Solar Energy – JNNSM, Solar Cities, Solar Pumps, etc.

[pib] Operational Guidelines for Implementation of ‘Model Solar Village’

Prelims Only Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Model Solar Village

Why in the news?

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has issued operational guidelines for the Implementation of ‘Model Solar Village’ under PM-Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
- The centre recently allocated ₹800 crore for the same.

About PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana

Description

Purpose

To provide 300 units of free electricity per month to beneficiaries through an investment of ₹75,000 crores.

Deadline

Extended the deadline from 2022 to 2026.

Announcement

Initially announced in an Interim Budget 2024-25 speech by the Finance Minister.

Target

Aimed to light up 1 crore households.

Implementation

Urban Local Bodies and Panchayats are incentivised to promote rooftop solar systems.

Financial Support

Average Monthly Electricity Consumption (units)	Suitable Rooftop Solar Plant Capacity	Subsidy Support
0-150	1-2 kW	₹ 30,000 to ₹ 60,000
150-300	2-3 kW	₹ 60,000 to ₹ 78,000
> 300	Above 3 kW	₹ 78,000

Features of the ‘Model Solar Village’ Initiative:

	Details
Comprehensive Solarization	Solarize all households and public areas with home lighting, water systems, pumps, and streetlights. Seeks to create one Model Solar Village per district.
Implementing Agency	State Renewable Energy Development Agency (SREDA) or another entity nominated by the State/UT Government will implement the scheme.
24×7 Solar-Powered Village	Develop villages powered entirely by solar energy, promoting self-reliance in meeting energy needs.
Central Financial Assistance (CFA)	₹1 crore grant per village based on a Detailed Project Report (DPR) by the Implementing Agency. The *total financial allocation* for this initiative is *₹800 crore*.
Eligibility Criteria	Revenue village with a population over 5,000 (or 2,000 in special category states). Based on installed renewable energy capacity, overseen by the District Level Committee (DLC) 6 months after the declaration.
Fund Disbursement	40% on the award of works, 40% after completion, 20% after 6 months of operation.

PYQ:

[2018] With reference to solar power production in India, consider the following statements:

1. India is the third largest in the world in the manufacture of silicon wafers used in photovoltaic units.

2. The solar power tariffs are determined by the Solar Energy Corporation of India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

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Russian Invasion of Ukraine: Global Implications

Ukraine’s Kursk Operation in Russia

Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Kursk Operation

Why in the News?

Ukrainian troops have advanced up to 35 kilometers into Russian territory in the Kursk region.

What is the Kursk Operation?

The Kursk operation marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
The operation has been characterized by intense fighting, with reports of casualties.

About Kursk Region:

It is located in the western part of Russia, bordering Ukraine to the southwest.
The region holds historical significance Battle of Kursk as the site of the, which took place from July to August 1943 and is recognized as the largest tank battle in history during World War II.
The Kursk region is rich in iron ore, which has led to substantial mining operations in the area.
The region experiences a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers.

Significance of the Kursk Operation for Ukraine

Strategic Leverage: Strengthens Ukraine’s position in future negotiations by capturing Russian territory for potential land exchanges.
Buffer Zone Creation: Enhances security for contested Ukrainian areas by establishing a protective buffer on Russian soil.
Military Diversion: Forces Russia to redeploy troops, weakening their main front lines and easing pressure on Ukrainian forces.

PYQ:

[2023] Consider the following pairs:

Regions often mentioned in news	Reason for being in news
1. North Kivu and Ituri	War between Armenia and Azerbaijan
2. Nagorno-Karabakh	Insurgency in Mozambique
3. Kherson and Zaporizhzhia	Dispute between Israel and Lebanon

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(d) None

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Railway Reforms

What is KAVACH Collision Avoidance System (CAS)?

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: KAVACH Collision Avoidance System (CAS)

Why in the News?

Indian Railways expects to launch Kavach CAS on Mumbai-Delhi-Kolkata routes by March 2025.

About Kavach Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS)

	Details
Development	Development started in 2011 by *Indian Railways and Research Designs & Standards Organisation (RDSO).* Key developer: B. Rajaram, known for the Skybus Metro system. Field trials began in 2014, and final approval was granted in 2019.
Safety Parameters	Certified for Safety Integrity Level 4 (SIL-4) operations
Working Mechanism	Components: Trackside RFID tags, onboard locomotive equipment, radio infrastructure. Functionality: Real-time monitoring, driver alerts, and automatic braking to prevent collisions. Data Inputs: Location, direction, time. Event Recorders: Retain records for post-incident analysis.
Collision Prevention	Alert Mechanism: Alerts the locomotive pilot if a *‘red signal’ is missed.* Automatic Braking: If *speed exceeds 15 kmph after a red signal, Kavach applies brakes to halt the train.*
Issues	High Cost: ₹50 lakh per kilometer for deployment. Low Coverage: Covers only 1,500 kilometers out of the total 68,000-kilometer rail network (as of November 2023).

