uplifts, creating new habitats.
- Climatic Stability: Climatologically stable mountains act as ‘museums,’ preserving species over time.
- Coastal Tropical Sky Islands: Examples like the Shola Sky Islands in the Western Ghats exhibit both cradle and museum characteristics.
Eastern Himalaya: An Anomaly
- Diversity Beyond Tropics: Eastern Himalaya boasts exceptional diversity, challenging the conventional tropical biodiversity paradigm.
- Multiple Factors: Climate dissimilarity and geological heterogeneity contribute to high biodiversity.
- Climate Variability: Different temperature and rainfall levels on the same mountain support diverse biomes.
Unresolved Questions
- Complexity of Biodiversity: Numerous factors drive diversification and Humboldt’s enigma in different regions, leading to over a hundred hypotheses.
- Data Limitations: Fine-scale species occurrence data are lacking, hindering precise explanations.
- Call for Research: India’s under-studied areas need more extensive research, including the use of genetics, to understand true biodiversity.
- National Initiatives: Programs like the National Mission on Himalayan Studies and Biodiversity need strengthening to support basic research.
Conclusion
- Humboldt’s enigma represents one facet of mountain biodiversity, offering opportunities for study and insights into global climate and landscape change issues.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lab-Grown Fish
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), headquartered in Kochi, collaborated with Neat Meatt Biotech, a private-sector start-up specializing in lab-grown meat technology.
- This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marks the first initiative of its kind in India.
Understanding Lab-Grown Fish
- Lab-Grown Fish Definition: Lab-grown fish, a type of cultivated or cultured meat, is seafood produced in a laboratory setting without the need to raise and slaughter animals.
- Production Process: Specific fish cells are isolated and grown in a controlled laboratory environment using animal-free media. The goal is to replicate the taste, texture, and nutritional qualities of traditional fish meat.
Roles of CMFRI and Neat Meatt
- CMFRI’s Responsibilities: Under the MoU, CMFRI will focus on genetic, biochemical, and analytical aspects of the project. Its cell culture lab will research early cell line development for high-value marine fish species, including pomfret, kingfish, and seerfish.
- Neat Meatt’s Expertise: Neat Meatt, with expertise in cell culture technology, will lead in optimizing cell growth media, developing scaffolds or microcarriers for cell attachment, and scaling up production via bioreactors. The company will also provide consumables, manpower, and additional equipment.
Addressing the Need for Lab-Grown Fish
- Growing Demand: The demand for seafood is increasing, creating pressure on wild resources.
- Overfishing Consequences: Overfishing has led to population declines in certain species and negatively impacted marine ecosystems.
- Environmental Benefits: Lab-grown fish meat can reduce the reliance on traditional fishing, offering antibiotic-free, contamination-free, and pollution-free alternatives.
Global Pioneers in Lab-Grown Fish
- Leading Nations: Several countries are advancing lab-grown fish technology. Israel is a frontrunner, followed by Singapore, the United States, and China.
- Recent Developments: Israel-based Forsea Foods successfully produced lab-grown freshwater eel meat. Israel’s Steakholder Foods, in collaboration with Umami Meats in Singapore, 3D printed the first-ever ready-to-cook fish fillet from laboratory-grown animal cells.
Bridging India’s Gap
- Accelerating Development: The CMFRI-Neat Meatt partnership aims to expedite India’s progress in lab-grown seafood to ensure it doesn’t lag behind countries like Singapore, Israel, and the USA.
- Leveraging Expertise: CMFRI’s marine research and Neat Meatt’s technological prowess form a collaboration that promises a sustainable future for seafood production in India.
- Timeline Expectation: Dr. Sandeep Sharma of Neat Meatt anticipates establishing the project’s proof of concept within a few months.
Expanding Lab-Grown Meat
- Wide Range: Beyond fish, lab-grown meat development encompasses chicken, pork, lamb, beef, and more.
- Global Industry Growth: The lab-grown meat industry has expanded to over 150 companies across six continents, with $2.6 billion in investments.