How does CAS work in ships and aircraft?

	Key Systems	Functions
Ships	AIS (Automatic Identification System)	Sends and receives data on location, speed, and direction between ships and land-based stations.
Ships	LRIT (Long Range Identification and Tracking)	Requires ships to report location, time, and equipment every 6 hours to authorities. Data shared with contracting governments and rescue operators via International LRIT Data Exchange.
Aircraft	Transponders	Respond to radio-frequency pings to *build a 3D view of surrounding air traffic.*
	Alerts and Resolution	Issues alert if another aircraft is within 48 seconds (traffic advisory) or 30 seconds (resolution) of a collision.
	Radar Altimeters and Obstacle Detection	Monitors distance to the ground and alerts pilots about tall obstacles like towers.

PYQ:

[2015] With reference to bio-toilets used by the Indian Railways, consider the following statements:

The decomposition of human waste in the biotoilets is initiated by a fungal inoculum.
Ammonia and water vapour are the only end products in this decomposition which are released into the atmosphere.

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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ISRO Missions and Discoveries

August 23rd declared as National Space Day

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: National Space Day

Why in the News?

The Centre has officially declared August 23rd as “National Space Day” in honor of the Chandrayaan-3 Mission’s historic achievement.

About the National Space Day:

It is set to be celebrated on August 23rd every year.
It marks the successful landing of the Chandrayaan-3 mission’s Vikram Lander and Pragyan Rover on the Moon.
Theme for 2024:
- “Touching Lives while Touching the Moon: India’s Space Saga” highlights space exploration’s impact on society and technology.
Significance:
- India became the fourth country to land on the Moon and the first to land near the Moon’s southern polar region.

About Chandrayaan-3 Mission:

	Details
Launch	India’s third lunar mission, second attempt at soft landing on the Moon. Launched on July 14, 2023. Landed on August 23.
Landing Site	Near the Lunar South Pole (Coordinates: 69.373°S 32.319°E)
Mission Objectives	Demonstrate safe and soft landing on the Moon. Rover mobility on lunar surface. Conduct in-situ scientific experiments.
Components	Propulsion Module: Carries lander and rover to 100 km lunar orbit; includes SHAPE payload. Lander Module (Vikram): Instruments: ChaSTE, ILSA, Langmuir Probe, Laser Retroreflector Array. Rover Module (Pragyan): Instruments: APXS, LIBS.
Major Findings	Lunar Surface Temperature: Recorded up to 70°C, higher than expected. Elemental Composition: Sulphur, aluminum, calcium, iron, chromium, titanium, manganese, silicon, and oxygen confirmed.
Landing Site Name	Named by PM as *‘Shiv Shakti’* (Sanctioned by IAU as “Statio Shiv Shakti”).

PYQ:

[2016] Consider the following statements:

The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO

is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission
made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA
made India the only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit the Mars in its very first attempt

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

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Disasters and Disaster Management – Sendai Framework, Floods, Cyclones, etc.

What is the Nankai Trough?

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Disaster Management

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Nankai Trough
Why on the News?

Japanese authorities have warned its citizens of a ‘megaquake’ and large tsunamis along the Nankai Trough.

What is the Nankai Trough?
- The Nankai Trough is an extensive subduction zone, nearly 900 km long.
- It is the place of collision of the Eurasian Plate over the Philippine Sea Plate.
- This trough has a history of producing large earthquakes approximately every 100 to 150 years.
- The most recent Nankai Trough quake happened in 1946 with magnitude 8.0 tremor and 6.9 metre tsunami, killing 1,330 people.
Potential for a Megaquake:
- Japan’s researchers estimated in January 2022 that there is a roughly 70% chance of a magnitude 8-9 megaquake striking the Nankai Trough within next 30 years.
- Such a quake could affect a vast region stretching from central Shizuoka, about 150 km south of Tokyo, to southwestern Miyazaki.
PYQ:

[2014] Explain the formation of thousands of islands in Indonesian and Philippines archipelagos.
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Global Geological And Climatic Events

What is the Perseid Meteor Shower?

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 1: Salient Features Of World’S Physical Geography

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Perseid Meteor Shower

Why in the News?

The Perseid meteor shower, which began in July, is currently at its peak activity from August 11 to 13, 2024.

About Perseid Meteor Shower

	Details
Origin	Named after the constellation Perseus, from which the meteors appear to originate.
Cause	Caused by debris left behind by Comet Swift-Tuttle as it orbits the Sun.
How It Occurs	Consists of ice, rock, and dust particles shed by *Comet Swift-Tuttle. Earth passes through this debris* field annually between mid-July and late August. Particles enter Earth’s atmosphere at around 214,000 km/h, causing them to heat up and create bright streaks of light.
Discovery	The connection between the Perseid meteor shower and Comet Swift-Tuttle was established in 1862 by Lewis Swift and Horace Tuttle.
Historical Observations	Observed for centuries, with records dating back to ancient Chinese, Japanese, and European civilizations.
Impact of Earth’s Gravity	Earth’s gravity pulls particles from the debris field, causing them to enter the atmosphere. Larger particles can create fireballs—bright meteors that are more intense and last longer.

Note: In the 1990s, scientists feared comet Swift-Tuttle might hit Earth or the Moon in 2126, but later calculations confirmed safety for two millennia.

PYQ:

[2011] What is the difference between asteroids and comets?

Asteroids are small rocky planetoids, while comets are formed of frozen gases held together by rocky and metallic material.
Asteroids are found mostly between the orbits of Jupiter and Mars, while comets are found mostly between Venus and Mercury.
Comets show a perceptible glowing tail, while asteroids do not.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Neelakurinji included in Red List of threatened species

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Neelakurinji

Why in the News?

Neelakurinji has been categorized as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List of threatened species for the first time under Criteria A2c.

**About Neelakurinji (*Strobilanthes kunthiana***)

	Details
Blooming Cycle	Blooms once every 12 years. Some bloom once every 7 years.
Physical Description	Shrub that can grow up to 3 meters in height. Vibrant purplish-blue flowers bloom synchronously over large areas. Named after Kunthi River which flows through Kerala’s Silent Valley National Park.
Habitat and Distribution	Endemic to high-altitude *Shola grasslands* of the Western Ghats. Found at elevations between 1,340 to 2,600 meters. Key regions: Nilgiris, Munnar, Palani-Kodaikanal, Anamalai mountains, and some isolated populations in the Eastern Ghats (Yercaud, Shevaroy Hills).
Historical Blooming Records	Documented blooming in 1838, 1850, 1862, 1874, 1886, 1898, 1910, 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, and 2018.
Cultural Significance	Nilgiri Hills named after its purplish-blue flowers. Paliyan tribal people of Tamil Nadu used it to calculate their age.
Ecological Importance	Critical for the biodiversity of montane grasslands. Provides nectar for pollinators during mass flowering.

PYQ:

[2011] The “Red Data Books” published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) contain lists of

Endemic plant and animal species present in the biodiversity hotspots.
Threatened plant and animal species.
Protected sites for conservation of nature and natural resources in various countries.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 and 3

(b) 2 only

(d) 3 only

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Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.

Diamond Imprest Licence

Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Diamond Imprest Licence

Why in the News?

Union Minister for Commerce and Industry has introduced Diamond Imprest Licence at the 40th edition of the India International Jewellery Show (IIJS) 2024.
- The event was organized by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC).

What is the Diamond Imprest Licence?

The Diamond Imprest Licence is a regulatory framework introduced by the Indian government to facilitate the import of diamonds for exporters, particularly benefiting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the diamond industry.
It will allow Indian diamond exporters who meet a certain export turnover threshold to import up to 5% of their average export turnover over the preceding three years.
This policy aims to create a level-playing field for MSME diamond exporters, enabling them to compete more effectively with larger industry peers.

About the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC )

	Details
Establishment	Established in 1966 by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. Granted an autonomous status in 1998.
Headquarters	Mumbai, India Regional offices in New Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Surat, Jaipur
Membership	Represents almost 7,000 exporters from across India.
Role and Functions	Promotes exports of gems and jewellery Presents industry issues to the government and recommends policy interventions.
Common Facility Centers (CFCs)	Established in Amreli, Visnagar, Palanpur, and Junagadh in Gujarat. Services include planning, laser sawing, and cutting facilities to process diamonds.
Awards	Organizes premier jewellery design competitions and awards, celebrating creativity and innovation in jewellery design.
Key Events	Hosts the Design Inspirations seminar annually in Mumbai, educating jewellers, designers, and students about upcoming trends in India, Europe, and the US.
Educational Institutes	Operates 7 educational institutes across five cities, including the Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery (IIGJ) in Mumbai, Jaipur, Delhi, Varanasi, and Udupi.
Gemmological Laboratories	Gemmological Institute of India (GII), Mumbai: Established in 1971, focusing on gemological training, research, and certification. Gem Testing Laboratory, Jaipur: Specializes in grading and certifying colored gemstones. Indian Gemological Institute, New Delhi: Provides gem testing and certification services, particularly for the North Indian market.