- US Regulatory Clearance: In June 2023, the US Department of Agriculture approved the sale of lab-grown chicken meat, allowing companies like Good Meat and Upside Foods to supply it to restaurants and supermarkets.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Deep Learning in Antibiotic Discovery
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- The year 1944 witnessed the simultaneous emergence of artificial neural networks, laying the foundation for deep learning, and the discovery of streptomycin, the first aminoglycoside antibiotic.
- This historical synchrony ultimately connects deep learning and antibiotics.
Why in news?
- In December 2023, scientists introduced a groundbreaking alliance between deep learning and antibiotics by leveraging deep learning techniques to discover a new class of antibiotics, addressing a multi-decade gap in antibiotic development.
Deep Learning in Antibiotic Discovery
- Different Approach: Unlike previous applications of deep learning in drug discovery, this study focused on identifying chemical motifs or substructures used by the deep learning model to evaluate compounds for antibiotic potential, rendering the model “explainable”.
- Proven Efficacy: The research successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of two compounds from the newfound antibiotic class against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections, a major cause of human fatalities in 2019.
- Recognition and Expansion: Experts praised the study for its contributions to antibiotic research and its potential to enhance drug development strategies.
Understanding Deep Learning and Explainability
- Neural Networks: Deep learning relies on artificial neural networks, comprising layers of artificial “neurons” that process inputs and yield outputs through training and testing phases.
- Training and Testing: Deep learning networks are trained on large datasets with annotated inputs to learn specific tasks. During testing, they classify novel inputs based on their learned knowledge.
- The Black Box Issue: Most deep learning models lack transparency in explaining how they arrive at their conclusions, remaining “black boxes.”
- Explainable Deep Learning: In contrast, the study’s model was designed to be explainable, allowing it to not only predict antibiotic potential but also elucidate the substructures contributing to this property.
Journey to Novel Antibiotics
- Experimental Screening: The research began by screening over 39,000 compounds to inhibit S. aureus growth, shortlisting 512 active compounds.
- Graph Neural Network (GNN): A GNN was trained on the dataset, representing atoms as nodes and bonds as edges on a mathematical graph.
- Selecting Non-Toxic Compounds: To ensure safety, 306 compounds were identified that didn’t harm human cells, and other GNNs were trained to identify cytotoxic compounds.
- Identifying Potential Antibiotics: The GNNs evaluated a database of over 1.2 crore compounds, identifying 3,646 potential antibiotics based on substructures.
- Substructure Rationales: The study introduced “rationales” to explain the substructures that conferred antibiotic properties to molecules.
- Efficacy Against MRSA and VRE: Certain compounds, including N-[2-(2-chlorophenoxy)ethyl]aniline, exhibited inhibition of MRSA and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE).
- Mouse Models: One compound effectively reduced MRSA-related skin and thigh infections in mouse models.
Significance and Ongoing Challenges
- Transparency in Drug Discovery: The study’s significance lies in rendering deep learning approaches to drug discovery more transparent and reproducible across drug categories.
- Future Exploration: Researchers are applying substructure rationales to design new antibiotics and explore applications in drugs targeting age-related disorders.
- Addressing a Lacuna: An identified shortcoming is that explainability analysis occurred after predicting antibiotic properties. Implicitly incorporating explainability in deep learning models is proposed as a more robust approach.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Modified PKC-ERCP Project
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- Rajasthan and MP have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti to execute the Modified Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal-ERCP (Modified PKC-ERCP) Link Project.
About Modified PKC-ERCP Project
- Inter-link: The Modified PKC-ERCP is an inter-state river linking project, with preparations underway for a Detailed Project Report (DPR).
- Integration Purpose: This project aims to integrate the long-pending PKC river link project with the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP) under the national perspective plan of the interlinking of rivers (ILR) program initiated by the Government of India.
- Update: This MoU will cover aspects such as water sharing, cost-benefit sharing, water exchange, and implementation mechanisms in the Chambal basin.
Understanding PKC Link Project
- Inclusion in National Plan: The Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal (PKC) link project is one of the 30 links listed in the National Perspectives Plan, established by the former Union Ministry of Irrigation (now Ministry of Water Resources) and the Central Water Commission in 1980.