PYQ:

[2018] Which one of the following foreign travelers elaborately discussed about diamonds and diamond mines of India?

(a) Francois Bernier

(b) Jean-Baptiste Tavernier

(d) Abbe Barthelemy Carre

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Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.

Why A23a is spinning in its place?

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: A23a Iceberg

Why in the News?

A23a, the world’s largest iceberg, has recently started spinning in place after drifting away from Antarctica in 2020.

- Now it is near South Orkney Islands, about northeast of the Antarctic Peninsula.

What is A23a?

A23a is an iceberg, about 3,855 square kilometers in area, which is 5 times the size of New York City.
It was originally part of an even larger iceberg called A23.
It broke off from the Filchner Ice Shelf in Antarctica in 1986.

What is happening with A23a?

It is now trapped over a seamount, and is spinning slowly in place.
It is completing a full spin approximately in 24 days.
Reason behind the spinning: Icebergs spin in Iceberg Alley because they get pulled by the strong Antarctic Circumpolar Current, moving into warmer waters where they melt.

Implications

A23a’s melting does not contribute to global sea level rise since it is already floating.
Its extended stay in this vortex could impact marine life in the area, especially plankton and other organisms in the food chain.
The situation also provides a unique opportunity for scientists to study how such large icebergs behave in the ocean.

PYQ:

[2021] With reference to the water on the planet Earth, consider the following statements:

1. The amount of water in the rivers and lakes is more than the amount of groundwater.

2. The amount of water in polar ice caps and glaciers is more than the amount of groundwater.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

[2021] How do the melting of the Arctic ice and glaciers of the Antarctic differently affect the weather patterns and human activities on the Earth? Explain.

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Nobel and other Prizes

[pib] Winners at Olympics, 2024

Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2:

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Winners at Olympics, 2024

Why in the News?

India has won a total of 6 medals at the 33rd Summer Olympic Games in Paris, with 5 bronze medals and 1 silver medal.

Full List of Medal Winners

	Game	Medal	Details
Manu Bhaker	10m Air Pistol Women’s	Bronze	Secured a bronze medal with a score of 221.7 after 22 attempts.
Manu Bhaker, Sarabjot Singh	10m Air Pistol Mixed Team	Bronze	It was a team event. Manu now is the first Indian woman to win two medals in a single Summer Games.
Swapnil Kusale	50m Rifle 3 Position	Bronze	First-ever Indian medal in this event.
Men’s Hockey Team	Hockey	Bronze	Defeated Spain by 2-1 in the third-place playoff, with skipper Harmanpreet Singh scoring both goals.
Neeraj Chopra	Men’s Javelin Throw	Silver	Secured medal with a distance of 89.45m. Became first Indian to win two Olympic medals in track-and-field.
Aman Sehrawat	Men’s Wrestling Freestyle 57kg	Bronze	Men’s Freestyle 57kg category by defeating Darian Toi Cruz of Puerto Rico 13-5.

PYQ:

[2021] Consider the following statements in respect of the Laureus World Sports Award which was instituted in the year 2000 :

1. American golfer Tiger Woods was the first winner of this award.

2. The award was received mostly by ‘Formula One’ players so far.

3. Roger Federer received this award maximum number of times compared to others.

Which of the above statements are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3 other

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Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

Opposition to move No-Confidence Motion against VP

Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: No-Confidence Motion

Why in the News?

As many as 50 Opposition MPs have reportedly signed a resolution to bring a no-confidence motion against Vice-President (Rajya Sabha Chairman) Jagdeep Dhankhar.

No-Confidence Motion against Vice President of India

	Details
Provision	Article 67(b) of the Indian Constitution
Who Can Initiate	Can only be introduced in the Rajya Sabha, not the Lok Sabha.
Notice Requirement	At least 14 days’ advance notice must be given before moving the resolution.
Voting in Rajya Sabha	Requires an effective majority (majority of all members present and voting) in the Rajya Sabha.
Voting in Lok Sabha	Requires a simple majority (more than 50% of members present and voting) in the Lok Sabha.
Grounds for Removal	Constitution does not specify any grounds or justifications for the removal of the Vice President.
Temporary Vacancy	If the Vice President is removed -> Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha *assumes the role of Chairman.*
Historical Context	No Vice President has ever been removed under this Article in Indian parliamentary history.

PYQ:

[2013] Consider the following statements:

1. The Chairman and the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha are not the members of that House.

2. While the nominated members of the two Houses of the Parliament have no voting right in the

Presidential election, they have the right to vote in the election of the Vice President.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

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Tuberculosis Elimination Strategy

India to roll out BPaL Regimen for Drug-Resistant TB

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: BPaL Regimen

Why in the News?