- Historical Progress: The preliminary feasibility report for the Kalisindh-Chambal link canal project was prepared in 1991. It proposed diverting water from river Newaj and Kalisindh to the river Chambal, either at the Rana Pratap Sagar dam or the Gandhi Sagar dam.
- ERCP Proposal: Rajasthan introduced the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP) in 2019, aiming to optimize water resources.
- Merging of projects: Subsequently, the Task Force for Interlinking of Rivers (TFILR) explored merging the ERCP with the PKC link project, an integration approved by the Special Committee for Interlinking of Rivers in December 2022.
Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP)
- Project Objective: The ERCP targets intra-basin water transfer within the Chambal basin. It utilizes surplus monsoon water from subbasins like Kalisindh, Parvati, Mej, and Chakan, diverting it to water-deficient sub-basins such as Banas, Gambhiri, Banganga, and Parbati.
- Beneficiary Regions: The ERCP provides drinking and industrial water to 13 districts in eastern Rajasthan, including Alwar, Bharatpur, Dholpur, Karauli, Sawai-Madhopur, Dausa, Jaipur, Ajmer, Tonk, Bundi, Kota, Baran, and Jhalawar.
Benefits of Modified Project
- Drinking and Industrial Water: The Modified PKC-ERCP project aims to provide drinking and industrial water to 13 eastern Rajasthan districts, Malwa, and Chambal regions of Madhya Pradesh.
- Irrigation: It also supports irrigation across a significant area in both states, totalling 5.6 lakh hectares or more.
Need for the MoU
- Dependable Yield Norms: The project’s planning was initially based on 50% dependable yield, contrary to the prevailing norm of 75% dependable yield for inter-state river projects.
- Integration Proposal: In November 2019, the Task Force on Interlinking of Rivers proposed exploring the integration of ERCP with the PKC Link Canal Project, following deliberations and consensus between both states.
- Modified PKC Link Proposal: As a result of these discussions, a proposal for the Modified PKC link project was formulated, combining components from the Government of MP and ERCP, designed for 75% dependable water availability.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Rajya Sabha Elections
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- The Election Commission notified elections to 56 Rajya Sabha seats that will be held on February 27.
Uniqueness of Rajya Sabha Elections
- Retirement Cycle: One-third of Rajya Sabha members from each State retire every two years, necessitating elections to fill vacancies.
- Eligible Voters: Only elected members of State Legislative Assemblies are eligible to vote in Rajya Sabha elections.
- Six-Year Term: Newly elected members serve a six-year term, with vacancies arising due to resignation, death, or disqualification filled through by-polls.
Election of Rajya Sabha Members
- Blocs and Elections: A group of MPs from one or more parties can elect a member if they possess the required numbers.
- Avoiding Majority Rule: This approach ensures that ruling party candidates do not monopolize elections.
- Union Territories Representation: Delhi and Puducherry Assemblies elect members to Rajya Sabha to represent the respective Union Territories.
Electoral Process
- Polling Condition: A Rajya Sabha election requires polling only when the number of candidates surpasses the available vacancies.
- Predictable Strength: Parties estimate their potential seats based on their strength in the Assembly.
- Contesting Candidates: Parties field candidates based on their strength; additional candidates trigger a contest.
- Candidate Nomination: Political party candidates must be proposed by at least 10 Assembly members or 10% of the party’s House strength, whichever is lower.
- Independent Candidates: Independents require 10 proposers, all Assembly members.
Voting Procedure
- Single Transferable Vote: Rajya Sabha elections employ the single transferable vote system, based on proportional representation.
- Preferences Voting: Electors can vote for multiple candidates in order of preference.
- Winning Requirement: Candidates need a specific number of first preference votes to win, with each first choice vote valued at 100 in the initial round.
- Qualification: To qualify, a candidate must secure one point more than the quotient obtained by dividing the total value of seats available in the election plus one.
Transparency in RS Elections
- Open Ballot System: Rajya Sabha elections employ an open ballot system with limited transparency.
- Preventing Cross-Voting: Showing marked ballots to the party’s authorized agent (Whip) is mandatory; not following this rule renders the vote invalid.