India is preparing to introduce the BPaL (bedaquiline, pretomanid, and linezolid) regimen for all patients with multi/extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (M/XDR-TB).

What is BPaL Regimen?

	Details
Purpose	Treatment for *multi-drug resistant (MDR)* and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) tuberculosis (TB). Provides a potent, shorter, and more effective treatment option for patients resistant to standard TB drugs.
Components of the regimen	Bedaquiline (Bdq): Targets ATP synthase enzyme in *Mycobacterium tuberculosis, disrupting energy production. Key drug in combating drug-resistant TB.*
	Pretomanid (Pa): Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis and kills bacteria under anaerobic conditions. Enhances effectiveness when *combined with other TB drugs.*
	Linezolid (Lzd): Inhibits protein synthesis, stopping bacterial growth. Effective against MDR and XDR TB strains.

Significance of BPaL Regimen

Studies and trials have shown that the BPaL regimen has higher success rates in treating MDR and XDR TB compared to older regimens.
It reduces treatment duration for MDR/XDR-TB from the traditional 18-24 months to 6 months approx.
It is entirely oral with NO injectable, making it easier for patients to adhere to the treatment.
It reduces number of drugs patients need to take daily from up to 14 to just 3.

PYQ:

[2014] Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without Doctor’s prescription, be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved.

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Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

Opposition moves Privilege Motion against Education Minister

Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Parliament & State Legislatures

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Privilege Motion, Parliamentary Privileges

Why in the News?

The opposition has submitted a notice in the Rajya Sabha to initiate privilege proceedings against Union Education Minister.
- It is alleged that the Minister ‘misled’ the House regarding the issue of the Preamble to the Constitution being ‘dropped’ from certain NCERT textbooks.

What is a Privilege Motion?

	Details
What is it?	A formal notice by an MP when rights or privileges of Parliament or its members are breached. Parliamentary privilege refers to the right and immunity enjoyed by legislatures (Article 105).
Who can move such motion?	Any Member of Parliament (MP) from Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha.
Governing Rules	Lok Sabha Rule book: Rule 222, Chapter 20 Rajya Sabha Rule book: Rule 187, Chapter 16
Procedure	Requires consent from Speaker/Chairperson; Notice must concern a recent incident needing House intervention.
Role of Speaker/Chairperson	First level of scrutiny; Can decide on the motion or refer it to the Privileges Committee.
Privileges Committee	Lok Sabha: 15 members, nominated by Speaker Rajya Sabha: 10 members, headed by Deputy Chairperson
Outcome	Committee submits a report; House may debate and pass a resolution based on the report.
Historical Example	1978: Privilege motion against Indira Gandhi, leading to her expulsion from the Lok Sabha.
Legal Implications	If a breach of privilege is established, the Parliament has the authority to impose penalties. These can range from a reprimand to expulsion from the House, depending on the severity of the breach.

PYQ:

[2014] Consider the following statements regarding a No-Confidence Motion in India:

1. There is no mention of a No-Confidence Motion in the Constitution of India.

2. A Motion of No-Confidence can be introduced in the Lok Sabha only.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

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Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

Why Silica Dust could become the ‘New Asbestos’ Health Risk?

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Silicosis and its health implications

Why in the News?

UK researchers suggest stricter daily silica dust exposure limits in industries could save 13,000 lives as per British Medical Journal Thorax.

What is Silicosis?

Silicosis is a lung disease that results in the hardening of the lungs. It is caused by inhaling silica dust or crystals, commonly found in soil, sand, concrete, mortar, granite, and artificial stone.
Silicosis is a chronic disease that develops slowly, often after 10 to 20 years of exposure.
Silicosis can lead to other severe conditions, including lung cancer, tuberculosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Note: Silicosis is a recognized disease under the Mines Act (1952) and the Factories Act (1948).

Causes of Silicosis:

Workers in industries such as construction, mining, oil and gas extraction, kitchen engineering, dentistry, pottery, and sculpting are at high risk.
The cutting, drilling, or breaking down of materials containing silica releases fine dust into the air.

As per National Programme on Elimination of Silicosis in India

Remedies for Silicosis:

Currently, there is no cure for silicosis, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications.

Preventive measures:

Water Suppression Techniques: Using water or foam to suppress dust at the source.
Proper Ventilation: Ensuring adequate airflow in work environments to reduce dust accumulation.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Providing workers with masks and respirators that filter out fine particles.
Regular Monitoring: Implementing regular health checks for workers and monitoring air quality in workplaces.

Case study related to reducing Silica Dust Exposure

United States: Implemented stricter regulations on silica dust, resulting in a significant reduction in silicosis cases.
Australia: Banned the use of engineered stone due to its propensity to release high levels of silica dust when cut or drilled.