- Secrecy for Independents: Independent candidates are prohibited from showing their ballots to anyone.
- NOTA in Rajya Sabha: Initially, Rajya Sabha members had the option to use the NOTA (None of the Above) button during elections, as per circulars issued by the Election Commission.
- Supreme Court Ruling: However, in 2018, the Supreme Court ruled that NOTA is only applicable in general elections and cannot be used in indirect elections based on proportional representation.
Consequences of Cross-Voting
- Supreme Court’s Stand: The Supreme Court clarified that not voting for the party candidate in Rajya Sabha elections does not trigger disqualification under the anti-defection law.
- Legislators’ Freedom: MLAs retain the freedom to vote for a candidate of their choice.
- Party Action: Parties are free to take disciplinary action against legislators who vote against their candidate.
Voting Eligibility before Taking Oath
- Voting Without Oath: The Supreme Court ruled that members can participate in Rajya Sabha elections even before taking the oath as legislators.
- Non-Legislative Activity: Rajya Sabha voting is considered a non-legislative activity, allowing members to vote without taking the oath.
- Membership Status: A person becomes a member as soon as the Election Commission notifies the list of elected members.
- Proposal Rights: Members can also propose a candidate before taking the oath of office.
Other facts
- Limited Union Territories (UTs): Only two Union Territories participate in Rajya Sabha elections, not all of them.
- Conditional Polling: Polling occurs only if the number of candidates exceeds the available vacancies.
- Independent Members: Independent candidates can also be elected to Rajya Sabha.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CAA
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019: Key Provisions
- Basic idea: CAA, 2019, aims to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955, to grant Indian citizenship to specific categories of illegal migrants.
- Eligible Religions: CAA targets Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, and Christian illegal migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, making them eligible for Indian citizenship.
- Objective: The primary objective is to facilitate citizenship for non-Muslim immigrants from India’s three Muslim-majority neighboring countries.
- Residence Requirement: The Citizenship Act, 1955, normally requires 11 of the previous 14 years of residence in India as a condition for naturalization.
- Amendment: CAA reduces this requirement to 6 years for applicants belonging to the specified religions and countries.
- Exemption from Criminal Cases: Members of the designated communities are exempted from criminal cases under the Foreigners Act, 1946, and the Passport Act, 1920, if they entered India before December 31, 2014.
Defining Illegal Migrants
- Status Under Present Laws: Existing laws prohibit illegal migrants from acquiring Indian citizenship.
- CAA’s Definition: CAA classifies an illegal migrant as a foreigner who enters India without valid travel documents (passport and visa) or overstays beyond the allowed period.
- Penalties: Illegal migrants can face imprisonment or deportation under the Foreigners Act, 1946, and The Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920.
Exceptions under CAA
- Conditions for Exemption: CAA outlines four conditions that, if met, exempt certain individuals from being treated as illegal migrants:
- They belong to the specified religions (Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, or Christian).
- They hail from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, or Pakistan.
- They entered India on or before December 31, 2014.
- They are not in certain tribal areas of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, or Tripura (Sixth Schedule) or “Inner Line” permit areas (Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, and Nagaland).
Controversies Surrounding CAA
- Country of Origin: CAA categorizes migrants based on their country of origin, specifically Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
- Religious Exclusivity: It raises questions about why only six specified religious minorities have been considered in the Act.
- Omission of Rohingya: The Act doesn’t address the Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar, who have faced persecution.
- Entry Date Differentiation: The differential treatment of migrants based on their entry date, i.e., before or after December 31, 2014, has generated debate.
- Secularism Concerns: Critics argue that granting citizenship based on religion contradicts the secular principles of India’s Constitution, considered part of the unalterable basic structure.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Supreme Court of India
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- The Prime Minister inaugurated the diamond jubilee year celebrations of the Supreme Court, marking an important milestone in India’s judicial history.
About Supreme Court of India
- Apex Judicial Body: The Supreme Court of India is the highest judicial authority as per the Constitution of India.
- Constitutional Mandate: Article 124 of the Constitution stipulates the establishment of the Supreme Court.