PYQ:

[2019] Why is there a great concern about the ‘microbeads’ that are released into environment?

(a) They are considered harmful to marine ecosystems.

(b) They are considered to cause skin cancer in children.

(d) They are often found to be used as food adulterants.

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Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

Trichophyton indotineae: A drug resistant fungal infections

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Trichophyton indotineae

Why in the News?

The increase in drug-resistant fungal infections, especially Trichophyton indotineae, is becoming a major health problem in India.

What Is Trichophyton Indotineae?

Trichophyton indotineae is a dermatophyte commonly known as ringworm or jock itch.
First identified in India, this fungus has now spread to several countries worldwide.
It belongs to genotype VIII within the T. mentagrophytes/T. interdigitale species complex, found in regions including Australia and Oman.

Factors causing its spread

Patients often present with persistent, treatment-resistant rashes that can be mistaken for eczema or other skin conditions.
Misdiagnosis leads to the use of ineffective treatments, prolonging patient suffering and allowing the infection to worsen.
Trichophyton indotineae has shown resistance to terbinafine due to genetic mutations, with growing resistance to itraconazole also a concern.
The unregulated sale of steroid-containing combination creams further complicates treatment efforts.

Treatments available

Alternative to terbinafine and Itraconazole are available but often come with significant side effects, requiring close monitoring by healthcare providers.
Integrating comprehensive skin care regimens can enhance treatment efficacy, including maintaining skin hydration and using barrier creams.

PYQ:

[2014] Lichens, which are capable of initiating ecological succession even on a bare rock, are actually a symbiotic association of:

(a) algae and bacteria

(b) algae and fungi

(d) fungi and mosses

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Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

Buddhadeb Bhattacharya (1944-2024)

Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Modern Indian History

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Buddhadeb Bhattacharya (1944-2024) and His contributions

Why in the News?

Former CM of West Bengal and leader Buddhadeb Bhattacharya passed away at 80.

Who was Buddhadeb Bhattacharya?

Bhattacharya was a politician who served as CM of West Bengal from 2000 to 2011.
He was known for his attempts to modernize and industrialize West Bengal while navigating the challenges of maintaining communist ideology.
In 2022, Bhattacharya was awarded Padma Bhushan by the Indian government, which he declined, citing his political principles.

Key Contributions:

Category	Details
Political Reforms	Attempted to reduce the influence of powerful trade unions in the state, particularly in the industrial sector, to attract investments and improve work culture.
Social-Cultural Reforms	Played a key role in establishing the Kolkata International Film Festival and promoted Bengali literature. Authored several books and translated works of Gabriel Garcia Marquez and Vladimir Mayakovsky into Bengali, enriching the state’s cultural heritage. Introduced measures to eliminate corruption in school recruitments by ensuring all hiring was conducted through transparent exams. Initiated reforms to integrate mainstream subjects into madrassa education.
Economic Reforms	Led efforts to industrialize West Bengal by attracting investments in IT, steel, and special economic zones (SEZs), including the Tata Nano project in Singur. Faced significant opposition and protests in Singur and Nandigram over land acquisition, which ultimately contributed to the political decline of the Left Front.

PYQ:

[2011] Karl Marx explained the process of class struggle with the help of which one of the following theories?

(a) Empirical liberalism

(b) Existentialism

(d) Dialectical materialism

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Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

[pib] Project PARI

Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Project PARI

Why in the News?

The Ministry of Culture recently launched Project PARI (Public Art of India) coincided with the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee Meeting, held in New Delhi.

About Project PARI

	Details
Launched by	Ministry of Culture
Nodal Agency	Lalit Kala Akademi, National Gallery of Modern Art
Objective	Enhance New Delhi’s cultural and aesthetic outlook
Key Themes	Nature tributes, Natyashastra, Gandhi ji, Toys of India, Hospitality, Ancient knowledge, Naad (Primeval Sound), Harmony of Life, Kalpataru (Divine Tree).
Artist Participation	Over 200 visual artists; significant participation from women artists
Artforms included	Phad paintings (Rajasthan), Thangka painting (Sikkim/Ladakh), Miniature painting (Himachal Pradesh), Gond art (Madhya Pradesh), Tanjore paintings (Tamil Nadu), Kalamkari (Andhra Pradesh), Alpona art (West Bengal), Cheriyal painting (Telangana), Pichhwai Painting (Rajasthan), Lanjia Saura (Odisha), Pattachitra (West Bengal), Bani Thani Painting (Rajasthan), Warli (Maharashtra), Pithora Art (Gujarat), Aipan (Uttarakhand), Kerala Murals (Kerala), Alpana art (Tripura).