- Birth of the Supreme Court: The Supreme Court came into being on January 26, 1950, coinciding with the commencement of the Indian Constitution.
- Inauguration: Two days after India became a Sovereign Democratic Republic, the Supreme Court was officially inaugurated on January 28, 1950.
- Initial Location: Initially, the Supreme Court operated from the old Parliament House until it relocated to its present site on Tilak Marg, New Delhi, in 1958.
- Inaugural Event: The inaugural ceremony of the current Supreme Court building was presided over by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, on August 4, 1958.
Evolution of Judicial Bench Strength
- Changing Dynamics: The original 1950 Constitution envisioned a Supreme Court comprising a Chief Justice and 7 puisne Judges, allowing Parliament to alter this number.
- Progressive Growth: Over the years, the number of Judges increased to accommodate the growing workload: 8 in 1950, 11 in 1956, 14 in 1960, 18 in 1978, 26 in 1986, 31 in 2009, and the current strength of 34 Judges.
- Judicial Structure: Judges sit in panels of two or three and convene in larger benches of 5 or more, known as Constitution Benches, to resolve conflicting decisions between different Supreme Court benches or address significant constitutional interpretations.
- Official Language: Proceedings in the Supreme Court are conducted exclusively in English.
Powers and Jurisdiction
- Multifaceted Jurisdiction: The Supreme Court possesses original, appellate, and advisory jurisdiction.
- Final Arbiter: It serves as the ultimate court of appeal and the ultimate interpreter of the Constitution.
- Original Jurisdiction: The Supreme Court’s original jurisdiction extends to disputes involving the Government of India and one or more States, inter-State disputes, and issues related to Fundamental Rights.
- Writ Jurisdiction: Article 32 of the Constitution empowers the Supreme Court with extensive original jurisdiction to enforce Fundamental Rights by issuing writs like habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto, and certiorari.
- Inter-High Court Cases: The Supreme Court can direct the transfer of civil or criminal cases between High Courts.
- International Commercial Arbitration: Under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, the Supreme Court can initiate International Commercial Arbitration.
- Appellate Authority: High Courts can grant certificates for appeals to the Supreme Court under Article 132(1), 133(1), or 134 in cases with substantial questions of constitutional interpretation.
- Certified Appeals: In civil cases, High Courts may certify that a case involves a significant question of general importance, warranting Supreme Court adjudication.
- Criminal Appeals: In criminal cases, appeals lie to the Supreme Court if the High Court has reversed an acquittal, sentenced an accused to death, imprisonment for life, or imprisonment for over 10 years, or if the High Court certifies the case’s suitability for Supreme Court appeal.
- Parliamentary Empowerment: Parliament can confer additional powers on the Supreme Court to hear appeals from High Courts in criminal proceedings.
- Special Leave to Appeal: Under Article 136, the Supreme Court may, at its discretion, grant special leave to appeal from any judgment, decree, or order passed by any Court or Tribunal in India.
- Advisory Role: The Supreme Court exercises advisory jurisdiction under Article 143, wherein the President of India can refer specific matters to the Court.
- Election Petitions: Part III of the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952, allows direct filing of election petitions in the Supreme Court.
- Contempt Powers: Articles 129 and 142 empower the Supreme Court to punish for contempt of Court, including self-contempt.
- Curative Petitions: After dismissing a review petition, the Supreme Court can reconsider its final judgment through a curative petition on limited grounds.
- Binding Authority: As India’s highest court, its judgments are binding on all other courts in the country.
Location of the Supreme Court
- Article 130: Article 130 of the Constitution grants the Chief Justice of India the authority to choose the location of the Supreme Court, which can be in Delhi or any other place.
- CJI’s Discretion: The Article vests exclusive discretionary powers with the Chief Justice of India regarding the Supreme Court’s location.
- No External Compulsion: No external authority can compel the Chief Justice to act in a particular manner under this Article.
Advocating for Circuit Benches
- Law Commission Recommendation: The Law Commission’s 229th Report suggested establishing a Constitution Bench in New Delhi and four other benches in different regions of India.
- Diverging Views: However, this proposal did not garner favor among Supreme Court Judges.
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