PYQ:

[2018] The well-known painting “Bani Thani” belongs to the:

(a) Bundi school

(b) Jaipur school

(d) Kishangarh school

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Tiger Conservation Efforts – Project Tiger, etc.

Country’s third largest tiger reserve to come up in Chhattisgarh

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Tiger Reserves in India;

Mains level: Reason for the declining population of Tigers;

Why in the News?

Facing a significant decline in its tiger population in recent years, Chhattisgarh on Wednesday approved a long-awaited proposal to establish a new tiger reserve, which will be the third largest in the country.

Process of Notification of Tiger Reserves

Proposal and Evaluation: The state government initiates the process by proposing an area to be designated as a tiger reserve. This proposal is then evaluated by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
Cabinet Approval: After NTCA’s recommendations, the state cabinet must approve the notification of the tiger reserve.
Integration of Areas: The Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve integrates the existing Guru Ghasidas National Park and Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary, covering an area of 2,829 square kilometers.
Note: Once a tiger reserve is notified, it cannot be easily denotified. The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, allows for denotification only under exceptional circumstances and with approval from the NTCA and the National Board for Wildlife.

About Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve

It is Chhattisgarh’s fourth tiger reserve, following Indravati, Udanti-Sitanadi, and Achanakmar.
The reserve spans four districts: Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur, Koriya, Surajpur, and Balrampur.
It aims to bolster conservation efforts and provide a protected habitat for tigers, thereby promoting eco-tourism and creating employment opportunities for local communities.
It aims to bolster conservation efforts and provide a protected habitat for tigers by Providing additional budgetary resources from the National Project Tiger Authority for its operations.
It would promote eco-tourism and create employment opportunities for local communities.

Tiger Reserves in India

As of June 2024, India has 55 tiger reserves. This number has increased from 9 reserves in 1973 when Project Tiger was initiated. India is home to around 75% of the global tiger population.
The latest addition to the list is the Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan, which is the 55th reserve established in the country.
These reserves are crucial for the conservation of the Bengal tiger, which is a keystone species in India’s ecosystems, and they collectively support around 80% of the world’s tiger population.
Madhya Pradesh has the highest number of tigers at 785, followed by Karnataka (563), Uttarakhand (560), and Maharashtra (444).

The initiative was taken by the Government:

Strengthening Legal Framework: The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 provides a legal framework for tiger conservation, establishing national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and critical tiger habitats. The 2006 amendment led to the creation of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
Anti-Poaching Measures: Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) has been deployed in tiger reserves to combat poaching. Modern surveillance technologies like camera traps and drones are used to monitor tiger populations and deter poaching activities.
To avoid human-tiger conflict: As of 2023, 12,327 families from 173 villages have been successfully relocated from tiger reserves to reduce human-tiger conflict.

Way forward:

Undertake habitat restoration measures in the tiger reserves, including prey base management and removal of invasive species, to improve the quality of tiger habitats.
Deploy the Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) in the newly notified Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve to curb poaching.

Mains PYQ:

Q How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the Biological Diversity Act,2002 helpful in conservation of flora and fauna? (UPSC IAS/2018)

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Vinesh Phogat’s Olympics disqualification

Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: What is Weight Cutting?
Mains level: Issues related to Weight Cutting ;
Why in the News?

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the Paris Olympics after the official weigh-in on Wednesday morning, before her scheduled gold medal bout in the evening, leaving her without a medal.

What is Weight Cutting?
- Weight cutting is the process by which athletes systematically reduce their body weight before a competition. This typically involves a combination of dietary restrictions and intensive physical activity aimed at shedding a specific amount of weight, often over a period of weeks leading up to the event.
- Wrestlers often employ extreme measures such as skipping meals, limiting water intake, and engaging in intense exercise, including sauna sessions and wearing heavy clothing to promote sweating. This can lead to rapid weight loss primarily through fluid loss.
Why Do Combat Athletes Cut Weight?
- Combat sports like wrestling, boxing, and mixed martial arts (MMA) are organized by weight classes to ensure fair competition. Athletes aim to compete in lower weight classes to gain a size and strength advantage over their opponents, as they can often regain weight after the weigh-in.
- By cutting weight, athletes believe they can compete against opponents who are lighter and potentially less strong, thus increasing their chances of success in the competition.
Should Weight Cutting Be Banned?
- The practice of weight cutting poses significant health risks, including dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and energy depletion, which can impair performance and lead to serious medical issues. Athletes may experience severe fatigue and reduced physical capabilities after extreme weight cuts.
- There is an ongoing debate about whether weight cutting should be banned or regulated more strictly. Critics argue that the health risks outweigh the competitive advantages, while supporters maintain that it is a part of the sport’s culture and can be managed safely with proper guidance.
- Some suggest that instead of banning weight cutting, sports organizations should implement better regulations and educate athletes about safe practices for weight management, including gradual weight loss and hydration strategies.
Way forward:
- Implement Hydration Testing: Regular hydration tests can prevent severe dehydration, ensuring athletes remain within safe hydration levels.
- Weight Class Monitoring: Monitor athletes’ weight throughout the training period to discourage rapid weight loss just before competition.
- Set Minimum Weight Limits: Establish minimum weight thresholds based on athletes’ natural body weight to prevent extreme weight cuts.
Mains PYQ:

Q An athlete participates in the Olympics for personal triumph and the nation’s glory; victors are showered with cash incentives by various agencies, on their return. Discuss the merit of state-sponsored talent hunt and its cultivation as against the rationale of a reward mechanism as encouragement. (UPSC IAS/2014)
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Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

The hormone Oestrogen

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Oestrogen, KISS1 neurons, CCN3 hormones

Why in the News?

“Osteoporosis” is a condition where bones become weak and brittle, with over 10 million cases annually in India.
- It predominantly affects ageing women due to decreased oestrogen levels post-menopause.

A recent study in Nature by researchers at the Universities of California uncovered a brain-derived hormone, CCN3, which increases bone mass in postpartum lactating mothers.

What is Oestrogen?

- Oestrogen is a primary female sex hormone essential for reproductive and sexual development.
- It regulates the menstrual cycle and is crucial for the development of secondary sexual characteristics like breast development.
- Oestrogen also plays a vital role in maintaining bone density and cardiovascular health.
It is produced mainly in the ovaries but also in smaller amounts by the adrenal glands and fat tissue.

The hormone influences various tissues, including the brain, heart, skin, and bones.
Imbalances in oestrogen levels can lead to various health issues, such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.

Role of Oestrogen in Bone Growth

Oestrogen is crucial for bone growth and formation, acting as a manager signaling the bone construction crew.
During breastfeeding, oestrogen production drops to focus on milk production, which should weaken bones.
Contrary to expectations, mothers’ bones become stronger to meet their babies’ high calcium demands.

How does the ‘Hidden’ Hormone Keep Mice Mothers’ Bones Healthy?

During breastfeeding, the body suppresses oestrogen production to focus on milk production, which should weaken bones.
Despite low oestrogen, mothers’ bones strengthen.

Researchers found that KISS1 neurons in the hypothalamus (a part of the brain) release the CCN3 hormone, which helps maintain and even increase bone mineralisation.

Experimental Findings:

In experiments with genetically modified mice, those lacking the oestrogen receptor alpha still maintained healthy bones due to CCN3.
When CCN3 was introduced to skeletal stem cells, it significantly increased bone formation, showing its potential to strengthen bones independently of oestrogen.

PYQ:

[2019] ‘RNA interference (RNAi)’ technology has gained popularity in the last few years. Why?

It is used in developing gene silencing therapies.
It can be used in developing therapies for the treatment of cancer.
It can be used to develop hormone replacement therapies.
It can be used to produce crop plants that are resistant to virtual pathogens.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1, 2 and 4

(b) 2 and 3

(d) 1 and 4 only

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Type: Prelims Only

Why in the news?

About PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana

Features of the ‘Model Solar Village’ Initiative:

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is the Kursk Operation?

About Kursk Region:

Significance of the Kursk Operation for Ukraine

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About Kavach Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS)

How does CAS work in ships and aircraft?

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About the National Space Day:

About Chandrayaan-3 Mission:

PYQ:

Why on the News?

What is the Nankai Trough?

Potential for a Megaquake:

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About Perseid Meteor Shower

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana)

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is the Diamond Imprest Licence?

About the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC )

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is A23a?

What is happening with A23a?

Implications

PYQ:

Why in the News?

Full List of Medal Winners

PYQ:

Why in the News?

No-Confidence Motion against Vice President of India

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is BPaL Regimen?

Significance of BPaL Regimen

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is a Privilege Motion?

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is Silicosis?

Causes of Silicosis:

As per National Programme on Elimination of Silicosis in India

Remedies for Silicosis:

Preventive measures:

Case study related to reducing Silica Dust Exposure

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What Is Trichophyton Indotineae?

Factors causing its spread

Treatments available

PYQ:

Why in the News?

Who was Buddhadeb Bhattacharya?

Key Contributions:

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About Project PARI

PYQ:

Why in the News?

Process of Notification of Tiger Reserves

About Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve

Tiger Reserves in India

The initiative was taken by the Government:

Way forward:

Mains PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is Weight Cutting?

Why Do Combat Athletes Cut Weight?

**About Neelakurinji (*Strobilanthes kunthiana***)